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

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DSU cyber defense team advances to nationals

The Dakota State cyber defense competition team earned first place at regionals and will advance to the online National Championship in April.

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PREMIER Bankcard Women in Business University Event

Dakota State University is welcoming the PREMIER Bankcard Women in Business University Event to the Heartland Captains Club in the Beacom PREMIER Athletics Complex on Wednesday, April 9.

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DSU ranks #10 in NSA Codebreaker Challenge

DSU students and faculty took part in the 2025 NSA Codebreaker Challenge, and placed 10th on the leaderboard out of almost 600 U.S. academic institutions. One student, Brayden Borges, finished all the challenges.

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