South Dakota, while a predominantly rural state, is home to several private colleges and universities that offer diverse academic experiences in liberal arts, sciences, business, and professional fields. These institutions emphasize personalized learning, community engagement, and in many cases, faith-based education. South Dakota’s private colleges provide students with the opportunity to learn in smaller, supportive environments while preparing for meaningful careers and civic leadership.
Augustana University
Overview
Augustana University, located in Sioux Falls, is the largest private university in South Dakota. Founded in 1860 by Norwegian settlers, Augustana is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Known for its strong liberal arts tradition, Augustana offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs that emphasize critical thinking, ethical leadership, and service to others. The university has a reputation for academic excellence and a deep commitment to the community.
Academic Programs
Augustana offers over 100 undergraduate majors, minors, and pre-professional programs, as well as several graduate programs. The university’s academic structure includes the following schools:
- School of Arts and Humanities: Programs in English, history, philosophy, religion, and modern languages.
- School of Natural Sciences: Includes biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental studies.
- School of Business and Economics: Offers degrees in business administration, accounting, and finance.
- School of Education: Prepares students for careers in teaching, counseling, and educational leadership.
- School of Health Professions: Includes nursing, exercise science, and health services administration.
- Graduate Programs: Offers master’s degrees in education, sports administration, and genetic counseling.
Notable Programs:
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Biology and Pre-Med
- Education
- Genetic Counseling (one of the few programs of its kind in the Midwest)
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,100 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1, ensuring small class sizes and individualized attention.
- Athletics: The Augustana Vikings compete in NCAA Division II athletics, with strong programs in basketball, football, and track and field.
- Extracurricular Activities: More than 100 student organizations, including academic clubs, service groups, and performing arts ensembles.
Community Engagement and Service
Augustana University is deeply rooted in its Lutheran heritage, placing a strong emphasis on service to others and ethical leadership. Students are encouraged to engage in community service projects, both locally and globally. The university’s Center for Campus Life offers numerous leadership development programs, internships, and volunteer opportunities that prepare students for meaningful careers and civic involvement.
Mount Marty University
Overview
Mount Marty University, located in Yankton, South Dakota, is a private, Catholic liberal arts university founded in 1936 by the Benedictine Sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery. The university’s mission is to provide a values-based education that emphasizes academic excellence, personal development, and service to others. Mount Marty offers a supportive, faith-based learning environment that prepares students for leadership roles in their communities and professions.
Academic Programs
Mount Marty offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across a variety of disciplines. Its academic programs are designed to integrate liberal arts education with professional training, preparing students for success in both careers and service:
- School of Arts and Sciences: Offers degrees in psychology, biology, criminal justice, and English.
- School of Business: Provides programs in accounting, management, and marketing.
- School of Nursing and Health Sciences: Offers degrees in nursing, radiologic technology, and health sciences.
- Graduate Programs: Includes master’s programs in education, counseling, and nurse anesthesia.
Notable Programs:
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
- Radiologic Technology
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 1,100 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1, fostering close relationships between students and faculty.
- Athletics: The Mount Marty Lancers compete in NAIA athletics, particularly excelling in baseball, basketball, and volleyball.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes student government, campus ministry, service organizations, and academic clubs.
Faith-Based Education and Service
Mount Marty University’s Benedictine values are central to its mission, emphasizing community, hospitality, and service. The university integrates faith into all aspects of campus life, offering opportunities for spiritual growth through campus ministry, service projects, and mission trips. Mount Marty’s strong focus on health sciences and nursing is complemented by its commitment to producing graduates who are compassionate, ethical, and prepared to serve others in healthcare and related fields.
Dakota Wesleyan University
Overview
Dakota Wesleyan University (DWU), located in Mitchell, South Dakota, is a private, Methodist-affiliated university founded in 1885. DWU is known for its commitment to service, leadership, and innovation. The university offers a broad range of undergraduate programs and several graduate degrees, with an emphasis on preparing students for leadership roles in their communities and professions. Dakota Wesleyan’s small, supportive campus fosters personal growth and academic success.
Academic Programs
DWU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, with strong programs in nursing, education, and business:
- College of Arts and Humanities: Offers programs in criminal justice, history, communication, and English.
- College of Leadership and Public Service: Includes degrees in business administration, nonprofit leadership, and human services.
- School of Health and Human Services: Known for its nursing, exercise science, and athletic training programs.
- Graduate Studies: Offers master’s degrees in education, athletic training, and nonprofit leadership.
Notable Programs:
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Athletic Training
- Nonprofit Leadership
- Criminal Justice
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 900 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1, ensuring personalized instruction and mentorship.
- Athletics: The DWU Tigers compete in NAIA athletics, with strong programs in basketball, soccer, and track and field.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes over 40 student organizations, including student government, service clubs, and performing arts.
Service and Leadership
Dakota Wesleyan’s mission emphasizes service and leadership, encouraging students to develop a sense of responsibility toward their communities and the world. The university’s McGovern Center for Leadership and Public Service honors the legacy of former U.S. Senator George McGovern, an alumnus of DWU, and offers students opportunities to engage in public service, leadership training, and community development initiatives. DWU’s focus on nonprofit leadership and public service helps prepare students for careers in both the private and public sectors, with a strong emphasis on making a positive impact on society.
Presentation College
Overview
Presentation College, located in Aberdeen, South Dakota, is a private, Catholic liberal arts college founded in 1951 by the Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The college focuses on providing a high-quality education in the liberal arts and health sciences, with a strong commitment to faith-based learning and service. Presentation College offers a supportive, close-knit community where students can grow academically, spiritually, and personally.
Academic Programs
Presentation College offers undergraduate programs in various fields, with a special emphasis on healthcare and liberal arts education:
- School of Health Professions: Offers degrees in nursing, radiologic technology, and athletic training.
- School of Arts and Sciences: Includes programs in criminal justice, psychology, and social work.
- School of Business: Provides degrees in business administration and healthcare administration.
Notable Programs:
- Nursing
- Radiologic Technology
- Business Administration
- Social Work
- Psychology
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 600 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1, offering personalized academic support and close relationships with faculty.
- Athletics: The Presentation College Saints compete in NAIA athletics, with programs in basketball, volleyball, and soccer.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes student government, campus ministry, academic clubs, and service organizations.
Healthcare Education and Faith-Based Service
Presentation College is committed to providing students with a values-based education that integrates faith and service. The college’s focus on healthcare education prepares students for careers in nursing, radiology, and athletic training, with a strong emphasis on compassion and ethical practice. Presentation’s small, faith-based community provides students with numerous opportunities for spiritual growth, community service, and leadership development. The college’s emphasis on healthcare education makes it a vital contributor to South Dakota’s healthcare workforce.
Sioux Falls Seminary
Overview
Sioux Falls Seminary, located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a private, evangelical Christian seminary affiliated with the North American Baptist Conference. Founded in 1858, the seminary’s mission is to provide theological education that prepares students for leadership roles in ministry, missions, and Christian education. Sioux Falls Seminary offers graduate-level theological education that integrates faith, scholarship, and service.
Academic Programs
Sioux Falls Seminary offers graduate degrees in theology, ministry, and counseling, with a focus on practical ministry training and spiritual formation:
- Master of Divinity (MDiv): Prepares students for pastoral ministry, chaplaincy, and other leadership roles in the church.
- Master of Arts in Christian Leadership: Focuses on developing leadership skills for ministry and nonprofit organizations.
- Master of Arts in Counseling: Provides training in pastoral care, counseling, and spiritual direction.
- Doctor of Ministry (DMin): Offers advanced theological education for pastors and ministry leaders.
Notable Programs:
- Master of Divinity (MDiv)
- Christian Leadership
- Pastoral Counseling
- Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 200 students, primarily graduate-level.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1, ensuring close mentorship and guidance from faculty.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes ministry internships, community outreach programs, and student-led worship events.
Faith and Ministry Training
Sioux Falls Seminary is dedicated to providing high-quality theological education that equips students for effective ministry. The seminary emphasizes spiritual formation, practical ministry training, and service to others. Through its internship programs, students gain hands-on experience in church leadership, pastoral care, and community outreach. Sioux Falls Seminary’s commitment to preparing Christian leaders ensures that its graduates are well-prepared to serve in churches, nonprofit organizations, and missionary fields around the world.
National American University
Overview
National American University (NAU), based in Rapid City, South Dakota, is a private, for-profit university that focuses on providing flexible, career-oriented education for adult learners. Founded in 1941, NAU offers online and on-campus programs designed to meet the needs of working professionals and non-traditional students. The university is known for its strong programs in business, healthcare, and information technology, as well as its commitment to providing accessible education.
Academic Programs
NAU offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of fields, with a focus on professional and technical education:
- School of Business: Provides degrees in business administration, management, and accounting.
- School of Healthcare: Offers programs in nursing, medical assisting, and healthcare management.
- School of Information Technology: Includes degrees in computer science, cybersecurity, and information systems.
Notable Programs:
- Business Administration
- Healthcare Management
- Information Technology and Cybersecurity
- Nursing
- Criminal Justice
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 1,000 students across all campuses and online.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1, allowing for personalized support and flexible learning options.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes professional development workshops, networking events, and career services for students.
Flexible Learning and Career Focus
National American University is dedicated to providing flexible, career-focused education for adult learners and working professionals. The university’s online and hybrid learning options allow students to balance their education with work and family responsibilities. NAU’s strong emphasis on healthcare, business, and information technology ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter high-demand fields. The university’s commitment to providing accessible education makes it a popular choice for non-traditional students seeking to advance their careers.