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75.6%Acceptance
Private nonprofitLess-than-2-yearData: 2023-24

About Presentation College

Presentation College trains healthcare workers and professionals in a small-town South Dakota setting. The college draws students from across the region, with nearly 80% coming from out of state. Three-quarters of applicants gain admission with average test scores around 985 SAT or 21 ACT. The school focuses heavily on nursing, radiology, and other health sciences programs that prepare students for immediate employment in rural healthcare settings.

Students receive an average institutional grant of nearly $10,000, which helps offset the private college costs. The generous aid package reflects the school's mission to make healthcare education accessible to students who will serve underserved communities. Most graduates enter fields with strong job prospects, particularly in nursing and medical imaging where demand remains high across the upper Midwest.

The student body creates a tight-knit community where everyone knows each other by name. Clinical rotations and hands-on training dominate the academic experience rather than traditional college social life. Students often describe the atmosphere as intensely focused and professionally oriented. The school's location in Aberdeen provides access to regional medical facilities for practical training while keeping living costs manageable for students entering helping professions.

Campus Life

Presentation College sits in Aberdeen, a town of 28,000 people about 200 miles from Minneapolis. With only 22% of students coming from South Dakota, most arrive from across the Midwest to join this tight-knit Catholic campus. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, so heavy coats and snow boots are essential gear from November through March.

The college focuses heavily on health sciences programs, particularly nursing and radiology. Students spend considerable time in clinical settings and lab work. With an acceptance rate of 76%, Presentation draws students who scored around 985 on the SAT or 21 on the ACT. The average institutional grant of nearly $10,000 helps offset costs for many families.

Aberdeen offers basic amenities but limited nightlife options. Students often gather in residence halls or study together in the library. Weekend activities typically center around campus events, intramural sports, or trips to nearby lakes during warmer months. The small size means everyone knows everyone, creating a supportive but sometimes limiting social environment.

Climate & Weather

January Avg
1°–22°F
July Avg
59°–83°F
Annual Precipitation
21.7"
Annual Snowfall
-1,517.3"

Location

Aberdeen sits in northeastern South Dakota, roughly 280 miles from Minneapolis and 200 miles from Fargo. The city serves as a regional center for agriculture and healthcare in the northern Great Plains. With 21.84% of students coming from in-state, Presentation College draws most of its enrollment from across state lines. Aberdeen's population of about 28,000 makes it one of South Dakota's larger cities, though it maintains a small-town atmosphere surrounded by farming communities and prairie landscapes. The campus sits in a quiet residential area near downtown Aberdeen. Students considering colleges in South Dakota may also compare Presentation College with similar schools in the region.
Address
Aberdeen, South Dakota 57401-1280

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Presentation College?

Presentation College accepts 75.58% of applicants, making admission relatively accessible for most students. The Catholic college focuses on health sciences and nursing programs, drawing students who may not have the highest test scores but show commitment to healthcare careers.

How much does Presentation College cost after financial aid?

Students receive an average institutional grant of $9,967 to help offset tuition costs. This private Catholic college keeps expenses manageable compared to larger universities while providing personalized attention in small class settings.

What are the SAT score requirements at Presentation College?

The average SAT score is 985, with the middle 50% ranging from 840 to 1130. These moderate score ranges reflect the college's focus on admitting students passionate about healthcare rather than only high achievers.

Does Presentation College attract mostly local students?

Only 21.84% of students come from South Dakota, meaning nearly 80% travel from other states. The college's strong nursing and radiologic technology programs draw students from across the region who want specialized healthcare training.

What type of programs does Presentation College offer?

Presentation College operates as a less-than-2-year institution specializing in health science certificates and associate degrees. Students typically pursue nursing, medical assisting, radiologic technology, and surgical technology programs that lead directly to healthcare careers.

Where is Presentation College located and what makes it unique?

The college sits in Aberdeen, South Dakota, a small city that provides clinical training opportunities at regional hospitals. Founded by the Sisters of the Presentation, it maintains strong Catholic values while preparing students for in-demand healthcare positions across rural America.