Cheapest Music Colleges in South Dakota

Black Hills State University offers the most affordable music education in South Dakota at just $17,001 net price, while Augustana University costs $24,723 despite its 75.60% graduation rate. The $7,722 difference between cheapest and most expensive reflects South Dakota's mix of public institutions and private colleges. Music graduates benefit from the state's growing tourism industry, particularly in the Black Hills region where live entertainment venues and cultural events create performance opportunities alongside traditional teaching roles.

Programs

$17,001 – $24,723

Net Price Range

56.9%

Avg. Graduation Rate

8 Music Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Black Hills State University Spearfish, South Dakota	$17,001	$9,000	38.6%	96.6%
2	Northern State University Aberdeen, South Dakota	$17,094	$8,845	52.2%	78.1%
3	South Dakota State University Brookings, South Dakota	$18,219	$9,299	59.6%	86.1%
4	University of South Dakota Vermillion, South Dakota	$19,155	$9,432	61.4%	99.5%
5	Dakota Wesleyan University Mitchell, South Dakota	$19,300	$32,890	46.4%	74.8%
6	University of Sioux Falls Sioux Falls, South Dakota	$20,874	$20,740	60.5%	76.0%
7	Mount Marty University Yankton, South Dakota	$23,295	$33,100	60.6%	68.4%
8	Augustana University Sioux Falls, South Dakota	$24,723	$39,190	75.6%	65.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the huge cost difference between public and private music programs?

Public universities like Black Hills State ($17,001) and Northern State ($17,094) receive state funding that keeps costs low. Private colleges such as Mount Marty ($23,295) and Augustana ($24,723) rely on tuition revenue, though they often provide smaller class sizes and specialized facilities.

How do graduation rates vary among affordable music programs?

Northern State University achieves a 52.20% graduation rate at $17,094, while University of South Dakota reaches 61.40% at $19,155. The highest graduation rate belongs to Augustana at 75.60%, though it costs $24,723 annually.

Does acceptance rate impact program quality at these schools?

University of South Dakota accepts 99.46% of applicants yet maintains a 61.40% graduation rate, suggesting strong student support systems. Augustana University is more selective at 65.79% acceptance but delivers the highest completion rate at 75.60%.

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