Dakota State University

Degrees at Dakota State University

Dakota State University appears in our ranking of the 20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science. Dakota State University offers degrees in a variety of subjects ranging from teaching and the arts to technology and computing. The university also offers an extensive number of programs online. Degrees are available at these levels:

• associate
• bachelor’s
• master’s

Students may also earn certificates on some subjects. The university focuses on delivering technology-intensive degrees. It has spent the last several decades expanding its offerings in areas like:

• computer science
• information technology
• healthcare informatics
• cybersecurity

Degrees are offered in four colleges that include:

• the College of Education
• College of Business and Information Systems
• The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Science
• the College of Arts and Sciences

The university offers a variety of degrees in computer science. Bachelor’s degrees are available in:

• Computer Education
• Computer Information Systems
• Cyber Leadership and Intelligence
• Cyber Operations

Students can also earn bachelor’s degrees in:

• Computer Science
• Computer Game Design,
• Digital Arts and Design

Degree programs in computers and technology also offer students the choice of specializations. For example, degrees in Digital Arts and Design are available in specializations like:

• Computer Graphics
• Film & Cinematic Arts
• Digital Sound Design
• Production Animation

Students can also study many of these topics in certificate programs.  Certificates are available in:

• Cybersecurity
• Digital Photography
• Information Technology Management
• Network Services, and many other areas.

The university offers many certificate programs online. Available programs are based upon the state in which a student lives. For South Dakota residents, there are online degrees at every level of study, as well as in certificate format. Some of the bachelor’s degrees available include those in:

• Marketing
• Elementary Education
• Computer Information Systems
• Accounting

Available graduate degrees include:

• Master of Science in Computer Science
• Master of Science in Educational Technology
• Master of Science in Information Systems

Students can also earn associate’s degrees, pursue doctorates, or enroll in certificate programs online. The university recommends checking to make sure an online program is available in the student’s state of residency. Contacting the university directly before pursuing enrollment.

About Dakota State University

Dakota State University is a public institution in South Dakota. It was established in 1881. It’s located outside Sioux Falls. For the past 30 years, the school has focused on providing degree opportunities in technology. But it has maintained other degree options in the arts and teacher education. The university’s motto is “Embrace Innovation.” Around 3,300 students attend the university. When the university opened its doors, it was known as Madison Normal School. It was an entity even before South Dakota became a state. The university was one of the first to gain a designation of Center of Excellence in Cyber Security. It earned this in 2004 with approval from the National Security Agency.

Dakota State University Accreditation Details

Regional accreditation for Dakota State University comes from the Higher Learning Commission. The last time the school reaffirmed its accreditation was during the 2009 – 2010 school year. School programs that have accreditation from additional agencies include:

• Computer Science
• Electrical Engineering Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering

Other related programs in Engineering have earned approval from the Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET). The Hospitality Management program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration. The Pharmacy program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. Other agencies that have granted accreditation to the school include:

• the American Association of Museums Accreditation Commission
• the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism & Mass Communication.

Dakota State University Application Requirements

First-year applicants to Dakota State University must have:

• a minimum 18 score on the SAT
• a cumulative high school GPA of 2.6
• or a rank in the top 60 percent of their high school graduating class

Students should also have a grade of “C” or above in:

• English
• math
• laboratory science
• fine arts
• social science

They must also have basic computer skills. To apply, students will send the university:

• the official application
• an application fee of $20
• and a final transcript from high school

Students must also submit their official SAT or ACT score, as well as transcripts from any post-secondary schools attended. Students who have attended a college in South Dakota within a year of applying to Dakota State University do not need to submit an application fee.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition at Dakota State University varies for undergraduate, graduate, and online students. Undergraduate tuition for South Dakota, Iowa and Nebraska residents is $283 per credit hour. The university estimates the total cost per year at $16,138.60 when all tuition, fees, and other costs are included. Minnesota residents pay slightly more at $286.55 per credit. For non-residents, undergraduate tuition is $382.10 per credit. The university estimates all costs associated with attending the university for a year will come to $19,121.60. Tuition for graduate students varies depending on the student’s status. Generally, South Dakota residents pay $359.10 per credit hour. Non-residents pay $636 per credit hour. For online students, the cost for undergraduate tuition is $340.50 per credit hour. The cost for online military students is $250 per credit hour. The cost for graduate students is $450.90 per credit hour. Dakota State University students can gain approval for several types of financial aid that include:

• federal student loans
• scholarships
• grants

To qualify for financial aid, prospective students must submit their FAFSA form, which will result in the creation of a Student Aid Report (SAR). It’s based on the student’s financial need and expected family contribution. Students will receive an award letter from the university if they qualify for financial aid. These letters are typically sent out in April. It’s important for students to submit their FAFSA form well in advance of a fall start date at the university. Students interested in any of the degrees and programs at Dakota State University should also investigate scholarships DSU offers. There are multiple scholarships available based on:

• academic performance
• transfer status
• participation in athletics
• participation in music.

Related Resources:

Top 30 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Degrees

Top 50 Best Affordable RN to BSN Online Degrees

50 Most Affordable Online Degree Programs For In-State Students