Lake Area Technical College
General Information — Lake Area Technical College
Overview
Lake Area Technical College, located in Watertown, South Dakota, is one of the most respected two-year technical colleges in the United States. Established in 1965 as South Dakota’s first technical institute, Lake Area Tech has built a strong reputation for academic excellence, hands-on learning, and industry partnerships. It serves thousands of students annually through more than 30 programs across technical, healthcare, agricultural, and business disciplines.
The college’s mission is to prepare students for workforce readiness by providing applied education grounded in real-world experience and innovation. Lake Area Tech emphasizes small class sizes, individualized instruction, and strong job placement outcomes, boasting employment rates consistently above 99% for graduates. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the college integrates cutting-edge technology into instruction and works closely with employers to ensure curricula meet industry needs. Its recognition as the 2017 Aspen Prize Winner for Community College Excellence underscores its leadership in student success and career preparation.
Contact Information
Address: 1201 Arrow Avenue, Watertown, South Dakota 57201
Phone Number: (605) 882-5284
Email Address: admissions@lakeareatech.edu
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1965 |
| Type | Public Technical College |
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Campus Setting | Urban – Watertown, SD |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 13:1 |
| Motto | “It’s Your World.” |
| Average Class Size | 20–25 students |
| Employment Rate after Graduation | 99% |
| School Colors | Blue and White |
Lake Area Technical College Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position / Recognition |
|---|---|
| Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence | Winner (2017) |
| Graduation and Retention Performance | Top 10% among U.S. Technical Colleges |
| Career Placement | 99% Employment Rate |
| Overall National Ranking (Community/Technical Colleges) | Top Tier (Consistently) |
Lake Area Technical College Academics
Lake Area Technical College Faculties / Departments
- Agriculture Department
- Business and Office Technology Department
- Building Trades and Technology
- Energy and Manufacturing Technology
- Health and Science Programs
- Transportation and Aviation Technology
- Computer Information Systems
- Community Resource and Education Department
Lake Area Technical College Courses and Programs / Majors
- Agriculture Production, Agri-Business, and Precision Ag Technology
- Aviation Maintenance and Professional Pilot
- Building Trades Technology and Custom Fabrication
- Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity
- Dental Assisting and Nursing Programs
- Energy Operations and Utilities Technology
- Environmental Technology and Water Quality
- Entrepreneurship and Business Accounting
- Medical Laboratory Technician
- Diesel Technology, Automotive Technology, and Collision Repair
- Welding Technology and Robotics
- Law Enforcement and Fire Science
- Cosmetology and Human Services Technician
Online Learning
Lake Area Technical College offers an extensive online and hybrid education system through its LATC Online platform. These programs enable students to complete degrees, diplomas, or certificates remotely while maintaining the quality and rigor of on-campus programs. Students can access flexible scheduling, interactive digital labs, and real-time faculty engagement. Popular online offerings include Business Associate, Financial Services, Early Childhood Education, and Healthcare Office Professional. The college also integrates simulation tools, remote proctoring, and cloud-based resources to replicate lab experiences for distance learners.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Range or Requirement |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not Required |
| ACT | 18–24 (recommended, not mandatory) |
| ACCUPLACER / COMPASS | Used for placement in Math and English |
| High School GPA | 2.5 or higher recommended |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Lake Area Technical College boasts one of the highest retention and completion rates among U.S. technical institutions. The student retention rate averages around 84%, and the graduation rate stands at approximately 74%. These metrics reflect the college’s commitment to student support, mentoring, and academic advising. Programs emphasize applied learning and internships that directly connect students to employers, reducing dropouts and enhancing career outcomes.
Lake Area Technical College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
The college maintains an open admissions policy for most programs, requiring applicants to have a high school diploma or GED. While standardized test scores are not mandatory, applicants with an ACT score between 18 and 24 typically meet academic readiness expectations. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is recommended, although specific programs such as Nursing or Aviation may have higher standards.
Lake Area Technical College Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | ~100% (Open Admission Policy) |
Lake Area Technical College Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a completed application form, official high school transcripts or GED documentation, and placement assessment scores (ACT, SAT, or ACCUPLACER). Certain programs like Nursing, Aviation, and Law Enforcement require additional materials such as background checks, physical examinations, and immunization records. International applicants must also provide proof of English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS. Letters of recommendation and essays are typically not required, streamlining the admission process.
Application Process
- Complete the Lake Area Technical College online or paper application form
- Submit official high school or GED transcripts
- Provide placement exam results (ACT, SAT, or ACCUPLACER)
- Attend an academic advising session
- Complete program-specific requirements (if applicable)
- Receive admission confirmation and register for classes
Lake Area Technical College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Application Period | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall Semester | August 1 |
| Spring Semester | December 1 |
| Summer Session | April 15 |
| Financial Aid Priority Date | March 1 |
Essay Prompt
Lake Area Technical College generally does not require essays for admission. However, applicants for selective programs may be asked to write a short statement outlining career goals, motivation, or professional aspirations in technical fields.
Lake Area Technical College Scholarships
The college provides numerous institutional and private scholarships through the Lake Area Tech Foundation. Awards are based on academic merit, financial need, program of study, and community involvement. Common scholarships include the Build Dakota Scholarship, Workforce Development Grants, and Foundation Academic Awards. Students are also encouraged to apply for federal and state financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and work-study opportunities.
Lake Area Technical College Tuition Fee
| Program Type | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| In-State Tuition | ~$6,718 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | ~$7,800 |
| Books and Supplies | ~$1,300 |
| Room and Board (Off-Campus Estimate) | ~$8,000 |
| Application Fee | $25 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Lake Area Technical College serves a diverse student body primarily drawn from South Dakota and neighboring states. Approximately 60% of students identify as female and 40% as male. The college’s demographic composition reflects its regional community, with a majority of White students and growing representation of Native American, Hispanic, and African American populations. The age range of students is broad, from traditional high school graduates to adult learners seeking skill advancement or career changes.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The college prioritizes accessibility and affordability, offering strong support systems for low-income students and those with disabilities. Services include financial aid advising, tutoring, adaptive technology, and counseling. Lake Area Tech partners with community organizations to ensure equitable access to education and reduce economic barriers.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~2,600 students |
| Full-Time Students | ~1,900 |
| Part-Time Students | ~700 |
| Female Students | ~60% |
| Male Students | ~40% |
University Diversity
Lake Area Technical College actively promotes diversity and inclusion in its educational environment. The institution values the perspectives of students from varied backgrounds, ages, and experiences. Diversity initiatives aim to provide equitable access to learning resources and promote mutual respect within the campus community. While the college serves a primarily regional population, its outreach to underrepresented groups—including Native American and rural communities—has expanded significantly. Programs emphasizing diversity in STEM and technical fields continue to support broader participation and professional inclusion across South Dakota’s workforce.
Average Earnings
Graduates from Lake Area Technical College consistently achieve strong employment outcomes, with a job placement rate of over 99% within six months of graduation. Average annual earnings for alumni vary by field, typically ranging from $42,000 to $65,000 depending on the industry. Technical and healthcare graduates often experience rapid income growth as they gain experience or additional certifications. Many programs align directly with high-demand sectors in energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and IT, enabling graduates to secure stable, well-compensated careers in their chosen professions.
Lake Area Technical College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Lake Area Tech employs over 150 faculty members and staff across academic, administrative, and support departments. The student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 13:1 allows for personalized instruction and close faculty-student interaction. Faculty members are experienced professionals who integrate practical industry knowledge into their teaching.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty at Lake Area Technical College are recognized for their expertise, certifications, and professional achievements in technical, business, and healthcare fields. Many instructors maintain industry connections and credentials, ensuring their curricula remain aligned with evolving workplace standards. Faculty frequently participate in professional development, contribute to state education committees, and collaborate with employers on program design, demonstrating a shared commitment to excellence and workforce innovation.
Lake Area Technical College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The Lake Area Technical College campus in Watertown provides a vibrant learning environment equipped with modern labs, simulation centers, aviation hangars, and industry-standard workshops. While the college does not offer on-campus housing, it maintains a network of off-campus housing options and resources to help students find affordable accommodations nearby. Student life revolves around professional clubs, skills competitions, student government, and community engagement projects.
Transportation
The campus is conveniently located near major highways and is accessible by car and local transportation services. Parking is available for all students, and the compact campus layout makes walking between classes easy. Watertown Regional Airport and local transit services provide additional commuting options. Students benefit from short travel times and the safe, community-oriented atmosphere of Watertown.