Dual credit gives South Dakota students a head start at DSU
November 10, 2026
MADISON, S.D. — Before taking courses through Dakota State University’s Governors Cyber Academy, Leo Mosterd had built his own computer but had little experience with coding or cybersecurity.
The online courses gave the Burke High School graduate a way to explore those subjects from home, about three hours from Madison. They also helped him prepare for college.
Mosterd said the credits he earned in high school will put him about halfway through his sophomore year by the end of the semester. Through the Cyber Apprenticeship Pathway, he also earned dual credit at no cost and gained work experience at a bank in his hometown.
DSU’s dual credit program allows eligible South Dakota high school juniors and seniors to take college courses that also count toward their high school diplomas. Courses are offered online, on campus or at a student’s high school. The Governors Cyber Academy gives students the opportunity to explore fields such as computer science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and networking.
Kaitlyn Hilbelink, a first-year DSU student from Chester, South Dakota, said her high school offered few opportunities to study technology. She had an interest in the subject but little experience when a friend told her about the academy.
DSU student Kaitlyn Hilbelink.
“It was scary, but it was also really exciting,” said Hilbelink, who is double majoring in computer science and mathematics. “I felt more prepared, which made it easier. Being able to take those classes made me more confident in knowing I wanted to go to college and I wanted to do it for this.”
The academy helped Hilbelink decide to pursue a technology degree at DSU.
“Without the Governors Cyber Academy, I don’t know if I would be here, let alone even doing a tech degree,” she said.
Bailee Matucha, DSU’s dual credit enrollment counselor, works with students to identify courses that match their interests and goals. Students can explore technology through the academy, take general education courses, or combine both. Matucha said the goal is to help students choose courses with a purpose, including courses that may apply to a future college degree.
“I don’t want them just to take classes just to take classes,” Matucha said. “I want to make sure it’s going in toward their college degree, if that’s what they’re looking for.”
Dr. Trent Dawson, director of the Governors Cyber Academy, said dual credit gives students an authentic introduction to college-level coursework in a supportive setting. Students can test their interests before college and gain experience managing coursework and working with instructors and peers.
“Dual credit is a great path for the ones who are looking for that next level,” Dawson said. “They can begin getting into college-level curriculum, test their boundaries and skills, and engage with college professors and instructors.”
Learn more about DSU’s dual credit program and the Governors Cyber Academy.