South Dakota State University seeks to attract the best and brightest faculty who exemplify the highest standards in teaching, research and scholarship. Nearly 400 faculty hold professorial rank of assistant, associate or full professor. Another 350 faculty, either full or part-time, are within the ranks of instructor, lecturer or senior lecturer. Together this group of about 750 individuals are critical to the mission of SDSU as they are in the classroom and laboratory every day preparing the next generation of leaders and pursuing cutting-edge research, scholarship and creative activities. A faculty handbook provides guidance to faculty so they might be successful.
Playing a key role in the day-to-day operations of the university are about 500 professional staff and another 600 civil service staff. These individuals provide critical support services to students, faculty, and administration. Their commitment to service is exemplary and creates a campus culture of helpfulness and service.
Designed specifically to facilitate the teaching role are the Center for Professional Enrichment and Teaching Excellence, Testing Center and Instructional Design. The Office of Research and the Library provide support for research and scholarly work.