Overview

The Sustainability programme at the University of South Dakota provides students with a multidisciplinary foundation to address the world's most pressing environmental and social challenges. By combining rigorous academic study with high-impact practical experiences, the curriculum prepares graduates to lead initiatives in conservation and public policy. Students benefit from a personal learning environment where faculty members provide direct mentorship to align coursework with professional goals.

Why Sustainability at University of South Dakota?

The University of South Dakota stands out as the only institution in the region to offer a dedicated undergraduate degree in this vital field. The programme is highly experiential, ensuring that students engage in high-impact learning through community-based projects and hands-on research. Students can also join the Sustainability Living Learning Community, which brings together peers from various disciplines to solve economic and social challenges.

Facilities such as the Missouri River Institute provide unique opportunities to explore natural and cultural resources along the Missouri National Recreational River. Additionally, the Green Initiative Fund allows students to implement their own innovative projects on campus, such as reducing waste or decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Global perspectives are encouraged through faculty-led study abroad programmes in locations like Malta and Sicily.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 13299 per year
National fee: USD 13299 per year
Local fee: USD 9687 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Students may choose to specialise in Environmental Science or Human and Natural Systems. Modules may include:

Environmental Science
Sustainable Society
Public Policy
Natural Resource Conservation
Ecology
Hydrology
Climate Change
Sustainable Consumption
Geomorphology

Careers with Sustainability

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in rapidly growing sectors focused on safeguarding the planet. The programme positions students for success in natural resource conservation, sustainability consulting, and policymaking. Many alumni find opportunities in public education, outreach, and local food systems.

The curriculum's focus on real-world skills also leads to careers in public relations and environmental advocacy. Graduates have gone on to serve as executive directors for non-profit organisations and researchers in policy analysis. By integrating economic, social, and environmental systems, the degree ensures students are ready for professional leadership in both public and private sectors.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Restoration Ecology Lab
Plants and Civilization
Landscape Ecology
Conservation Biology
Freshwater Ecology
Field Ecology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Vermillion, United States

Disciplines

Sustainable Development View 269 other Bachelors in Sustainable Development in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

Official high school (secondary school) transcript with grade point average equivalent to 2.6 on a 4.0 scale.
Demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting one of the following.
Application Fee
Passport
Official Statement of Finances

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Out-of-State

13299 USD / year

≈ 13299 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

9687 USD / year

≈ 9687 USD / year

Living costs

Vermillion

United States

1024 - 1781 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Sustainability.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Vermillion

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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