About Dakota State University
Dakota State University is a four-year, public institution offering technology-driven education in a student-centered environment. An innovative curriculum prepares students to contribute advanced skills and knowledge to local, national, and global societies. Undergraduate and graduate degree programs are supplemented by excellent teaching, research, technology resources, scholarship, and a commitment to service.
Online associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees are available through Dakota State University. Programs include computer science, education, general studies, analytics, cyber defense, and more. Online certificates are also available in a convenient and affordable academic format. Courses are available completely online, making DSU a beneficial choice to the nontraditional or working adult student.
Accreditation & Licensing
Dakota State University is accredited by:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Type:
4-year, PublicHighest Level Offered:
Doctor's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Not applicableEnrollment:
Undergraduate: 4,186 ; Graduate: 1,458Percent of Fully Online Students:
Undergraduate: 65% ; Graduate: 82%Graduation Rate:
51%Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:
$50,970Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$23,500Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
44%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$6,250Credit for Military Training:
YesOnline Programs offered by Dakota State University
All Programs
Business
Computer Science & IT
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
Education
Healthcare
Filters
Dakota State University gives working adults a practical way to keep moving toward graduation. Its online format makes it easier to stay on track from term to term, even when work and family plans change. That flexibility can help students keep going and finish on time.
Cost is an important part of the plan. Many students see DSU as fairly priced for tuition. At the same time, required technology can add a large upfront cost, including a computer package that may run over $3,000. That extra expense can affect pace and timing, even when tuition feels manageable.
At Dakota State University, class support feels steady and personal. Students often get answers within a day, and professors are easy to work with. Faculty also make time for one-on-one help, even when students are dealing with illness. Once classes begin, that regular contact helps students stay on track.
Staff and faculty are known for being helpful and responsive in daily coursework. Office processes can feel mixed at times. Financial aid may feel less organized for some students, while registration and general support can run smoothly. Overall, DSU is most reliable in direct classroom support.
DSU’s online classes are easy to use. Virtual classrooms feel simple and clear. The online setup is very convenient for busy schedules. The pace works well for adults balancing work and school.
The online environment is extremely flexible. Computer use is a primary part of coursework. That gives classes a tech-forward structure from day one. DSU fits learners who want online access and digital-first study.
At Dakota State University, classes feel personal and close-knit. Class sizes are small, so professors know students by name. You are not lost in a crowd, and it is easier to get help when you need it.
Coursework is practical and built around technology. Tech tools are part of daily assignments and class routines. DSU is a strong fit for students who want computer-focused programs and direct contact with instructors.
Dakota State University is mostly a positive pick. Classes feel personal and direct. Professors know students by name. Faculty communication is a clear strength.
Questions get answered fast, often within 24 hours. Online classes are easy to use. The format fits busy schedules well. The school is clearly tech-centered in daily coursework.
That makes DSU a good match for tech-focused learners. Cost is the main mixed area. Some pricing feels fair overall. But required tech costs can run high.
One reported computer package topped $3,000. Aid and admin flow can vary by case. The strongest DSU strengths are teaching access and online usability.
Dakota State University is mostly a positive pick. Classes feel personal and direct. Professors know students by name. Faculty communication is a clear strength.
Questions get answered fast, often within 24 hours. Online classes are easy to use. The format fits busy schedules well. The school is clearly tech-centered in daily coursework.
That makes DSU a good match for tech-focused learners. Cost is the main mixed area. Some pricing feels fair overall. But required tech costs can run high.
One reported computer package topped $3,000. Aid and admin flow can vary by case. The strongest DSU strengths are teaching access and online usability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dakota State University
Is Dakota State University accredited?
Yes. Dakota State University is institutionally accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
How many online programs does Dakota State University offer?
Dakota State University offers 43 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.
What degree levels does Dakota State University offer?
Dakota State University offers programs from associate and bachelor's through master's and doctoral levels.
How should students contact admissions at Dakota State University?
Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.
Is Dakota State University expensive, and what are the tuition costs?
Roughly speaking, Dakota State University falls into GetEducated’s $$ tuition tier, which points to a mid tuition range.
How quickly can I enroll at Dakota State University?
Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.
What should transfer students ask Dakota State University first?
The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.
What GPA do most Dakota State University programs require?
GPA requirements typically range from 2.0 to 3.0, and 3.0 appears most often.
Is Dakota State University military friendly?
Dakota State University does not show Yellow Ribbon support. If military benefits matter for your plan, check current military options before you apply.
How can students request information from Dakota State University through GetEducated?
Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.
What documents are most commonly required for Dakota State University applications?
Most listed programs ask for Official High School Transcript/GED Score, Official College Transcript(s), Essay/Writing Sample, and Recommendation/Reference Letter(s). Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.
Does Dakota State University accept life experience credit?
Dakota State University accepts life experience credit, but qualifying can be harder than expected and fees may still apply. Check Transfer Options to confirm what applies to your program.
Are Dakota State University programs fully online or mixed?
Dakota State University includes 100% Online and Mostly Online options, so students should check the format of their specific program before applying.
What kinds of online programs does Dakota State University offer?
Dakota State University has online program options in areas such as Computer Science & IT, Business, Criminal Justice, Safety & Law, and Education; start with the field that best matches your career goal, then compare cost, format, and admissions requirements. Compare Programs to get program, admissions, and cost details before applying.
Do any Dakota State University programs have specialized accreditation?
Program-specific accreditors include Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP); Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).
Are any admission tests required for Dakota State University programs?
Some listed programs include GRE requirements, so students should check test expectations before choosing a program.
Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at Dakota State University?
Some programs show different in-state and out-of-state tuition totals, so check your specific program cost.
Do any Dakota State University programs have state authorization limitations?
State authorization restrictions are not prominent across available programs, but students should still confirm eligibility for their state. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.
How often can students start at Dakota State University?
Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For Dakota State University, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.
How should working adults compare Dakota State University programs?
Working adults should confirm program format, total cost, timeline, and application requirements before choosing a path.
Featured Ranking Reports
Dakota State University is featured in 22 of our ranking reports!
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Geographic and Educational Overview
Dakota State University is located in South Dakota
South Dakota at a Glance:

Top Majors in South Dakota:
Top Incentives in South Dakota:
- South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship: Up to $6,500 total
Top Career Pathways in South Dakota:
- Entry Level: Farm Manager ($45,000)
- Mid Level: Agricultural Director ($75,000)
- Senior Level: Operations Executive ($120,000+)
- Required Education: BS Agricultural Business
- Certifications: CCA, CPAg























