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South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and Dakota State University are both public institutions — South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in Rapid City, 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.
Rapid City, SD · Public
Acceptance rate: 79.9%
Undergrad enrollment: 2,071
Tuition: $14,900/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 52.9%
Top programs: Engineering, Computer science, Physical sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Rapid City, SD with published program strength in Engineering and Computer science.
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 | South Dakota School of Mines and Technology | Dakota State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 79.9% | 88.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1140–1340 |
| 1190–1440 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 24–30 | 20–27 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 2,071 | 2,071 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $14,900/year | $12,756/year |
| Average net price after aid | $20,183 | $21,057 |
| Graduation rate | 52.9% | 51.3% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $72,257 | $50,970 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Rapid City, SD | Madison, SD |
| Largest program areas | Engineering, Computer science, Physical sciences | Computer science, Education, Business and marketing |
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is more selective (79.9% vs 88.0% acceptance rate). South Dakota School of Mines and Technology has a lower average net price after grant aid ($20,183 vs $21,057). South Dakota School of Mines and Technology reports the higher graduation rate (52.9% vs 51.3%). 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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South Dakota School of Mines and Technology vs Dakota Wesleyan University
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Common questions when choosing between South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and Dakota State University
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology has an acceptance rate of 79.9%; Dakota State University is around 88.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology tuition is $14,900/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.
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