South Dakota regents approve new AI degrees at DSU and SDSU

South Dakota’s Board of Regents has approved four new AI-focused degree programs at the state’s public universities, expanding academic pathways tied to AI education, research, workforce development and responsible technology use.

Dakota State University will add a doctoral degree in Artificial Intelligence focused on advanced research in areas including autonomous systems, cybersecurity and intelligent infrastructure, supported by partnerships with industry and government.

South Dakota State University will offer bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in Artificial Intelligence Engineering. The programs will combine computer science, engineering, mathematics, machine learning and responsible AI practices, with hands-on work developing intelligent systems for sectors such as agriculture, healthcare and manufacturing.

The Board of Regents said the new programs are expected to begin accepting students this fall as South Dakota prepares graduates for careers in a growing AI-driven economy.