School Details
Founded in 1881, South Dakota State University first began as an agricultural school around the time that South Dakota gained statehood. By the 1920s, the school offered programs in five divisions: Agriculture, Engineering, General Science, Home Economics, and Pharmacy. By the mid-nineteenth century, a nursing program was introduced, followed by graduate programs. South Dakota State College became South Dakota State University in 1964 and the school continued to expand its academic offerings. South Dakota State currently implements a five-year strategic plan, Impact 2018: A Strategic Vision, that “will enhance the future of South Dakota citizens while supporting positive change and meeting the challenges of a global, complex, and interconnected society.”
South Dakota State University is the state’s largest, most comprehensive higher education institution. As South Dakota’s Morrill Act land-grant university, SDSU offers a full range of undergraduate and graduate programs, from certificates to doctoral degrees. The university also offers courses on various off-campus sites as well as undergraduate and graduate programs online through the Office of Continuing and Distance Education. These online degrees offer a flexible, high-quality educational opportunity that is designed to meet student needs. University professors teaching SDState online degrees actively engage in the digital classroom with courses that are designed with the same attention to quality as those found on campus.
Accreditation & Licensing
South Dakota State University is accredited by:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
All Programs
Art & Liberal Arts
The online Associate of Arts in General Studies is a liberal arts degree from South Dakota State University. This program provides a foundation of general education courses in a broad liberal arts degree. Courses cover six core areas of study:
- Composition
- Speech
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Mathematics
- Natural Sciences
With these courses, the degree in liberal arts will help you develop sound reasoning, the ability to express yourself, an understanding of your world and diversity, while expanding your horizons through art, literature, culture, and language courses. Students will learn to compute and balance solutions in mathematics and statistics and to methodically test and analyze results.
South Dakota State University offers the Bachelor of General Studies, an online liberal arts degree for students with at least 60 college credits who want to earn a baccalaureate degree. This flexible degree helps students move towards the goals they have set for themselves. The liberal arts degree opens up new career possibilities, provides a path for upward mobility in your current career, and allows you to continue your education at the graduate level. Regardless of your motivation, the curriculum develops skills in communication, critical analysis and problem-solving while providing knowledge in three focus areas chosen by you.
Students can choose from focus areas that include:
- Allied Health
- Business
- Education
- Fine Arts
- Humanities
- Technology
The online Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies is a liberal arts degree with great flexibility. This program allows students to customize their courses to fit their career goals. The degree in liberal arts lets you tailor the curriculum to fit both the general education requirements and your disciplinary interests and career goals. Coursework includes core and graduation requirements with the balance designed by the student in a unique plan of study. An advisor will help students design curriculums with courses from two or more discipline areas that meet all requirements.
The online Master of Arts in English degree is available from South Dakota State University. With an English degree, students study writing, rhetoric, theory, and literature, developing skills and knowledge that are highly valued careers. You will study writing, analysis, research, problem solving, project management, and leadership while exploring how literature changes our lives. This is a flexible degree in English that offers the same courses and faculty that are found on-campus.
Courses are available in a wide variety of topics, including:
- British Literature
- Ethnic Literature
- Women’s Writing
- Publishing and Editing
- Film Studies
- Peace and Conflict Studies
SDSU offers the online Master of Mass Communication. This degree provides a professional education to develop mass communication skills that help advance you toward your goals and expand your skill set in the workplace. This program graduates working journalists and professional communicators as well as those seeking to further develop their professional communication skills.
Whether in print, online, broadcast, advertising, marketing, public relations, or mass communication education, you will find the courses to build your skills and credentials for success.
South Dakota State University offers the Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, an online liberal arts degree. This is an innovative and flexible program that allows students to design programs to meet their individual academic and professional goals. With this liberal arts degree, you will create a customized plan of study that includes two or three distinct academic areas, using courses that are relevant to your educational goals.
This degree in liberal arts is designed to meet the needs of diverse students and market demands, strengthening and preserving employability for working professionals. In addition, this unique degree design meets the needs of students with interests in multiple disciplines or those with uncompleted graduate degrees.
Business
SDSU offers the online AS in Construction Technology. This degree prepares students for project support positions in the construction industry.
Potential career opportunities:
- Pre-construction estimating
- Worksite team leader
- Material coordinator
- Field inspector
The curriculum combines engineering fundamentals with topics in applied management, engineering design (CAD), accounting and communications: skills needed by team members on complex commercial and heavy/highway construction projects. Lessons touch on all aspects of construction including: materials, methods, scheduling, estimating, safety and project management.
South Dakota State University offers an online entrepreneurship degree, the Certificate in New Product & Venture Development. Learn how to take your innovative and entrepreneurial ideas to the marketplace. Designed for self-motivated, inquisitive students who are interested in building things and pursuing their own ideas. Courses help students identify business opportunities and then explain the steps needed to start an entrepreneurial venture in new and established organizational settings.
Graduates of this program are ready to pursue careers in:
- Business ownership
- Venture creation
- Product development
- Small business management
The Certificate in Pre-Construction Planning is an online construction management degree from South Dakota State University. If you enjoy building projects and the challenges that come with them, you may benefit from this program. Students learn to read plans and schematics, prepare bid estimates, and track construction projects. The curriculum provides a foundational skill set in plan layout and development, construction materials, commercial building methods, RSMeans cost index, and more. Take what you have learned in this program to pursue careers with design-build firms, lumberyards, general contractors, and specialty trade contractors.
The online Certificate in Workplace Intercultural Competence is a program for students who want to be successful in the diverse work environment. The program teaches students to understand differences, identify commonalities, and promote integration in order to foster a more inclusive work environment and to maximize productivity. In addition to intercultural management skills, you will take courses in a modern foreign language, either French, German, or Spanish, gaining a basic understanding of the challenges involved in learning a second language and learning about a different culture. The curriculum provides theoretical tools to help students compare and contrast different cultural frames, hones essential intercultural communication skills, and helps develop strategies to better adapt to cultural differences. Graduates are prepared to work with a wide variety of people and are an asset in both domestic and international job markets.
The online post-baccalaureate financial counseling certificate focuses on financial planning, real estate, investing, retirement planning, taxation and more. This certificate prepares professionals to sit for the AFC exam through the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education (AFCPE).
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
The online Financial Counseling program is offered through:
- Iowa State University
- Montana State University
- North Dakota State University
- Oklahoma State University
- South Dakota State University
- University of Missouri
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln
The online post-baccalaureate financial planning certificate focuses on investments, insurance, and estate and retirement planning for families.
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
The online Family Financial Planning program is offered through:
- Iowa State University
- Montana State University
- North Dakota State University
- Oklahoma State University
- South Dakota State University
- University of Missouri
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln
South Dakota State University offers an online business administration degree, the Graduate Certificate in Management Foundations. Prepare to be a successful leader with these core topics in management. In as little as nine months you will be able to take your career to the next level, whether you are a new manager or a seasoned leader. The curriculum explains how to make data-based decisions, balance budgets, assign work, and leverage assets to meet strategic goals.
Courses likely include:
- Project Management
- Management and Leadership in Technical Organizations
- Operations Management
The online post-baccalaureate merchandising certificate focuses on studies in consumer behavior, leadership, retail environment, and more.
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
The online Merchandising program is offered through:
- Kansas State University
- North Dakota State University
- Oklahoma State University
- South Dakota State University
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln
The Master's degree in Family Financial Planning is for individuals who wish to learn financial strategies to support life passions and ambitions.
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
Participating schools include:
- Iowa State University
- Montana State University
- North Dakota State University
- Oklahoma State University
- South Dakota State University
- University of Missouri-Columbia
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln
The merchandising master's degree program is designed to provide buying and selling knowledge that relates to consumer behavior, product design and development, issues in global trade and retail systems, professional leadership development and retail practice, theory and management.
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
The online Merchandising program is offered through:
- Kansas State University
- North Dakota State University
- Oklahoma State University
- South Dakota State University
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Computer Science & IT
You can chart your course to a brighter future with the Bachelor of Science in Geographic Information Sciences from South Dakota State University. This online GIS program covers the interactions between humans and their environments and teaches such skills as:
- Cartography
- Data analytics
- Remote sensing
- Computational analysis
Through the online GIS degree program, you focus on geographically referenced information and working with data through globes, maps, charts, and reports. Graduates enter a field with high demand for talent to address problems around natural resources, climate change, and regional planning and development. Potential job opportunities include:
- GIS analyst
- Cartographer
- Urban planner
- Intelligence analyst
Those curious about cultures and places should consider the Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Sciences from South Dakota State University. This online GIS graduate program prepares you with geospatial technologies and geographic applications. Students gain skills in such areas as:
- Satellite and drone imagery
- Real-time mapping
- Solving environmental problems
- Helping to create a sustainable world
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
The Certificate in Agricultural & Environmental Law examines how legal issues affect agriculture sciences and agribusiness, rural communities, food production and safety, water quality, land use, environmental concerns, and renewable energy.
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
Education
The online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education / Early Childhood Education in a Mobile Society bachelor completion degree focuses on providing professional support for children and their families. Coursework takes an in-depth look at child development, health and safety, and how to work with families. You will also have the opportunity to gain hands-on skills through multiple practicums.
Career opportunities include:
- Childcare centers
- Preschool programs
- Head Start
- After-school programs
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
As one of four concentrations within the Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction from SDSU, this online early childhood education program appeals to educators wanting to work in some kind of instructional capacity.
While this online early childhood education program does not lead to a teaching certificate or endorsement, Graduates gain knowledge of the current practices, theories, research, and issues in education. Other learning outcomes include:
- An understanding of how students learn
- Knowledge of best practices in curricular processes
- Effective communication skills
- Appropriate use of educational technology to enhance learning
SDSU offers a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction/ Elementary for educators seeking to work in an instructional capacity. This online elementary education program does not lead to a teaching certificate or endorsement.
Students can opt to include a thesis, research project, or a plan of only coursework. Elective credits allow students to delve into their areas of interest to customize their degrees. Topics of study include:
- Educational technology
- Exceptional learners
- Educational assessment
- Inquiry and action research
SDSU offers three study plans within its Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction / Secondary. Students can choose to write a thesis, engage in research, or solely complete coursework for their online secondary education master’s degree.
Students can opt for electives to customize their degrees to align with their interests. Topics within elective options include:
- Inquiry and action research
- Educational technology
- Educational assessment
- Exceptional learners
Through the online secondary education coursework, students learn of current issues, practices, theories, and research in education. Other outcomes include student learning styles, curricular processes, and communication skills. Finally, graduates leave with a foundation for lifelong learning and a commitment to professional development.
SDSU provides a Master of Education in Educational Administration for those seeking to become educational leaders such as principals, supervisors, or curriculum directors. This online education administration master’s degree meets endorsement requirements for principals in South Dakota and NELP (National Educational Leadership Preparation) Building Level Standards.
Offered through the School of Education, Counseling, and Human Development at the university, this degree prepares graduates to serve in educational administrative roles in schools. Application requirements include three years of experience as a certified teacher in a certified position in K-12.
Through the online education administration program, students gain the skills and knowledge to work as educational leaders. Graduates strive for continuous improvement within their schools. Core values taught include:
- A collaborative professional culture
- Equity and diversity
- Ethical decisions
- Data-informed and equitable school resource plans
The online Family and Consumer Sciences degree offers students two tracks: a teaching certification track and another non-licensure track for educators and professionals seeking career advancement. Gain the knowledge to teach students and families in your schools and community about nutrition, finance, human development, and other vital consumer issues.
Develop your skill sets in:
- Foundations in home economics
- Tools for engaging students
- Applicable research strategies
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
Engineering
You can earn your terminal degree in engineering with the Master of Engineering from South Dakota State University. This online general engineering master’s program trains you in advanced engineering, leadership, and management.
With no thesis requirement, you can concentrate on gaining skills and knowledge through the online general engineering graduate program. Core courses cover such topics as:
- Operations
- Project management
- Management and leadership
- An applied culminating project
Healthcare
Advance your knowledge and career with this online bachelor’s degree in health science. In addition to clinical practice, this program provides a strong scientific background. Courses cover such topics as:
- Hematology
- Hemostasis
- Molecular Diagnostics
- Immunohematology
- Immunology
Learn about specialized testing while gaining expertise in the field.
Graduates are eligible to take the certification exam as medical laboratory scientists.
Whether you are a research coordinator or a mental health worker, courses in this online Public Health certificate can add to your skill sets and give you a competitive edge. Core areas of study include biostatistics, epidemiology, health services administration, social and behavioral sciences, along with environmental health.
- Learn more about health promotion and prevention.
- Increase interpersonal competencies and how to address health disparities.
- Further grow your problem-solving practices.
This online certificate is offered as a collaborative program through SDSU and the University of South Dakota. Choose to complete the certificate as a stand alone option or apply earned credits to the schools’ collaborative online master’s in public health.
An online Public Health degree gives you the expertise to manage healthcare needs in rural communities and beyond. Advance your knowledge in health education and increase your leadership capabilities. As part of this program focus on core areas, some of which include epidemiology, environmental health, and behavioral sciences.
Program objectives provide techniques to be utilized across a range of potential positions.
- Learn how to assess the needs of your population in order to implement effective health prevention and educational programs.
- Expand your knowledge in policy and regulations.
- Grow your soft skills in interpersonal communications and problem-solving.
This online MPH is offered as a collaborative program through SDSU and the University of South Dakota.
An online Dietetics degree program can give you advanced skills and prepare you for a life-long career. Learn innovative knowledge in nutrition, food service management, wellness and more. In addition to core courses, choose from electives, some of which include:
- Food science
- Public health nutrition
- Healthcare administration
Benefit from a flexible schedule, yet expect the same standards as those found on campus. Coursework is taught by RDNs from multiple campuses across the country.
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
The online Dietetics program is offered through:
- Colorado State University
- University of Kansas Medical Center
- North Dakota State University
- Oklahoma State University
- South Dakota State University
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Math & Science
You can gain an introduction to all things farming with the Associate of Science in Agricultural Science from South Dakota State University. This online agriculture program appeals to those who want to work outdoors in production agriculture.
Through the online agricultural program, you learn the skills and knowledge to apply for entry-level business and sales roles. Other career opportunities include:
- Farmhand
- Animal technician
- Production agriculture
- Local cooperative employee
If you enjoy both agriculture and business, consider the Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business from South Dakota State University. This online agriculture program prepares you for careers in agribusiness.
Many successful students of this online agricultural program have interests in 4-H or FFA, farming, ranching, and natural resource industries.The online courses cover marketing, management, finance, and policy. Graduates find success in such sectors as:
- Sales
- Financial services
- Production agriculture
- Commodity trading/marketing
You can blend both human and physical features of our globe with the Bachelor of Science in Geography from South Dakota State University. This online geography program focuses on the “why” and “where” questions of our planet while bridging the natural sciences.
Through the online geography program, you study the process of change and the impacts humans have on the Earth. With such relevant topics of study, career opportunities for graduates abound. Potential work opportunities include:
- Urban planner
- Land manager
- Tourism planner
- Geographic information systems analyst
The Certificate in Swine Science program is designed to ensure that the pork industry is led and managed by individuals who have broad educational and production experiences that have prepared them for these roles. The curriculum teaches scientific principles and management skills involved in pork production for an efficient and sustainable operation.
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
The Certificate in Animal Science program offers foundation courses across many facets of animal science, serving as a basis for further study in one of the disciplines or a particular animal species. Curriculum topics include nutrition, breeding and genetics, meat science, animal physiology, growth and development, and animal production and management.
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
The Certificate in Grassland Management provides current and future grassland professionals a well-rounded curriculum that focuses on the conservation, utilization, and sustainability of managed grassland systems.
This program is offered through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (Great Plains IDEA); regionally accredited schools working in partnership to provide students with online opportunities. Students apply at their school of choice.
You can better serve your students with the Graduate Certificate in Mathematics from South Dakota State University. This online STEAM education master’s program benefits current high school mathematics teachers. Students can apply these credits and further their credentials by completing the online Advanced Graduate Mathematics Certificate.
Through the online STEAM education program, you gain critical thinking skills and learn inquiry analysis. Your studies cover both abstract and analytic components. Choices of abstract coursework include such topics as:
- Geometry
- Number theory
- Advanced algebra
- Cryptography and codes
You can inspire future agriculturalists with the Master of Science in Agricultural Education from South Dakota State University. This online agriculture master’s program trains you to deliver environmentally sound and culturally responsible instruction in such areas as:
- Food
- Fiber
- Global agriculture
- Natural-resource systems
As an interdisciplinary course of study, the online agricultural program primes you to make a difference in the future of agriculture as well as in the lives of youth. Graduates enjoy working in such roles as County 4-H educators, school-based agricultural education, and extension offices.
Nursing
The online RN to BSN degree completion program from South Dakota State University is designed to build upon registered nurses' current education and experience, enhance their leadership skills, and equip them to provide holistic, integrated care in order to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare disparities. Coursework explores topics such as:
- Family & Communication
- Clinical Decision Making
- Leadership & Management
- Community Health
- Nursing Research & Theory
South Dakota State University offers an online option for Registered Nurses who want to pursue both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Nursing. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program substitutes two graduate courses in place of undergraduate courses, providing graduate nursing credits before beginning the MSN program.
Students pursuing the online MSN degree program can choose from specialties in Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, and clinical Nurse Leader with 100% online coursework. Clinical practicums are arranged in the student’s geographical area.
Nurses in the RN to MSN online program learn about topics including:
- Health policy and economics
- Genetics and genomics in nursing
- Evidence-based nursing practice
- Nursing leadership
- Healthcare systems and informatics
A Master of Science in Nursing can open the door to better job opportunities, better pay, and personal satisfaction. This online program from South Dakota State University offers a concentration in Clinical Nurse Leader for students interested in managing and coordinating care.
Nurses gain skills in implementing outcomes-based practice and quality improvement strategies with this nursing administration degree online. The curriculum consists of online coursework and a field-based practicum. Courses are designed to meet national AACN requirements for certification.
A Master of Science in Nursing can open the door to better job opportunities, better pay, and personal satisfaction. This online program from South Dakota State University offers a concentration in Nurse Administrator to prepare nurses to assume leadership roles. Students learn concepts and theories from nursing management and health administration.
The Nurse Administrator degree online teaches skills such as personnel and budgetary management. Students gain leadership strategies in order to work with interprofessional teams to recommend quality improvement initiatives. Skilled Nurse Administrators have the ability to communicate effectively to improve health through population-centered strategies of health promotion and disease prevention education.
The program strives to produce Nurse Administrators who:
- Apply knowledge of evidence-based practice
- Engage in lifelong learning
- Serve their communities in urban, rural, and frontier healthcare settings
- Function in leadership roles
Nurse Educators can teach in a variety of settings from academic to clinical. The Master of Science in Nursing / Nurse Educator opens the door to better job opportunities, better pay, and personal satisfaction teaching the next generation of nurses.
Nurses learn theories of teaching and learning with this online Nurse Educator program. Students will develop their ability to plan, implement, and evaluate nursing curriculum. Graduates are eligible to earn national certification as a Certified Nurse Educator.
Courses cover topics including:
- Advanced assessment across the lifespan for the CNL/Nurse Educator
- Curriculum development and program evaluation in nursing
- Assessment and evaluation in nursing education
- Role development of the nurse educator
The Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Nurse Leader is designed for masters-prepared nurses to train for certification in this APRN specialty. Clinical Nurse Leader students learn how to effectively coordinate care and provide leadership in all healthcare settings.
Coursework meets AACN requirements for national certification. Classes are offered online, and the program includes a field-based practicum. Students study health operations, financial management, and improvement science.
Students in the Postgraduate Nurse Educator Certificate program learn theories of teaching and learning in a variety of settings with an emphasis on nursing education. This online Nurse Educator program is designed for nurses with an existing master’s degree who want to earn national certification in a new role.
The program can be completed in as little as one year, with web-based courses and a field-based practicum experience. Students learn how to develop curriculum, evaluate programming, and conduct assessments in nursing education.
The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate prepares nurses to care for patients with complex psychiatric and physical healthcare needs. This online program is designed for nurses who already hold a master’s degree who want to gain certification in another specialty.
Courses cover both outpatient and inpatient care for patients of all ages and diagnoses. Classes are offered online, with 540 clinical hours required. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification exam through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Psychology & Human Services
With a broad knowledge base, this online BS in Sociology can equip you with the knowledge and skills to work in a variety of industries. Offered by South Dakota State, entirely through distance learning, you’ll engage in research and studies that are tailored to your career goals and interests. From criminal justice to marketing, you’ll take courses to create and analyze evidence-based arguments that lend you exceptional communication skills to present information to non-sociologists. You’ll participate in experiential learning through an internship, independent study, service or field study alongside classes such as:
- Sociological Theory
- Investigating the Social World
- Research Methods
This online graduate Certificate in Community Development will build upon your education and professional experience, as you learn how to integrate infrastructure that builds inclusiveness and prosperity into communities. Through resource management, social action, economic analysis and more, you’ll be prepared to take on leadership roles within nonprofits, government, academia and other organizations. Offered through South Dakota State and the Great Plains IDEA, this advanced online certificate can be earned in one or two semesters and entails coursework such as:
- Organizing for Community Change
- Foundations of Community Development
- Community Leadership and Capacity Building
South Dakota State, along with other partners in the Great Plains IDEA, teams up to offer this online graduate Certificate in Financial & Housing Counseling. You can help others gain control of their personal finances and reach their goals of home ownership, debt-recovery, financial stability or other areas related to everyday living. This certificate can lead you to play a key role in others’ lives as an AFC (Accredited Financial Counselor) or a CHC (Certified Housing Counselor). The coursework is entirely online and taught by faculty from across the partner schools — enabling you to learn from true experts in the field and study on your own schedule. Samples of classes in the curriculum include:
- Financial Theory & Research
- Fundamentals of Family Financial Planning
- Housing and Real Estate in FFP
- Investing for Family’s Future
If you work with Native American and indigenous communities, or plan to work within them, consider this online graduate certificate in Native Community & Economic Development. Among federal policies and regulations, cultural differences, and tribal governments, there are a unique set of challenges within these communities. You’ll build skills and knowledge to face these challenges, along with socio-economic factors. This certificate at South Dakota State is offered entirely through distance education. This means you can advance your career and broaden your knowledge on your own schedule. Relative classes are likely:
- Native American Natural Resource Management
- Building Native Community in Economic Capacity
- Introduction to Native Community Development
With the aim to create societies that are equitable, sustainable and just, is the online Master of Science in Community Development. As an advanced program offered by South Dakota State and the Great Plains IDEA, this specialization is part of an interdisciplinary graduate degree. It is ideal for those individuals who want to bring about positive change and want to integrate infrastructure that brings about inclusivity and prosperity to communities. Through resource management, social action, economic analysis and more, you’ll be able to take on leadership roles within nonprofits, government, academia and other organizations. Coursework likely includes:
- Organizing for Community Change
- Community Analysis
- Community and Natural Resource Management
South Dakota State, along with partners of the Great Plains IDEA, offers this online MS in Family & Community Services. Whether you want to expand your professional skills or continue your education to serve others within your community, this degree can help you advance your career. It offers you the flexibility to learn remotely, in a 100% online environment, and, as an advanced degree, supports careers in: counseling, nonprofits, child development centers, military services, county and state agencies and more. You’ll gain insight into family and community dynamics, helping individuals and families strengthen. Curriculum and electives likely include:
- Principles and Strategies of Community Change
- Community and Natural Resource Management
- Evaluation of Organizations and Programs
- Grantwriting