Nov. 5, 2024

This paid piece is sponsored by the University of South Dakota. 

If you step foot onto the University of South Dakota – Sioux Falls campus on North Career Avenue, you will notice a new energy.  

At a new-student orientation event in August, more than 150 people filled the campus’ main auditorium as new students started their journey at USD – Sioux Falls. During USD’s homecoming celebration, Dakota Days, the Sioux Falls campus saw record participation in activities that reflect the Coyote spirit. And on any given day, students and visitors can experience a vibrant learning environment that has more momentum than ever before. 

That atmosphere is a reflection of the growth USD – Sioux Falls has experienced since becoming a designated university campus two years ago. Last year, USD – Sioux Falls served just over 1,000 students. This fall, the number of undergraduate students enrolled in USD – Sioux Falls courses increased 15 percent over last fall. 

“It’s a very exciting time at USD – Sioux Falls,” said Jay Perry, vice president for USD – Sioux Falls. “There is a demand for a public university option in Sioux Falls, and we are proud to provide that for our students as we also support South Dakota’s workforce.” 

USD – Sioux Falls serves a wide range of traditional and nontraditional students. Approximately one-third of the student population is older than 24. Of the campus’ first-time students, 83 percent are from high schools within the city of Sioux Falls.  

As USD’s Sioux Falls campus grows, a key priority is attending to the needs of nontraditional students — including first-generation students, New Americans and students who are working full-time while balancing their course load. 

“We are always thinking about how we can connect with more students who may not have otherwise envisioned that a college education would be possible for them,” said Alissa Matt, assistant vice president for external relations.

“USD – Sioux Falls opens new doors for students. We are committed to continuing to expand opportunities and help more students access an education that will set them up to achieve their goals and thrive.” 

The programs at USD – Sioux Falls span associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees, as well as certificates, with more than 30 academic programs to choose from. The most popular programs are helping address regional workforce gaps.  

“We are seeing enrollment growth in the areas that align with some of South Dakota’s greatest workforce needs – especially business, health care and education,” Perry said. “This campus has created a pipeline of leaders who will serve our communities in Sioux Falls and across the state.” 

The program at USD – Sioux Falls with the largest enrollment is nursing. As home to South Dakota’s only medical school and most comprehensive health sciences school, USD has long provided a robust education in health care. The Sioux Falls campus continues that tradition while also emphasizing the facilities and opportunities afforded by South Dakota’s largest city.  

As its Sioux Falls campus grows, USD continues to listen to the needs of students and the workforce. Matt noted that an important part of that work is building relationships in the city. 

“USD has great partnerships with our health care systems, school districts, businesses and community partners in Sioux Falls,” Matt said. “By working together, we can better serve our students, the city, the state and the region.” 

For more information about USD – Sioux Falls, visit usd.edu/SiouxFalls.