Dakota State University

Madison, United States of America

Dakota State University (DSU), established in 1881 in Madison, South Dakota, is a public university renowned for its focus on technology and cyber defense education. It combines strong academic traditions with innovative programs designed to prepare students for the demands of the digital era.
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Tuition Fees, Cost of Living & Accommodation at Dakota State University

Cost Of Living

$ 23574

Undergraduate Fees International Students

$ 25906

Post Graduate Fees International Students

$ 38970

Bachelors

  • $ 25906
  • $ 25906
  • $ 25906
  • $ 25906
  • $ 25906

Dakota State University Departments

  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • College of Business and Information Systems
  • College of Education
  • Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences
  • Department of Mechanical Engineering
  • Department of Business Administration
  • Department of Chemistry
  • Department of Political Science
  • Department of Biological Sciences
  • Department of Political Science

Distinguished Alumni of Dakota State University

Step-by-Step Guide to Admission Requirements at Dakota State University

Official High School Transcripts / Academic Records

DSU requires official transcripts or academic records from your high school or equivalent education. These documents verify your completion of secondary education and demonstrate your academic performance. For international students, transcripts must be translated into English and evaluated for equivalency. Admissions committees use these records to ensure you meet the minimum GPA and prerequisite course requirements for your chosen program.

2. Standardized Test Scores (Optional / If Required)

Depending on the program, DSU may require SAT or ACT scores. These standardized test scores provide an additional measure of your academic readiness for college-level coursework. Some programs may waive this requirement based on prior academic performance or other qualifications.

3. Letters of Recommendation

DSU may request 1–2 recommendation letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors who can speak to your academic abilities, character, and readiness for college. These letters provide insight into your potential for success in a university environment and your engagement in extracurricular or leadership activities.

4. Personal Statement / Essay

A personal statement or essay is required to understand your motivations for pursuing a bachelor’s degree at DSU. It should reflect your academic interests, career aspirations, and how you plan to contribute to the campus community. This document helps the admissions team gauge your commitment, communication skills, and alignment with DSU’s values.

5. Proof of English Proficiency (For International Students)

International applicants must submit proof of English language proficiency through tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test. This ensures students can effectively participate in lectures, assignments, and campus activities in an English-speaking academic environment.

6. Completed Application Form & Application Fee

A completed application form along with the required application fee is necessary to formally apply to DSU. The application collects personal details, academic history, and program preferences, serving as the primary document for processing your admission request.

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Dakota State University Corporate Partnership

  • Sanford Health Description : DSU and Sanford Health have formed the CyberHealth Strategic Alliance to pioneer innovations in cyberhealth, focusing on talent acquisition, collaborative research, and the development of a state-of-the-art healthcare technology and cybersecurity operations center.
  • National Security Agency (NSA) : Through an Educational Partnership Agreement, DSU collaborates with the NSA to enhance STEM education, providing training, mentoring, and research opportunities for students and faculty in cybersecurity and related fields.
  • SBS CyberSecurity : SBS CyberSecurity has renewed its partnership with DSU, committing $300,000 to support the CybHER program and the SBS Scholarship Endowment, advancing cybersecurity education and promoting diversity in the field.
  • National Cryptologic University : DSU partners with the National Cryptologic University to allow NSA employees to transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree in cyber operations, facilitating advanced education for military and civilian personnel.
  • Center for Business Analytics Research : Through CBAR, DSU collaborates with regional banks, insurance companies, and healthcare firms to provide data analytics solutions, consulting services, and workforce development in business intelligence and analytics.
  • CyberHealth Strategic Alliance : A unique partnership between DSU and Sanford Health, the CyberHealth Strategic Alliance drives cyberhealth innovation and research, creating workforce and economic development opportunities in South Dakota.
  • Applied Research Lab : Set to open in 2026, DSU’s Applied Research Lab in Sioux Falls will serve as a national resource for private and public cybersecurity contractors, fostering collaboration with industry partners to address complex cyber challenges.
  • Madison Cyber Labs : MadLabs® is an advanced hub for research and development at DSU, where the university collaborates with various industries to explore cybersecurity applications, workforce development, and policy improvement across multiple disciplines.
  • CyberCorps Scholarship : DSU runs one of the largest NSF CyberCorps Scholarship for Service programs in the country, with over 100 placed students, preparing graduates for critical roles in national cybersecurity.
  • GenCyber Camps : DSU hosts the largest residential GenCyber camps in the country, offering week-long co-ed camps for 9th to 12th graders, fostering early interest and education in cybersecurity.
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Notable Achievements of Dakota State University

Achievements

01.
Launch of the Applied Research Lab

DSU broke ground on the Applied Research Lab, designed to facilitate high-level research requiring government security clearance. This initiative positions the university as a hub for technological advancements and secure research.

Year
2024
02.
Achievement of Record Enrollment Numbers

DSU reported record enrollment numbers, reflecting the university’s growing reputation and the increasing demand for its technology-focused programs. This milestone underscores DSU’s appeal to students seeking careers in emerging tech fields.

Year
2020
03.
Inauguration of the Paulson Cyber Incubator and Entrepreneurial Center

DSU opened the Paulson Cyber Incubator and Entrepreneurial Center to support startups and entrepreneurs in the cybersecurity sector. The center provides resources, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities to foster innovation and business development.

Year
2019

Explore Programs & Courses at Dakota State University

Program name
Tuition Fees
Deadlines
BBA in Accounting 4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
$19639
(Annual cost)
15th Jun
Advanced Mathematics Graduate Certificate 4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
$19639
(Annual cost)
15th Jun
BS in Analytical Science 4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
$19639
(Annual cost)
15th Jun
Banking Security Graduate Certificate 4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
$19639
(Annual cost)
15th Jun

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