The South Dakota Board of Regents is proposing a $1 million ongoing investment to establish a new Center for National Defense.

The center would be a collaborative effort between Dakota State University, Black Hills State University and South Dakota Mines, designed to prepare students for careers in some of the nation’s fastest-growing industries.

The initiative would include a new Bachelor of Science in National Defense Studies, along with educational opportunities in defense acquisition, logistics, cybersecurity, engineering and emerging technologies.

Students could also gain real-world experience through internships, fellowships, industry certifications and applied research with defense and government partners.

Board of Regents Executive Director Nathan Lukkes says the partnership will help prepare graduates for careers in national defense while strengthening South Dakota’s workforce and economy.

The center is also intended to support strategic assets including Ellsworth Air Force Base, the South Dakota National Guard, defense contractors and the state’s growing defense and technology sectors.

The investment is part of the Board of Regents’ FY28 budget proposal and would require approval from state lawmakers.