DSU enrollment grows for fifth consecutive year

September 11, 2026

MADISON, S.D. - Dakota State University's enrollment continued its upward trajectory in fall 2026, fueled by growth among graduate students, online learners, South Dakota residents, transfer students, and high school dual-credit students.

DSU enrolled 3,975 students this fall, an increase of 133 students, or 3.5%, from fall 2025, which is the largest enrollment total in university history.

Enrollment has grown each year since fall 2021, when the university enrolled 3,219 students. Over that five-year period, DSU has added more than 750 students, an increase of approximately 23%.

"Dakota State's continued growth reflects the strength of our academic mission and the university's increasingly important role in South Dakota," said DSU President Dr. John R. Ballard. "Students recognize the value of an education that prepares them to contribute in high-demand fields, strengthen their communities, and help build the workforce and economic resilience of our state. We are proud to serve more students while remaining focused on the quality and relevance of the education they receive."

Graduate enrollment was a leading contributor to the increase. DSU enrolled 867 graduate students, up 14.5% from fall 2025. The graduate population includes students pursuing master's and doctoral degrees in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, computer science, information systems, education, and other areas aligned with workforce and research needs. Undergraduate enrollment also increased to 3,108 students.

"This growth demonstrates the demand for academic programs that connect rigorous learning with meaningful professional opportunities," said Provost Dr. Rebecca Hoey. "Our faculty continue to develop and deliver programs that respond to emerging needs while giving students the knowledge, practical experience, and support they need to succeed."

Online-only enrollment increased 11.5% to 2,744 students. Growth occurred among both South Dakota residents and students from outside the state, reflecting DSU's ability to provide flexible educational opportunities to working adults, graduate students, and others who may be unable to attend classes in Madison.

South Dakota resident enrollment rose 2.2% to 2,383 students. The increase included growth among both undergraduate and graduate students. South Dakota residents represented nearly 60% of DSU's total enrollment.

DSU also expanded its reach across the state and across the country. DSU's strong growth in out-of-state enrollment, with an increase approaching 10%, was one of the largest gains among the state's public universities. The university's student body represented 64 of South Dakota's 66 counties, individuals from 48 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and 67 countries outside the United States.

DSU's national reach brings new talent and expertise to South Dakota while strengthening the state's position in fields that are increasingly important to its economy and security. As a national hub for cybersecurity and emerging technologies, DSU gives students opportunities to build advanced skills while connecting South Dakota to a growing network of technology leaders.

High school dual-credit enrollment increased 8% to 497 students, allowing more students to earn college credit while still in high school. Incoming transfer enrollment also grew 10.1% to 239 students.

"Students come to Dakota State through many different pathways, and our responsibility is to help each of them find a place where they can move forward," said Amy Crissinger, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. "The growth in dual-credit, transfer, graduate, and online enrollment shows the importance of creating flexible points of access. Whether students begin with us in high school, transfer from another institution, study online, or come to Madison, we want them to feel connected, supported, and prepared to reach their goals."

Enrollment from the Sioux Falls metropolitan area increased 3.4% to 614 students. That total included undergraduate and graduate students in both degree-seeking and non-degree-seeking programs.

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