The Best Online Colleges in South Dakota
Even though South Dakota is one of the most sparsely populated states, its online colleges offer a variety of degrees in areas such as engineering, health, and general studies. Online programs — including certificates as well as associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees — are available through public and private institutions in South Dakota.
Some South Dakota schools charge online and on–campus students similar tuition, and several online programs cost the same for residents and non–residents. The state university system is also one of the least expensive for nonresidents. Those who live in neighboring states may also qualify for in–state tuition.
Online colleges in South Dakota offer numerous benefits for students. First, most deliver courses asynchronously, meaning that students can log in when it is convenient for their schedule. Second, many programs are designed for working adults, and shorter course terms allow students to complete a year’s worth of credits while only taking a few courses at a time. Third, like their on–campus counterparts, online students receive academic assistance, career services, and advising. Finally, most public and private online colleges offer financial aid for eligible students, including scholarships.
Students working through online degrees never (or rarely) need to visit campus; students working through hybrid programs may combine the convenience of online learning with hands–on teaching through short on–campus residencies. For students interested in taking on–campus classes, some online colleges in South Dakota allow students to mix and match the learning formats that suit them best.
Four Reasons to Find an Online College in Your State
- Guaranteed in–state tuition saves you money
- Be a part of a university or college you know and love
- Get a degree from a school that employers know and trust
- Be close enough to easily visit when desired
Ranking Guidelines for the Best Online Colleges in South Dakota
We selected the online colleges and universities here based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs.
Note: In ranking the best online colleges in South Dakota, giving attention to the variety of degree programs available at the institutions is of utmost importance. For this reason, a more prestigious school in South Dakota may offer one, or a few online degrees, but that may not be enough for that school to rank highly among the best online colleges in the state. In this ranking, we are dedicated to showing who’s leading the way in delivering quality online degree programs in South Dakota.
The Best Online Colleges in South Dakota
1. Dakota State University
Madison, South Dakota
Dakota State University, established in 1881, is a technologically–centered university. Due to this focus, all full–time undergraduates are required to have and use tablets and laptop computers in their courses and must also take two mandatory courses: introductory programming and introduction to computers.
Dakota State University’s online degree programs include associate, bachelor’s, master and doctoral degrees. Online associate’s degrees include network security and business management. Online bachelor’s degrees include computer science and marketing. Master’s degree options include analytics and health informatics. Online doctoral degree offerings include cyber security and information systems. Available online certifications include banking security and ethical hacking.
Online student resources include online tutoring in several subjects, an online job board and an online library with librarians available via email, Twitter, text message or over the phone.
Accreditation
Dakota State University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
2. South Dakota State University
Brookings, South Dakota
South Dakota State University is a land–grant, space–grant and sun–grant university established in 1881. The university first opened its doors as a mechanical and agricultural school, meaning it leans more toward degree programs in pharmacy, agriculture, nursing and engineering. The university has more than 12,000 students in attendance and offers more than 175 programs of study.
South Dakota State University offers associate, bachelor’s, master and certificate programs online through its Department of Continuing and Distance Education. Online associate’s degrees include general studies. Online bachelor’s degrees include geography and sociology. Online master’s degrees include educational administration and chemistry. Available certifications include animal science and family financial planning.
Online student resources include an online job board, online career exploration, technical support and an online library with librarians available via live chat, email, fax or over the phone.
Accreditation
South Dakota State University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
3. University of South Dakota
Vermillion, South Dakota
The University of South Dakota was established in 1862, almost 40 years before South Dakota joined the United States. The university is home to a medical school, a business school and a law school. The university is also home to the National Music Museum, which showcases more than 15,000 musical instruments from around the world. In total, the university offers more than 200 programs of study across seven academic colleges.
The University of South Dakota offers associate, bachelor’s, master, doctoral and certificate programs online through its World Class Online platform. Online associate’s degrees include general studies. Online bachelor’s degrees include addiction studies and nursing. Online master’s degrees include public health and social work. Online doctoral degree offerings include occupational therapy and physical therapy. Available online certifications include long–term care management.
Online student resources include 24/7 technical support, online test proctoring, online writing assistance, and an online library.
Accreditation
University of South Dakota is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
4. Northern State University
Aberdeen, South Dakota
Northern State University, established in 1901, came about due to requests from area citizens for an institute of higher education. Several wealthy citizens donated both land and money toward the school’s establishment once the bill approving the school met state senate approval. The university teaches more than 3,500 students and offers more than 50 programs of study.
Northern State University offers associate, bachelor’s and master degrees online through its Office of Online and Continuing Education. Online associate’s degrees include general studies, gerontology and financial services. Online bachelor’s degree options include marketing, professional accountancy and business administration. Online master’s degree offerings include teaching, leadership and music education.
Resources available to online students include an online job board and an online library with librarians readily available via live chat, email, text message, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or over the phone.
Accreditation
Northern State University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
5. Black Hills State University
Spearfish, South Dakota
Black Hills State University is one of South Dakota’s largest universities with more than 4,500 students from 44 states and 29 countries in attendance. Established in 1883, the university sits on more than 120 acres. Some of the majors the university offers include subjects within the arts, humanities, social science, business, natural sciences, education and behavioral science.
Black Hills State University offers bachelor’s, master’s and certificate programs entirely online. Bachelor’s degree options include general studies and business administration. Master’s degree offerings include strategic leadership and Project SELECT. Available certifications include secondary education.
Online student resources include technical support, an online job board and an online library with librarians available via email and over the phone.
Accreditation
Black Hills State University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
6. Presentation College
Aberdeen, South Dakota
Presentation College is a Catholic college founded in Mitchell, South Dakota, but moved to Aberdeen in 1951. The institution also operates a campus in Fairmont, Minnesota. Known for its healthcare programs, the college offers an associate of arts degree and associate, bachelor, and master of science degrees in more than 15 academic areas.
PC’s distance education program, PC Virtual, offers online bachelor of science and completion degrees in psychology and several other health–related fields. The two BSN programs, LPN–to–BSN and RN–to–BSN, are completion degrees. The radiologic technology degree is available as a completion degree or an online associate or bachelor’s degree.
Accreditation
Presentation College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of Presentation College’s top rankings on TBS
7. Dakota Wesleyan University
Mitchell, South Dakota
Dakota Wesleyan University educates nearly 1,000 students through over 40 majors and minors and several graduate programs at its campus in Mitchell. Two bachelor’s degrees, two graduate programs, and two graduate certificates are available online, delivered asynchronously through the Canvas platform in eight–week terms.
DWU is among the many online colleges in South Dakota that offer financial aid for students. The institution charges tuition per credit, with rates varying by program. Admission requirements also vary by program, though both online bachelor’s degrees — the bachelor of arts completion degree and the RN–to–BSN – — require prospective students to earn an associate degree. The graduate degrees, the master of business administration and master of arts in education, require 36 credits each; students who attend full time with two courses per term can complete the MBA in 12 months and the MA in 15 months.
Accreditation
Dakota Wesleyan University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
8. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
Rapid City, South Dakota
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, founded in 1885, is a leading engineering and science university, as well as one of South Dakota’s online colleges. The Rapid City campus offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, while SD Mines Online includes three online master’s programs in engineering.
The online programs, construction engineering and management (CEM), engineering management (EM), and mining engineering and management (MEM), require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, the CEM and EM programs specify minimum math and science requirements, and the MEM degree requires an undergraduate engineering degree or significant work experience. The EM and MEM degrees require 32 credits each, and the CEM program requires 33 credits. Classes are charged per credit, with the same rate charged for all online programs, and South Dakota residents are eligible for a significant tuition discount. The only other program costs are the application fee and books.
Accreditation
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
9. University of Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Nearly 1,500 students are enrolled at the University of Sioux Falls, which offers over 40 undergraduate majors on its Sioux Falls campus. The university boasts that, within six months of graduation, 98% of graduates are employed in their field.
One of the top online schools in South Dakota, USF offers online professional development, certificates, an online RN–to–BSN degree, and bachelor’s degree completion programs in accounting, business, and health administration. Online master’s degrees are also available in business and education. Application requirements for the degree completion programs include an associate degree or two years of transferable credit with a minimum 2.0 GPA, as well as an interview and three years of work experience.
Accreditation
University of Sioux Falls is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
10. Lake Area Technical Institute
Watertown, South Dakota
Boasting over 20,000 graduates, of whom 98.56% are employed or continuing their education, Lake Area Technical Institute offers degrees in over 20 areas including agriculture, business, transportation, and health–related fields. LATI’s 12 online degrees are available in similar academic areas. The online programs are hybrid, requiring some training or clinical experiences on the campus in Watertown, though the amount varies by program.
Like some other online schools in South Dakota, application requirements include an application fee, high school transcripts, and required test scores. Most online programs do not have an application deadline, except for the online nursing program. All prospective students should think about applying early, as programs can fill and there are financial aid and scholarship deadlines. Students who earn their AAS degree at LATI can consider pursuing a bachelor’s degree through one of the many program–to–program articulation agreements the college has with public universities in South Dakota, private institutions, and public universities in other states.
Accreditation
Lake Area Technical Institute is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
11. Mitchell Technical Institute
Mitchell, South Dakota
Though a new college, founded in 1968, Mitchell Technical Institute offers 33 programs on the campus in Mitchell, as well as five online programs. The online degrees are available in areas including business and health–related fields. While MTI boasts a 99% job placement rate among graduates, several of the online programs have a 100% placement rate: administrative office specialist, small business management, advanced medical imaging, and speech–language pathology assistant. Prospective students should submit transcripts, applicable test scores, and proof of U.S. residency.
MTI is one of the online colleges in South Dakota that charges the same tuition for online and on–campus courses, and both residents and nonresidents of South Dakota pay the same rate. Several of the degrees offer both a one–year diploma and an AAS option, and most are available entirely online. MTI awards credit for previously earned college credits and experiential learning including certain exams and professional certifications.
Accreditation
Mitchell Technical Institute is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
The Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in South Dakota
South Dakotans can save money by beginning their education at an affordable two–year college and transferring to a four–year institution. Those living out–of–state may also attend South Dakota’s online colleges to take advantage of affordable tuition. This ranking provides learners with a list of schools that offer rigorous online programs at an affordable cost.
1. Black Hills State University
Spearfish, South Dakota
Black Hills State University is a liberal arts college located near the Northern Black Hills in Spearfish. The school’s 4,000 students can choose from 80 programs in diverse disciplines. BHSU offers several online degrees, including bachelor’s degrees in business administration and general studies.
The BS in business administration with a management specialization provides a comprehensive business education, developing students’ problem–solving, leadership, and resource management skills. Accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education, the program requires 120 credits that examine subjects such as finance, accounting, business law, organizational behavior, and small business management. Students can engage in extracurricular activities by joining the Financial Management Association, Society for Human Resource Management, or Enactus.
Students with a significant number of transfer credits can pursue the 120–credit bachelor’s in general studies. The program does not enroll freshmen and requires 60 elective credits that students can use to customize the degree to their career aspirations. Students choose from courses on subjects such as math, social science, arts and humanities, and natural science.
Distance learners gain access to library services, live chat advisement with faculty through Elluminate, and tech support. Ninety–two percent of BHSU’s learners receive some form of financial aid, making the institution one of the most affordable online colleges in South Dakota. Admission requires a minimum 2.0 GPA on at least 24 transfer credits.
Accreditation
Black Hills State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of Black Hills State University’s top rankings on TBS
2. Dakota State University
Madison, South Dakota
Dakota State University emphasizes practical training in educational programming. The school also embraces high–tech learning with PC tablets for freshmen, classrooms that use SMART boards, industry–standard software, and 3D printers. The school also offers several online programs.
The online BBA provides a comprehensive 120–credit curriculum with majors in accounting, marketing, management, and business technology. While all BBA majors require general education in subjects such as social science, natural science, and arts and humanities, each major requires unique advanced courses.
The 120–credit BS in cyber operations covers topics such as network security, software security, data structures, and operating environments. The 120–credit BS in cyber leadership and intelligence prepares students for leadership careers in cybersecurity and offers specializations in digital forensics, world affairs, and human behavior. The two specializations share a common core that examines subjects such as organization and management, people and their cultures, and cyber leadership.
Learners may also earn degrees in general studies and elementary education. Students pay the same tuition regardless of residency, making DSU one of the most affordable online colleges in South Dakota. Admission requires a minimum 2.0 GPA for students with more than 24 credits.
Accreditation
Dakota State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of Dakota State University’s top rankings on TBS
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3. University of South Dakota
Vermillion, South Dakota
The University of South Dakota, the state’s flagship college, provides 10,000 students with 276 programs delivered on a large campus in Vermillion and online. Students study in classrooms with a 16–to–1 student–to–faculty ratio.
USD Online features 40 online programs. The 120–credit online BBA provides learners with foundational business skills. Faculty designed the program for nontraditional students who want to finish a degree they started elsewhere. The degree requires 60 major credits that explore topics such as business finance, marketing, econometrics, and production/operations management.
Students interested in a flexible curriculum can enroll in the bachelor of general studies. Students must transfer at least 60 credits into this program, supplementing prior credits with 45 credits in three areas of emphasis, such as business, allied health, and technology.
USD offers four bachelor’s programs for individuals interested in healthcare careers: RN–to–BSN, BS in dental hygiene, BS in addiction studies, and a BS in health sciences. Students pay the same tuition regardless of residency, making USD one of the most affordable online colleges in South Dakota. Admission requires at least 24 credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA for transfer students. Transfer students with a minimum 3.0 GPA may receive scholarships.
Accreditation
University of South Dakota is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of University of South Dakota’s top rankings on TBS
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4. South Dakota State University
Brookings, South Dakota
South Dakota State University is the largest college in the state. The school hosts approximately 12,000 students on campus and online. Students can opt for hybrid degrees or fully online programs.
SDState’s online degrees include a 120–credit BS in early education and care, a collaborative effort between the seven colleges of Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance to train early childhood educators. The program examines subjects such as child development, curriculum development, working with families, and assessing young children to enhance development.
The 120–credit BS in interdisciplinary studies allows students to customize their degree. Many students transfer with general education requirements and use their remaining credits to map out a plan of study that matches their interests. The 120–credit bachelor of general studies also provides a flexible curriculum with 30 ways to customize the degree. Students must transfer in at least 60 credits. They work with faculty to develop a degree plan and culminate the program with a capstone project that demonstrates their proficiencies.
SDState’s online degrees also include an RN–to–BSN and a BS in psychology. Admission to SDState, one of the most affordable online colleges in South Dakota, requires a minimum 2.0 GPA on transfer credits.
Accreditation
South Dakota State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of South Dakota State University’s top rankings on TBS
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5. Presentation College
Aberdeen, South Dakota
Presentation College provides students with an education rooted in a Catholic perspective. Through PC Virtual, students can choose from several online degrees in the health professions.
The LPN–to–BSN enrolls LPNs in Midwestern states such as Iowa, Minnesota, the Dakotas, and Wisconsin. This degree–completion option provides nurses with theoretical and clinical knowledge to advance their nursing practice. Students complete a minimum of 121 credits, examining topics such as pharmacology/pathophysiology, adult health nursing, community health, and maternal–child nursing.
The 123–credit BS in radiologic technology teaches students how to use imaging technologies to produce radiographic images. The program, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, includes coursework in medical terminology; radiological science; image formation, processing, and display; and image analysis and quality improvement. Participants supplement online learning with several clinicals at an approved facility.
The BS in healthcare administration gives learners the skills necessary to supervise the delivery of services in healthcare facilities. In addition to healthcare courses, the program covers general business principles, accounting, and strategic planning.
Students pursuing a degree online on a part–time basis pay the same tuition regardless of residency. That benefit coupled with a comprehensive suite of financial aid opportunities makes Presentation College one of the most affordable online colleges in South Dakota. Admission requires a minimum 2.0 GPA
Accreditation
Presentation College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of Presentation College’s top rankings on TBS
The Most Affordable Online Associate Degree Programs in South Dakota
South Dakotans can save money by beginning their education at an affordable two–year college and transferring to a four–year institution. Those living out–of–state may also attend South Dakota’s online colleges to take advantage of affordable tuition. This ranking provides learners with a list of schools that offer rigorous online programs at an affordable cost.
1. Mitchell Technical Institute
Mitchell, South Dakota
Founded in 1968, Mitchell Technical Institute is one of the newest colleges in the region. MTI was one of 10 finalists for the prestigious 2019 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. The school offers several online associate of applied science degrees.
The 71–credit AAS in administrative office specialist combines foundational business courses with computer software courses. Students develop proficiency in areas such as accounting, marketing, desktop publishing, and database concepts and applications.
The 73–credit AAS in medical office professional teaches students how to manage information technology and perform medical billing and reimbursement duties within medical offices. The curriculum examines topics such as medical terminology, medical office administration, accounting for business, and medical billing and insurance.
The 75–credit AAS in small business management gives learners the foundational business skills they need for successful business ownership. The curriculum examines topics such as accounting, insurance principles, and database applications.
Students interested in working with individuals with speech, hearing, or language disorders can enroll in the 65–credit AAS in speech–language pathology assistant program. The program includes courses on speech and language development, phonetics, anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, and speech disorders and interventions.
MTI graduates enjoy a 99% job placement rate within six months of graduation. With more than 86% of MTI students receiving some form of financial aid, MTI is one of the most affordable online colleges in South Dakota.
Accreditation
Mitchell Technical Institute is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of Mitchell Technical Institute’s top rankings on TBS
2. Lake Area Technical Institute
Watertown, South Dakota
Lake Area Technical Institute offers small, interactive classes to about 2,400 students per year. The school’s catalog includes 12 eDegrees that train technicians in various fields. Students supplement online courses with lab and project work on campus.
The 20–month AAS in agri–business prepares students for careers in ag sales, farming operations, and similar occupations. The 78–credit curriculum covers topics such as crop and animal science, ag safety, and soil and water management.
Students can complete the 72–credit AAS in entrepreneurship in 18–20 months. They learn how to start and manage their own business with coursework that explores topics like opportunity analysis, competitive analysis, and business law. Students can also pursue a 76–credit AAS in human resources. The curriculum covers topics like payroll, benefits, safety, and personnel record management.
One of the most affordable online colleges in South Dakota, LATI offers other associate programs that provide affordability and flexibility, including AAS degrees in computer information systems, photography/media, and electronic systems technology. Online students pay the same tuition regardless of residency. Learners may lease laptops from the bookstore to save on computer expenses.
Accreditation
Lake Area Technical Institute is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
See some of Lake Area Technical Institute’s top rankings on TBS
3. Southeast Technical Institute
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Southeast Technical Institute offers affordable degrees that prepare learners to enter the workforce. The school emphasizes accelerated learning, with most students graduating in less than two years. The school graduates the third–largest number of higher education students in the state.
Southeast Tech offers a comprehensive suite of online degrees. The 67–credit AAS in accounting cultivates accounting professionals skilled in analyzing and interpreting financial information, preparing financial statements, and conducting audits. Students cover topics such as accounting principles, financial management, and managerial accounting. Students can also pursue a 68–credit AAS in business administration, which gives broad business training in areas such as management, accounting, computers, and selling.
The 60–credit AAS in healthcare leadership is ideal for healthcare workers interested in advancing to managerial roles. The curriculum examines topics such as customer service, supervisory management, insurance billing and coding, and business law. Other degrees offered at one of the most affordable online colleges in South Dakota include AAS degrees in marketing and computer programming.
Southeast Tech highly recommends part–time or full–time internships to supplement classroom learning for many of its programs. The career services department accommodates this option through robust employer partnerships. Learners can receive academic assistance through peer–to–peer tutoring.
Accreditation
Southeast Technical Institute is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
4. Western Dakota Technical Institute
Rapid City, South Dakota
Western Dakota Technical Institute prepares students for some of the fastest–growing fields in South Dakota. Western Dakota Tech offers several business programs online, including an AAS in accounting. Students can complete the 70–72–credit program in 18 months, studying accounting principles and training in the latest accounting software. The curriculum offers an optional internship opportunity for hands–on learning.
The 63–credit AAS in business technology prepares learners for careers such as store manager, administrative assistant, and entrepreneur. Learners acquire foundational knowledge on subjects such as sales, accounting, desktop publishing, management, and website development.
The 60–credit AAS in library technician teaches students how to catalog, maintain, and retrieve print and electronic library resources. Students examine the latest advancements in library catalogs and databases in public libraries, K–12 libraries, and other settings. The curriculum also examines topics such as library circulation and customer service; children and young adult literature; acquisitions, serials, and processing; and collection development and management.
One of the most affordable online colleges in South Dakota, Western Dakota Tech charges online students the same tuition regardless of residency. Students can access general education peer tutoring at the Student Success Center
Accreditation
Western Dakota Technical Institute is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Additional Online Colleges in South Dakota Featured on TBS
Augustana University
Oglala Lakota College
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