Best Online Associate Degrees in South Dakota 2024

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Find the best online associate degrees in South Dakota ranked by the academic success of faculty and alumni associated with the colleges and universities and their online degree programs.

Top Online Associate Degree Programs in South Dakota

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  1. University of South Dakota
  2. South Dakota State University
  3. Dakota State University
  4. Northern State University
  5. University of Sioux Falls
  1. University of South Dakota
  2. South Dakota State University
  3. University of Sioux Falls
  4. Northern State University
  5. Dakota State University
  1. University of South Dakota 99%
  2. South Dakota State University 86%
  3. Dakota State University 79%
  4. Northern State University 78%
  5. University of Sioux Falls 76%
  1. South Dakota State University 18 to 1
  2. Dakota State University 18 to 1
  3. University of Sioux Falls 17 to 1
  4. Northern State University 16 to 1
  5. University of South Dakota 14 to 1
  1. University of Sioux Falls $20,290
  2. University of South Dakota $7,773
  3. South Dakota State University $7,773
  4. Dakota State University $7,616
  5. Northern State University $7,616
  1. South Dakota State University $8,164
  2. University of Sioux Falls $7,200
  3. University of South Dakota $6,123
  4. Dakota State University $5,999
  5. Northern State University $5,999
  1. University of Sioux Falls
  2. Northern State University
  3. Dakota State University
  4. South Dakota State University
  5. University of South Dakota
  1. Dakota State University
  2. Northern State University
  3. University of Sioux Falls
  4. South Dakota State University
  5. University of South Dakota
  1. University of Sioux Falls 76%
  2. Northern State University 78%
  3. Dakota State University 79%
  4. South Dakota State University 86%
  5. University of South Dakota 99%
  1. University of South Dakota 14 to 1
  2. Northern State University 16 to 1
  3. University of Sioux Falls 17 to 1
  4. South Dakota State University 18 to 1
  5. Dakota State University 18 to 1
  1. Dakota State University $7,616
  2. Northern State University $7,616
  3. University of South Dakota $7,773
  4. South Dakota State University $7,773
  5. University of Sioux Falls $20,290
  1. Dakota State University $5,999
  2. Northern State University $5,999
  3. University of South Dakota $6,123
  4. University of Sioux Falls $7,200
  5. South Dakota State University $8,164

Featured Programs

Colleges and Universities in South Dakota

Almost 20 higher education institutions award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in the state, 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.

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With a comparable tuition, the University of South Dakota is the second largest and located in Vermillion. Students can earn degrees in areas such as earth science, physics, and engineering. Eight private schools 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, 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: 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.


What are South Dakota’s Colleges & Universities?

South Dakota’s Best Overall

What is an Associate Degree?

An associate degree is a two-year degree that can be earned at state community colleges, vocational schools, and most accredited colleges and universities.

What will I study with an associate degree?

The associate degree provides an introductory level college education. You will usually take an array of liberal arts or humanities courses along with introductory level courses in a specific subject area. Most associate degree programs are available to both on campus students and online students.

Why get an associate degree?

There are several good reasons to get an associate degree. An associate degree is an affordable and accessible way to get a college education while improving your earning potential. The associate degree is popular both among students looking for entry-level work in their field, and for those who are already working.

The online degree is particularly popular at the associate level because so many students must balance work responsibilities and studies. Online courses and complete online programs make it possible for students to earn associate credits and degrees without disrupting daily work responsibilities.

The associate is also a far more affordable and accessible alternative to earning a bachelor’s degree. The associate degree takes about half as long to earn as a bachelor’s degree. Associate students need 60 credits to graduate, versus the 120 credits needed for a bachelor’s degree. And many state community colleges offer low tuition rates.

Can I get a job with an associate degree?

You can get an entry-level job in your field with an associate degree. Many students will use the associate degree as a way to get relevant job training before entering the job market. In fact, many associates will pursue entry level work in their field while earning a bachelor’s degree through online education.

Should I get an associate degree before pursuing a bachelor’s degree?

You may want to get an associate degree first to save money, or improve your admission chances, before getting a bachelor’s degree. The associate degree is a popular stepping stone for students who will seek a bachelor’s degree. When you earn an associate degree from an accredited state community college, you can usually transfer your credits toward your bachelor’s degree program.

Can I get an online degree at the associate level?

You can definitely get an online degree at the associate level. A growing number of online colleges offer high-quality associate-level online courses and complete online programs. Online students will typically take the same courses and curricula as on campus students.

Are associate degrees from online colleges respected?

Online degrees at the associate level are respected as long as these online degrees come from accredited community colleges or two-year schools. Regional accreditation is important when it comes to online colleges. If you plan to go into a bachelor’s degree program at a regionally accredited school, you must earn your online degree from a regionally accredited associate degree program.

If you need more answers to frequently asked questions about online degrees, we can help.

Best Online Associate Degree Programs in South Dakota
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Best Online Associate Degrees in South Dakota 2023

  1. Other Rankings

    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: $9,432
    Expenses: $14,371
    Starting Salary: $49,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Associate Degrees

    Associate of Psychology
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Addiction Counseling and Prevention
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Economics
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Finance
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of General Studies
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Health Sciences
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Management
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Nursing
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Public Health
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Sociology
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Sport Management
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of Technical Leadership
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
  2. Other Rankings

    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: $9,299
    Expenses: $13,635
    Starting Salary: $50,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Associate Degrees

    AS in Construction Technology
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    AS in Data Science
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    AS in Agricultural Science
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    AA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    AS in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
  3. Other Rankings

    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: $9,633
    Expenses: $15,104
    Starting Salary: $43,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Associate Degrees

    AS in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    AA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    AS in Health Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    AS in Network and Security Administration
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    AS in Software Development
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
  4. Other Rankings

    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: $8,845
    Expenses: $14,950
    Starting Salary: $37,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Associate Degrees

    Associate of Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
    Associate of General Studies
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online
  5. #5

    University of Sioux Falls

    Sioux Falls , SD
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Sioux Falls

    Cost of Degree: $20,290
    Expenses: $13,040
    Starting Salary: $44,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Associate Degrees

    Associate of Business and General Studies
    • Required Credits: 60-66
    • Completion time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online

South Dakota is just one of many states offering excellent online associate’s degrees. To check out our rankings, look into the best online associate’s degrees in Florida, Oklahoma, New Jersey, and more!

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Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions

If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require a time of adjustment. Although you’ll typically learn the same material and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, going online will require greater independence and responsibility than going in person. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, for harnessing the online educational technology that you’ll need to use, and for completing the course requirements, such as listening to lectures, learning lessons, reading texts, and handing in assignments. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take the initiative in building relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.

No. The only part of online education that’s easier than campus-based education is ease of access: all you need is a computer and an internet connection for online education. But even this seeming advantage of online education can be misleading: what’s easier, studying online with your computer and internet connection from your home where you need to cook, clean, pay rent, and maintain a job? Or studying on campus in a dorm where all your living needs are handled by the school, and college staff are there to help you every step of the way?

If you take the commute to campus out of the equation, campus-based education is easier. All the support structures available on campus for students, especially with real people to help you in person, are not there online. The demands on you as an online student will largely be the same as for your campus-based counterpart, but without the same helps.

In general, your online courses will present the same material and test you in the same way as traditional in-person courses. In many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning with remote educational technology for the first time, online college may be considerably more challenging than campus-based college. For a few insights on how to manage this new online experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.

Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable non-profit institutions on the one end and less-than-reputable for-profit institutions on the other end. Accreditation gives you the power to identify the more reputable actors in online education. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency indicating that a college or university is meeting standards of quality and credibility. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.

Attending a college or university that is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. For students seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that they opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree. For more on this important topic, check out our What is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter? College & University Accreditation Guide.

As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited (see the previous point), you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer of credits. In many cases, you will encounter some bureaucratic haggling in which some of your credits will be transferred and others may be refused. However, provided that you have attended an online school with recognized regional accreditation, you should be in good shape in transferring your credits earned online.

In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, 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 resumé 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.

Some employers may express the concern that because you did your degree online, you may need to transition from an online education experience to in-person workplace experience. But in an age of Covid, that concern seems much diminished. The fact is that much employment these days is remote. And collaboration increasingly happens online over Zoom. Many employers will therefore view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.

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 be less than ideal for you (though depending on your circumstances, it may also be the only viable option).

While there is much in traditional campus-based education that can be substituted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing that can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual in-person classroom setting. As you transition to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face in getting the most out of your online classes is overcoming this difference between “real reality” and “virtual reality.” Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.

The advantages of online classes are many. Above all, online courses 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-educational experiences that you can complete at your own pace and 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.

Resources for Online College-Bound Students

Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.

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