University of South Dakota

About

Welcome to USD, South Dakota’s flagship university. We may have been around since 1862, but we’re embracing the future through innovative research, flexible schedules and real-life learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.

Join the more than 9,000 students getting their education at affordable rates, and you’ll get that “big university feel” without that big university price tag.

OUR MISSION & HISTORY
USD is the only public liberal arts college in South Dakota, as well as home to the state’s only law and medical schools. These distinctions have helped us become regionally acclaimed and nationally recognized in higher education.

Our Mission
The University of South Dakota offers undergraduate, graduate and professional programs within the South Dakota System of Higher Education. As the oldest university in the state, the University of South Dakota serves as the flagship and the only public liberal arts university in the state.

Vision and Values
Student Experience Focused
Our students are engaged, thoughtful, and well-prepared for a global and complex world. The experience in and out of the classroom is robust, experiential, and practical. Lives are enhanced and changed by the breadth of experiences we provide.

Responsible Stewards
We strive to make a USD education affordable to every qualified student by operating efficiently and effectively with high quality standards to minimize financial barriers to a life-changing experience.

Transparent
We communicate frequently with our stakeholders, both internal and external. Our communication processes are informative, agile, and transparent. Our brand and identity are authentic, clear, and understood by all our stakeholders. People know who we are, what we do, and the connections we make to serve the citizens of South Dakota, members of tribal nations, the region, and the world.

Value Our Community
We are community partners and neighbors who value the strength of our community. We invest in our people and strive to achieve appropriate levels of compensation and recognition. We value our employees and invest in their professional development. All employees play an important role in creating the USD experience.

Welcoming
Community is one of our strengths. We are proud of our caring culture and embrace the uniqueness of our students, faculty and staff. We provide opportunities so all feel welcome here.