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Northern State University and Dakota State University are both public institutions — Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD and Dakota State University in Madison, SD. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Aberdeen, SD · Public
Acceptance rate: 93.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,273
Tuition: $11,947/year
Student-faculty ratio: 19.0:1
Graduation rate: 48.9%
Top programs: Education, Business and marketing, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Aberdeen, SD with published program strength in Education and Business and marketing.
Madison, SD · Public
Acceptance rate: 88.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,071
Tuition: $12,756/year
Student-faculty ratio: 18.0:1
Graduation rate: 51.3%
Top programs: Computer science, Education, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Madison, SD with published program strength in Computer science and Education.
| Factor | Northern State University | Dakota State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 93.0% | 88.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 980–1160 |
| 1190–1440 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 18–24 | 20–27 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,273 | 2,071 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $11,947/year | $12,756/year |
| Average net price after aid | $15,812 | $21,057 |
| Graduation rate | 48.9% | 51.3% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $47,618 | $50,970 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 19.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Aberdeen, SD | Madison, SD |
| Largest program areas | Education, Business and marketing, Biological sciences | Computer science, Education, Business and marketing |
Dakota State University is more selective (88.0% vs 93.0% acceptance rate). Northern State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,812 vs $21,057). Dakota State University reports the higher graduation rate (51.3% vs 48.9%). Dakota State University is the larger undergraduate campus (2,071 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Northern State University and Dakota State University
Northern State University has an acceptance rate of 93.0%; Dakota State University is around 88.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Northern State University tuition is $11,947/year. Dakota State University is $12,756/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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