Overview
Northern State University was founded in 1901 as a normal school to train teachers for South Dakota's growing population, and it has since evolved into a comprehensive regional public university. Located in Aberdeen, South Dakota, NSU is recognized for its School of Business, teacher education programs, and its status as home to the South Dakota Center for Digital Government. The university has built a reputation for affordability and accessible education in the upper Midwest.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Aberdeen, South Dakota |
| Founded | 1901 |
| Total students | 3,200 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 17:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 70% |
| Graduation rate | 45% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $9,400 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $11,800 |
| Room & board | $8,200 |
| Average financial aid | $7,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 930-1150 |
| ACT range | 18-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.30 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Business Administration
- Education
- Nursing
- Sports Marketing
- Music
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.