Dickinson State University (DSU) has been awarded $1 million in North Dakota Workforce Innovation Education Funds (WIEF) to establish two high-demand academic programs: a Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) and a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (BS-CSAI).
Both programs are designed to meet pressing workforce needs across the state, producing highly qualified graduates ready to enter critical roles in health care, education and technology. Following curriculum development and regional accreditation, the programs are expected to enroll their first students in the 2026–27 academic year.
“This funding represents a major investment in both the future of our students and the workforce needs of North Dakota,” said Scott Molander, president of Dickinson State University. “By building programs that respond directly to industry demand, we’re not just educating—we’re fueling the economic and community vitality of our region.”
Meeting urgent workforce needs
The MSAT program will address a shortage of certified athletic trainers in North Dakota, where more than 200 positions go unfilled annually, particularly in rural areas. Graduates will be prepared to work in schools, clinics, hospitals and sports organizations, supporting injury prevention, rehabilitation and emergency care.
“Students are eager for an athletic training education program in western North Dakota,” said Ann Wittkopp, program director for athletic training education. “By offering this program at DSU, we will make this career path accessible to students who might not otherwise pursue it—and that means more skilled athletic trainers serving in our communities.”
The BS-CSAI program will combine cutting-edge instruction in network security, ethical hacking, AI programming and threat detection. Students are expected to train in an air-gapped, RF-shielded cybersecurity lab, gaining hands-on experience with real-world security and AI tools.
“Cybersecurity and AI aren’t just the future—they’re the present, and the demand for trained professionals is skyrocketing,” said Md Miah, newly hired computer science faculty member. “Our graduates will be ready to protect digital systems, deploy AI responsibly, and innovate in industries from health care to agriculture.”
Industry and community impact
Both programs will be built in close partnership with employers, ensuring curriculum reflects current and emerging workforce needs. Local hospitals, clinics, IT firms and public agencies will provide internships, clinical placements and advisory support.
“Collaboration with industry partners is at the heart of these initiatives,” said Liz Freedman, dean of applied sciences. “Whether in health care or technology, our students will graduate with direct experience, making them career-ready on day one.”
Positioning DSU as a regional leader
The $1 million investment will support faculty recruitment, specialized equipment and program accreditation. The MSAT will be housed within DSU’s health sciences, while the BS-CSAI will expand the university’s growing STEM offerings through the School of Applied Sciences.
“These programs reflect DSU’s mission to serve as a driver of workforce development in western North Dakota,” said Holly Gruhlke, vice president for academic affairs/provost. “They also open the door to meaningful careers for our students while addressing critical shortages in our state’s workforce.”
By investing in programs that address urgent industry needs, DSU is not only preparing students for high-demand careers but also strengthening the economic resilience of the region. The launch of the MSAT and BS-CSAI will position the university as a key contributor to North Dakota’s future, developing the talent, innovation and partnerships that keep communities thriving.