South Dakota University vs Eastern Washington University

Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, the University of South Dakota (USD) and Eastern Washington University (EWU), located in the picturesque Pacific Northwest, offer distinct educational experiences. USD boasts a higher acceptance rate, making it a more accessible option for aspiring students. In contrast, EWU's lower acceptance rate indicates a more selective admissions process. While both universities offer a diverse range of academic programs, USD excels in health professions, education, and business, while EWU shines in nursing, education, and social sciences. Explore the detailed comparison table to uncover further distinctions between these two institutions, including student body demographics, graduation rates, and additional factors that may influence your higher education journey.
Eastern Washington University logo

Eastern Washington University

University of South Dakota logo

University of South Dakota

Overview

Location Cheney, Washington Vermillion, South Dakota
Campus setting Town: Fringe Town: Distant
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Quarter Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 67.0% 77.0%
Common app member Yes Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 97.1% 87.0%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $60

Graduate: $75
Undergraduate: $20

Graduate: $35
SAT range N/A 1050 - 1290
ACT range N/A 19 - 25
Students submitting SAT score 3.0%
Students submitting ACT score 80.0%
Total number of applicants 4,232 4,272
Total number of admissions given out 4,108 3,717
Admitted students who chose to enroll 1,305 1,233
Yield rate 31.8% 33.2%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Not required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Not required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $22,889

Out of state: $40,715
In state: $25,657

Out of state: $29,167
Average net price $13,650 $18,974
Tuition
In state: $6,896

Out of state: $24,722
In state: $7,773

Out of state: $11,283
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $7,210

Meal plan: $5,850
Room/dormitory: $4,366

Meal plan: $4,234
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

92.0%
Average amount $8,167
84.0%
Average amount $5,196
Students receiving federal student loan 33.0%
Average amount $4,615
60.0%
Average amount $5,102
Students taking out private loans 3.0%
Average amount $11,314
14.0%
Average amount $9,890

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 8,217
Men 42.6% Women 57.4%
6,987
Men 35.9% Women 64.1%
Graduate students 2,675
Men 30.7% Women 69.3%
2,477
Men 37.2% Women 62.8%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Very Low
Out-of-state students N/A 39.4%
International students 0.9% 2.7%
Campus local/setting Town: Fringe Town: Distant
Dormitory capacity 1,788 2,154
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from N/A South Dakota Iowa Nebraska Minnesota Wisconsin

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Business
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Psychology
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Business
  • Kinesiology & Leisure Studies
  • Liberal Arts
Students to faculty ratio 20:1 14:1
Institutional accreditation Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate 49.6% 60.1%
Dropout rate 47.2% 14.2%
Transferred out N/A 24.5%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $71,516
  • Year 2: $75,130
  • Year 3: $76,175
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $62,738
  • Year 2: $63,335
  • Year 3: $70,016
Dental Support Services and Allied Professions (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,361
  • Year 2: $62,707
  • Year 3: $67,620
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,357
  • Year 2: $56,979
  • Year 3: $67,340
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,595
  • Year 2: $66,355
  • Year 3: $64,552
Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $52,107
  • Year 3: $63,074
Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $56,780
  • Year 2: $55,770
  • Year 3: $62,367
Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,875
  • Year 2: $52,107
  • Year 3: $61,920
Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $55,800
  • Year 2: $54,331
  • Year 3: $59,835
Education, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $49,118
  • Year 2: $53,894
  • Year 3: $59,009
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $110,722
  • Year 2: $100,951
  • Year 3: $109,099
Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $88,473
  • Year 2: $97,071
  • Year 3: $100,634
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $78,587
  • Year 2: $68,778
  • Year 3: $81,751
Public Administration (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $70,456
  • Year 3: $69,478
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $56,040
  • Year 2: $62,012
  • Year 3: $68,456
Medicine (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,011
  • Year 2: $57,860
  • Year 3: $68,011
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $62,632
  • Year 3: $64,788
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,801
  • Year 2: $65,170
  • Year 3: $64,105
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $52,161
  • Year 2: $62,260
  • Year 3: $63,921
Law (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $46,986
  • Year 2: $52,941
  • Year 3: $61,718

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between the University of South Dakota (USD) and Eastern Washington University (EWU)?

    USD, located in Vermillion, South Dakota, is a public university known for its strong liberal arts programs and its status as the state's flagship university. EWU, situated in Cheney, Washington, emphasizes professional programs and offers a more regional focus. USD generally has a smaller student body and a more traditional campus feel, while EWU is known for its commitment to sustainability and its location near Spokane.

  • Which university, USD or EWU, is more affordable?

    Generally, USD tends to be more affordable for both in-state and out-of-state students compared to EWU. However, tuition and fees can vary depending on your specific program and residency status. It's best to check the official websites of both universities for the most up-to-date cost information and to explore available financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

  • How do the academic programs at USD and EWU compare?

    USD is particularly strong in areas like law, medicine, and business, and it has a well-regarded liberal arts college. EWU excels in programs such as education, social work, and health sciences. Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, but their areas of specialization differ. Researching specific departments and faculty within your field of interest is recommended.

  • What is the campus environment like at USD versus EWU?

    USD offers a classic, residential campus experience in a smaller town setting. It fosters a close-knit community with a strong emphasis on student involvement. EWU, while also having a traditional campus, is located closer to a larger city (Spokane) and provides more opportunities for off-campus activities and internships. EWU also has a strong commitment to sustainability, which is reflected in its campus initiatives.

  • What are the admission requirements for USD and EWU?

    Both USD and EWU require a high school diploma or equivalent for admission. They typically consider factors such as GPA, standardized test scores (ACT/SAT), and high school coursework. Specific requirements may vary depending on the program you're applying to. Check each university's admissions website for detailed information on application deadlines, required documents, and minimum GPA/test score expectations.

  • How do the athletic programs at USD and EWU compare?

    USD's athletic teams, known as the Coyotes, compete in the NCAA Division I Summit League. EWU's athletic teams, the Eagles, also compete in NCAA Division I, but in the Big Sky Conference. Both universities offer a variety of sports, including football, basketball, and track and field. The level of competition and the overall athletic culture are comparable, but the specific sports offered and the conference affiliations differ.

  • What kind of student support services are available at USD and EWU?

    Both USD and EWU offer a comprehensive range of student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, disability services, and mental health resources. They are committed to helping students succeed academically and personally. Specific services and resources may vary, so it's worth exploring the student affairs websites of both universities to see what's available.

  • What are the career opportunities like after graduating from USD or EWU?

    Career opportunities after graduation depend largely on your chosen field of study. USD graduates often find employment in South Dakota and the surrounding region, particularly in fields like healthcare, law, and business. EWU graduates have access to opportunities in the Pacific Northwest, especially in areas like education, social work, and technology. Both universities have career services departments that can assist with job searching, resume writing, and interview preparation.

  • How does the location of USD and EWU impact the student experience?

    USD is located in Vermillion, South Dakota, a smaller college town that offers a more traditional and immersive campus experience. The surrounding area is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. EWU is situated in Cheney, Washington, which is close to Spokane, a larger city with a more diverse range of cultural and entertainment options. The proximity to Spokane provides EWU students with access to internships, job opportunities, and a wider variety of social activities.

  • Which university is better for international students, USD or EWU?

    Both USD and EWU welcome international students and offer support services tailored to their needs, including visa assistance, language support, and cultural integration programs. The 'better' choice depends on individual preferences and program offerings. Consider factors such as the availability of programs in your field of interest, the cost of attendance, and the overall campus environment when making your decision. Review the international student websites of both universities for specific information and resources.

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