Fall enrollment at South Dakota’s six public universities is down about 2 percent in full-time equivalent students, the South Dakota Board of Regents reported today.
The number of full-time equivalent (FTE) students for the Fall 2018 term—based on total credit hours generated by all students within the regents’ system—was down by 540.8 students to a total of 26,092.9. Total headcount at the six public universities was 35,737, a decline of 2.5 percent or 925 students over last year.
In contrast to these system enrollment trends, Dakota State University at Madison reported growth in both its headcount (2.27 percent) and FTE (2.42 percent). The University of South Dakota at Vermillion also grew its FTE count by 23 students.
“In a strong economy, potential students often choose work over education, particularly if they simply do not have the sources of money and support they need,” said Paul B. Beran, the regents’ executive director and CEO. “Many of our students struggle with the costs of a college education. That’s why we are developing plans to present to the Governor and legislature for scholarship and need-based financial aid support that will make higher education a reality for more students.”
