Cyber Security Degrees » Schools by State » South Dakota

One of the top options for pursuing a degree in South Dakota (on campus) is degree at Dakota State University in the general subject of cyber operations.

NSA CAE Designated Institutions for Cyber Security in South Dakota

The CAE designation is a joint effort from the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to accredit institutions that have the best curricula to prepare eventual graduates for their cyber security career.

Dakota State University is the only institution with a campus location in South Dakota that has received recognition from the National Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE) and it holds them in operations, defense, and research. There are other cyber security programs in South Dakota that do not hold this designation (as well as online cyber security degrees).

Online Cyber Security Programs in South Dakota

The Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences at Dakota State University provides an online Cybersecurity Certificate for those that are looking for entry level security positions or preparing for further education in the subject.

Students will be able to interpret vulnerability issues within the IT sector and they will be comfortable with the analytical tools needed to succeed in the profession. The university also has undergraduate programs available online.

Master's in Cyber Security Degrees in South Dakota

Another advanced program through DSU is the Master of Science in Cyber Defense. This curriculum will provide competency in many aspects of cyber security, such as risk assessment, penetration testing, and incident response. They will also gain skills in cryptography and computer forensics, and all of these are divided up into separate courses.

Prior to taking the program, students that do not have an undergraduate degree in a related field will need to take an IT knowledge course. Admission requirements include a Bachelor's degree with a 3.0 cumulative GPA, a personal essay related to cyber security, and GRE scores from the last five years.

Getting Started Working in Cyber Security in South Dakota

As mentioned, Dakota State University is the only institution that is recognized by the CAE in South Dakota, but they have education opportunities at each graduate level.

You might consider online cyber security program or a non CAE designation institution. Be sure to speak with the university's admissions or cyber security department (often the computer science or engineering department) to ensure it is an accredited university with a quality cyber security program.