Cheapest Teacher Education and Professional Development Colleges in South Dakota

Oglala Lakota College stands out with the lowest teacher education costs in South Dakota at just $2,065 net price, representing a massive $22,658 gap from the most expensive option at Augustana University. This range reflects the state's mix of tribal colleges, public universities, and private institutions serving future educators. South Dakota's teacher shortage, particularly in rural districts, creates strong demand for graduates who can fill subject-specific roles across the state's 149 school districts. The earnings data shows graduates typically start around $38,000 to $43,000, with Dakota State University graduates earning the highest median salary at $42,682 despite moderate program costs.

Programs

$2,065 – $24,723

Net Price Range

$40,519

Avg. Program Earnings

51.6%

Avg. Graduation Rate

11 Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Oglala Lakota College Kyle, South Dakota	$2,065	$2,684	11.5%
2	Sinte Gleska University Mission, South Dakota	$7,075	$4,714
3	Black Hills State University Spearfish, South Dakota	$17,001	$9,000	38.6%	96.6%
4	Northern State University Aberdeen, South Dakota	$17,094	$8,845	52.2%	78.1%
5	South Dakota State University Brookings, South Dakota	$18,219	$9,299	59.6%	86.1%
6	University of South Dakota Vermillion, South Dakota	$19,155	$9,432	61.4%	99.5%
7	Dakota Wesleyan University Mitchell, South Dakota	$19,300	$32,890	46.4%	74.8%
8	Dakota State University Madison, South Dakota	$19,725	$9,633	49.3%	78.9%
9	University of Sioux Falls Sioux Falls, South Dakota	$20,874	$20,740	60.5%	76.0%
10	Mount Marty University Yankton, South Dakota	$23,295	$33,100	60.6%	68.4%
11	Augustana University Sioux Falls, South Dakota	$24,723	$39,190	75.6%	65.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Oglala Lakota College so affordable compared to other teacher education programs?

As a tribal college, Oglala Lakota College offers strong value at $2,065 net cost, serving primarily Native American students with federal funding support. The college maintains small class sizes with an 11.5% graduation rate, reflecting its open-access mission and student population needs.

How do public university teacher education costs compare across South Dakota?

Public universities range from $17,001 to $19,725 in net costs, with Black Hills State and Northern State offering the most affordable options. In-state tuition stays consistent around $8,845 to $9,633, making these programs accessible for South Dakota residents.

Does graduation rate correlate with program cost in teacher education?

Higher-cost programs generally show better graduation rates, with Augustana University leading at 75.6% despite its $24,723 cost. However, University of South Dakota achieves a strong 61.4% graduation rate while maintaining moderate costs at $19,155 net price.

Where do teacher education graduates earn the most in South Dakota?

Augustana University graduates command the highest starting salaries at $43,426, followed by Dakota State University at $42,682. The $5,378 salary difference between top and bottom earners reflects program quality and geographic placement opportunities.

More Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Rankings

Best Value Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas in South Dakota Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Under $20,000 in South Dakota

All Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Programs Best Colleges in South Dakota Best Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas in South Dakota

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