| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location: Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA
Type: Private Christian Liberal Arts University
Established: 1883
Campus Size: 58 acres
Affiliation: American Baptist Churches USA
Student Population: ~1,300 students
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
The University of Sioux Falls offers more than 40 undergraduate majors, pre-professional programs, and graduate degrees across various disciplines.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s Degrees)
Business & Economics: Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, Sports Management
Health & Sciences: Biology, Exercise Science, Nursing (BSN), Radiologic Technology
Humanities & Social Sciences: Psychology, Sociology, Criminal Justice, Political Science
Education: Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Special Education
Fine Arts: Music, Theatre, Art
Pre-Professional Programs: Pre-Med, Pre-Law, Pre-Pharmacy, Pre-Dental, Pre-Engineering
Graduate & Professional Programs
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Online & Hybrid Programs Available
The university is known for its strong nursing, business, and education programs.
U.S. News & World Report: Ranked among Top Regional Universities (Midwest)
Niche Rankings: Rated A- for Campus & Diversity
Best Christian Colleges: Recognized for faith-based education and strong student engagement
USF is highly regarded for its small class sizes, strong faculty support, and career-oriented programs.
Acceptance Rate: ~92% (Less Selective)
Application Requirements:
High School Transcripts
Personal Statement / Essay
Letter of Recommendation (Optional)
SAT/ACT (Optional)
English Proficiency (for International Students)
USF has a rolling admissions policy, meaning applications are accepted year-round.
Undergraduate Tuition Fees: ~$20,290 per year
Graduate Tuition Fees: Varies by program (~$400-$600 per credit)
Room & Board: ~$8,000 per year
Scholarships: Merit-based and need-based scholarships available (up to $15,000 per year for eligible students)
Over 95% of students receive financial aid through grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.
The University of Sioux Falls provides a welcoming Christian community with various activities and student organizations, including:
50+ Student Clubs & Organizations (Student Government, Academic Clubs, Faith Groups)
NAIA Athletics (USF Cougars) – Football, Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, Track & Field
Performing Arts & Music Programs
Service & Faith-Based Activities
Internships & Career Development Programs
The university’s location in Sioux Falls, South Dakota provides students with access to internships, jobs, and entertainment in one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest.
85%+ of graduates secure employment or graduate school placement within six months.
Strong partnerships with regional businesses, healthcare institutions, and educational organizations for internships and jobs.
Career Services Office provides resume workshops, interview prep, job placement assistance, and networking events.
Graduates have gone on to work at companies like Sanford Health, Avera Health, Wells Fargo, and CitiBank, and have pursued advanced degrees at Harvard, Duke, and the University of Minnesota.
A. College of Business & Entrepreneurship
Accounting
Business Administration
Finance
Management
Marketing
Sports Management
B. College of Arts & Sciences
Biology
Chemistry
Applied Mathematics
English
History
Political Science
Criminal Justice
Psychology
Sociology
C. Education & Teaching
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Special Education
Educational Studies
D. Health Sciences
Nursing (BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
Exercise Science
Radiologic Technology
Medical Laboratory Science
E. Fine Arts & Humanities
Art
Music (Instrumental & Vocal)
Theatre
Media Studies
F. Pre-Professional Programs (Pathways to Advanced Degrees)
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Physical Therapy
Pre-Law
Pre-Engineering
USF offers hands-on learning experiences, research opportunities, and internships to help students prepare for their careers.
A. Master’s Degree Programs
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Healthcare Management
Organizational Leadership
Business Innovation & Marketing
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Teaching
Educational Leadership
Reading Specialist
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Nursing Administration
Nursing Education
B. Doctoral Programs
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) – Focus on leadership in education
C. Online & Hybrid Graduate Programs
MBA, M.Ed., and MSN programs are available in online and hybrid formats for flexible learning.
The university’s graduate programs are designed for working professionals, offering evening and online courses.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Finance |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Management |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Sports Management |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Applied Mathematics |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
English |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
History |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Criminal Justice |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Elementary Education |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Secondary Education |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Special Education |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Educational Studies |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Nursing (BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing) |
4 years |
$20,290 + clinical fees |
|
Exercise Science |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Radiologic Technology |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Medical Laboratory Science |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Art |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Music (Instrumental & Vocal) |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Theatre |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Media Studies |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Pre-Medicine (Biology Track) |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Pre-Dentistry (Biology Track) |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Pre-Pharmacy (Biology or Chemistry Track) |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Pre-Physical Therapy (Exercise Science Track) |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Pre-Law (Political Science Track) |
4 years |
$20,290 |
|
Pre-Engineering (Mathematics & Physics Track) |
4 years |
$20,290 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1 - 2 years |
$15,300 - $16,500 |
|
MBA – Healthcare Management |
1 - 2 years |
$15,300 - $16,500 |
|
MBA – Organizational Leadership |
1 - 2 years |
$15,300 - $16,500 |
|
MBA – Business Innovation & Marketing |
1 - 2 years |
$15,300 - $16,500 |
|
Master of Education (M.Ed.) – Teaching |
1 - 2 years |
$10,500 - $12,000 |
|
M.Ed. – Educational Leadership |
1 - 2 years |
$10,500 - $12,000 |
|
M.Ed. – Reading Specialist |
1 - 2 years |
$10,500 - $12,000 |
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Nursing Administration |
1.5 - 2 years |
$18,000 - $22,000 |
|
MSN – Nursing Education |
1.5 - 2 years |
$18,000 - $22,000 |
|
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) – Leadership in Education |
3 - 4 years |
$20,000 - $25,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) – Leadership in Education |
3 - 4 years |
$20,000 - $25,000 |
International students must follow a simple application process to study at USF.
Submit an Online Application (No application fee).
Provide Official High School or College Transcripts (Translated into English if necessary).
Submit English Proficiency Test Scores (If English is not the primary language):
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.0+
Duolingo English Test: 100+
SAT/ACT (Optional but may help with scholarships).
Personal Statement / Essay (Optional but recommended).
Letter of Recommendation (Optional but may strengthen the application).
Copy of Passport (Required for visa processing).
Financial Support Documents (Proof of ability to pay tuition and living expenses).
USF has a rolling admissions policy, meaning applications are accepted year-round.
Expense |
Estimated Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Tuition Fees |
$20,290 |
|
Room & Board |
$8,000 |
|
Books & Supplies |
$1,200 |
|
Health Insurance |
$1,500 |
|
Personal Expenses |
$2,000 |
|
Total Estimated Cost |
$33,990 per year |
International students must provide proof of funds for visa purposes.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
International Student Scholarship |
Based on academic performance & leadership |
$5,000 - $15,000 |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Based on high school GPA (3.0+ preferred) |
$6,000 - $12,000 |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
For outstanding student-athletes |
(Full/Partial Tuition) |
All international students are automatically considered for scholarships upon admission.
USF provides a safe and friendly campus environment with diverse student activities and strong support services.
International Student Services (ISS): Visa guidance, cultural support, and academic advising.
On-Campus Housing: Fully furnished dorms and apartments with meal plans.
Student Organizations & Cultural Clubs: International Club, Faith-Based Groups, Leadership Programs.
Career Services: Internships, job placements, and networking opportunities.
Health & Wellness Center: Medical and counseling services for students.
Step |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Step 1: Choose a Program |
Select a Bachelor’s degree program from USF’s offerings. |
|
Step 2: Submit an Online Application |
Apply through the USF Application Portal (No application fee). |
|
Step 3: Submit Required Documents |
Upload academic & personal documents (see list below). |
|
Step 4: Submit English Proficiency Test Scores (For International Students) |
TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or equivalent. |
|
Step 5: Await Admission Decision |
Decisions are usually made within 2-4 weeks. |
|
Step 6: Accept Offer & Pay Enrollment Deposit |
If admitted, confirm your spot by paying a deposit. |
|
Step 7: Apply for Visa (For International Students) |
Receive I-20 form and apply for an F-1 Student Visa. |
|
Step 8: Prepare for Arrival |
Arrange housing, register for classes, and attend orientation. |
For U.S. & International Students:
Completed Application Form (via USF website)
High School Transcripts (Official, translated into English if necessary)
Personal Statement / Essay (Optional but recommended)
Letter of Recommendation (Optional but strengthens application)
SAT/ACT Scores (Optional) (Not required but may help with scholarships)
Additional Requirements for International Students:
English Proficiency Test Scores (if English is not the primary language):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 100
Copy of Passport
Financial Support Documents (Proof of funding for tuition & living expenses)
USF is test-optional, so SAT/ACT scores are not required but may help with scholarships.
Step |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Step 1: Select Your Program |
Choose a Master’s or Doctoral program from USF’s offerings. |
|
Step 2: Complete Online Application |
Apply directly through the USF Graduate Admissions Portal. |
|
Step 3: Submit Required Documents |
Upload all academic & professional documents (see list below). |
|
Step 4: Submit English Proficiency Test Scores (For International Students) |
TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or equivalent. |
|
Step 5: Interview (If Required) |
Some programs (MBA, MSN) may request an interview. |
|
Step 6: Await Admission Decision |
Typically takes 2-6 weeks after submission. |
|
Step 7: Accept Offer & Pay Deposit |
Secure your spot by paying an enrollment deposit. |
|
Step 8: Apply for Visa (For International Students) |
Receive I-20 form and apply for a U.S. F-1 Student Visa. |
|
Step 9: Prepare for Arrival |
Arrange housing, register for classes, and attend orientation. |
Bachelor’s Degree Transcripts (Official, translated if necessary)
Resume/CV (For professional programs)
Statement of Purpose (SOP) / Personal Statement
Letters of Recommendation (Usually 1-3, varies by program)
GRE/GMAT Scores (Only required for some programs)
English Proficiency Test Scores (For international students)
Copy of Passport (For international students)
Doctoral (Ed.D.) programs may have additional research or licensure requirements.
Intake |
Application Deadline |
Classes Start |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake (Main Intake) |
Rolling Admissions (Recommended: June 1) |
August |
|
Spring Intake |
Rolling Admissions (Recommended: November 1) |
January |
|
Summer Intake (Limited Programs) |
Rolling Admissions (Recommended: April 1) |
May/June |
Some graduate programs may have specific deadlines, so applicants should check with their department.
General Requirements:
High School Diploma (or equivalent, such as A-levels, IB, or other national qualifications)
Minimum GPA: 2.5 - 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale, varies by program)
English Proficiency (for international students)
SAT/ACT scores are optional but may help with scholarship eligibility.
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 100
SAT Evidence-Based Reading & Writing: 550+ (if submitting SAT)
Exemptions: Students from English-speaking countries or those who completed high school in English may be exempt.
Personal Statement / Essay (Optional but recommended)
At Least One Letter of Recommendation (from a teacher or counselor)
Official High School Transcripts (translated into English if necessary)
General Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA: 2.75 - 3.0 (varies by program)
Work Experience: Some programs (e.g., MBA, MSN) may require 1-2 years of experience
English Proficiency (for international students)
English Language Requirements (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 100
Additional Requirements (Varies by Program):
GRE/GMAT: Required for some programs (MBA may waive GMAT for experienced candidates)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Resume/CV (for professional programs)
Letters of Recommendation (usually 1-3, varies by program)
Doctoral (Ed.D.) programs may have additional research or licensure requirements.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD per Year) |
Applicable To |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Based on GPA & academic excellence (automatic consideration) |
$5,000 - $15,000 |
Domestic & International Students |
|
International Student Scholarship |
Awarded to high-achieving international students |
$5,000 - $15,000 |
International Students |
|
Cougar Academic Scholarship |
Minimum GPA of 3.5 |
$10,000 - $15,000 |
Domestic Students |
|
Talent-Based Scholarships |
Based on music, theatre, or athletic performance (audition required) |
$2,000 - $10,000 |
Domestic & International Students |
|
Transfer Student Scholarship |
For students transferring from another college/university |
$5,000 - $10,000 |
Transfer Students |
|
Faith-Based Scholarship |
For students involved in church leadership or Christian ministry |
$2,000 - $5,000 |
Domestic & International Students |
Most scholarships are renewable for up to 4 years, provided the student maintains good academic standing.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Applicable To |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Graduate Merit Scholarship |
Based on academic performance (GPA 3.5+) |
$3,000 - $10,000 |
Domestic & International Students |
|
MBA Excellence Scholarship |
For high-achieving MBA applicants |
$5,000 - $10,000 |
MBA Students |
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Scholarship |
For outstanding nursing students |
$3,000 - $7,000 |
Nursing Students |
|
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Scholarship |
For students pursuing education leadership |
$5,000 - $8,000 |
Ed.D. Students |
Graduate scholarships vary by program and may be combined with assistantships or employer tuition reimbursement.
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Mather Library |
Equipped with study spaces, research resources, and digital access. |
|
Stewart Center |
Gymnasium, fitness center, and indoor sports courts. |
|
Jeschke Fine Arts Center |
Houses music, theatre, and arts programs. |
|
McDonald Center |
Student hub with dining areas, study lounges, and event spaces. |
|
Science & Technology Labs |
Modern labs for biology, chemistry, and healthcare studies. |
|
Chapel & Faith-Based Services |
Christian worship services, prayer rooms, and faith-related activities. |
|
Career Services Center |
Helps students with internships, career advising, and networking. |
|
Health & Wellness Center |
Provides medical care, counseling, and mental health support. |
USF offers a variety of residence halls with different room styles, providing a safe and engaging living environment.
Residence Hall |
Room Type |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Grand Island Hall |
Shared Room |
$4,200 - $4,800 |
Traditional dorm, shared bathrooms, study lounges. |
|
Kroske Hall |
Shared Room |
$4,500 - $5,200 |
Community-style, study spaces, social areas. |
|
Sullivan Hall |
Private Room |
$5,500 - $6,500 |
Single occupancy, air-conditioned, modern amenities. |
|
Burgess Apartments |
Apartment-Style |
$6,500 - $7,500 |
Kitchenette, laundry facilities, private/shared rooms. |
|
Pettigrew Hall |
Suite-Style |
$5,000 - $6,200 |
2-4 students per suite, private bathrooms, social spaces. |
All on-campus housing includes Wi-Fi, utilities, and security services.
Many upperclassmen choose to live off-campus in affordable housing options near the university.
Type |
Estimated Cost Per Month (USD) |
Facilities |
|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment |
$600 - $900 |
Private/shared rooms, kitchen, common area. |
|
Studio Apartment |
$800 - $1,200 |
Private unit with kitchen and bathroom. |
|
1-Bedroom Apartment |
$1,000 - $1,500 |
Full apartment with utilities. |
|
Homestay (with meals) |
$800 - $1,200 |
Includes meals, utilities, family environment. |
Off-campus options vary based on location and amenities. Sioux Falls has a relatively low cost of living compared to other U.S. cities.
USF is a Christian liberal arts university, welcoming students from all backgrounds. The campus provides opportunities for students to explore and strengthen their faith through weekly chapel services, Bible study groups, and community service projects.
USF offers over 50 student clubs and organizations, including:
Academic & Professional Clubs (Business Club, Pre-Med Society, Education Club)
Cultural & Diversity Groups (International Student Association, Spanish Club)
Faith-Based Groups (Campus Ministry, Fellowship of Christian Athletes)
Media & Arts Groups (Student Newspaper, Theatre Club, Choir, Instrumental Music)
Service & Volunteer Groups (Community Outreach, Sustainability Club)
USF’s Cougars athletic teams compete in NCAA Division II with sports like football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, track & field, and golf. For non-athletes, the Wellness Center and intramural sports programs provide recreational activities such as yoga, basketball, and weight training.
USF hosts fun and exciting events throughout the year, including:
Welcome Week & Orientation Activities
Homecoming Celebrations
Spring Formal & Holiday Festivities
Campus Worship Nights
Outdoor Movie Nights & Game Nights
Career Fairs & Networking Events
The university’s location in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, provides access to shopping centers, restaurants, concerts, museums, and parks for additional entertainment and leisure.
Most students live on-campus in dormitories, suites, or apartment-style housing. Residence halls include study lounges, common areas, and social events to help students build friendships and create a strong sense of community.
The Career Services Office helps students prepare for their future with:
Internships & Job Placements
Resume Writing Workshops
Mock Interviews & Career Coaching
Alumni Mentorship Programs
Many students gain work experience through internships with local businesses, hospitals, and non-profit organizations in Sioux Falls, a city known for its growing economy and job opportunities.
Sioux Falls offers plenty of outdoor recreation, including:
Hiking & biking trails at Falls Park
Kayaking & fishing on the Big Sioux River
Skiing & snowboarding in winter
Day trips to Badlands National Park & Mount Rushmore
96% of USF graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Top Hiring Industries for USF Graduates:
Business & Finance
Healthcare & Nursing
Education & Teaching
Technology & Data Science
Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement
Communication & Media
Ministry & Non-Profit Organizations
80%+ of students complete at least one internship or research project before graduation.
USF partners with local and national businesses, healthcare institutions, non-profits, and government agencies to provide hands-on learning experiences.
Internships are available in Sioux Falls, Minneapolis, Omaha, and Chicago, as well as international opportunities.
Graduates of USF work at leading companies, hospitals, schools, and organizations, including:
Business & Finance: Wells Fargo, Citibank, First Premier Bank, Sanford Health
Healthcare & Nursing: Avera Health, Mayo Clinic, Sanford Medical Center
Education & Public Service: Sioux Falls School District, Teach for America, City of Sioux Falls
Technology & Science: Raven Industries, MetaBank, Microsoft
Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement: South Dakota State Government, FBI, Police Departments
Non-Profit & Ministry: Churches, Missionary Organizations, United Way
Many USF graduates also become entrepreneurs and business owners.
The Career Services Center at USF helps students with:
Career Counseling & Resume Building
Mock Interviews & Job Search Assistance
Internship & Job Placement Programs
Networking Events & Career Fairs
Alumni Mentorship & Graduate School Guidance
Students have access to career services even after graduation, making USF alumni well-supported throughout their careers.
Many students continue their education at top universities, including:
Harvard University
Duke University
University of Minnesota
University of South Dakota
Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences
USF provides pre-professional advising for students interested in medicine, law, business, and theology.
The University of Sioux Falls (USF) has an acceptance rate of approximately 92%, making it a less selective institution with a strong focus on academic potential and personal growth rather than just test scores.
Holistic Admission Process: USF evaluates applicants based on GPA, extracurricular activities, leadership, and personal statements rather than just standardized test scores.
Test-Optional Policy: SAT/ACT scores are not required but may be submitted to strengthen an application or qualify for additional scholarships.
International Student Admission: Requires English proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo) and proof of financial support.
University of Sioux Falls (USF) is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA.
University of Sioux Falls
1101 W 22nd St,
Sioux Falls, SD 57105,
United States
Located in the Heart of Sioux Falls: The campus is in a safe and vibrant city with easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, entertainment venues, and parks.
Proximity to Major Cities:
Minneapolis, Minnesota – ~4 hours (240 miles)
Omaha, Nebraska – ~3 hours (180 miles)
Chicago, Illinois – ~9 hours (570 miles)
Transportation Options:
Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD) – 10-minute drive from campus
Public Bus System & Ride-Sharing (Uber & Lyft available)
Outdoor & Recreational Activities: Close to Falls Park, biking trails, and national parks, offering plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities.
