RAPID CITY, SD – South Dakota Mines continues to shine on the national stage, earning recognition as one of the top universities in the state and across the nation. Several recent rankings highlight the university’s strength in delivering a rigorous, affordable STEM education that gives graduates an exceptional return on investment.
“These rankings affirm what we’ve long known: that Mines students and graduates are among the best in the nation,” said Mines President Brian Tande, Ph.D. “We’re proud to be recognized as a world-class science and engineering institution, delivering both excellence and affordability.”
- The Wall Street Journal listed South Dakota Mines among America’s Best Colleges 2026, which ranks undergraduate institutions by the value they provide to their students. This value is assessed based on the learning environment, years to pay off the net price, degree completion rates, the likelihood of higher salaries post-graduation and diversity.
- South Dakota Mines was ranked in Forbes Top Colleges for 2026, a prestigious list of the top 500 universities in the nation. Forbes continually ranks South Dakota Mines as the South Dakota university with the best return on investment, both for affordability and for the earnings graduates bring in during their careers.
- US News and World Report 2026 Best Colleges ranked South Dakota Mines the #6 top regional public university and #9 best college for veterans in the Midwest.
- Niche ranked South Dakota Mines in the top 6% of the best small colleges in the nation and #1 in South Dakota.
- UniversityHQ ranked South Dakota Mines as #1 overall university in the state to earn a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree.
- As a College of Distinction, South Dakota Mines received recognition in multiple categories including engineering, career development and military support. Mines is recognized for its commitment to engaging students, great teaching, including small class sizes and dedicated faculty, vibrant community, and successful outcomes.