Dickinson State University
The Vibe Check
Dickinson State University feels like a tight-knit community where you're not just a number in a lecture hall. The campus has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that blends Western North Dakota's rugged charm with supportive faculty who know your name. It's a place where you can focus on your studies without the noise of a big city.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 994
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 19
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
The university has strong, practical programs in Business & Marketing, Health Professions, and Agriculture that are tailored to regional industry needs. Class sizes are small, ensuring direct access to professors and personalized teaching. Research opportunities are more hands-on and community-focused rather than large-scale, with chances to collaborate on local projects.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Dickinson
Student life in Dickinson revolves around campus events, outdoor recreation, and exploring the local Western culture. In warmer months, students enjoy hiking at nearby state parks, attending the Dickinson Stampede Rodeo, or exploring the Badlands. In winter, activities shift to indoor recreation, local coffee shops, and campus-sponsored events to stay connected.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($50,720):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus and surrounding Dickinson area are generally considered very safe with low crime rates. University Police provide 24/7 patrols, and the community is known for being welcoming and secure.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely affordable tuition, especially for in-state students.
- ✓ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors.
- ✓ Strong programs in agriculture and business that align with local economies.
- ✓ Low cost of living in the Dickinson area.
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation and retention rates may indicate challenges with student support or engagement.
- ✗ Location is very remote, with limited off-campus entertainment options.
- ✗ Smaller enrollment means fewer niche course offerings and extracurriculars.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Dickinson State University is known for its strong ties to the local community and its practical, career-focused programs. It has a notable reputation in Agriculture, Business, and Education, reflecting North Dakota's economic drivers. The university also prides itself on being a 'Blue Hawk' institution with a close-knit, supportive campus environment.
No, Dickinson State University is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 60.05%. This means it is moderately competitive, and students with a solid GPA and a completed application have a good chance of admission. While test scores can be submitted, the university often considers a holistic application including your personal statement and extracurriculars.
Campus life is centered around a small, community feel where students can easily get involved in clubs, athletics, and campus events. With a student body of just over 1,100, you'll find a friendly atmosphere where it's easy to know your classmates and professors. Social life is more low-key, often revolving around outdoor activities in the surrounding Badlands area and campus-sponsored events.
For many students, especially in-state, Dickinson State University is worth the cost due to its low tuition and affordable net price. The return on investment is reasonable, with a 10-year median earnings of $50,720 for graduates. However, the value depends on your major and career goals; it is a particularly strong financial choice for those entering high-demand fields like healthcare, business, or agriculture in the region.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 1,717
- In-State Tuition $9,118
- Out-of-State $11,218
- Zip Code 58601
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $15,270 and lower-than-average out-of-state tuition, Dickinson State offers a solid value proposition. The 10-year median earnings of $50,720 provide a reasonable return on investment, especially for in-state students. For those pursuing fields like Business or Health Professions, the cost-to-degree ratio makes it a financially sensible choice compared to larger universities.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.