South Dakota Colleges and Universities


Colleges and Universities in South Dakota



South Dakota can be a fun place to live and study. Residents know it has more shoreline than Florida--partially due to the Missouri River flowing through the state and the lakes formed by retreating glaciers in the northeast--and that it has seven National Park Service sites. There's Mount Rushmore, of course, but also the lesser-known Badlands and Wind Cave. In this wide-open state, you'll still be able to find an urban vibe in places like Sioux Falls and Rapid City, and discovery history in the capital, Pierre. You can even go on hikes on La Framboise Island in the Missouri River near Pierre.

As for education, your options are as vast as the state. You can study health training, law, medicine and more at the University of South Dakota, located in Vermillion, or seek out schooling through universities, colleges, technical institutes or career-training centers. In less densely populated areas, online schools might be a convenient option, offering flexible scheduling and accessibility.

Since tourism is the second largest industry in the state, a degree program in marketing or hospitality management could give you a leg up in those fields. Or you might want to try to preserve the state's fresh air and natural setting through training in environmental sustainability, natural resources, or alternative energy resources.

Work and play: Finding a career in South Dakota

What fields can you enter to make a job for yourself in the state? Biotechnology is a growing sector with a cluster of businesses located in the southeast portion of the state. Tourism remains strong--South Dakota has continuously outpaced other areas in terms of tourist visits. Key industries in South Dakota, according to the Governor's Office of Economic Development, include bioscience, information technology and renewable energy.

Sample jobs and related mean annual wages in South Dakota, according to 2010 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, include:

  1. Computer and information scientists managers: $102,330
  2. Conservation scientists: $57,300
  3. Environmental engineers: $68,150
  4. Geoscientists, $54,040
  5. Lodging managers: $47,030
  6. Marketing managers: $102,580
  7. Public relations and fundraising managers: $77,800

If Lewis and Clark could find adventure in the state when they traveled through in August, September and October 1804, imagine the adventures and opportunities that could be available to you!

See also: South Dakota Vocational Schools and Career Training

South Dakota Colleges and Universities