The University of South Dakota (USD) announced on Apr. 30 that its School of Education’s graduate programs have been ranked fifth among similar programs across Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota by the 2026 U.S. News & World Report. USD is the only institution from South Dakota to appear in these rankings.
This recognition highlights the strength of USD’s graduate education offerings compared to other regional institutions. The school achieved above-median performance in several areas including total externally funded research, annual research expenditure per faculty member, peer assessment scores and doctoral acceptance rates. Additionally, the school maintains a favorable student-to-faculty ratio which allows for more personalized mentorship and increased access to faculty expertise.
Amy Schweinle, Ph.D., dean of the School of Education, said: “I’m incredibly proud of our faculty, staff and graduate students. This recognition confirms our commitment to scholarship and the care we bring to preparing the next generation of educators and leaders. It reinforces my confidence that the USD School of Education is delivering a graduate experience marked by rigor, impact and meaningful mentorship.”
The university also features departments such as the Department of Sustainability and Environment which operates within USD’s College of Arts and Sciences according to its official website. The department promotes cultural and social well-being by encouraging students to address environmental challenges through action both on campus and in surrounding communities according to its official website. Its main facility is located at the Akeley-Lawrence Science Center according to its official website.
Additionally, it stands as the only university department in the region offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees in sustainability according to its official website, inspiring students and scholars alike to envision positive change for society according to its official website. The department extends its influence through initiatives like working with the Missouri River Institute along a national recreational river corridor according to its official website.
As regional recognition grows for various academic departments at USD, observers may look for continued emphasis on research excellence as well as expanded opportunities for student engagement.
