DSU announces record-high enrollment

September 11, 2025

Dakota State University announced a record-high enrollment of 3,842 for fall 2025, up 1.8% from last year, thanks in part to an 6.9% growth in graduate students. Enrollment figures were released earlier today by the South Dakota Board of Regents.

DSU saw increases in several enrollment categories. Graduate, undergraduate, dual credit, and international students all saw jumps from the previous fall, according to Amy Crissinger, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management.

As referenced above, graduate numbers rose to 757 this fall, up from 708 in 2024, rising 35.6% over the past two years.

"Graduate enrollment at Dakota State continues to increase because our cutting-edge programs are highly aligned to government and industry workforce needs in technical fields like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and analytics," said Dr. Rebecca Hoey, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. "Those programs are offered affordably online and on campus to meet the needs of both working professionals and traditional students."

A total of 379 first-time freshmen chose Dakota State University this fall, contributing to a modest 0.6% overall growth in the undergraduate student headcount of 3,085. Additionally, 217 transfers were included in DSU's first-time undergraduate student class of 596.

"Our steady, across the board rise in enrollment is a testament to the combined efforts of many individuals at Dakota State University," said Dr. José-Marie Griffiths, President of Dakota State University. "Our faculty inspire innovation, our students set high standards of achievement, and our staff work tirelessly to ensure success."

President Griffiths added that the support of alumni, donors, industry and government partners, and policymakers ensures Dakota State University will continue its impactful work with the next generation.

"The collaborative efforts of DSU's important stakeholders - both internal and external - allow us to prepare our students to make a lifelong impact and solve the problems of the future with the technologies of tomorrow."

Online-only students increased four percent this fall to 2,462, with DSU's on-campus enrollment settling at 1,319 for the year.

"Dakota State offers programs online that are typically only offered on campus, which fills a critical access gap for people who are already in the workforce," said Hoey. "Our students have the same access to high-quality education, technology, services, and real-world experiences regardless of whether they study online or in Madison."

South Dakota residents make 60.7% of this year's total headcount, which includes 594 students from the Sioux Falls Metro area alone.

Students came to DSU this year from 66 different countries, not including the United States, and 49 states, plus Washington D.C. DSU International Programs is pleased to share that international student enrollment also increased again this year, with a 12.7% increase for a total of 222 students.

"DSU's enrollment growth and stability are the result of a true university-wide effort," said Amy Crissinger, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. "From our dedicated recruitment teams and innovative academic programs to the work of our faculty, coaches, marketing, and student success partners, each area plays a vital role in recruiting, welcoming, and supporting our students."

"Both our on-campus and online learners contribute to our success, each contributing unique perspectives that strengthen the fabric of the university experience and enrich our community."

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