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A large number of returning students, combined with a robust incoming freshman class has pushed Lake Area Technical College’s enrollment to a record 2,312 students.
That is a 6.1% increase over last year and tops the former record set in 2018.
The number of incoming students grew by 13.9% from a year ago, and high school dual-credit enrollments grew to an all-time high of 495.
LATC President Tiffany Sanderson said the enrollment upsurge reflects students’ desire for a strong return on their college investment and the school’s commitment to provide a skilled workforce for businesses.
“Lake Area Tech graduates add value immediately for their employers and in their communities,” Sanderson said. “They start several steps ahead in their career with superior technical skills and the ability to solve problems and innovate.”
The average 2023 Lake Area Tech graduate took only five months to earn back the cost of their degree, even without scholarships and aid factored in. Ninety-nine percent acquired jobs right after graduation, the majority earning between $55,000-$74,000 in entry level salaries.
“Lake Area Tech’s purpose is to educate skilled professionals to advance South Dakota’s workforce,” said Sanderson. “We have a bold goal of increasing our graduate numbers each year to support our students and industry partners. This enrollment growth is a strategic step toward meeting that goal.”
Nearly 14% of full-time students have earned a full-ride Build Dakota Scholarship, committing to work in South Dakota for three years after graduation in a high-demand field.
With the continued growth of the student body, LATC’s campus has expanded to follow suit. The recent completion of the Dana J. Dykhouse Business Center, Advanced Manufacturing Lab, the Ace A. Brandt Diesel Center, Prairie Lakes Healthcare Center, and Dental program remodel all contribute additional space for labs and classrooms.
Students are learning in state-of-the-art facilities that are conducive to success in their fields of study.
Lake Area Technical College, established in 1965 as the first technical school in South Dakota, offers comprehensive technical education in 31 high-demand fields. Lake Area Tech has been nationally recognized as a leader in technical education with a strong record of success.
