Dakota State University and Northern State University have entered into a series of partnership agreements designed to create new and streamlined educational pathways for students seeking degrees in criminal justice and cybersecurity. The agreements — which include a dual degree program and an accelerated master’s option — open doors for students at both institutions to earn credentials from two of South Dakota’s leading universities without duplicating coursework or time.

Students enrolled in NSU’s Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice can concurrently pursue a Bachelor of Science from DSU in either:

•         Cyber Leadership and Intelligence

•         Network and Security Administration

NSU students will also have a streamlined 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.

Prospective students interested in the dual degree or accelerated master’s programs are encouraged to contact their academic advisor at their home institutions, either NSU or DSU.