Dakota State University students walking around campus

Preparation + opportunity = success

That's the DSU equation. We're a four-year university with nationally recognized programs, cutting-edge facilities, and the brightest thinkers. But we're also a tight-knit, inclusive community. Small class sizes mean hands-on training and individualized attention. All this with an affordable, public school price that's among the best values in the region.

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Is DSU the right fit for you?

Even the best brochures and postcards (and yes, even websites) can only tell you so much about a college. The only surefire way to know if DSU is right for you is to see for yourself.

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Home ― Student Life

Student Life

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Make the most of every moment

We're a small school with big heart. Our campus is a warm, welcoming place that strengthens and enhances your educational experience. You get all the benefits of a close-knit school with the amenities of a world-class university.

DSU students work hard, but we have just as much fun. Our community of 3,000 plus students is active in athletics, academic teams, research, and clubs and organizations. From ultimate frisbee to anime, intramural sports to volunteer opportunities, there's a way to find your people.

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FYRE (First Year Residence Experience)

Our signature program for first-year students is designed to help you transition to college life.

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Academic teams

Apply your tech skills as part of a regionally and nationally competitive team challenged with programming, cyber defense, and more.

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Living, learning, growing

We take a holistic approach to student life at DSU. The First-Year Experience (FYRE) program helps you transition to college. On-campus housing provides a supportive, safe, and comfortable home base. Our Counseling Center is your go-to for help with academic, mental health, and substance use counseling. We have dedicated staff to assist veterans, international students, and students with disabilities. There's even a new program, STRONG, tasked with supporting students who have Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Wellness is a priority at DSU. We offer a number of fresh, healthy, and convenient dining options. If you want to get in some exercise, you can take a dip in the pool or shoot hoops with your membership to the on-campus Madison Community Center. Under the weather? Visit the Student Health Office nurse to treat minor illness or injury (rest assured, urgent or emergency care is nearby at Madison Regional Health).

Events

News

Students excel at international competitions.

International competitions hone good cyber skills

Dakota State University students are honing their cybersecurity skills everywhere they can, in class, through campus clubs, and with competitions that take place around the world.

Angela Slattery, #21, found her place at DSU in the classroom and on the basketball court.

Slattery: DSU was made for me

Angela Slattery, the fall 2024 commencement student speaker, said DSU was made for her, allowing her to develop her identity in the classroom and on the basketball court.

Pictured (l-to-r): A ledger drawing by Wade Patton featuring colorful clouds, a full moon, and seven tipis; a painting by J.White featuring a pregnant woman laying on the ground; a doll featuring braids and horns.

South Dakota Native American artists visit DSU

For the past 50 years, DSU’s Native American Student Association (NASA) has brought speakers to campus and hosted events to celebrate Indigenous cultures. This month, NASA brought three Native American artists to campus to talk with students about their artistic journeys.

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