By BVS Staff
Welcome to our best value ranking of online colleges in South Dakota.
For a rural, sparsely populated state, South Dakota has a surprisingly strong selection of four-year colleges and universities (nearly 30 in all). Unfortunately, the number of online undergraduate programs available through these schools is not nearly as large. But although the pool of choices may be small, nontraditional students in South Dakota will surely find what they're looking for at one of the 4 "best value" schools listed below. These top 4 colleges all earned at least 75 points (out of 100) in our ranking.
Methodology
Click here to read all about our best value online schools ranking methodology, or check out our overall assessment of colleges with cheap online degrees.
4. Northern State University
Aberdeen, SD
As the most affordable school on this South Dakota top online colleges ranking, Northern State is already an attractive option — but it certainly doesn't hurt that the school has a solid selection of fully online degree programs. The options skew towards business, and popular degrees like the BS in Professional Accountancy and BS taking center stage. But participants in all programs can benefit from Northern's highly qualified faculty, who pride themselves on being available by phone or email whenever their students need help. As an added bonus, distance learners are even eligible to participate in the school's study abroad programs (if their schedules allow it, of course!).
In-State Undergrad Tuition: $7,887/yr
Score: 77
3. Dakota State University
Madison, SD
Nearly half of DSU's students qualify as distance learners, and for good reason: the school is committed to offering a top-notch education to both online and on-campus learners. Above all, instructors strive to provide a collaborative experience for every individual. They will even let online students tune in to live lectures as they're teaching on campus. As a result, remote learners at this online school in South Dakota can connect directly with classmates and add a little more reality to their virtual experience. And with undergraduate programs ranging from cyber operations to health information administration to marketing, most applicants should find a program that fits within their preferred field of study.
In-State Undergrad Tuition: $7,974/yr
Score: 84
2. University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD
Although USD offers online degrees in many departments, the options from the school of health sciences are particularly attractive. Few schools offer such career-focused, health-related online college courses in South Dakota. Besides the RN to BSN program, undergrads can earn a Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies, Health Science, or Dental Hygiene. The Health Science degree is a great option for undecided students because it does not require them to narrow their focus to a single career option. But regardless of their field of study, online learners enjoy the USD's full support, thanks to a comprehensive range of student services and web-based resources.
In-State Undergrad Tuition: $8,457/yr
Score: 98
1. South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD
Thanks to its affordable tuition rate, SDSU narrowly slides into first on this South Dakota best online degrees ranking. In addition to targeted degree programs with a clear occupational focus (such as Geography and Medical Laboratory Science), South Dakota State also offers a Bachelor of General Studies. This popular option provides an avenue by which undergrads can obtain a uniquely personalized education. Choosing from a number of focus areas, program members create a course load that matches their career goals. On top of their already customized curriculum, students can expand their horizons by selecting one of the university's many online minors. For example, a Health Sciences major might go for a minor in Gerontology to both strengthen and broaden their career options.
In-State Undergrad Tuition: $8,172/yr
Score: 100
What did you think of these top online degrees in South Dakota?
See also: 8 Best Value Colleges and Universities in South Dakota
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