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Experience Northern

At Northern State University, your goals matter. We walk beside you with mentorship, opportunity and a campus that helps you grow every step of the way. When you experience Northern, you’ll feel the difference and expand your idea of what’s possible.

Check out what the Northern experience is all about and picture your future on campus. 

Experience 
Northern

At Northern State University, your goals matter. We walk beside you with mentorship, opportunity and a campus that helps you grow every step of the way. When you experience Northern, you’ll feel the difference and expand your idea of what’s possible.

Check out what the Northern experience is all about and picture your future on campus. 

50+ Academic Programs

Start a Student.
Leave a Leader.

Northern’s 50+ programs give you the freedom to explore what drives you. Wherever you are in your journey, Northern builds the skills that matter with flexible and affordable options — bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, master’s degrees, certificates and micro-credentials.

Your Northern Experience

  • Affordable and flexible academic excellence
  • Learning on campus or online
  • Caring, accessible faculty
  • Hands-on learning for your field
  • Career preparation
  • Clubs, organizations and events for your interests
  • Personal academic advisor
  • Undergrad research and service learning
  • Study abroad and other opportunities
Explore Degree Programs
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Northern Success at a Glance

At Northern, success is personal. That’s why we focus on small classes, financial aid and programs that fit to your future. Become part of our community of doers, dreamers and leaders.

Apply Now

99%

of graduates are employed or continuing education

20:1

student-faculty ratio

99%

of new students with need receive scholarships and grants

Building Your Community

Northern’s campus life is about more than just where you call home — it’s where you grow and connect. Our residence halls offer modern spaces, pet-friendly options and themed living communities that help you connect with students who share your interests. And with free laundry and the top-ranked housing in Niche's 2025 South Dakota list, living on campus is as comfortable as it is community-driven.

  • Six residence halls with a variety of living styles
  • Student organzations, intramural and more to connect and enjoy
  • Student success and support services to help you thrive

On-Campus Living

Dining Services

Take advantage of your meal plan at the Dining Hall, grab a bite at the Grid or visit our other dining options.

Health and Wellness

Take care of yourself with counseling, accessibility, student health, wellness and prevention services on campus.

Student Involvement

Build your community and grow as a leader with events, student government, clubs, organizations and more.

Student Success and Affairs

Wolves support Wolves. From tutoring and mentorship to advising and personal support, you’re never alone.
Take a Virtual Tour
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Take the Next Step Today

This is your moment — your chance to learn boldly, lead confidently and live fully. So take the first step. Explore what’s possible. And start building a college story that’s all yours.
Apply Now Schedule a Campus Visit

FAQs

We get it — there are a lot of unknowns when you look toward your next chapter. That’s why we’ve put together answers to the questions students like you ask most as they prepare to start their Northern experience.

No, you may be admitted without an ACT or SAT score. We offer multiple criteria that allow us to admit students to Northern State University. 

Find details about financial aid and the FAFSA on our website. If you have more questions, our dedicated team of financial aid counselors is here to make the financial aid application process accessible and as stress-free as possible. Get in touch to meet one-on-one with a financial aid counselor to see what options are available to you.

Location: Dacotah Hall 103

Email: NSU Financial Aid

Phone: 605-626-2640

Residents of these states pay discounted or the same tuition rates as South Dakota residents. 

  • Minnesota
  • North Dakota
  • Wisconsin
  • Nebraska
  • Illinois
  • Montana 
  • Colorado
  • Kansas
  • Missouri
  • Wyoming

Children of NSU Alumni also receive in state tuition. 

All students pay in-state tuition for online courses. 

NSU's residence halls come in two styles: traditional and suite. In traditional halls, one or two students share a space. In suite-style halls, two or four students share a space that consists of two to four sleeping areas as well as their own shower and bathroom. This style also includes a mini-fridge and microwave. Three new residence halls with modern amenities have opened on campus in recent years: Wolves Memorial Suites, Great Plains West, and Great Plains East. Visit Residence Life for more information on residence halls.

Northern State University has a full-time officer on staff throughout the school year. This officer is a member of the Aberdeen Police Department and has extensive training in all areas of law enforcement. NSU has a great relationship with the Aberdeen City Police Department and officers are very visible on campus as well as in nearby neighborhoods. Visit Campus Safety to learn more.

Still Have Questions?

Our Team Can Help!

Whether you’re curious about financial aid, campus life or how to start your application, we’re here to help you feel confident in your college decision.
Student talking with faculty member in modern campus building
Student standing by Northern State University wolf statue Student studying on laptop in campus lounge Student talking with faculty member Student walking inside campus building Wolf head banner outside brick campus building Four students walking on campus sidewalk, smiling and talking