Dakota State, Northern State University announce degree partnership

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) - Dakota State University and Northern State University have announced a partnership agreement to create new education opportunities for students seeking a degree in criminal justice and cybersecurity.

The agreements include a dual degree program and an accelerated master’s option.

The partnership will begin in spring 2026.

“This partnership reflects the strength of our system and what is possible when our universities work together with a shared focus on student success,” said Dr. Rebecca Hoey, DSU Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. “By aligning programs across Dakota State and Northern, we are creating a seamless pathway for students to earn complementary degrees leading to in-demand careers—without adding time or cost to completion."

The Dual Degree Program will include a B.A. and B.S. degree. Students enrolled in NSU’S Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice and concurrently pursue a Bachelor of Science from DSU in either Cyber Leadership and Intelligence or Network and Security Administration.

The program is designed to be completed in four years. All coursework for both degrees is available fully online.

The accelerated Master’s Program is a 4+1 model. NSU students in the B.A. Criminology and Criminal Justice program will have a path to earn a Master of Science in Cyber Defense with a Security Management and Compliance Specialization from DSU, completing both degrees in approximately five years.

The eligibility requirements include a minimum 3.0 GPA. To learn more about the program, visit Northern State University or Dakota State University’s website.