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South Dakota State University leads affordable allied health education at just $18,219 net cost, while private options reach $24,723 at Augustana University. The University of South Dakota accepts nearly every applicant at 99.46%, creating accessible pathways into diagnostic and treatment careers. South Dakota's healthcare sector benefits from the state's aging population and rural communities requiring medical imaging, respiratory therapy, and other allied health services across 66 counties.
7
Programs
$18,219 – $24,723
Net Price Range
$46,087
Avg. Program Earnings
59.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

7 Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $18,219 $9,299 59.6% 86.1%
2 $19,155 $9,432 61.4% 99.5%
3 $19,300 $32,890 46.4% 74.8%
4 $19,725 $9,633 49.3% 78.9%
5 $20,874 $20,740 60.5% 76.0%
6 $23,295 $33,100 60.6% 68.4%
7 $24,723 $39,190 75.6% 65.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the University of South Dakota's 99.46% acceptance rate for allied health programs?

The university maintains open admissions for most programs while using competitive selection for specific allied health tracks. This approach allows broad access to prerequisite courses before students apply to specialized programs like medical laboratory science or respiratory therapy.

How do public and private allied health program costs compare in South Dakota?

Public universities average $19,033 in net costs compared to $22,048 at private institutions. However, private schools like University of Sioux Falls charge $20,874, closely matching public options while offering smaller class sizes.

Does Dakota State University's $46,087 graduate earnings justify the program investment?

The median earnings represent strong returns given South Dakota's low cost of living and absence of state income tax. Allied health professionals often find stable employment in the state's regional medical centers and critical access hospitals.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.