University of South Dakota
About University of South Dakota
The University of South Dakota is a public research university recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, USD provides a supportive learning environment that prepares students for success in their chosen fields.
location_city City, State & Campus Insights
Explore life, weather, culture, transit, and demographics around University of South Dakota
groups 1. City Size & State Population
Vermillion
10.7 sq km / 4.1 sq mi
11,800
909,824
Density: 1,090 people per sq km / 2,820 people per sq mi
thermostat 2. Monthly Climate (Jan – Dec)
attractions 3. Top Places to Visit Nearby
National Music Museum
MuseumHome to over 15,000 instruments from various cultures and historical periods, making it one of the largest and most comprehensive collections in the world.
Spirit Mound Historic Prairie
Historic Site / ParkA sacred site for Native American tribes, offering panoramic views of the Missouri River Valley and a glimpse into the region's natural and cultural history.
Vermillion Public Library
Community CenterA modern library serving the community, offering a wide range of books, resources, and public programs.
University of South Dakota Art Galleries
Art GalleryShowcases a diverse collection of contemporary and historical art, often featuring works by regional artists and students.
restaurant 4. Top Local Foods & Cuisines
Pheasant
South Dakota's state bird is a popular game meat, often prepared roasted, grilled, or in casseroles, showcasing the state's hunting heritage.
Kuchen
The official state dessert of South Dakota, a sweet, custard-like cake often filled with fruit such as peaches, apples, or plums, reflecting German-Russian heritage.
Chislic
Small cubes of red meat (typically lamb, beef, or venison) grilled or deep-fried and served with salt, a popular bar food and local delicacy.
diversity_3 5. Racial & Demographic Composition
Vermillion, South Dakota, is predominantly White, reflecting the broader demographics of the state, with smaller but significant proportions of other racial and ethnic groups, including a notable Native American population in the state.
workspace_premium 6. Notable University Alumni & Figures
Tom Brokaw
Former anchor and managing editor of NBC Nightly News, a highly respected figure in American journalism and author of several best-selling books.
George S. Mickelson
Served as the 28th Governor of South Dakota, known for his focus on economic development and education.
John H. Lawrence
A pioneer in nuclear medicine, known for his work on the medical applications of radioactive isotopes, brother of Nobel laureate Ernest Lawrence.
directions_bus 7. Transportation & Getting Around
Vermillion is a small city with limited public transportation, making personal vehicles the primary mode of travel. The city is connected to regional and national routes via highways.
Public Transit (Buses & Metro)
Vermillion has a limited public transit system, primarily a city bus service with a few routes. Service frequency is generally low, and coverage is not extensive. Students at USD may have access to campus-specific shuttle services.
Walking & Cycling
Vermillion is generally walkable and bike-friendly, especially within the downtown area and near the university campus. There are some dedicated bike paths and sidewalks, but a comprehensive network is not present. The city's relatively flat terrain makes cycling accessible.
Regional Rail & Airport
There is no regional rail service in Vermillion. The closest major airport is Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), located approximately 80 km (50 miles) north, offering domestic flights. Smaller regional airports might be available for private or charter flights.
school 8. Education & Literacy Level
99.0%
30.5% (South Dakota average), 40.5% (Vermillion average)
South Dakota boasts a high literacy rate. Educational attainment in Vermillion is notably higher than the state average, largely due to the presence of the University of South Dakota, which attracts a highly educated population and fosters a strong academic environment. The state emphasizes K-12 education and has several public and private institutions of higher learning.
trending_up 9. Main Source of Economy & Industries
The economy of Vermillion is heavily influenced by the University of South Dakota, which is the largest employer. Beyond the university, healthcare, education, and local services form the backbone of the local economy. The broader South Dakota economy is dominated by agriculture, tourism, and financial services.
Key Driving Industries
Major Corporate Employers
Popular Programs
View All CoursesNo programs listed yet. Check back soon!
Admissions Info
Application Period
Main intake starts in September. Applications are typically accepted from October to January for the following academic year.
Fees & Living Costs
Tuition Fees / Year
$10,300.00 - $13,000.00
Living Expenses / Year
$12,000.00 - $20,000.00
* Costs are estimated. Actual fees may vary by course and lifestyle.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Need-Blind Admission
Financial need is not considered during the admission process for both domestic and international students.
Campus Life
Student Reviews
login Login to ReviewBased on 0 Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!