South Dakota, the Rushmore State, has more than 30 higher education institutions giving future college students a broad range of selections. Leaders of the state and the South Dakota Board of Regents aim to fill these institutions with more students in the future. They have agreed to a statewide attainment goal of 65% of South Dakota citizens holding a post-secondary degree by the year 2025. The objective is to provide more access to post-secondary education, particularly for working adults. The Board recognizes how technology plays a significant role in realizing the goal.
Private and public colleges and universities have been working to offer more online programs. Online learners can log on to their courses at their most convenient time and rarely or never visit the school campus. Working adults won’t have to leave their jobs while completing assignments and coursework. Most online courses are self-paced, therefore giving the students the freedom to use their time however they want to. No need to spend money on transportation and sit in classes. The distance education opportunities in South Dakota meet the increasing demand for industries in the state.
METHODOLOGY
Prospective distance learners seeking an online degree have several options in South Dakota, but finding the best online school to enroll isn’t always easy. To help you make a sound decision, the staff and writers at OnlineSchoolsCenter.com listed the 5 Top Online Schools in South Dakota. We determined the top-ranked online academic institutions in the state that share these salient features:
- Rigorous coursework that highlights courses that are as robust as their on-campus counterparts,
- An online learning platform that features ease of access to coursework,
- Good student-to-instructor ratio to promote focused education and training,
- Industry experts as online professors,
- Fully accredited by academic organizations that promote and maintain academic excellence.
Interested to learn about our ranking process? See our Methodology Page.
University of South Dakota
The University of South Dakota is the oldest public university in the state. It was established in 1862 before South Dakota earned its statehood. It is one of the six-member institutions of the South Dakota Board of Regents. It started with 69 students and has now reached up to 10,000. USD is known for its business and law schools providing experiential learning that will help students prepare for real-world challenges. USD has the state’s only medical and law schools. Nursing, Business, Health Science, Elementary Education, Kinesiology & Sport Management, Biology/Medical Biology, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Accounting, and Media & Journalism are among its top undergraduate areas of study. Students can explore 198 undergraduate programs and 78 graduate programs.
USD emphasizes its high-quality academic programs not only on-campus but also through its USD Online and Off-Campus Education. Online programs are structured in Beacom School of Business, College of Arts and Sciences, School of Health Sciences, School of Education, College of Fine Arts and Graduate School. Fully online programs at USD lead to Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees. Students may opt for on-campus or hybrid format. Student resources are available from the very first step of the application, selection of degree major to employment opportunities. Each online student is assigned with a Learning Specialist to help them with scheduling, develop learning strategies and even academic stress management.
Location: Vermillion, South Dakota
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- A non-refundable application fee of $20
- Official high school transcript
- Official ACT/SAT Scores (composite score of 21 or above)
Transfer
- A non-refundable application fee of $20
- At least 24 transferable semester credits
- 2.0 cumulative GPA
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
- Official high school transcript
- High school diploma for applicants under 21
Graduate
- A non-refundable application fee of $35
- Letters of recommendation
- Official transcript of receipt verifying the undergraduate degree
- Statement of Purpose
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Northern State University
Northern State University was first integrated with Northern Normal and Industrial School. It was built in 1901 to cater to the higher education needs of the growing population of the town. The school survived World War II. Enrollment grew, and the school has improved its educational opportunities. Today, it serves more than 3,000 students and distinguishes itself among South Dakota’s universities by holding the Center for Excellence in International Business and Entrepreneurship in the state. NSU students may explore 59 academic programs under five colleges. Its programs are grouped in various areas of study like Accounting, Arts, Banking, Business, Economics, Finance, Information Systems, Marketing, Music, Sociology and more.
NSU provides opportunities for students with busy work schedules. The school’s Online and Continuing Education guarantees flexibility and convenience through its programs like Accounting, Banking, and Financial Services, Business Administration, General Studies, International Business, Management, Marketing, to mention a few. A multitude of minor courses and certificate programs are also offered online. Online students at NSU may earn associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees without having to enter the school grounds. NSU provides these programs to active military members, veterans and their spouses. Students are assisted through several workshops, one of which is NSU’s back-to-school workshops which take place annually.
Location: Aberdeen, South Dakota
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- $20 application fee
- Official ACT/SAT Scores
- Official high school transcript
Transfer
- $20 application fee
- At least 24 transferable credits
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
Graduate
- $35 application fee
- A minimum of cumulative 2.75 GPA
- Two letters of reference
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
South Dakota State University
Another university governed by the South Dakota Board of Regents is the South Dakota State University. Its history traces back to 1881 when the school was named Dakota Agricultural College. The school is home to the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station that has worked together with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in its research programs. It is also recognized the Carnegie Foundation as a Research University with high research activity. This land-, sun-, and space-grant university primarily focuses on areas in agriculture, engineering, nursing, pharmacy, and liberal arts. SDSU is the largest public research university in the state admitting more than 12,000 students a year. There are over 175 programs offered at SDSU under its nine colleges and schools.
Currently, South Dakota State University offers online programs through its Office of Continuing & Distance Education. Students can explore programs and earn a certificate, undergraduate and graduate degree entirely online. These programs are taught by the same on-campus instructors, so students get the same quality education. Undergraduate program selections include Data Science, Early Education and Care, Geography, Interdisciplinary Studies, Nursing, and more. Students can discover fully accredited graduate programs available at SDSU like Agricultural Education, Chemistry-Chemical Education, Engineering, Mass Communication, Nursing, Public Health, and Human Sciences. SDSU ensures that rigorous coursework is provided and that students can customize their pathways through a program’s concentrations.
Location: Brookings, South Dakota
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- Application fee of $20 (waived if the applicant previously attended a South Dakota public university)
- Official high school transcript
- Official ACT/SAT Scores
Transfer
- Application fee of $20 (waived if the applicant previously attended a South Dakota public university)
- Official high school transcript
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
- Official ACT/SAT Scores
- A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better
- At least 24 transferable credits
Graduate
- $35 application fee
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Dakota State University
Dakota State University was built as a school for teacher training in 1881. After a few years, the school became known for its area of expertise in technology. DSU has been known for its curriculum in computer management and computer information systems. It is proud to be one of the most technologically-advanced universities in the nation. Full-time undergraduate students must complete courses in introductory programming and introduction to computers regardless of their major. Its student population of 3,382 works with professional technology through its Tablet program, high-end computer labs, SMART boards, and access building through hand scanners. DSU is made up of 4 colleges namely, College of Arts and Sciences, Colleges of Business and Information Systems, The Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences, and the College of Education.
Academic opportunities are extended in DSU’s online programs leading to associate, baccalaureate, and graduate degrees. There are plenty of programs at DSU Online such as Accounting, Business Management, Computer Science, Cyber Operations, Elementary Education, Health Informatics, Information Systems, Marketing, Network and Security Administration, and more. Student development resources are available for both in-classroom and online formats. You can expect to access online tutoring, personal counseling, and learning assistance. Jobs and internship opportunities come through their Handshake program where students and alumni form connections for career goals. Some instructors who utilize web conferencing technology may require students to complete their exams with webcams for verification, visual, and voice recognition.
Location: Madison, South Dakota
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- Application fee of $20
- Official high school transcript
- Official ACT/SAT Scores
Transfer
- Application fee of $20
- At least 24 transferable credits
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
Graduate
- Application fee of $35
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/ university
- Cumulative GPA of at least 3.25
- GRE/GMAT scores
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
University of Sioux Falls
The University of Sioux Falls was founded by the Baptist churches in the Dakota Territory 147 years ago. It was named Dakota Collegiate Institute and has gone through a couple of name changes. It acquired its current name after going through significant challenges and improvements within the facilities, programs, and reputation. At present, this Christian, liberal arts university guides more than 1,600 students in facilitating academic excellence. USF lets students delve into its educational offerings that include 90 accredited undergraduate majors from Accounting to Theology. Its graduate school covers programs in Business Administration, Education, and Education Specialist. All of which have concentrations for both full- and part-time students.
Students can take their academic experience anywhere they go through USF’s online, faith-based programs. They can pursue undergraduate degrees in Accounting, Business, Health Administration, Professional Development, and Nursing. Online master’s programs in Business Administration and Education are offered with concentrations. USF also aims to help adult learners continue education and change career options through online and professional development programs. It guarantees small class sizes for more personalized learning, and 99% of its graduates find employment within six months. This is possible through their “Purple Briefcase” platform which links students with employers to fill internship programs, part-time jobs, and even full-time job positions.
Location: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- No application fee
- Official high school transcript
- Official ACT/SAT Scores
Transfer
- No application fee
- At least 12 transferable credits
- Official high school transcript
- Official ACT/SAT Scores
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
- Cumulative 2.0 transfer GPA
Graduate
- No application fee
- Letter of recommendation
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Going to college is a significant investment. This means it’s essential to gather enough information on the of quality education and cost of tuition a school delivers. Students are encouraged to continue higher education, but there is no denying that the cost of college tuition has been rising over the years. Some students are left with no choice but to enroll part-time to keep up with the cost and set aside learning for work. It is crucial for students to find a means to settle college payments so they’re not left with overwhelming debts. At present, students have found that online education is one key to solving money issues. They get to save up some money without sacrificing quality.
As a way to help students gain access to cheaper college, South Dakota has participated in the Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC) where out-of-state students benefit from tuition discounts and programs. Another advantage of being a South Dakotan resident enrolled in postsecondary institutions is the Electronic University Consortium, which serves as an access to distance education. Students can find leading universities that offer flexibility, convenience and most of all, affordability. Part-time students, adult learners, working professionals, government and military members, and persons with disabilities who want to upgrade their degree find solace in these community development programs.
METHODOLOGY
Let us help you in your search for South Dakota’s best online schools that don’t break the bank! We put together a list of top-rated cheap online colleges offering quality education for much less in total tuition and fees. These 5 Best Value Online Schools in South Dakota also provide a range of opportunities for financial aid.
Black Hills State University
Black Hills State University opened its doors as Dakota College in 1883. It started as a regular school and went through several changes in its administration. It soon introduced a four-year curriculum and had 44 graduates in its first year. Today, the school operates with more than 4,000 Yellow Jackets enrolled in programs leading to certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. The school holds other satellite campuses in Rapid City and Pierre, South Dakota. BHSU houses three colleges: The College of Business and Natural Sciences, The College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, and The College of Liberal Arts, offering 120 majors and minors. These include online programs in Business Administration, General Studies, Strategic Leadership, Sustainability, Secondary Education, and more. Students looking for the cheapest tuition in the state are encouraged to experience BSHU.
As a school known for its sustainability efforts, BSHU also strives to maintain affordability for students. Undergraduate residents of South Dakota enjoy tuition rates for as low as $300.30 per credit hour, while nonresidents pay $405.15 per credit hour. Graduate tuition costs $376.75 per credit hour for SD residents, while out-of-state tuition is at $670.30 per credit hour. Tuition reduction programs are also available for eligible South Dakota residents backed by the South Dakota Board of Regents.
Location: Spearfish, South Dakota
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- Non-refundable application fee of $20
- Official high school transcript
- Official ACT/SAT Scores
Transfer
- Application fee of $20
- Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
Graduate
- Non-refundable application fee of $35
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Northern State University
Northern State University was established in 1901 as an answer to the higher education needs of the growing population in Aberdeen. It started as a regular school that would train future teachers about practical teaching methods. As years have passed the school expanded its platform and worked to receive recognitions and classifications. Now, the university serves almost 3,500 students coming from 42 states and other countries. This veteran-friendly school offers more than 59 academic programs on-campus and through an online setting. Students explore a variety of fully online courses and programs through NSU’s Office of Online and Continuing Education such as Accounting, Banking, and Financial Services, Business Administration, Management, Music Education, and more.
The school is governed by the South Dakota Board of Regents and is proud to provide one of the most competitive tuition rates in the state. Undergraduate tuition rates for online students is at $351.35 per credit while graduate students pay $465.80 per credit. NSU delivers quality education at a low cost and awards financial aid of up to $16.7 million annually. It also offers the largest guaranteed scholarship in the region (named as WolfPACT Scholarship) for incoming first-year students.
Location: Aberdeen, South Dakota
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- $20 application fee
- Official ACT/SAT Scores
- Official high school transcript
Transfer
- $20 application fee
- At least 24 transferable credits
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
Graduate
- $35 application fee
- A minimum of cumulative 2.75 GPA
- Two letters of reference
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Dakota State University
Built eight years before South Dakota received its statehood, Dakota State University was formed to educate students to become teachers. It was named Madison Normal School or Dakota State Normal being the first school to train teachers in the region. Over the years, the school underwent several name changes and improvements in the curriculum. It aimed to become the first school in South Dakota to specialize in technology-related courses and still known to be the most technologically-sophisticated public university in the state now. Mandatory courses include Introductory Programming and Introduction to Computers. Each student gets a laptop through DSU’s Tablet Program. DSU admits more than 3,000 students pursuing certificate programs, associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees.
Distance learners take advantage of DSU’s online offerings that are the same quality as on-campus programs. Besides a quality education, the university offers inexpensive tuition rates starting at $351.25 per credit hour for off-campus resident students in the undergraduate category. Non-resident undergraduate students pay $460.85 per credit hour. Graduate students for distance learning are charged with $460.85 per credit hour while non-residents with $575.40 per credit hour. National Guard members and SD K-12 teachers are eligible for the Tuition Reduction Program. DSU has awarded financial aid at an average of $10,913 for each eligible student in the past school year.
Location: Madison, South Dakota
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- Application fee of $20
- Official high school transcript
- Official ACT/SAT Scores
Transfer
- Application fee of $20
- At least 24 transferable credits
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
Graduate
- Application fee of $35
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/ university
- Cumulative GPA of 3.25 or better
- GRE/GMAT scores
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
South Dakota State University
South Dakota State University is the largest most comprehensive public research university in the state. SDSU’s student population currently counts to more than 12,000. The school was created just six years before South Dakota became a state. This university was known as the Dakota Agricultural College in 1881 and is one of the oldest universities in the state. It then changed its name to Dakota State College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts as it had popular courses geared towards programs in agriculture, engineering, home economics, general science, and pharmacy. The Carnegie Foundation classifies SDSU as a university with High Research Activity.
Students can choose from 200 academic programs organized in 9 colleges and schools. They can also expect to explore on-demand programs that can be completed 100% online. Online students may earn bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees without on-campus attendance. Low tuition costs are also offered at SDSU. Undergraduate online learners only pay $351.25 per credit hour, and associate programs can even go for as little as $27.95 for the Veteran’s Tuition Reduction Program. The graduate online tuition rate is $465.80 per credit hour. Ninety percent of SDSU students (including online students) receive financial aid of some form. They can access technical support, library, and online job boards through live chat, email, or on the web.
Location: Brookings, South Dakota
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- Application fee of $20 (waived if the applicant previously attended a South Dakota public university)
- Official high school transcript
- Official ACT/SAT Scores
Transfer
- Application fee of $20 (waived if the applicant previously attended a South Dakota public university)
- Official high school transcript
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
- Official ACT/SAT Scores
- A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better
- At least 24 transferable credits
Graduate
- $35 application fee
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
University of South Dakota
The University of South Dakota was built 27 years before South Dakota gained its statehood. This makes the university the oldest public institution in the state. The flagship university for the state, USD was also established as a coeducational research (R2) university. Students pursuing degrees in the medical and law fields go to USD. It is the only institution in the state to provide medical and law schools since 1901. USD serves more than 10,00 students. There are nine colleges and schools that deliver top fields of study like Accounting, Business, Elementary Education, Criminal Justice, Psychology, and more. Its more than 200 academic programs are offered in associate, baccalaureate, master, doctoral degrees.
Distance learners are also welcomed through USD Online where they can find flexibility and convenience in integrating education with their busy lives. Online programs cover subjects in Business Administration, General Studies, Education, Health Sciences, Professional Accountancy, Public Health, and Nursing. Students at USD can expect affordable high-quality distance education. Tuition for undergraduate level is $351.25 per credit hour while graduate tuition rate is $465.80 per credit hour. Online courses at USD are delivered asynchronously, and resources for academic preparation and technology resources are accessible 24/7.
Location: Vermillion, South Dakota
Admission Requirements:
Freshmen
- A non-refundable application fee of $20
- Official high school transcript
- Official ACT/SAT Scores (composite score of 21 or above)
Transfer
- A non-refundable application fee of $20
- At least 24 transferable semester credits
- 2.0 cumulative GPA
- Official transcripts from all the previous colleges/universities attended
- Official high school transcript
- High school diploma for applicants under 21
Graduate
- A non-refundable application fee of $35
- Letters of recommendation
- Official transcript of receipt verifying the undergraduate degree
- Statement of Purpose
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
