Best Online Master’s Programs in South Dakota 2024

Badge for BEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN SOUTH DAKOTA
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Academic Influence Staff
Updated:

Find the best online colleges in South Dakota ranked by the academic success of faculty and alumni associated with the colleges and universities and their online degree programs. Faculty and alumni with influential ideas are the foundation of respectable online degree programs employers can trust.

Key Takeaways

  • South Dakota has a number of excellent online colleges for prospective graduate students interested in pursuing a master’s degree online.
  • Colleges in South Dakota that offer online programs provide a flexible and convenient way to earn a master’s degree.
  • A master’s degree from South Dakota’s best online colleges is just as respected by employers as a traditional degree.

Top 10 Online Master's Programs in South Dakota

Sort by:
  1. University of South Dakota
  2. South Dakota State University
  3. Augustana University
  4. Black Hills State University
  5. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
  6. Dakota State University
  7. Northern State University
  8. University of Sioux Falls
  9. Dakota Wesleyan University
  10. National American University
  1. University of South Dakota
  2. South Dakota State University
  3. Black Hills State University
  4. National American University
  5. Dakota Wesleyan University
  6. University of Sioux Falls
  7. Northern State University
  8. Augustana University
  9. Dakota State University
  10. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
  1. University of South Dakota 99%
  2. Black Hills State University 97%
  3. South Dakota State University 86%
  4. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology 83%
  5. Dakota State University 79%
  6. Northern State University 78%
  7. University of Sioux Falls 76%
  8. Dakota Wesleyan University 75%
  9. Augustana University 66%
  1. South Dakota State University 18 to 1
  2. Black Hills State University 18 to 1
  3. Dakota State University 18 to 1
  4. University of Sioux Falls 17 to 1
  5. Northern State University 16 to 1
  6. University of South Dakota 14 to 1
  7. Augustana University 12 to 1
  8. Dakota Wesleyan University 12 to 1
  9. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology 12 to 1
  10. National American University 6 to 1
  1. Augustana University $37,342
  2. Dakota Wesleyan University $31,890
  3. University of Sioux Falls $20,290
  4. National American University $16,065
  5. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology $7,820
  6. University of South Dakota $7,773
  7. South Dakota State University $7,773
  8. Northern State University $7,616
  9. Black Hills State University $7,616
  10. Dakota State University $7,616
  1. Augustana University $36,952
  2. National American University $15,750
  3. Dakota Wesleyan University $15,300
  4. South Dakota State University $8,164
  5. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology $8,130
  6. Black Hills State University $7,998
  7. University of Sioux Falls $7,200
  8. University of South Dakota $6,123
  9. Northern State University $5,999
  10. Dakota State University $5,999
  1. National American University
  2. Dakota Wesleyan University
  3. University of Sioux Falls
  4. Northern State University
  5. Dakota State University
  6. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
  7. Black Hills State University
  8. Augustana University
  9. South Dakota State University
  10. University of South Dakota
  1. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
  2. Dakota State University
  3. Augustana University
  4. Northern State University
  5. University of Sioux Falls
  6. Dakota Wesleyan University
  7. National American University
  8. Black Hills State University
  9. South Dakota State University
  10. University of South Dakota
  1. Augustana University 66%
  2. Dakota Wesleyan University 75%
  3. University of Sioux Falls 76%
  4. Northern State University 78%
  5. Dakota State University 79%
  6. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology 83%
  7. South Dakota State University 86%
  8. Black Hills State University 97%
  9. University of South Dakota 99%
  1. National American University 6 to 1
  2. Augustana University 12 to 1
  3. Dakota Wesleyan University 12 to 1
  4. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology 12 to 1
  5. University of South Dakota 14 to 1
  6. Northern State University 16 to 1
  7. University of Sioux Falls 17 to 1
  8. South Dakota State University 18 to 1
  9. Black Hills State University 18 to 1
  10. Dakota State University 18 to 1
  1. Northern State University $7,616
  2. Black Hills State University $7,616
  3. Dakota State University $7,616
  4. University of South Dakota $7,773
  5. South Dakota State University $7,773
  6. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology $7,820
  7. National American University $16,065
  8. University of Sioux Falls $20,290
  9. Dakota Wesleyan University $31,890
  10. Augustana University $37,342
  1. Northern State University $5,999
  2. Dakota State University $5,999
  3. University of South Dakota $6,123
  4. University of Sioux Falls $7,200
  5. Black Hills State University $7,998
  6. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology $8,130
  7. South Dakota State University $8,164
  8. Dakota Wesleyan University $15,300
  9. National American University $15,750
  10. Augustana University $36,952

Find the best online colleges in South Dakota ranked by the academic success of faculty and alumni associated with the colleges and universities and their online degree programs. Faculty and alumni with influential ideas are the foundation of respectable online degree programs employers can trust.

Featured Programs

Online Colleges and Universities in South Dakota

Almost 20 higher education institutions award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in South Dakota, and only two schools exceed 5,000 in student population. The average college tuition in the state is $8,450, which is under the national average. Of the 11 public institutions, South Dakota State University is the largest with just over 10,000 students, and it has a tuition of $9,000.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

With a comparable tuition, the University of South Dakota is the second largest school in South Dakota. Students can earn degrees in areas such as earth science, physics, and engineering.

Eight private schools in South Dakota offer degrees ranging in tuition from $3,000 to $33,000. Many of these universities are religiously affiliated, Augustana University being the largest and most expensive. This Lutheran university is located in Sioux Falls and offers programs in economics, psychology, and biology.

The most affordable colleges in South Dakota, Oglala Lakota College and Sinte Gleska University, are both tribal institutions charging $3,000 in fees.

Two monuments are carved into the rock of the Black Hills in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial. In addition to its majestic mountains, South Dakota’s lands are some of the richest in fossils.

Badlands National Park is home to unique rock formations as well as the fossils of saber-toothed cats, three-toed horses, and ancient marine animals. With vast plains and unique mountains, South Dakota offers a stunning setting for students looking to earn their degree in The Mount Rushmore State.

Find out more about the top programs and higher education opportunities available in South Dakota.


Which are the Best Colleges and Universities in South Dakota?

South Dakota’s Best Overall

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Growing and Expanding Industries in South Dakota

While it’s recommended to pursue a degree program at an online college that fits your personality and professional goals, it’s also important to consider the expanding industries in South Dakota. If you take the time to research the kinds of occupations that are well-liked and in demand after graduation, you might have a wide range of career alternatives in the future.

Following are the top ten industries for growth in South Dakota, according to SD Department of Labor & Regulation:

Warehousing and Storage

Expected Growth Rate: 22.7%

This industry involves storing and distributing goods for manufacturers, retailers, wholesalers, and other businesses. It includes managing inventory, handling shipments, and optimizing storage space.

The best online programs in South Dakota for this industry include:

  • Master’s in Supply Chain Management
  • Master’s in Logistics Management
  • Master’s in Operations Management

Merchant Wholesalers, Durable Goods

Expected Growth Rate: 16.0%

These businesses purchase goods from manufacturers and sell them to retailers or other companies. “Durable goods” refers to items with a longer lifespan, such as appliances, electronics, and machinery.

The best online programs in South Dakota for this industry include:

  • Master’s in Business Administration (MBA)
  • Master’s in Marketing
  • Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Social Assistance

Expected Growth Rate: 13.8%

This industry encompasses a range of services to support and assist individuals and families in need. It includes services like childcare, counseling, vocational training, and support for the elderly or disabled.

The best online programs in South Dakota for this industry include:

  • Master’s in Social Work (MSW)
  • Master’s in Nonprofit Management
  • Master’s in Counseling Psychology

Professional, Scientific and Technical Services

Expected Growth Rate: 13.2%

This industry involves diverse specialized services provided by professionals such as lawyers, accountants, engineers, architects, consultants, and researchers. These services often require advanced knowledge and expertise.

The best online programs in South Dakota for this industry include:

  • Master’s in Management Consulting
  • Master’s in Information Technology
  • Master’s in Engineering Management

Machinery Manufacturing

Expected Growth Rate: 12.4%

This industry involves the production of various types of machinery, equipment, and industrial tools. It spans a wide range of products, from heavy machinery used in construction to precision instruments used in manufacturing processes.

The best online programs in South Dakota for this industry include:

  • Master’s in Mechanical Engineering
  • Master’s in Manufacturing Engineering
  • Master’s in Industrial Engineering

Sporting Goods, Hobby, Book, and Music Stores

Expected Growth Rate: 12.0%

These retail establishments sell products related to sports, hobbies, books, and music. This includes sporting equipment, craft supplies, books, and musical instruments.

The best online programs in South Dakota for this industry include:

  • Master’s in Retail Management
  • Master’s in Marketing
  • Master’s in Business Administration (MBA)

Waste Management and Remediation Service

Expected Growth Rate: 11.5%

This industry involves collecting, transporting, processing, and disposing of waste materials. It also includes environmental remediation activities, which focus on cleaning up polluted sites.

The best online programs in South Dakota for this industry include:

  • Master’s in Environmental Management
  • Master’s in Environmental Engineering
  • Master’s in Sustainability

Support Activities for Transportation

Expected Growth Rate: 11.3%

This industry provides various services supporting transportation operations, including freight transportation arrangement, cargo handling, towing, vehicle maintenance, and more.

The best online programs in South Dakota for this industry include:

  • Master’s in Transportation Management
  • Master’s in Aviation Management
  • Master’s in Logistics Management

Hospitals

Expected Growth Rate: 11.2%

Hospitals, among other healthcare facilities, provide a wide range of medical services, including surgeries, emergency care, diagnostics, treatments, and ongoing patient care. They are critical components of the healthcare system.

The best online programs in South Dakota for this industry include:

  • Master’s in Healthcare Administration
  • Master’s in Health Services Administration
  • Master’s in Nursing (for leadership positions)

Ambulatory Health Care Services

Expected Growth Rate: 11.1%

This industry includes outpatient healthcare services that do not require an overnight stay. It encompasses services like doctor’s offices, clinics, outpatient surgery centers, diagnostic centers, and other medical practices.

The best online programs in South Dakota for this industry include:

  • Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies
  • Master’s in Nurse Practitioner
  • Master’s in Healthcare Management
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Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s Degrees in South Dakota

How many people in South Dakota hold a master’s degree?

5.6% of degree holders in South Dakota are master’s degree holders.

What’s the accreditation agency responsible for accrediting the best online colleges in South Dakota?

The Higher Learning Commission is the regional accreditation for public and private schools in South Dakota.

How much does an online master’s degree in South Dakota cost?

An online master’s degree costs about $40,000 for the average grad student. However, the cost of your online master’s degree in South Dakota will depend on the type of grad school you attend. In 2018-2019, the average cost for a year of tuition in a public grad school was $12,171. The average cost for a year of tuition in private, non-profit grad school was $27,776.

An online master’s degree in South Dakota will usually cost about the same as a traditional master’s degree. Some schools will charge 5-10% more for online courses. This added cost pays for the technology and specialized training needed for online instruction.

But getting a master’s degree online from a college or university in South Dakota can also help you save money. The costs above don’t include expenses like housing, transportation, or certain campus fees. As an online grad student in South Dakota, you can save a lot of money by avoiding these added expenses.

Many online programs in South Dakota are also accelerated. Most master’s degree programs are designed to be completed in two years. But you may be able to earn your online master’s degree in as little as 12-18 months. Earning an accelerated online master’s degree can save you money on tuition.

What can I expect from an online college course in South Dakota?

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require some adjustment. While you’ll generally learn the same content and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, online programs in South Dakota will likely require you to manage much of this experience independently.

You’ll be accountable for your own time management, your ability to harness the technology at your fingertips, and your ability to focus on the lectures, lessons, and assignments at hand. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take it upon yourself to build relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

Will employers in South Dakota respect my online degree?

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college in South Dakota, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript, or resume differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.

While some employers in South Dakota may express concern about making the adjustment from online education to in-person workplace collaboration, many other employers will view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st Century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

What are the advantages of online programs in South Dakota?

The advantages that online colleges provide are many. First and foremost, online programs give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work.

In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities, which are online learning experiences that you can complete on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials.

And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.

What are the disadvantages of online programs in South Dakota?

If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will require some adjustment.

While there is much that can be supplanted or simulated through online learning, some online learners may find that there is nothing which can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual classroom setting. As you make the adjustment to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face is overcoming this difference in order to get the most out of your online college courses.

Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

Is financial aid available at online colleges in South Dakota?

Yes, financial aid is available as long as the online South Dakota schools are accredited. If so, prospective graduate students can apply for financial aid.

Graduate students should keep in mind that it is a good idea to apply for financial aid even if you think you will not need it. Changes in employment or circumstances could necessitate the need for aid in the future, so applying is always a good idea.

For more information about how to apply for financial aid, visit the Federal Student Aid website.

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Best Online Master’s Program in South Dakota 2023

  1. #1

    University of South Dakota

    Vermillion , SD
    #1 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in South Dakota 2024 #1 Best Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1160/22

    Career Outlook for degree at University of South Dakota

    Cost of Degree: $7,118
    Expenses: $15,207
    Starting Salary: $49,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The University of South Dakota is among the top options for prospective online students living outside the state. Online students pay the same amount of tuition fee regardless if they are South Dakota residents or not.

    In addition to its affordable cost, online learners can apply for some on-campus federal financial aid programs and avail of services like mental health assistance and career services.

    The online graduate programs at USD are well-known thanks to their innovative approach to education and world-class faculty.

    Online Master's Degrees

    MA in Addiction Counseling and Prevention
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MA in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MA in Kinesiology and Sport Management
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Music
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MA in Pre-Kindergarten-12 Principal
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Professional Accountancy
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Public Health
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MA in Secondary Education
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Social Work
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Technology for Education and Training
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    South Dakota State University

    Brookings , SD
    #2 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in South Dakota 2024 #2 Best Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1132/22

    Career Outlook for degree at South Dakota State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,384
    Expenses: $15,445
    Starting Salary: $50,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    South Dakota State University, a public, land-grant agricultural institution, is still the biggest university in the state. SDSU is a member of the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance, a group of 20 colleges in South Dakota that works together to offer online learning. This initiative allows students to enroll in online courses beyond the courses that South Dakota State University offers.

    The university charges the same tuition to all online students.

    As one of the best online schools in South Dakota, the online master’s degree programs at South Dakota State University require students to complete capstone projects. This final project typically consists of a thesis or research project.

    Online Master's Degrees

    Master of Engineering
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Agricultural Education
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Chemistry

    Concentrations

    • Chemical Education Specialization
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MEd in Curriculum and Instruction
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Dietetics
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MEd in Educational Administration
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MA in English
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Human Sciences

    Concentrations

    • Developmental Sciences
    • Family and Community Services
    • Family and Consumer Sciences Education
    • Family Financial Planning
    • Merchandising
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Mass Communication
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Operations Management
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Public Health
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Sociology

    Concentrations

    • Community Development Specialization
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
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  3. #3

    Augustana University

    Sioux Falls , SD
    #1 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1217/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Augustana University

    Cost of Degree: $39,840
    Expenses: $16,950
    Starting Salary: $49,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Augustana University, a private college, is among the top higher learning institutions in South Dakota. 98% of the Class of 2020 graduates participated in experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, clinical, study abroad programs, and volunteer work. Most of these experiences occur during the one-month January term, which receives funding from the university of about $250,000.

    While students can pursue over 100 majors and minors on campus, online programs are limited.

    Online Master's Degrees

    MEd in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Black Hills State University

    Spearfish , SD
    #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #3 Best Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1027/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Black Hills State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,916
    Expenses: $13,100
    Starting Salary: $40,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Black Hills State University, originally a teacher’s college, offers online master’s degrees to equip online learners in South Dakota with the necessary skills and knowledge for specific education fields. The school uses the D2L system, a top learning management system, to provide high-quality online learning. Distance learners have access to job centers, counseling centers, academic advising centers, writing centers, services for people with disabilities, and libraries.

    Online Master's Degrees

    MS in Strategic Leadership
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Curriculum and Instruction
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Secondary Education
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Sustainability
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MEd in Reading
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MAT in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
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  5. #5

    South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

    Rapid City , SD
    #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1269/26

    Career Outlook for degree at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

    Cost of Degree: $8,500
    Expenses: $15,700
    Starting Salary: $62,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The South Dakota School of Mines & Technology has been a national innovator in producing elite scientists and engineers since 1885. SDSMT is one of the best online schools in South Dakota for graduate studies and research and development.

    Graduates are highly regarded by their peers in business, consulting, government, health, research, and education leadership positions. They develop, build, and operate the most cutting-edge technology to address today’s complex challenges.

    Online Master's Degrees

    MS in Construction Engineering and Management
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Engineering Management
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Mining Engineering and Management
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Dakota State University

    Madison , SD
    #4 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in South Dakota 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1090/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Dakota State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,731
    Expenses: $16,476
    Starting Salary: $43,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Dakota State University was originally established to provide teacher training. Throughout the years, DSU has evolved into one of the most prominent state universities in South Dakota, providing numerous majors that meet the needs of today’s most challenging fields.

    Dakota State University is renowned for being military-friendly and provides cheaper tuition for serving members pursuing an on-campus/online program. Online learners can use tools like online career services and telehealth to reach the counseling center from South Dakota.

    Online Master's Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Analytics
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Cyber Defense
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Educational Technology
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Health Informatics and Information Management
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  8. #7

    Northern State University

    Aberdeen , SD
    #5 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in South Dakota 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    975/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Northern State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,736
    Expenses: $14,500
    Starting Salary: $37,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Northern State University is known for offering courses designed to prepare high school students for college education in South Dakota. In addition to this, NSU is also popular for offering online programs that provide online students with the same on-campus academic rigor and student services.

    Students who are not residents of South Dakota earning their online degrees at Northern State University can expect to pay the same tuition as in-state students, thanks to NSU’s flat-rate tuition fee.

    Online Master's Degrees

    MS in Teaching and Learning
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Banking and Financial Services
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Education
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Accounting Analytics
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Sport Performance and Leadership
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
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  9. #8

    University of Sioux Falls

    Sioux Falls , SD
    #3 Best Christian Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #6 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Sioux Falls

    Cost of Degree: $7,335
    Expenses: $14,305
    Starting Salary: $44,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Students who want to enroll in a graduate program with a liberal arts curriculum in South Dakota should consider the online programs at the University of Sioux Falls. Intentionally integrating faith and online learning, committed teachers assist students in finding their career calling and equip them to serve God and humanity.

    The university’s alumni uphold slogan of the University of Sioux Falls, which is “Culture for Service,” in their careers, families, and communities with a placement rate of 99%.

    Online Master's Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)

    Concentrations

    • Organizational Leadership
    • Healthcare
    • Business Innovation and Marketing
    • Management
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Education

    Concentrations

    • Educational Administration/Higher Education
    • Technology and Personalized Learning
    • Reading
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
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  10. #9

    Dakota Wesleyan University

    Mitchell , SD
    #2 Best Christian Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #4 Best Private Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #6 Best Colleges in South Dakota 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Dakota Wesleyan University

    Cost of Degree: $15,300
    Expenses: $10,950
    Starting Salary: $40,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    With one of the lowest student populations in South Dakota, Dakota Wesleyan is one of the best above-average private universities with fairly challenging admissions. The university affirms its affiliation with the United Methodist Church and fosters diversity in a friendly atmosphere.

    All online programs at DWU offer three start dates throughout the year. Each online course is taught in an eight-week style.

    Online Master's Degrees

    MA in Education
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Educational Policy and Administration

    Concentrations

    • K-12 Principal
    • English as a New Language
    • Athletic and Activities Administration
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  11. #10

    National American University

    Rapid City , SD
    #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Graduation

    33%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at National American University

    Cost of Degree: $16,425
    Starting Salary: $39,500

    Online Master's Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Master of Management
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Intelligence Management
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Strategic Security and Protection Management
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    MS in Terrorism and Counterterrorism Studies
    • Required Credits: 30-36
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  13. #11

    National American University

    Rapid City , SD
    #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in South Dakota 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in South Dakota 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in South Dakota 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Graduation

    33%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at National American University

    Cost of Degree: $16,425
    Starting Salary: $39,500

    National American University, a known pioneer in online education in South Dakota, offers a variety of online programs, from certificate to undergraduate and graduate levels. Using D2L Brightspace, online students at NAU complete coursework in synchronous and asynchronous modalities.

    With an open admissions policy, National American University is among the top preferred schools of students seeking an online school in South Dakota.

    Online Master's Degrees

    Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    • Required Credits:
    • Completion time:
    • Format: Online
    Master of Management
    • Required Credits:
    • Completion time:
    • Format: Online
    MS in Intelligence Management
    • Required Credits:
    • Completion time:
    • Format: Online
    MS in Strategic Security and Protection Management
    • Required Credits:
    • Completion time:
    • Format: Online
    MS in Terrorism and Counterterrorism Studies
    • Required Credits:
    • Completion time:
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

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