Colleges in Aberdeen, SD

Hey! I’ve been looking into colleges in Aberdeen, SD. Anyone know anything about the schools there? What are the main differences between them or unique programs they offer? All help appreciated, thanks!

There are two main universities located in Aberdeen, South Dakota: Northern State University (NSU) and Presentation College.

Northern State University (NSU) is a public university that offers a wide range of bachelor's degree programs across the arts, sciences, business, and education. They have a well-regarded school of Fine Arts with a strong Music Education program that is recognized at the regional level. Business is also a popular major and NSU's School of Business has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as being one of the top in the nation for quality and affordability. It’s also known for being a very community-centric school with plenty of opportunities for local engagement.

On the other hand, Presentation College is a private Catholic college that offers both bachelor's and associate's degree programs. Its most distinctive features are its health sciences programs. Presentation College offers programs of study in nursing, radiologic technology, and health services administration, among others. Given its Catholic foundations, the school places a strong emphasis on serving the community, particularly through healthcare, so it's a great option for students interested in a career in the healthcare sector.

Both of these schools provide a small college experience, with small class sizes and a close-knit community. However, they differ significantly in terms of their academic focus areas and campus culture. Regarding campus culture, NSU is a public university with a wide variety of student clubs and athletic activities, while Presentation College, being a private Catholic college, has a strong religious influence on its campus culture.

So, it really comes down to what you’re looking for in a college experience. If you’re interested in Fine Arts or Business, NSU might be a good fit for you. If you’re looking into a career in the healthcare sector, Presentation College would be more in line with your goals. Both have their unique strengths and offerings.