University campus in South Dakota
Updated January 2026

Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Dakota — 2026 Rankings

Compare the top data analytics colleges in South Dakota. 3 accredited data analytics schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value—from South Dakota State University to South Dakota State University.

#1 ProgramSouth Dakota State
Avg Salary$84,320
Tuition From$7,773/yr
Job Growth+22%

Key Takeaways

Best data analytics degree programs: South Dakota State, Dakota State,

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2023

Tuition ranges from $7,616 to $38,150/year

South Dakota State offers the most affordable option at $7,773/yr

IPEDS 2023

Data Analytics degree programs available: 1 associate's, 2 master's in South Dakota

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2023

South Dakota community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

1 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: Raven Industries, Daktronics, First Premier Bank, Sanford Health

Tech hubs in Sioux Falls and Rapid City

Hakia Research 2026

Data Analytics degree programs near 15+ cities across South Dakota

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2023

Updated February 2026

On This Page
$84,320
Are Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Dakota Worth It?
Yes. The best data analytics degree programs in South Dakota deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $84,320 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $17,846/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in South Dakota, 2026

2
Programs
$84,320
Median Salary
$7,695/yr
Avg Tuition
96%
Avg Grad Rate

Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology

Program Landscape

South Dakota ranks among the nation's top destinations for data analytics education, with 2 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are South Dakota State, Dakota State, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from South Dakota data analytics programs earn a median salary of $71,672—27% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Raven Industries, Daktronics, First Premier Bank.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $7,616 to $7,773 annually, with an average of $7,695/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 96%, with the highest reaching 100%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to South Dakota's leading technology employers. For students seeking data analytics degrees in South Dakota, these top-ranked data analytics schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

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South Dakota State University

Public
Brookings, SD
$7,773
Tuition/yr
$259
Per Credit
100%
Grad Rate
71.7
Score
Website
🥈

Dakota State University

PublicNSA CAE
Madison, SD
$7,616
Tuition/yr
$254
Per Credit
93%
Grad Rate
42.7
Score
Website

Best Data Analytics Master's Programs in South Dakota, 2026

2
Programs
$84,320
Median Salary
$22,962/yr
Avg Tuition
100%
Avg Grad Rate

Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology

Program Landscape

South Dakota offers 2 master's degree programs in data analytics, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—South Dakota State, Augustana—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in South Dakota earn a median salary of $84,320, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Raven Industries, Daktronics, First Premier Bank actively recruiting from these programs.

Costs & Value

Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $22,962/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.

Curriculum & Specializations

Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among South Dakota's data analytics schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

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South Dakota State University

Public
Brookings, SD
$7,773
Tuition/yr
$259
Per Credit
100%
Grad Rate
71.7
Score
Website
🥈

Augustana University

Private
Sioux Falls, SD
$38,150
Tuition/yr
$560
Per Credit
55.9
Score
Website

Best Data Analytics Associate's Programs in South Dakota, 2026

1
Programs
$84,320
Median Salary
$7,773/yr
Avg Tuition
100%
Avg Grad Rate

Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology

Program Landscape

South Dakota offers 1 accredited associate's degree programs in data analytics, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include South Dakota State, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in South Dakota offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $7,773/yr—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $46,376 in South Dakota.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with South Dakota's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Raven Industries, Daktronics, First Premier Bank hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.

Curriculum & Specializations

Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among data analytics schools in South Dakota, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their data analytics degrees in South Dakota.

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South Dakota State University

Public
Brookings, SD
$7,773
Tuition/yr
$259
Per Credit
100%
Grad Rate
66.9
Score
Website

Complete Data Analytics Degree Program Rankings in South Dakota

Best Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Dakota

### Program Landscape South Dakota offers **1 accredited** associate's degree programs in data analytics, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **South Dakota State**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training. ### Costs & Value Community colleges in South Dakota offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$7,773/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$46,376** in South Dakota. ### Career Pathways Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with South Dakota's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Raven Industries, Daktronics, First Premier Bank hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions. ### Curriculum & Specializations Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among data analytics schools in South Dakota, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their data analytics degrees in South Dakota.

  1. #1. South Dakota State University

    Hakia ranks South Dakota State University as the #1 associate's in data analytics degree program in South Dakota. This public institution in Brookings, SD has annual tuition of $7,773 ($259/credit) and a 100% graduation rate. Ranking score: 66.9.

Best Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Dakota

### Program Landscape South Dakota ranks among the nation's top destinations for data analytics education, with **2 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **2 public** and **0 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **South Dakota State**, **Dakota State**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections. ### Career Outcomes Graduates from South Dakota data analytics programs earn a median salary of **$71,672**—27% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Raven Industries, Daktronics, First Premier Bank. ### Costs & Value Tuition ranges from **$7,616** to **$7,773** annually, with an average of **$7,695/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **96%**, with the highest reaching **100%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards. ### Curriculum & Specializations Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to South Dakota's leading technology employers. For students seeking data analytics degrees in South Dakota, these top-ranked data analytics schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

  1. #1. South Dakota State University

    Hakia ranks South Dakota State University as the #1 bachelor's in data analytics degree program in South Dakota. This public institution in Brookings, SD has annual tuition of $7,773 ($259/credit) and a 100% graduation rate. Ranking score: 71.7.

  2. #2. Dakota State University

    Hakia ranks Dakota State University as the #2 bachelor's in data analytics degree program in South Dakota. This public institution in Madison, SD has annual tuition of $7,616 ($254/credit) and a 93% graduation rate. Ranking score: 42.7. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE, CAE-R.

    Watch: Dakota State University Campus Tour

Best Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Dakota

### Program Landscape South Dakota offers **2** master's degree programs in data analytics, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**South Dakota State**, **Augustana**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development. ### Career Outcomes Master's graduates in South Dakota earn a median salary of **$84,320**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Raven Industries, Daktronics, First Premier Bank actively recruiting from these programs. ### Costs & Value Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$22,962/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals. ### Curriculum & Specializations Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among South Dakota's data analytics schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

  1. #1. South Dakota State University

    Hakia ranks South Dakota State University as the #1 master's in data analytics degree program in South Dakota. This public institution in Brookings, SD has annual tuition of $7,773 ($259/credit) and a 100% graduation rate. Ranking score: 71.7.

  2. #2. Augustana University

    Hakia ranks Augustana University as the #2 master's in data analytics degree program in South Dakota. This private institution in Sioux Falls, SD has annual tuition of $38,150 ($560/credit). Ranking score: 55.9.

Data Analytics Degree Costs & Tuition in South Dakota

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$17,846/year
Average out-of-state tuition$44,615/year
Community college tuition$4,462/year
4-year savings for residents$107,076
2+2 transfer pathway savings$26,768

Source: IPEDS 2023

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Analytics Students in South Dakota

State Aid Programs

South Dakota students pursuing data analytics degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways designed to reduce the cost of higher education. The primary federal mechanism is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available through Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study programs. Additionally, South Dakota offers the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship, a merit-based award specifically for South Dakota high school graduates attending eligible institutions (South Dakota Board of Regents). This state-level support complements federal assistance and can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for qualifying students.

Key Programs & Amounts

Beyond federal and state grants, individual institutions offer institutional scholarships and assistantships. South Dakota's public universities, including South Dakota State University and the University of South Dakota, frequently provide department-specific scholarships for data analytics majors. The state's lack of income tax represents an additional financial advantage for residents and graduates, allowing more discretionary income for loan repayment or further education. Students should explore all available funding through the College Scorecard tool to compare net price and aid packages across schools. For more information on state-specific opportunities, consult the South Dakota Board of Regents website, which maintains current scholarship listings and links to related programs.

Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator — South Dakota

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data analytics degree in South Dakota. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a data analytics degree
$

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+907%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,677,254

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$133,333

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return4.9%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Data Analytics Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in South Dakota metro areas

Hakia.com
View data table
Categoryvalue
Sioux Falls$93K
Rapid City$89K
Aberdeen$84K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Data Analytics Graduates in South Dakota

Find data analytics jobs in South Dakota. These major employers across South Dakota metro areas are actively hiring data analytics degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Data Analytics Jobs in Sioux Falls

SD
Raven Industries
tech
Citibank
finance
SDN Communications
telecom
Sanford Health
healthcare

Data Analytics Jobs in Rapid City

SD
Ellsworth Air Force Base
military
Black Hills Corporation
energy

Transfer Pathways for Data Analytics Degrees in South Dakota

State Transfer System

South Dakota's transfer system is designed to help seamless movement of students between institutions. The SD Board of Regents Transfer Policy ensures that courses completed at any public institution are recognized and counted toward degrees at other public universities in the system. This framework is particularly valuable for students beginning their analytics education at one of South Dakota's 7 two-year institutions, including community colleges offering the 1 associate's degree in data analytics. Students can complete general education and foundational coursework at lower cost before transferring to a four-year university to complete specialized analytics coursework.

How Transfers Work

Transfer pathways allow students to benefit from South Dakota's affordable public tuition structure while progressively building toward advanced degrees. A student might begin with an associate's degree at a two-year institution, then transfer to Dakota State University or South Dakota State University to complete a bachelor's degree, and finally pursue a master's at the University of South Dakota. The state's commitment to transfer accessibility means credits earned at any public institution count toward graduation requirements. For more information on financial aid for transfer students, visit Federal Student Aid. Related programs in data science, database management, and information systems follow similar transfer protocols.

Why Pursue a Data Analytics Degree in South Dakota?

Industry & Workforce

South Dakota offers a growing landscape for data analytics education with 7 institutions currently offering programs at various degree levels (IPEDS). The state's public four-year universities maintain an average in-state tuition of just $6,250, making it an affordable option for students pursuing analytics credentials. South Dakota's lack of state income tax provides an additional financial advantage for graduates building careers in the state, particularly with major employers like Sanford Health, Avera Health, and Hy-Vee expanding their data-driven operations.

Salary Outlook

South Dakota State University leads the state with 51 completions across all degree levels, demonstrating strong program maturity and student outcomes. The state's tech hubs in Sioux Falls and Rapid City are increasingly attracting data-focused companies seeking analytics talent. Whether you're pursuing a bachelor's degree at one of the top-ranked programs or exploring online education options, South Dakota institutions deliver quality education at competitive costs. For context on comparable programs nationwide, explore how South Dakota's offerings stack up against data analytics programs in California, Texas, and New York.

$0 State Income Tax
South Dakota Take-Home Pay Advantage
South Dakota has no state income tax. At the median data analytics salary of $84,320, that keeps roughly $4,216 more in your pocket annually compared to states with a 5% income tax rate.

Source: South Dakota Department of Revenue

Data Analytics Job Market & Salary Data in South Dakota

Employment Outlook

South Dakota's data analytics job market is experiencing steady growth, supported by a diverse employer base across healthcare, retail, and financial services sectors. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the state offers competitive opportunities for analytics professionals in major metropolitan areas including Sioux Falls and Rapid City. The Sioux Falls metro area serves as the primary hub for data analytics employment, home to regional headquarters of major corporations and healthcare systems. Job growth in analytics-related fields reflects broader national trends, with positions requiring data interpretation and business intelligence skills in particularly high demand across South Dakota's largest employers.

Salaries by Metro

The state's educational pipeline supports this job market through 7 institutions offering data analytics programs at various degree levels, from associate's through master's degrees (IPEDS Program Data). South Dakota's lack of state income tax provides a significant financial advantage for data analytics professionals, enhancing total compensation packages compared to neighboring states. Career advancement opportunities exist in both established metros and emerging regional tech clusters throughout East River and West River regions. Graduates from programs like those at South Dakota State University and University of South Dakota find strong placement rates within state, positioning South Dakota as an increasingly attractive destination for analytics talent seeking lower cost of living and quality employment opportunities.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in South Dakota$54,808$122,264
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Data Analytics Programs in South Dakota

Online Programs

0 available in South Dakota

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$16,061/yr$17,846/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)

Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Other States

StateTotal ProgramsMedian TuitionTop Program
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in California19$11,834University of Southern California
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Texas16$30,694The University of Texas at Dallas
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in New York17$45,450New York University
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Florida13$4,640University of Florida
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Washington8$11,524University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Massachusetts12$59,750Bridgewater State University
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Illinois21$36,950University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Georgia4$33,080Emory University

Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Dakota: FAQ

How We Rank Data Analytics Degree Programs

Based on 3 programs from IPEDS 2023

We analyzed 3 data analytics degree programs in South Dakota using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.

Graduation Rate25%

Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

Regional salary data for data analytics graduates. South Dakota median salary of $84,320 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

  • IPEDS 2023 — Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024 — State and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code Mapping — Programs identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources

IPEDS 2023

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

BLS OEWS May 2024

South Dakota salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: February 22, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.

Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Dakota — Detailed School Profiles

Best Associate's Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Dakota

South Dakota State University — Brookings, SD

Key Distinction: SDSU's analytics program uniquely combines rigorous statistical training with applied projects in agriculture and regional industry, preparing graduates for specialized analytics roles rather than generic data science positions.

Hakia Insight: SDSU's agricultural specialization isn't a limitation—it's a concentration advantage; graduates emerge with domain expertise in a sector where John Deere and Raven Industries actively recruit analytics talent, positioning them for faster advancement than generalists entering the same companies.

At the associate's level, SDSU's data analytics program distinguishes itself through a curriculum that bridges classical statistics with modern machine learning, designed specifically for students who want hands-on problem-solving from day one. The program emphasizes applied analytics across agriculture, engineering, and business domains—reflecting the university's land-grant mission and regional economic priorities. Students engage with real datasets from industry partners and university research centers, building portfolios in predictive modeling, data visualization, and business intelligence tools (Python, R, SQL, Tableau) rather than concentrating solely on theory. The faculty bring expertise in statistical computing and data-driven decision-making, with particular strength in agricultural data science and environmental analytics. A key advantage is the close integration with SDSU's research infrastructure: undergraduates and master's students work alongside faculty on funded projects, gaining credentials that employers recognize. Career outcomes reflect strong placement in the Upper Midwest tech sector, agribusiness analytics roles, and Fortune 500 companies seeking domain expertise. Graduates report that the program's emphasis on communication skills—presenting findings to non-technical stakeholders—set them apart in interviews. The relatively small cohort size means personalized advising and mentorship, a contrast to larger programs where students can feel like numbers.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Data Analytics — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Data Analytics — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • North Central Sun Grant Center
Industry Partners
  • John Deere (corporate)
  • Raven Industries (corporate)
  • POET LLC (corporate)
Notable Faculty
  • null — Agricultural data science

Location Advantages: Access to Midwest agribusiness headquarters and agricultural technology companiesProximity to regional Fortune 500 operations (finance, manufacturing, technology)

Best Bachelor's Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Dakota

South Dakota State University — Brookings, SD

Key Distinction: Internship opportunities with industry partners including CAPITAL Card Services, Daktronics, Midland National Life, Premier Bankcard, and Sanford Health. Math Club and extracurricular organizations for professional development

Hakia Insight: SDSU's partnership with Fortune 500 regional operations (CAPITAL Card, Daktronics, Sanford Health) means internships aren't abstract networking—they're pathways into mature analytics teams where entry-level hiring is predictable and compensation competitive with larger tech hubs.

The Bachelor of Science in Data Science at South Dakota State University prepares students to leverage mathematics, statistics, and computational tools to analyze diverse datasets and communicate findings that drive organizational and societal decisions. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical application, enabling graduates to pursue immediate professional opportunities in data science, analytics, and statistics, or advance to graduate study in data science or related fields. Students develop skills applicable across industries including finance, healthcare, technology, and government. The program emphasizes problem-solving and analytical thinking through coursework integrating mathematics, statistics, and computational methods. Graduates have secured positions at major employers including Amazon, Microsoft, Mayo Clinic, and Sanford Health. Internship opportunities are available through partnerships with organizations such as Daktronics, Premier Bankcard, and Midland National Life, providing hands-on experience in data analysis and business applications.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • North Central Sun Grant Center
Industry Partners
  • John Deere (corporate)
  • Raven Industries (corporate)
  • POET LLC (corporate)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Amazon, Microsoft.

Notable Faculty
  • null — Agricultural data science

Location Advantages: Access to Midwest agribusiness headquarters and agricultural technology companiesProximity to regional Fortune 500 operations (finance, manufacturing, technology)

Dakota State University — Madison, SD

Key Distinction: DSU's analytics program uniquely integrates data privacy, security, and governance into core curriculum, positioning graduates as analytics professionals who understand regulated industries and secure data environments.

Hakia Insight: Dakota State embeds data privacy, security, and governance into analytics coursework rather than treating them as compliance footnotes—a rare differentiator that directly prepares graduates for the regulated industries (healthcare, finance, government) where 60%+ of analytics hiring occurs.

At the bachelor's level, dakota State has built its data analytics offerings within a broader cybersecurity and technology ecosystem, making it an uncommon pipeline for students who want to understand how data protection intersects with analytics. The program emphasizes secure data handling, privacy-aware analytics, and ethical decision-making—topics most analytics programs treat as afterthoughts. Curriculum includes foundational coursework in data management, statistical analysis, and business intelligence alongside dedicated modules on data governance, compliance, and secure analytics architectures. This positioning is particularly valuable in regulated industries (healthcare, finance, government) where employers actively seek analysts who understand HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and data residency requirements. DSU's location in Madison, South Dakota, provides unexpected advantages: the university has established partnerships with federal agencies and state government IT operations, creating internship and employment pipelines in government analytics roles. Faculty expertise leans toward applied analytics in controlled environments and mission-critical systems. The student experience tends to be collaborative and intimate; the program attracts students serious about analytics rather than those treating it as a backup option. Graduates report strong placement in government contractor roles, cybersecurity-adjacent analytics positions, and enterprises with stringent compliance requirements—a niche that commands premium salaries and job security.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Data Analytics — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Business Analytics Research (CBAR)
  • Center for Advancement of Health IT (CAHIT)
  • Madison Cyber Labs (MadLabs)
  • AI Lab
Industry Partners
  • South Dakota State Government (IT Services Division) (government)
  • Department of Defense (STEM education partnerships) (government)
  • SAS (partner)
  • IBM (partner)
  • EMC2 (partner)
  • Regional Banks (partner)
  • Insurance Firms (partner)
  • Healthcare Organizations (partner)
  • FBI (collaborator)
  • Department of Homeland Security (collaborator)
  • NSA (collaborator)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $NaN.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. David Zeng — Information Systems and Business Analytics
  • Dr. Patti Brooks — Health Informatics and Healthcare Data Analytics
  • Dr. Omar El-Gayar — Information Systems and Analytics
  • Dr. Abeer Alkhwaldi — Information Systems
  • Dr. Mark Spanier — Emerging Technologies and AI
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ACBSP
  • Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense
  • Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations
  • Center of Academic Excellence in Research

Location Advantages: Proximity to South Dakota state government IT operationsAccess to federal cybersecurity and data governance partnershipsRegional government contractor presence

Best Master's Data Analytics Degree Programs in South Dakota

South Dakota State University — Brookings, SD

Key Distinction: One-year accelerated completion format. Graduate assistantships available

Hakia Insight: SDSU's one-year format with graduate assistantships available creates an economic advantage for working professionals: compress tuition and opportunity costs into 12 months while earning support, then re-enter the job market with a credential and retained income.

The M.S. in Data Science at South Dakota State University is a one-year, intensive program designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in data-driven fields. The program provides statistical, mathematical, and computational skills to address large-scale data science challenges. Students gain expertise applicable across business, government, and society. Graduate assistantships are available to support qualified candidates. The program prepares graduates for roles as data scientists, predictive analysts, statisticians, and financial/business analysts—positions typically commanding significant salary premiums over bachelor's-level roles. The accelerated one-year format allows professionals to minimize time away from the workforce while gaining competitive credentials valued by Fortune 500 companies and mid-market employers alike.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • North Central Sun Grant Center
Industry Partners
  • John Deere (corporate)
  • Raven Industries (corporate)
  • POET LLC (corporate)
Notable Faculty
  • null — Agricultural data science

Location Advantages: Access to Midwest agribusiness headquarters and agricultural technology companiesProximity to regional Fortune 500 operations (finance, manufacturing, technology)

Augustana University — Sioux Falls, SD

Key Distinction: Liberal arts-grounded analytics program emphasizing ethical data use, interdisciplinary collaboration, and social impact alongside technical competency.

Hakia Insight: Augustana's liberal arts DNA in a master's program means ethics, bias, and social impact aren't electives but core to how analytics is taught—positioning graduates to lead at companies increasingly expected to address algorithmic fairness and responsible data use.

At the master's level, augustana's data analytics offering uniquely combines liberal arts breadth with technical specialization, allowing students to contextualize quantitative methods within broader domains—social impact, policy analysis, and ethical data use. The program leverages Augustana's strength in interdisciplinary collaboration, where analytics students work alongside peers in business, sciences, and humanities on integrated projects. Faculty emphasize not just how to analyze data, but critical thinking about *what* questions are worth asking and whose interests data-driven decisions serve. This approach produces graduates who can navigate both the technical and human dimensions of analytics work, making them particularly competitive for roles in nonprofit analytics, public sector data science, and mission-driven organizations.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Data Analytics — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Data Analytics — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • NASA (collaborator)
  • DataSync Corporation (employer)
  • Billion Auto (employer)
  • Citibank (employer)
  • POET (employer)
  • Raven Industries (employer)
  • Pathward (partner)
  • Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center (collaborator)
  • Apple (employer)
  • Google (employer)
  • CORE Molding Technologies (employer)
  • Diamond Mowers (employer)
  • Spidreye (employer)
  • South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (collaborator)
  • University of Nebraska-Lincoln (collaborator)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $NaN.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Marcia Entwistle — Computer Science Department Chair
  • Dr. Carrie Olson-Manning — Biology Department, Bioinformatics program contact

Location Advantages: 61% of graduates retained in South Dakota55% working in Sioux Falls areaAccess to regional tech companies