Online College Courses in South Dakota (SD)

Popularly known for the famous Mount Rushmore, South Dakota also boasts various national and state parks, historical sites, and a rich Native American heritage. It also has much to offer when it comes to geography with the Black Hills, Missouri River, and the Great Plains as well as quality of life with a strong economy, low state taxes, and high quality education system. The South Dakota University System includes six public universities as well as the South Dakota School for the Deaf and the South Dakota School for the Visually Handicapped, all of which are governed by the South Dakota Board of Regents. Along with the public institutions, there are 12 private, four-year institutions of higher education located in this state. Opportunities to take online college courses in South Dakota are available through both public and private schools.

Sioux Falls. The largest city in South Dakota, Sioux Falls gets its name from the waterfalls of the Big Sioux River, which formed during the last ice age. Along with this historical attraction, Sioux Falls is home to a recognized medical center, strong local economy, and growing employment opportunities. This city also has many opportunities for higher education with 11 institutions, including the only medical school in the state, the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, and Augusta College, the largest private university in South Dakota.

• Sioux Falls Seminary. Founded 150 years ago, Sioux Falls Seminary is affiliated with the North American Baptist Conference, although its educational offerings serve the needs of various denominations. The seminary is known for its flexible learning opportunities, as it strives to help students across the country prepare for ministry without having to relocate by offering a distance learning option for the Master of Divinity or Master of Arts in Christian Leadership programs.
• University of Sioux Falls. Established in 1883, this private, liberal arts university is affiliated with American Baptist Churches, USA. As a Baptist institution, the University of Sioux Falls strives to instill academic excellence and Christian character through its programs in humanities, sciences, and professions. Along with traditional undergraduate and graduate programs, USF offers degree completion programs to help adult learners earn their degree in the areas of management, accounting, or entrepreneurial studies through classroom, hybrid, and online instruction.
• Augustana College. The largest private university in South Dakota, Augustana College is located on 100 acres in residential Sioux Falls. Affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, this institution's academic programs are built upon a foundation of Christianity, liberal arts, excellence, community, and service. Augustana College offers more than 50 majors and pre-professional specializations as well as distance learning programs for educator training, educational resources, and continuing education.
• Kilian Community College. Kilian Community College is the only private, non-tribal community college in the state of South Dakota. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Students from a variety of educational backgrounds come to Kilian Community College for its certificate programs or two-year degree programs. Those who wish to further their education can look into four-year degree options for transfer or the baccalaureate through distance learning program.
• Colorado Technical University – Sioux Falls. Colorado Technical University is a for-profit university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. With five campuses in three states, this university offers students the opportunity to receive a career-oriented education both in the classroom and online. The Sioux Fall campus offers associate, bachelor's and master's degree programs in various industries through a combination of online and on-ground classes.
• Globe University – Sioux Falls. Founded as Globe College in 1885, this school started out providing students with a practical education in the field of business. Today, along with business and accounting, Globe University offers degree programs in healthcare, veterinary technology, information technology, legal science, and creative media. With over 20 campuses in the Upper Midwest and an online division, students all over the country can receive career training at the post-secondary level. The Sioux Falls campus offers master’s, bachelor’s, and associate degree and diploma programs which can be completed through daytime, evening, or online classes.
• Southeast Technical Institute. This two-year, public institution provides a career-focused education through 51 programs ranging from business and communications to horticulture technology. Students attending this institute can earn an Associate in Applied Science degree, diploma, or certificate, as well as explore bachelor's degree transfer options. Southeast Technical Institute also offers flexible degree options through its evening programs and online programs in the areas of business administration, accounting, computer programming, insurance, and financial services.
• National American University. National American University is a for-profit, private university that offers degree programs in in-demand industries, such as business, healthcare, legal studies, and information technology. Designed for the working adult, this institution provides flexible scheduling through day, evening, and weekend classes, as well as classes that can be completed entirely online. With locations in more than 10 states, the Sioux Falls location has degree programs in business, paralegal studies, and information technology, along with several allied health programs.

Brookings. Brookings is the fourth largest city in South Dakota, with a population of 22,056, as of the 2010 U.S. Census. Even though it's not the largest city by population, it is home to the state's largest university, South Dakota State University, as well as many of the state's top manufacturers. Students and residents alike enjoy the benefits of living in this community with its great business resources, unique culture, and positive job growth.

• South Dakota State University. The largest university in the state, South Dakota State University is one of the six public universities governed by the South Dakota Board of Regents. Students at this flagship research institution can choose from 175 fields of study, including 29 master’s degree programs, 12 Ph.D. programs, and two professional doctoral programs. Along with its campus offerings, SDSU provides distance learning options through online programs for minors, certificate programs, and undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Vermillion. Located in southeast North Dakota, Vermillion has a population of around 10,000. Even though this town might be small, there is plenty to see and do with regular community events, several historical sites, and a unique downtown area. But what Vermillion may be best known for is the state's first institution of higher education, the University of South Dakota, which makes it home here.

• University of South Dakota. Founded in 1862, the University of South Dakota is the oldest in the state. Over the years, it has grown into a major liberal arts university which hosts the only law and medical school in the state. Here, undergraduate students can choose from 134 programs, while graduate students have their choice of 62 programs. Students looking for an alternative to campus life can pursue off-campus and distance programs in business, arts and sciences, health sciences, and education.