Best Online Colleges in South Dakota for 2024

Online college is a flexible and convenient option for any student, but for South Dakotans where commuting to school can prove challenging or impossible, it’s a necessity. South Dakota is home to a solid list of quality programs that offer virtual learning opportunities. From associate degrees to doctoral programs, South Dakota has an online program to meet your academic, professional, and personal needs.

You may need help finding the program that matches your budget, learning style, and career goals the best. To help in your search, we’ve ranked the best online schools in South Dakota and evaluated the various types of distance learning options, financial aid opportunities, and the most in-demand jobs in South Dakota. Keep reading to learn more about the top online programs in South Dakota and see how they can help you achieve your academic and career goals.

Top Online Colleges in South Dakota for 2024

While some students across the country may overlook South Dakota colleges, they’re missing out on a solid list of quality schools at affordable prices. Our 2024 ranking for the best online colleges in South Dakota showcases schools that offer strong academics and vital student services that provide support before you enroll, throughout your academic experiences, and after you graduate. Additionally, the best schools offer affordable tuition, low student-to-teacher ratios, and access to various financial aid resources.

2 Year Schools 4 Year Schools

1
National American University-Ellsworth AFB Extension

Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota

Private for-profit $$
Whether you’re studying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, with National American University (NAU)-Ellsworth AFB Extension, you can complete your studies 100% online. NAU’s on-demand, fully online learning environment is available to students anytime, anywhere. The university’s financial services representatives and advisors help students evaluate their strengths and challenges so they can confidently choose the program to help them meet their goals. NAU’s tiered tuition structure lowers students’ cost-per-credit as they get closer to earning their degrees, and reduced tuition is available for active military, veterans, and their families. Though classes are entirely online, you can receive on-the-ground support at this Ellsworth AFB extension.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor’s in Aviation Management
- Credits: 180
- Length: 4-5 years
- Cost: $380/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Science in Terrorism and Counterterrorism Studies
- Credits: 54
- Length: 1.5 years
- Cost: $2,625/course
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Doctor of Strategic Security
- Credits: 90
- Length: 3-5 years
- Cost: $800/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

5/1
2
South Dakota State University

Brookings, South Dakota

Public $$
At South Dakota State University (SDSU), a wide variety of online, high-demand degree options can help you prepare for a brighter future. Whether you’re looking to open doors to more career choices or expand qualifications in your current career, you can study on your own schedule from any location. SDSU’s advisers are there to provide additional one-on-one support and help students navigate off-campus and online learning environments as they pursue their studies. All online students study an academically rigorous curriculum, receive thorough career training, and get professional development opportunities to prepare them for success as they take the next steps in their careers.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor’s Degree in Geography
- Credits: 120
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $354.75/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Arts in English
- Credits: 30-36
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $470.45/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Science in Economics
- Credits: 30-32
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost:$470.45/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

17/1
3
University of South Dakota

Vermillion, South Dakota

Public $$
University of South Dakota offers flexible and convenient online degree programs to help students balance their work, life, and college. The courses are taught by the same faculty that teach on-campus courses, which means online students will receive the same challenging and rigorous curriculum that traditional students do. USD’s online programs cover a range of different fields, including business, health sciences, education, nursing and more. A particularly unique feature of USD’s online programs is that classes are available for students who do not want to pursue a specific degree or certification, but rather are looking to take a few courses to grow their personal and/or professional development.
Program Highlights:
Executive Master of Public Administration
- Credits: 30
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $470.45/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling and Prevention
- Credits: 45 major hours
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $354.75
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: HLC
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

15/1
4
National American University-Rapid City

Rapid City, South Dakota

Private for-profit $$$
All of National American University’s (NAU) undergraduate and graduate programs are available entirely online, making it easy for students to earn a degree on their own terms. With personalized guidance from NAU, students have the support to assess their areas of interest and unique strengths before selecting a program to meet their career goals. Once they’ve chosen a path, each student collaborates with a student advisor to construct an individualized study plan. While NAU is based in Rapid City, you can participate in the online-based classes on your own schedule, from wherever you prefer. One highlight of studying at NAU is a tiered tuition structure that keeps costs affordable. As students earn more credit hours toward their degrees, the cost per credit decreases.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor’s in Accounting
- Credits: 180
- Length: 4-5 years
- Cost: $380/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Science in Intelligence Management
- Credits: 54
- Length: 1.5 years
- Cost: $2,625/course
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Doctor of Education
- Credits: 60
- Length: 3-5 years
- Cost: $800/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

7/1
5
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

Rapid City, South Dakota

Public $$
If you already hold a bachelor of science degree in science or engineering or have experience in a related field, you can take your career to the next level with an online master’s degree from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. Online degree students have their choice of three master’s degree programs: construction and engineering management, engineering management, or mining engineering and management. As a student of one of these programs, you’ll benefit from small class sizes and plenty of personal attention from professors. Since courses are available 100% online or in person, you’ll have the flexibility to take classes in the way that works best for you. Students choose between completing courses entirely online, participating in classes via a livestream, or attending classes in person at the Rapid City campus.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Construction and Engineering Management
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $475-$650/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Science in Engineering Management
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $475-$650/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Master of Science in Mining Engineering and Management
- Credits: 33
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $475-$650/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

13/1
6
Dakota State University

Madison, South Dakota

Public $$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

18/1
7
Northern State University

Aberdeen, South Dakota

Public $$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

18/1
8
Presentation College

Aberdeen, South Dakota

Private not-for-profit $$$$$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

11/1
9
Black Hills State University

Spearfish, South Dakota

Public $$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

16/1
10
University of Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Private not-for-profit $$$$

Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

17/1

2 Year Schools 4 Year Schools

1
Southeast Technical College

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Public $
Southeast Technical College’s online degree programs give you the flexibility to balance family obligations, work schedules, travel requirements, and more. You’ll be able to pick from 11 different paths of study as an online student. These degree programs include accounting, computer programming, entrepreneurship, healthcare leadership, human resource management, marketing, and more. Southeast Tech also offers an information technology security degree and a medical coding and billing degree on a hybrid schedule. In 24 months or less, you can earn an associate degree and pursue the next level in your career. Students looking to complete an education in a shorter time frame can choose from a range of eight-week programs, diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeships.
Program Highlights:
Associate Degree, Accounting
- Credits: 64
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $255/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Associate Degree, Healthcare Leadership
- Credits: 33 credits
- Length: 2 semesters
- Cost: $255/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
Associate Degree, Marketing
- Credits: 62
- Length:4 semesters
- Cost: $255/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

11/1
2
Mitchell Technical College

Mitchell, South Dakota

Public $
Located in Mitchell, South Dakota, Mitchell Technical College is part of a statewide system of four technical colleges. The school offers degree and certificate programs in healthcare, engineering, agriculture, transportation, communications, business, manufacturing, technology, and other technical careers. Mitchell Tech has a history of serving veterans and members of the National Guard and Reserve and provides academic and financial support for students. One perk of Mitchell Tech is that there isn’t a difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition. If you’re looking to complete a degree online, you can choose from these four concentrations: administrative office specialist, medical office professional, small business management, and speech-language pathology assistant.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Applied Science, Administrative Office Specialist
- Credits: 70
- Length: 6 semesters
- Cost: $228-$243/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science, Medical Office Professional
- Credits: 73
- Length: 6 semesters
- Cost: $228-$243/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science, Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
- Credits: 65
- Length: 5 semesters
- Cost: $228-$243/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

13/1
3
Western Dakota Technical College

Rapid City, South Dakota

Public $
Western Dakota Technical College is a technical institute that serves the western South Dakota region, focusing on some of the fastest-growing fields and industries in the state, including business, construction and manufacturing, energy and environmental technologies, health sciences, and more. The school’s online courses and degrees give students outside of the local region the opportunity to pursue an education. Western Dakota Technical College offers online associate degrees in accounting and certificate programs like social media marketing and entrepreneurship, giving students the chance to quick start their careers. Students can also enroll in a library technician program, which gives them the foundational and technical skills needed to work in a library.
Program Highlights:
Certificate in Social Media Marketing
- Credits: 18
- Length: 2 semesters
- Cost: $286-$336/credit
- Mode: Varies
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science, Library Technician
- Credits: 60 credits
- Length: 4 semesters
- Cost: $286-$336/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science, Accounting
- Credits: 62
- Length: 4 semesters
- Cost: $286-$336/credit
- Mode: Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

13/1
4
Lake Area Technical College

Watertown, South Dakota

Public $
Lake Area Technical College offers unique online degrees in several programs, including agriculture, business and computer information systems, law enforcement, nursing, robotics, and more. Through the E-degree programs at Lake Area Technical college, students can enroll in online classes and engage in on-campus courses in a hybrid environment. For programs such as the AAS in nursing, a hybrid learning environment gives you an opportunity to gain hands-on training and clinical experience alongside flexible online coursework. However, if you opt for an online program with minimal time on campus, you still have access to highly specialized programs, such as a robotics degree online.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Applied Science, Nursing
- Credits: 39
- Length: 1 year
- Cost: $124/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Associate of Applied Science, Agri-Business
- Credits: 77
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $124/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Associate of Applied Science, Entrepreneurship
- Credits: 72
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $124/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Online Programs

Academic Counseling

Yes

Career Placement

Yes

Student/Faculty Ratio

17/1

Popular Ways to Earn Your Online College Degree in South Dakota

Not all online programs are built the same, so it’s vital that you find a program that mirrors your academic and career goals in a virtual format that accommodates your unique needs. In the following section, we examine the different types of online programs you may encounter when searching for the right online school and compare the varying learning mode options at online colleges in South Dakota to help you decide which one could work best for you.

Fully-Online vs. Hybrid/Blended

As you review the various online programs in South Dakota, you’ll begin to recognize that not all online programs are the same. You’ll encounter programs labeled as online, hybrid, and blended. Online programs are ideal for the working professional because they offer you the freedom to access course content at any time and any place.

While often used interchangeably, hybrid and blended programs have some crucial distinctions. Blended programs are presented in-person but use virtual work to supplement the face-to-face experience. Hybrid courses lean more heavily on virtual learning, supplementing it with some in-person meetings. Hybrid programs are especially common for lab-based classes and those that have a technical component that benefits from hands-on learning opportunities.

Continue readings to review some hybrid and fully-online programs available in South Dakota.

Bachelor’s in Agricultural Business at South Dakota State University (Blended/Hybrid)

South Dakota State University is a public research institution that offers various online and hybrid programs, including a bachelor’s in agricultural business. This hybrid program introduces students to the contemporary challenges of the agriculture business while helping them establish marketable skills in areas like management and economics.

Throughout this 120-credit program, hybrid learners complete a mix of general education and major requirements. Some core requirements include business classes like accounting and managerial economics, while agri-business topics include agricultural policy, marketing, and management. Before graduation, students are encouraged to complete an in-person internship at an approved agricultural organization.

Prospective SDSU students apply online and must have a minimum 2.6 high school GPA. Applicants must include transcripts and SAT/ACT scores—accepted students typically graduate in the top 60% of their high school class.

Bachelor’s in Business Administration at Black Hills State University (Fully Online)

Established in 1883, Black Hills State University (BHSU) is a public institution that plays home to a fully-online bachelor’s in business administration. This management-focused online program holds AACSB accreditation and uses a blend of synchronous lectures and self-guided coursework.

BHSU’s bachelor’s in business administration boasts small class sizes and encourages students to engage with their communities through civic organizations and internship opportunities. Throughout this comprehensive business program, students complete a diverse roster of courses, including quantitative decision analysis, advanced computer applications, and organizational behavior and theory. Students also get a healthy dose of foundational classes like economics and accounting.

Freshman applicants to BHSU must hold a high school diploma or GED with a minimum 2.6 GPA. Prospective business students must submit ACT/SAT scores, and successful applicants typically graduate in the top 60% of their high school classes.

Asynchronous vs. Synchronous

If you’re new to the world of online learning, you may find yourself Googling asynchronous and synchronous to find out what the terms mean. If you’re planning on completing an online degree, these two online learning methods can play a crucial role in helping you decide if a program is right for you.

Asynchronous programs are especially common online course delivery systems that offer maximum flexibility and allow you to complete coursework on your own time and at your own pace. On the other hand, a synchronous delivery utilizes live virtual classes that meet at a scheduled time each week.

If you’re juggling the responsibilities of work and home, asynchronous classes are ideal when you need to accommodate your busy schedule. Still, some students prefer the more structured learning style of scheduled weekly classes. When reviewing potential programs, consider what you need to perform your best.

See our spotlights of synchronous and asynchronous programs below.

Bachelor’s in Artificial Intelligence at Dakota State University

Established in 1881 and located in Madison, South Dakota, Dakota State University (DSU) is home to multiple online programs, including an asynchronous bachelor’s in artificial intelligence. Whether you’re preparing for careers in machine learning engineering or data science, this program introduces online learners to the theoretical foundations of AI while addressing real-world technical challenges.

Throughout this 120-credit virtual curriculum, students complete a blend of major, minor, and general education classes. Core requirements include topics such as predictive analytics, introduction to computers, generative deep learning, and mathematical foundations of artificial intelligence.

Because this rigorous, asynchronous program is self-guided, DSU encourages prospective students to complete their online readiness quiz. Applicants can apply online and must hold a high school diploma or GED.

Bachelor’s in Psychology at South Dakota State University

South Dakota State University offers a bachelor’s in psychology that utilizes a mix of synchronous classes and self-guided asynchronous courses. This 120-credit psychology program is available as a B.S. or B.A. option and prepares students for a long list of careers spanning from counseling to business, as well as for future graduate-level coursework.

This virtual program introduces students to the foundational concepts of psychology while challenging them to hone vital critical thinking through a data-based approach. Major requirements include research methods in psychology, cognitive psychology, and history and systems of psychology.

South Dakota State University uses a rolling admissions process and typically makes admission decisions in just a couple of weeks. Prospective students apply online and must include a $20 application fee, ACT scores, and high school transcripts.

Part-Time vs. Full-Time

Your academic and personal needs dictate how much academic content you can handle each semester. You’ll want to be sure that you find a program that allows you to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. If you’re worried about how much time you can devote to online classes, you may want to consider a part-time schedule. For undergrads, taking fewer than 12 credits is considered part-time, and for grad students, fewer than nine credits are considered part-time.

This is not to say that enrolling as a full-time student doesn’t have benefits. If you can handle the academic load, a full-time schedule allows you to graduate more quickly while simultaneously saving you money. Additionally, earlier graduation means you’ll have early access to the potential career perks that come with a hard-earned degree.

In the section below, we spotlight South Dakota-based part-time and full-time programs.

RN-to-BSN at South Dakota State University

South Dakota State University is home to a flexible and affordable RN-to-BSN program ideal for working nurses. Available for both part-time and full-time students, online learners can schedule their course load to meet their academic, personal, and professional needs. This 100% online program is made up of seven-week courses, and part-time students can earn their degree in as few as 15 months.

Throughout this 30-credit degree-completion program, students hone the skills needed for leadership nursing roles. Core classes include topics such as evidence-based nursing practice, population health, and genetics and genomics in nursing. Before graduation, online learners complete a nursing leadership capstone.

Applicants to this online RN-to-BSN program must have an associate degree in nursing and hold an active and unencumbered RN license.

Addiction Counseling and Prevention at the University of South Dakota

The University of South Dakota offers an online addiction counseling degree that full-time students can complete in about four years. As students move through this online program, they should gain the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to support individuals who struggle with substance abuse issues. Additionally, graduates of this program earn the competencies they need to be certified by the South Dakota Board of Addiction and Prevention Professionals.

Throughout this 120-credit online track, students complete 30 credits of core classes, including the study of drug use and addiction, fundamental skills of group counseling, and ethical and legal issues in the addiction profession. Online degree-seekers can also choose between specializations in treatment or prevention. Before graduation, online learners complete a semester-long internship at an approved clinical site.

Prospective students can apply online and must include all requisite fees and official high school transcripts. Additionally, students must submit ACT or SAT scores for admission.

Role of Accreditation for Online Colleges in South Dakota

You’ll want to prioritize accredited institutions when reviewing potential South Dakota-based schools. Accreditation is an official review process ensuring that schools (institutional accreditation) and academic programs (programmatic accreditation) meet a set of rigorous standards. In short, accreditation verifies that you have access to quality academics, professional licensure, and state and federal financial aid resources. In South Dakota, the accrediting agency is the Higher Learning Commission.

Programmatic accreditation isn’t required for all majors, but the best technical and professional programs like nursing, engineering, and education all seek accreditation from their corresponding professional organizations. While both types of accreditation signify quality academic programming, programmatic accreditation can be the difference between you earning professional certification, or not.

You can review the accreditation status of various colleges and universities through the U.S. Department of Education’s accreditation database.

South Dakota Online Colleges: Balancing Cost and Quality

Whether public or private, online or on-campus, completing a college degree typically requires a significant personal and financial investment. For many students, this is a valuable investment that can dramatically expand their career options and earning potential.

South Dakota students have access to any number of financial aid opportunities. But it’s not just financial aid that can help cut costs. Students attending a public institution with in-state tuition rates traditionally pay far less than those attending private schools, and online learners often pay less than campus-based students. Additionally, online students often avoid the cost of travel, campus housing, and various campus-based fees.

Take a moment to review the table below as we showcase the varying tuition rates for online and on-campus students in South Dakota.

School Name	On-Campus In-State	On-Campus Out-of-State	Online In-State	Online Out-of-State
University of South Dakota	$7,773 / year	$11,283 / year	$10,643 / year	$10,643 / year
South Dakota State University	$9,300 / year	$12,805 / year	$10,642 / year	$10,642 / year
Black Hills State University	$8,763 / year	$11,865 / year	$8,763 / year	$11,865 / year
Dakota State University	$8,836 / year	$11,938 / year	$10,643 / year	$13,947 / year
Presentation College	$24,810 / year	$24,810 / year	$17,250 / year	$17,250 / year

* Costs include tuition and required fees of undergraduate programs.

College Financial Aid for Online Students in South Dakota

You’re not alone if you feel that the cost of college is a bit intimidating, but you can rest easy knowing that there’s a deep catalog of financial aid options that can help you save. Plus, you’re not alone—each year, about 32% of all undergraduate students accept federal loans.

When determining how you’ll pay for college, the first step involves completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). FAFSA not only helps determine financial aid eligibility, but schools also use this data to see if you’re qualified for reduced tuition rates and institutional scholarships.

Alongside federal financial aid options, South Dakota’s Department of Social Services also offers support, highlighting scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs for South Dakota college students. Finally, you’ll want to reach out to the financial aid office at prospective schools—they’ll offer invaluable counsel on how to fund your education. Students in Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming pay in-state tuition at the University of South Dakota, for example.

Our scholarship and financial aid pages will take you on a deeper dive into how you can save throughout your academic journey.

In-Demand College-Level Careers in South Dakota

Picking the right online school is a big decision, but choosing your major can often have a big impact on your professional future. If you’re unsure about your academic path, reviewing some South Dakota-based career data can offer some valuable insight into which degrees and corresponding careers are most in-demand in the state. Check out the table below to review the fastest-growing careers in the Mount Rushmore State.

Career	Job Growth (2020-2030)	Annual Mean Wage (2021)
Wind Turbine Service Technicians	78%	$56,260
Nurse Practitioners	57%	$123,780
Information Security Analysts	42%	$102,600
Occupational Therapy Assistants	40%	$61,520
Career/Technical Education Teachers	33%	$61,160
Community Health Workers	33%	$47,780
Data Scientists	33%	$100,910
Physical Therapy Assistants	33%	$61,180
Radiation Therapists	33%	$82,790
Respiratory Therapists	32%	$61,830

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics; Projections Central

Resources for Success Geared for Online College Students in South Dakota

South Dakota Department of Social Services—Post-Secondary Education Resources

South Dakota’s Department of Social Services offers a useful page that offers resources on college readiness, standardized test prep, and various career resources. This page also links to all of the post-secondary schools in the state.

Dakota Dreams

The Dakota Dreams online tutoring initiative offers free academic support for K-12 students in areas like English, math, and science. Dakota Dreams counselors also work with students through the college admission and financial aid process.

University of South Dakota—Online Learning Readiness Check

Online college can be challenging for some students. The University of South Dakota offers an online learning readiness quiz to help determine if online coursework is right for you.

South Dakota State University—American Indian Opportunities

South Dakota State University is one of the state’s premier schools and offers extensive support for American Indian students. This page offers a useful home base for everything from their American Indian Student Center and Nursing Education Center to scholarships and student organizations.

South Dakota Department of Education—Scholarships

South Dakota’s Department of Education provides this practical scholarship page for students in the state. This page spotlights awards for future teachers, students at technical schools, and for students who agree to enter a critical need occupation after graduation.

Today’s Best Online Colleges in South Dakota