DICKINSON, N.D. — August 4, 2026 — Fueling regional workforce development and academic innovation, Dickinson State University (DSU) has announced the addition of 21 new academic programs. Designed to meet the demands of industry and regional growth, the vast majority of these highly tailored undergraduate, graduate, certificate, and collaborative programs are scheduled to launch in the fall 2026 semester.
As a dual-mission institution, DSU’s new offerings span critical sectors including business technology, computer sciences, healthcare, emergency services, and agricultural education. By delivering flexible, market-driven options, the university aims to serve traditional students and adult learners alike.
"This academic expansion reflects our commitment to bridging the gap between classroom education and corporate strategy," said Holly Gruhlke, DSU Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. "From preparing secondary educators to equipping tech professionals to defend against AI-driven cyber threats, we are providing the practical skills necessary for our graduates to thrive immediately in a data-driven global economy".
A Diverse Array of Cutting-Edge Disciplines
The new academic expansion introduces highly sophisticated technological and business options. Positioned at the cutting edge of modern technology, the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence prepares students to defend digital assets while leveraging machine learning. For students looking to bridge corporate strategy and data science, the Bachelor of Science in Business Data Analytics equips graduates to translate complex datasets into actionable business intelligence. In the business sector, students can also pursue a 120-credit Bachelor of Business Administration in Digital Marketing or choose between a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Certificate in Financial Technology (FinTech), which integrates finance and data analytics with emerging innovations such as blockchain.
The university is also substantially bolstering its healthcare, emergency services, and public safety portfolios. DSU is introducing a traditional pathway Bachelor of Science in Nursing alongside a fast-track Licensed Practical Nursing Certificate to prepare students for critical bedside care and national licensing examinations. Furthermore, pending Higher Learning Commission approval, a full suite of Emergency Medical Services programs is launching, including a Paramedic Certificate, an Associate of Applied Science in Paramedic Science, and a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Services. These health initiatives are complemented by a Bachelor of Applied Science in Fire Science, which provides advanced leadership and management training for supervisory roles in fire services.
In addition to technology and healthcare, DSU is expanding opportunities in media, sports business, graduate studies, and accelerated professional paths. Students can hone overall communication competencies through an Associate of Arts or a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Communication. Those interested in the sports industry can enroll in a Bachelor of Business Administration in Sports Marketing or a hands-on Sports Production and Broadcasting Certificate. For advanced professionals, DSU now offers an 18-credit Applied Performance and Health Graduate Certificate. Finally, targeted for fall 2026 are a Bachelor of Science in Education in Agriculture Education, a General Studies Certificate to support early university high school pathways, and has plans for piloting an accelerated, 90-credit Management BAS designed for maximum credit efficiency upon accreditation approval.
Collaborative and Dual-Mission Impact
Beyond standalone degrees, DSU is reinforcing its commitment to collaborative partnerships across the North Dakota University System. New agreements with Williston State College provide local co-matriculation options for business and criminal justice majors. Furthermore, a partnership with North Dakota State University introduces health science graduate pathways, including a chemistry to Pharmacy Doctorate track and a Nurse Practitioner track, allowing students to complete advanced graduate studies without having to leave Dickinson. DSU also offers opportunities to study engineering through collaborative options with the University of North Dakota.
High school students will also benefit from DSU’s unique Early University program, which makes it the only school in the system to allow students to declare academic pathways while still in high school. This initiative will be further enhanced by the new General Studies Certificate, which helps guide students who are still determining their definitive career paths.
Prospective students looking to enroll in these forward-thinking programs are encouraged to visit the university’s admissions website at dickinsonstate.edu/apply.