Best Online Colleges in South Dakota

Colleges with online classes offer a flexible option to earn your degree while also balancing many of life's other responsibilities. Check out the most popular online programs of 2023 below.

Best Accredited Colleges

#1 Dakota State University

Madison, SD

$16513

36%

Located in Madison, Dakota State University opened in 1881 to provide teacher training. Today, the public school enrolls nearly 3,400 students. Access to DSU's online programs may not be available to students in all states. DSU offers six associate degrees, 14 bachelor's degrees, seven master's degrees, and three doctorates online to South Dakota residents, as well as a variety of undergraduate and graduate certificates. Undergraduate online programs include accounting, computer science, elementary education, and health information administration. DSU does require proctored exams for online classes. Military students may qualify for discounted tuition. Transfer students with at least 24 credits and a minimum 2.0 GPA may apply. Students with fewer than 24 credits must meet DSU's first-year application requirements.

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#2 Northern State University

Aberdeen, SD

$14489

45%

Founded in 1901 in Aberdeen, Northern State University offers distance education classes to high school students across the state. A public institution, NSU enrolls nearly 3,500 students in 59 majors and six pre-professional programs. NSU offers an online bachelor's in banking and financial services that includes a paid internship, as well as a bachelor's in Spanish with a four-week study abroad opportunity. Online graduate programs at NSU include a 36-credit master's in banking and financial services. Educators may select from online master's degrees in leadership and administration, music education, and teaching and learning. The music education program includes one-week summer residencies on campus. Online students at NSU may access many of the same services available to on-campus learners, including tutoring, writing assistance, disability services, and health services.

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#3 Black Hills State University

Spearfish, SD

$14807

35%

Black Hills State University opened as a teachers college in 1883. A public university with locations in Spearfish and Rapid City, BHSU currently oversees 80 degree programs and educates nearly 4,000 students through its three colleges. BHSU offers an online bachelor's degree in business administration with a general studies track and a specialization option in management. General studies students must take a capstone course and complete 15 credits in three areas of emphasis. BHSU also offers online master's degrees in sustainability, strategic leadership, curriculum and instruction, secondary education, and reading. The strategic leadership program uses an executive cohort model. The one- or two-year secondary education degree prepares graduates for teacher certification, combining distance learning with two practica and a stint of student teaching. Admission requirements vary by program. First-year applicants must possess a minimum 2.6 GPA, a score of at least 18 or 970 on the ACT or SAT, or rank in the top 60% of their high school class. Online students may access support services, including library services, technical support, and advising.

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#4 University of South Dakota

Vermillion, SD

$16647

55%

Set on a 274-acre campus in the southwestern South Dakota community of Vermillion, the University of South Dakota enrolls more than 10,000 students. The state's oldest public university offers more than 200 undergraduate programs and nearly 80 graduate programs, including a variety of online degrees and certificates. USD's business school offers an online bachelor's degree as well as an online MBA with five areas of specialization, including business analytics and health services administration. Other bachelor's degrees available online include criminal justice, addiction studies, health sciences, dental hygiene, and nursing. In addition to its MBA, USD offers 11 master's programs online, such as educational administration, social work, and public health. The school also offers a Ph.D. in health sciences online. Online tuition rates at USD are the same for in-state and out-of-state residents. Undergraduates may apply using the Common Application. USD offers writing assistance to online students through an online writing center.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best online colleges in South Dakota?

Some of the best online colleges in South Dakota include the University of South Dakota, South Dakota State University, Dakota State University, and Black Hills State University. These institutions offer a wide range of online programs and have a strong reputation for quality education.

2. Are online degrees from South Dakota colleges respected by employers?

Yes, online degrees from reputable South Dakota colleges are generally respected by employers. It is important to choose an accredited institution and ensure that the online program you are interested in has the necessary accreditation. This will help ensure that your degree is recognized and valued by employers.

3. Can I receive financial aid for online programs in South Dakota?

Yes, many online programs offered by South Dakota colleges are eligible for financial aid. Students can apply for federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Additionally, some colleges may offer scholarships or grants specifically for online students.

4. How long does it take to complete an online degree in South Dakota?

The duration of an online degree program in South Dakota varies depending on the level of the degree and the program itself. Generally, an associate degree takes around two years to complete, a bachelor's degree takes around four years, and a master's degree can take anywhere from one to three years. It is important to check the specific program requirements and course load to determine the estimated completion time.

5. Can I transfer credits earned from another institution to an online program in South Dakota?

Yes, many online programs in South Dakota accept transfer credits from other accredited institutions. However, the transferability of credits depends on factors such as the similarity of the courses and the accreditation of the previous institution. It is recommended to contact the admissions office of the online program you are interested in to inquire about their transfer credit policies.

6. What technology requirements do I need for online learning in South Dakota?

To participate in online learning in South Dakota, you will typically need a reliable internet connection, a computer or laptop, and basic software such as a web browser and word processing program. Some programs may have additional technology requirements, such as specific software or hardware. It is important to review the technical requirements provided by the online program before enrolling.

7. Can I access support services as an online student in South Dakota?

Yes, online students in South Dakota typically have access to various support services. These may include online tutoring, academic advising, library resources, career services, and technical support. Online students are encouraged to reach out to their respective institutions to learn more about the specific support services available to them.

8. Are online classes in South Dakota self-paced?

Not all online classes in South Dakota are self-paced. Some programs may offer self-paced courses, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. However, many online programs follow a structured schedule with specific deadlines for assignments and exams. It is important to review the course syllabus and program requirements to understand the format and expectations of the online classes.

9. Can I interact with professors and classmates in online programs?

Yes, interaction with professors and classmates is an important aspect of many online programs in South Dakota. Online courses often include discussion boards, virtual meetings, and email communication to facilitate interaction and collaboration. Professors are typically available for virtual office hours or individual consultations. Additionally, online programs may offer opportunities for group projects and networking with fellow students.

10. How do I apply to an online program in South Dakota?

To apply to an online program in South Dakota, you will typically need to complete an online application form provided by the institution. The application may require submission of transcripts, standardized test scores (if applicable), a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and an application fee. It is important to review the specific application requirements and deadlines for the online program you are interested in and submit all required documents in a timely manner.