Private nonprofit Institution

Dakota Wesleyan University — Mitchell, South Dakota

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Annual Tuition $32,890

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 72.8%

Moderately Open

Enrollment 661

Active Students

Avg. Salary $53,728

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Mitchell, South Dakota
Institution type Private nonprofit
Accreditation Higher Learning Commission
Founded 12/1/1965

Academic Mission & Environment

"Dakota Wesleyan University stands as a pillar of higher education in Mitchell, providing a robust academic foundation for 661 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus
Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does Dakota Wesleyan University offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at Dakota Wesleyan University. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Business & Marketing
24.1%

Enrollment Share

Health Professions
22.2%

Enrollment Share

Education
13.9%

Enrollment Share

Psychology
10.8%

Enrollment Share

Biological Sciences
8.2%

Enrollment Share

Visual & Performing Arts
4.4%

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Business & Marketing College

Positioned as a premier hub for future executives...

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Institutional Choice

Best Health Professions College

Ranked as a top destination for healthcare education...

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Institutional Choice

Best Education College

We develop educators who are passionate about transforming classrooms...

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Institutional Choice

Best Psychology College

Our Psychology program offers deep insights into human behavior...

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Institutional Choice

Best Biological Sciences College

The Biological Sciences program at Dakota Wesleyan University provides a comprehensive education...

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Institutional Choice

Best Visual & Performing Arts College

The Visual & Performing Arts program at Dakota Wesleyan University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

What is the acceptance rate at Dakota Wesleyan University?

Moderately Open
Acceptance Rate 72.8%
Avg. SAT Score N/A

Out of 1600

ACT Midpoint N/A

Out of 36

SAT Section Breakdown

Evidence-Based Reading & Writing N/A
Math N/A

ACT Section Breakdown

English N/A
Math N/A

How much does Dakota Wesleyan University cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $32,890
Out-of-State Tuition $32,890

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 26.3%
Median Student Debt $27,000

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $32,890, graduates see a median starting salary of $53,728, making it one of the most affordable pathways in South Dakota.

What salary can Dakota Wesleyan University graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $53,728

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 46.4%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $19,300
Median Salary (6yr) $49,432
Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average
Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell?

661 Students

Gender Comparison

46.9% Men
53.1% Women
Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

69.4%
Retention First-year
0%
Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

American Indian
1.5%
Asian
0.6%
Black
1.7%
White
80.2%
Unknown
0.3%
Hispanic
9.1%
Two or More Races
4.4%
International
2.3%

Campus Demographics

🎂
Avg. Age at Entry 22
🎓
First-Generation 28.9%
💰
Receive Pell Grant 44.5%
💍
Married Students 11.6%
🔄
Retention (Part-time) 90%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income $47,601
Average Family Income $76,324
Median Family Income $68,742

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

44.4%
55.6%
Women Men
Premium Campus Location

Explore the Mitchell Campus Environment

Located at 1200 W University Ave, Dakota Wesleyan University offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of South Dakota. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan
Access High Connectivity
Get Directions Open in Google Maps

Common Questions about Dakota Wesleyan University

Is Dakota Wesleyan University a good college in Mitchell, South Dakota?
Dakota Wesleyan University is a recognized institution in Mitchell with an enrollment of 661 students. It is accredited by Higher Learning Commission and offers a robust ROI for students in South Dakota based on Department of Education data.
Is Dakota Wesleyan University worth attending in 2026?
Yes, Dakota Wesleyan University offers exceptional value with an average net price of $0 and median graduate earnings of $53,728. The institution's focus on professional outcomes makes it a strong investment for 2026.
How much does Dakota Wesleyan University cost for South Dakota residents in 2026?
For the 2026 academic year, in-state tuition at Dakota Wesleyan University is approximately $32,890. In addition, out-of-state tuition is $32,890. Financial aid and Pell Grants significantly reduce this cost for most local residents.
What is the real cost of Dakota Wesleyan University after financial aid and FAFSA?
The real cost of attending Dakota Wesleyan University for most students is its average net price of $0. Approximately 44.5% of students receive Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid to offset costs.
Is Dakota Wesleyan University good for Business & Marketing and Health Professions programs?
Dakota Wesleyan University is highly regarded for its Business & Marketing and Health Professions programs. These tracks are among the most popular, preparing students for immediate career entry.
What career can I get after attending Dakota Wesleyan University?
Graduates of Dakota Wesleyan University often transition into high-demand roles in fields like Business & Marketing. With a median salary of $53,728, the college provides a clear pathway to professional advancement.
What are the admission requirements for Dakota Wesleyan University?
Dakota Wesleyan University operates with a Moderately Open policy. This typically includes a simplified application process focused on accessibility and student success regardless of past standardized test scores.
Does Dakota Wesleyan University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
No, Dakota Wesleyan University follows a test-optional approach for the 2026 cycle. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are not required for general admission.
What salary can Dakota Wesleyan University graduates expect after 10 years?
Graduates of Dakota Wesleyan University earn a median salary of $53,728 after 10 years. This demonstrates long-term professional stability and growth.
Is Dakota Wesleyan University a good investment compared to other SD colleges?
Dakota Wesleyan University stands out as a high-value investment in South Dakota. With an average net price of only $0, it offers one of the most affordable pathways to a degree and a professional career in the state.
Where is Dakota Wesleyan University located and what is the campus like?
Dakota Wesleyan University is located at 1200 W University Ave in Mitchell, SD. The campus provides a dynamic environment serving a diverse student body of 661 learners.
Who typically attends Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, SD?
The student body at Dakota Wesleyan University is diverse and career-focused. Approximately 28.9% are first-generation students, reflecting a community of motivated, real-world learners.
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2026 Rankings: South Dakota

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare Dakota Wesleyan University with other leading institutions in South Dakota across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

N
Nursing
B
Business Administration
C
Computer Science
M
Medical
P
Psychology
E
Engineering
C
Criminal Justice
S
Social Work
A
Accounting
M
Marketing
C
Cybersecurity
F
Finance
B
Biotechnology
M
Mechanical Engineering
P
Public Administration
F
Fire Protection
I
International Business
I
Information Science
C
Civil Engineering
J
Journalism
G
Graphic Communications
C
Computer Engineering
D
Data Science
L
Law
A
Architecture
E
Education
L
Liberal Arts
🧭

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