Public Institution

Lake Area Technical College 2026: $ 6,718 Tuition, Open Admission & Verified ROI Outcomes

Watertown, South Dakota

Compare Visit Website
Annual Tuition $6,718

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance N/A

Open Admission

Enrollment 1,710

Active Students

Avg. Salary $45,473

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Watertown, South Dakota
Institution type Public
Accreditation Higher Learning Commission
Founded 7/21/1976

Academic Mission & Environment

"Lake Area Technical College stands as a pillar of higher education in Watertown, providing a robust academic foundation for 1,710 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus
Student Focus High Employment ROI

Academic Excellence & Popular Programs

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at Lake Area Technical College. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Health Professions
29.2%

Enrollment Share

Mechanic & Repair
17.1%

Enrollment Share

Agriculture
11.3%

Enrollment Share

Business & Marketing
9.7%

Enrollment Share

Precision Production
8.1%

Enrollment Share

Engineering Tech
6.2%

Enrollment Share

Best Health Professions College

Ranked as a top destination for healthcare education, our health programs provide rigorous clinical training and a direct pathway to high-demand medical careers.

Best Mechanic & Repair College

The Mechanic & Repair program at Lake Area Technical College provides a comprehensive education designed for immediate professional impact. It remains a top choice for students seeking excellence in this competitive field.

Best Agriculture College

The Agriculture program at Lake Area Technical College provides a comprehensive education designed for immediate professional impact. It remains a top choice for students seeking excellence in this competitive field.

Admissions & Selectivity

Open Admission
Acceptance Rate N/A%
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

Costs & Financial Aid

In-State Tuition $6,718
Out-of-State Tuition $6,718

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 26.1%
Median Student Debt $12,000

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $6,718, graduates see a median starting salary of $45,473, making it one of the most affordable pathways in South Dakota.

Graduate Outcomes & ROI

Avg. Early Career Salary $45,473

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate N/A%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $14,826
Median Salary (6yr) $43,659
Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average
Career Stability Index High

Student Body & Campus Life

1,710 Students

Gender Comparison

54.2% Men
45.9% Women
Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

82.7%
Retention First-year
81.3%
Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

White
90.6%
Hispanic
2.6%
American Indian / Alaska Native
2.5%
Asian
1.5%
Black
1.4%
Unknown / Unreported
0.8%
Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander
0.5%
International
0.1%
Two or More Races
0.1%

International Student Profile

Lake Area Technical College supports a diverse global community with students from over 40 countries.

0.1% Global Enrollment

Campus Demographics

🎂
Avg. Age at Entry 21
🎓
First-Generation 28.7%
💰
Receive Pell Grant 53.7%
💍
Married Students 7.1%
📅
Students Age 25+ 11.9%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income $46,719
Average Family Income $58,930
Median Family Income $50,805

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

56.1%
43.9%
Women Men
Student-Faculty Ratio 17:1 students per faculty member
Premium Campus Location

Explore the Watertown Campus Environment

Located at 1201 Arrow Ave, Lake Area Technical College 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 Lake Area Technical College

What is the acceptance rate at Lake Area Technical College?
Lake Area Technical College has an open admission policy. This indicates a student-centered admission policy that provides accessible pathways for a diverse range of applicants. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early to secure their spot.
How much does it cost to attend Lake Area Technical College per year?
The estimated annual tuition is $6,718. However, the 'Net Price'—what students actually pay after grants and scholarships—is often much lower. For many families, financial aid packages can reduce the out-of-pocket cost significantly, making Lake Area Technical College a valuable investment in your future.
What are the most popular degrees offered at Lake Area Technical College?
Lake Area Technical College is widely recognized for its strong programs in various academic fields. These areas represent the college\'s commitment to professional preparation and academic rigor, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the modern workforce.
Does Lake Area Technical College offer career support and job placement services?
Yes, Lake Area Technical College provides comprehensive career development services, including resume workshops, interview coaching, and active job placement networks. The institution maintains strong ties with local industries in Watertown, facilitating internships and career opportunities for graduates.
What is the campus culture like at Lake Area Technical College in Watertown?
Located in Watertown, the campus offers a vibrant and inclusive environment. With a student body of 1,710, learners have access to numerous clubs, athletic programs, and cultural events. The college emphasizes a supportive community that fosters both personal growth and academic success.
What kind of ROI can I expect from a degree at Lake Area Technical College?
Graduates of Lake Area Technical College see a median early-career salary of $45,473. When compared to the affordable tuition rates, this represents a strong return on investment. The institution focuses on high-impact degrees that translate directly into professional stability and earnings growth.