Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs

Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
By James Barham
Published:

If you’re are interested in pursuing a PhD in information technology, but the cost is holding you back, we can help! We rank the most affordable online PhD degree programs in IT here.

Key Takeaways

  • PhDs in information technology are rarely offered online, and many are known for their high tuition costs.

  • The most popular alternatives for a PhD in information technology are doctoral programs in computer science, information systems, instructional technology, and DBAs in information systems or information technology.

  • The most affordable online doctorate degrees in information technology take between 3 and 7 years.

Many technological occupations may not require college degrees, and they aren’t a reliable predictor of future success. However, employers today continue to demand that all working professional hold degrees, and a doctorate degree can boost your career exponentially.

Entry-level managerial positions in information technology might only require a master’s degree and a few years of experience. But if you want to explore career options in academia and research and gain more employment prospects, an online doctoral degree program in information technology will be your key to getting there.

However, online PhDs in Information Technology are very rare and can be costly!

Fortunately, several affordable online doctoral programs cover topics similar to a doctorate in information technology, such as computer science and information systems. The cheapest online doctoral programs also include doctorate degrees in business administration (DBA) that focus on information technology or information systems.

Many of these online degree programs are significantly lower in cost than most in terms of tuition, and offer financial aid options to qualified students.


Featured Programs

What is a doctorate degree in information technology?

An online doctorate degree program in information technology is a top-tier academic program that requires applicants to have a strong background in computer science, information technology, or a related discipline.

PhD students seeking an online doctorate degree in IT will take popular foundational courses such as statistical analysis, database administration, AI, and cybersecurity, among others. They will also take advanced courses and perhaps specialize in one area of information technology or computer science.

Students in PhD degree programs must also research, write, and defend their dissertation.

The entire process from beginning the program to graduation can take up to seven years or longer.

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Career Opportunities with an Online Doctorate in Informational Technology

Online doctoral degree IT programs are created to provide students with the knowledge and abilities necessary to become agents of social and corporate change. The coursework generally focuses on planning, administration, and IT implementation. Successful applicants can become agents of change in the technology and business sectors.

Popular career paths for a graduate with a doctorate degree in information technology include:

  • Chief information officer
  • Organization leader
  • High-level lecturer or researcher

What is the difference between an online PhD program in information technology, information systems, and computer science?

While information technology (IT) and information systems (IS) do overlap, they are not entirely the same. IS incorporates the technology, people, and processes connected with information. Information technology deals with the design and implementation of information, or data, within the information system.

On the other hand, computer science studies programming and computing.

Students often can find themselves comparing computer science and information systems. While the two degrees can also overlap, students who enroll in computer science programs typically gain a deeper understanding of how computers are made and how computation works.

On the other hand, information systems students will have a more in-depth grasp of the technical and functional parts of the technology that make up computers and other gadgets.

Computer science might be what you’re searching for if you’re more drawn to the possibilities of what you can accomplish with computers. IT is more appropriate for you if you’re curious about how computers function. IS is for people who want to understand how businesses use computers to operate effectively and efficiently.

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Making an Online PhD in Information Technology as Affordable as Possible

No matter what doctorate degree program you choose, there are a number of ways to ensure that your program is as affordable as possible.

In-state Tuition

The cost of online doctoral programs in information technology vary based on several factors. Most colleges and universities charge more for out-of-state students. However, there are some schools that offer flat-rate tuition, which means that in-state and out-of-state students pay the same per credit cost.

Other Expenses

Earning an online doctorate in information technology degree as opposed to a traditional on-campus doctorate degree makes it possible to save money on expenses like housing, transportation, and certain campus fees.

Continue Working

Online doctoral programs often make it possible to continue working in your field, which means you can complete your degree program while still earning a living. This can ultimately reduce your dependence on student loan debt.

Earning a PhD in information technology through online doctoral programs is a great option for busy professionals who want to continue their education while juggling work and family life.

Financial Aid, Scholarships, Grants, and Loans

If affordability is a particular concern, and it is making you reluctant to pursue an online PhD in information technology, you may be able to take advantage of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website. It is especially important that you choose online doctoral programs that are accredited in order to qualify.

Assistantships

Many schools offering an online PhD doctoral degree in information technology also have assistantship opportunities for their graduate students. Assistantships may give teaching opportunities in exchange for tuition waivers and a stipend. Each school is different, so check into the online iformation technology doctorate degree program you are interested in.

Bottom Line: An affordable online PhD in information technology doctoral degree is possible when you factor in things like in-state tuition, financial aid, grants, and assistantships.


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The Most Affordable Online PhD in Information Technology Doctorate Degree Programs

  1. #1

    University of Missouri

    Columbia , MO
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2023 #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2023 #2 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2023 #2 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    77%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1215/26

    What is University of Missouri known for?

    University of Missouri’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Missouri, or Mizzou, is known for its ground-breaking research and top-notch traditional and online education. Striving for greatness through perseverance and cooperation, Mizzou offers several affordable online doctorate degree programs.

    Mizzou’s affordable online PhD Information Science & Learning Technologies allow students to pursue interdisciplinary routes. Coursework of this online doctoral degree prepares graduates to qualify for professional paths in higher education, public policy, and public and private research in various sectors.

    Applicants with a master’s degree in a related field enroll for 42 credit hours at an average cost of $21,441.00. However, non-IT master’s degree applicants must complete 72 credit hours, costing an average of $36,756.00.

    • Required Credits: 42-72
    • Completion time: 5 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of Missouri

    The study-abroad opportunities at Mizzou are vast. Mizzou provides over 250 study-abroad programs.

    The University of Missouri is great for students who:

    Love a big campus and thrive in large class sizes and diversity.

    The University of Missouri might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer to have options for personalized attention and degree programs.

  2. #2

    George Mason University

    Fairfax , VA
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2023 #2 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2023 #2 Best Colleges in Virginia 2023 #2 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    70%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1200/27

    What is George Mason University known for?

    George Mason University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    George Mason University is the #1 public research university in VA. GMU offers a distinctive collegiate experience, with over 200 undergraduate and graduate degrees available on-campus and online. Additionally, GMU is ranked as one of the most diverse and innovative public universities in the United States.

    GMU offers an affordable $793.25 per credit hour PhD designed for students interested in using information technology in their biology careers. The online PhD in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology helps students use computer technology to comprehend and utilize biological and biomedical data effectively.

    Graduates of this doctorate will be responsible for storing, analyzing, and interpreting the Big Data gathered during clinical settings or as a result of life or health sciences investigations.

      < li>Required Credits: 72
    • Completion time: 5 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about George Mason University

    Students may share numerous ideas and observe a variety of viewpoints on everything because the campus has such a diverse cultural population.

    George Mason University is great for students who:

    Are loving and culture-sensitive.

    George Mason University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to attend a party school.

  3. #3

    Florida International University

    Miami , FL
    #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2023 #5 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2023 #6 Best Research Universities in Florida 2023 #6 Best Colleges in Florida 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    49K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/26

    What is Florida International University known for?

    Florida International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Florida International University is one of the most prominent public research colleges in the United States that prepare students for academic, social, and professional success. To allow working adult students to achieve their professional goals, FIU created their online school that offers over 30 100% online programs and dozens of hybrid programs.

    FIU offers an affordable IT-related PhD program. The online PhD in Computer Science is designed for IT students interested in gaining expertise in designing and building computers and computer programs.

    Students should be able to define computer challenges and create new, cutting-edge technologies as creative answers to various technological difficulties. Graduates will develop the skills necessary to contribute autonomously to research and development in a particular field of computer science.

    • Required Credits: 75
    • Completion time: 5 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Florida International University

    The vast networking opportunities.

    Florida International University is great for students who:

    Are dedicated to their studies and can study independently.

    Florida International University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Thrive in small class sizes.


  5. #4

    Liberty University

    Lynchburg , VA
    #13 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #2 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2023 #3 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2023 #7 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    79K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1145/25

    What is Liberty University known for?

    Liberty University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Liberty University has been a leader in distance learning since its founding in 1985. Liberty’s online program gives you access to the same high-caliber course offerings as its on-campus program in Lynchburg, Virginia, but in a more flexible format. Additionally, the university is renowned for its low cost and excellent student support.

    One of Liberty University’s top-tier online degree programs at the graduate level is the online Doctor of Business Administration in Information Systems, costing only $595 per credit hour.

    This degree was specifically designed for students who want to emerge in the technological aspect of a business. This DBA concentration equips doctoral students with the tools they need to develop original solutions for business and technology problems.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Liberty University

    The tuition freeze is the school’s best feature. Students won’t have to worry about sudden tuition increases and can expect to pay the same per credit hour tuition from the first year till their last year.

    Liberty University is great for students who:

    Want affordable private education from a Christian perspective.

    Liberty University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are against Christianity and unwilling to hear the gospel. Religious classes are necessary at Liberty University.

  6. #5

    Indiana State University

    Terre Haute , IN
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Indiana 2023 #4 Best Public Colleges in Indiana 2023 #5 Best Grad Schools in Indiana 2023 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    41%

    Student body

    9K

    What is Indiana State University known for?

    Indiana State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Indiana State University is a medium-sized school located in an urban setting. ISU aims to provide affordable and accessible online degree programs to students who cannot pursue traditional degree programs. However, not all states, US territories, or Canadian provinces may access its online programs. Before enrolling in any online program, visit the program availability page.

    The College of Technology - Indiana State University offers one of the most affordable online IT PhD degrees. ISU’s PhD in Information Technology Management allows students to choose one of five specializations, including manufacturing, digital communications, construction, and more. While coursework can be completed online, students must attend on-campus residency requirements.

    • Required Credits: 66
    • Completion time: 4½ years.
    • Format: Hybrid

    What we love about Indiana State University

    The small class sizes and hands-on faculty.

    Indiana State University is great for students who:

    Are committed to their studies. ISU is also best for students who want to have many opportunities to participate in community service and other on-campus activities.

    Indiana State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Favors large classrooms.

  7. #6

    Kennesaw State University

    Kennesaw , GA

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    36K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1115/22

    What is Kennesaw State University known for?

    Kennesaw State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Kennesaw State University is now the third-largest university and a doctoral research university (R2) certified by Carnegie, thanks to a history of expansion, change, and perseverance.

    With its traditional and online schools, Kennesaw provides more than 150 undergraduate and graduate programs. Students come to the university from all over the world because of its diversified student body, active campus culture, and worldwide linkages.

    One of KSU Online’s offerings is the affordable Doctor of Education with a major in Instructional Technology designed to help professionals pursuing educational leadership roles gain expertise in using technology in the classroom. Students who choose this EdD concentration will focus on creating and implementing cutting-edge instructional strategies using technological tools.

    • Required Credits: 66
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Kennesaw State University

    The vibrant campus life. Kennesaw hosts hundreds of annual events to help students bond with like-minded people and create their own professional network and build lifelong relationships.

    Kennesaw State University is great for students who:

    Can adapt to a diverse group of individuals and be open to new ideas.

    Kennesaw State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want a typical dorm life. Kennesaw is a commuter school.

  8. #7

    Walden University

    Minneapolis , MN
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Student body

    39K

    What is Walden University known for?

    Walden University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Walden University was among the first to acknowledge the evolving cultural demands and preferences of adult students who required alternatives to what a conventional, campus-bound college could provide. Today, Walden is one of the most prominent online learning institutions offering affordable and accessible online degree programs.

    The hybrid PhD in Management - Information Systems Management costs only $743 per credit hour. The main goal of this PhD specialization is to help students design information solutions to increase corporate effectiveness. Students in this doctorate degree will learn about modern technologies, how they affect businesses, and the problems that must be solved in a global and domestic economy focused on technology.

    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion time: 5 years (can transfer up to 42 credits)
    • Format: Hybrid

    What we love about Walden University

    The greatest strength of Walden is its diverse staff and students from all over the world.

    Walden University is great for students who:

    Are non-traditional learners.

    Walden University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to attend a typical institution with traditional college courses.


  10. #8

    Franklin University

    Columbus , OH

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Graduation

    25%

    Student body

    5K

    What is Franklin University known for?

    Franklin University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Franklin University helps adult learners study, prepare, and accomplish their goals. Additionally, Franklin is one of the biggest universities to maintain 135 community and technical college partnerships. Franklin continues to provide academic excellence, affordability, and accessibility.

    The Doctor of Business Administration at Franklin University provides an information technology focus designed for business professionals who want to enhance their IT skills.

    This concentration equips students with in-depth knowledge of how to efficiently assess systems, evaluate processes, create novel systems, maximize databases, and test and debug systems to help businesses run effectively through the flow of information.

    The program only costs $748 per credit hour.

    • Required Credits: 58
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Franklin University

    The faculty that is made up of incredibly different but equally exceptional individuals enriching students’ educational experience.

    Franklin University is great for students who:

    Enjoy life outside of school and work while pursuing their degrees.

    Franklin University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to live on campus.

  11. #9

    City University of Seattle

    Seattle , WA
    #6 Best Grad Schools in Washington 2023 #7 Best Small Colleges in Washington 2023 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Washington 2023 #8 Best Private Colleges in Washington 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Student body

    1K

    What is City University of Seattle known for?

    City University of Seattle’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The City University of Seattle is a small private university, and one of the smallest of its kind in the United States. Nevertheless, it consistently ranks as one of the top educators for adult learners. CityU provides various online and on-campus classes that broaden students’ global understanding of their fields. Online courses are delivered in a virtual classroom, where students can log in to see videos, assignments, and discussion topics.

    The online Doctor of Information Technology at the City University of Seattle focuses on developing advanced KSAs in information technology at only $765 per credit hour. Students in the program can choose one of the three concentrations: Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or Data Science. Graduates will have developed their skills in general computing knowledge, IT & computing principles and practice, critical and ethical thinking, quantitative literacy, communication, and collaboration.

    • Required Credits: 90
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the City University of Seattle

    The individualized attention. Due to its small class sizes, students can expect to receive one-on-one attention from their advisors.

    The City University of Seattle is great for students who:

    Want to have a personalized curriculum and receive individualized attention.

    The City University of Seattle might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to have a wide range of degree program options.

  12. #10

    University of the Cumberlands

    Williamsburg , KY
    #6 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2023 #6 Best Research Universities in Kentucky 2023 #6 Best Christian Colleges in Kentucky 2023 #7 Best Private Colleges in Kentucky 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    16K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1035/21

    What is University of the Cumberlands known for?

    University of the Cumberlands’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Cumberlands is a renowned regional college that provides undergraduate degrees in more than 40 major subject areas and a number of pre-professional, graduate, and doctorate programs. UC is one of Kentucky’s most prominent and reasonably priced private institutions. Through cutting-edge programs, practical experience, learning, and research, Cumberlands is committed to preparing students for the future.

    The University of the Cumberlands provides one of the most affordable online doctorate programs. The online PhD in Information Technology at UC focuses on topics in business risk management, data science, big data analytics, information governance, and the role of information technology in a global economy. The program also has a professional research component consisting of an advanced research techniques course, a dissertation, and inferential statistics.

    The program costs $500 per credit hour.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of the Cumberlands

    High caliber of education with a surprisingly low and affordable cost.

    The University of the Cumberlands is ideal for students who:

    Value having a tight-knit community and want to know everyone on campus.

    The University of the Cumberlands might not be the best fit for students who:

    Thrive in a diverse environment.

  13. #11

    Middle Georgia State University

    Macon , GA

    Tuition + fees

    $4K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    22%

    Student body

    7K

    What is Middle Georgia State University known for?

    Middle Georgia State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Middle Georgia State University is the most affordable public state institution in Georgia. MGA offers five campuses in urban and medium-to-small-sized cities in middle Georgia and infinite reach through MGA Direct, the university’s online school. The university aims to cultivate inspired, lifelong learners who will contribute to the region through their study and professions through professional leadership, ground-breaking collaborations, and involvement in the community.

    The online Doctor Of Science In Information Technology (DScIT) General Information at MGA only costs $255 per credit hour, making it the cheapest doctorate in IT on the list.

    This doctoral degree program prepares students to become professors, scientists, and entrepreneurs by offering various research areas in information systems, computer science, and information technology. Students will look into database systems, cybersecurity, operating systems, computer networks, data structures and algorithms, project management, software engineering, and human-computer interaction.

    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Middle Georgia State University

    The affordable tuition and fees and financial aid opportunities. Thanks to financial aid, students can get support for any financial issues.

    Middle Georgia State University is great for students who:

    Thrive in a fast-paced environment.

    Middle Georgia State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Constantly needs one-on-one attention from their instructors.


  15. #12

    University of the Potomac

    What is University of the Potomac known for?

    University of the Potomac’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    The University of the Potomac is well known for its excellent accessibility and affordability of education as a non-profit university. Potomac is committed to providing all students with highly effective educational opportunities, offering specialized career-focused courses and programs to help students achieve highly desirable professional outcomes.

    One of its famous online degrees is the Doctor of Computer Science, perfect for IT professionals who want to plunge into an advanced study and research of computer science. Students who pursue this degree will have an improved capacity for problem-solving, analysis, and research. Graduates of this doctorate degree will have the necessary knowledge to design and create computer software systems and products using theoretical concepts and strong software development abilities.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 3 years (can transfer up to 36 credits)
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of the Potomac

    The financial aid opportunities. Potomac provides scholarships and student loans that are both subsidized and unsubsidized.

    The University of the Potomac is great for students who:

    Enjoy a very small campus community.

    The University of the Potomac might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want diversity in the classroom.

  16. #13

    Florida Technical College

    What is Florida Technical College known for?

    Florida Technical College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Florida Technical College was initially established in 1982 as an institution focused on training students for specialized business sectors. Current programs at FTC are engaging and dynamic and have changed over time to fit the demands of both students and the labor market. Today, FTC offers various online and hybrid learning options to cater to adult learners.

    One of its hybrid learning offerings is the PhD in Computer Science designed for students who have the highest potential for advancing the boundaries of knowledge and disseminating computer science. The program demands a great depth of expertise in computer science basics, the ability to grasp a number of specialized topics, and the initiative to significantly advance existing knowledge on a given topic through original research.

    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion time: 5 years
    • Format: Hybrid

    What we love about Florida Technical College

    The flexible and innovative curriculum. Students can often enroll in one course per month to promote better learning.

    Florida Technical College is great for students who:

    Are passionate and dedicated to earning a degree.

    Florida Technical College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to party. Florida Tech is not a party school.

  17. #14

    Westcliff University

    Irvine , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    3K

    What is Westcliff University known for?

    Westcliff University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Westcliff University offers several programs that lead to certification, associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctor’s degrees designed to equip students for quick entry and career progression in their respective sectors. The programs of Westcliff University prepare students for the practical and theoretical components needed in various fields, unlike some colleges that solely teach academic principles.

    One of its top online offerings is the affordable $760 per credit hour online Doctor of Business Administration, focusing on Information Technology Management (STEM).

    This DBA focus is geared toward doctoral students who want to apply for executive positions in business-related technology divisions and units and direct functional information technology systems. This concentration investigates ITM and sophisticated issues like data analytics in project management.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Westcliff University

    We love that instructors at Westcliff take very seriously the trust that students invest in them to help them acquire the abilities necessary for success.

    Westcliff University is great for students who:

    Want to learn from a diverse point of view.

    Westcliff University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Do not enjoy small communities.

  19. #15

    Dakota State University

    Madison , SD
    #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2023 #4 Best Public Colleges in South Dakota 2023 #4 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2023 #4 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1100/22

    What is Dakota State University known for?

    Dakota State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Dakota State University was established as a school for teacher preparation. Today, DSU is one of the Midwest’s most technologically sophisticated universities, offering various programs from certifications to doctoral degrees.

    The online PhD in Information Systems offered by Dakota State University is among the most affordable information technology PhD programs. This terminal degree, which emphasizes the application of information systems and information technology, was designed to help those pursuing careers in academia, research, and executive positions in IS or IT industries.

    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion time: 7 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Dakota State University

    The tight-knit community and accessible campus.

    Dakota State University is great for students who

    Focus their studies on technology-related degrees.

    Dakota State University might not be the best fit for students who

    Are not computer-savvy.

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