About USD

The University of South Dakota

The University of South Dakota, the first public university established in the Dakota Territory and the flagship university within the South Dakota system of higher education, highly values excellence in teaching and learning, advancement of knowledge, public service, freedom of thought and expression, and personal responsibility and development. USD provides a strong liberal arts education and an array of regionally and nationally recognized professional and graduate programs. Undergraduate programs provide a solid foundation for entry-level careers and for graduate and professional degrees at USD or other institutions of higher education. Graduate and professional programs at USD prepare students to contribute to their disciplines and professions as well as to their communities through scholarship, leadership, and service.

The University provides students an intellectually stimulating educational experience, in and out of the classroom, within a supportive and diverse community of active learners. The students’ academic and personal growth is assured through an innovative curriculum that integrates excellence in teaching with research and service. At USD, students are inspired to become lifelong learners who will make significant contributions through leadership and service as citizens of the state, the nation, and the world. USD relies on strategic planning, program review, and assessment activities to refine its vision and measure its success in achieving its goal to be the best small, public flagship university in the nation built upon a liberal arts foundation.