Public Service & Law Research
Engage in impactful research, addressing critical issues, analyzing legal frameworks and making a lasting change in public service and law.
The University of South Dakota excels in public service and law research, driven by its commitment to addressing pressing societal challenges and advancing the field of law. Researchers at the university explore critical issues and analyze legal frameworks, contributing to an informed understanding of public service and law and making a lasting impact on the evolving economic landscape, careers, communities and beyond.
Making an Impact
Carnegie Classification: Doctoral University – High research value.
Graduate research programs have had a significant impact on the economy of South Dakota, through grants, business creation, and innovative science.
Of research investment in South Dakota over the past 5 years.
Departments & Facilities
Farber Center
At the W.O. Farber Center for Civic Leadership, we prepare students for a lifetime of leadership as citizens of the community, state, nation and world.
Government Research Bureau
The Government Research Bureau, established in 1939, has a distinguished history of conducting applied research on public policy and administrative issues affecting the State of South Dakota, local governments and American Indian Reservations and nonprofits. Technical expertise and modern and innovative analysis tools are used to assist state and local government officials in the areas of economic development and policy formation.
Federal Tax Clinic
Our federal tax clinic provides free legal representation to low-income people in disputes with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) while allowing law students to practice tax law.
Center for Disabilities
Advocating for increased self-determination, independence and a satisfying quality of life.
Center for the Prevention of Child Maltreatment
The Center for the Prevention of Child Maltreatment focuses on delivering education, outreach and research geared toward eliminating child sexual abuse and maltreatment in South Dakota.
South Dakota Area Health Education Center
We connect students to careers, professionals to communities and communities to better health.
Head Start
Learn and grow in Head Start! We offer free early learning programs for expectant families and children up to age 5.
Recent News
Training Series to Inform Medical Providers in Providing Quality Care to Sexual Assault Victims
Medical care providers and other professionals who provide care and support to sexual assault victims will have access to a free training series in 2024 through a partnership between the Center for the Prevention of Child Maltreatment and Avera Health’s eSANE Project.
Women in Law Hosts First Female South Dakota Supreme Court Justice, USD Alumna Judith Meierhenry
Earlier this month, the Women in Law organization at the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law hosted former Justice Judith Meierhenry, J.D., the first woman to serve on the South Dakota Supreme Court and notable USD alumna.
International Student Finds Home in KSM Department
Coming to South Dakota from Bangladesh, graduate student Abdullah Al Hossain found a home in the University of South Dakota’s Department of Kinesiology & Sport Management (KSM).
