Gateway to Digital Technology Certificate

Explore a wide variety of interests in digital technology – while still in high school. The opportunities in tech are vast including disciplines like computer science, information systems, networking, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, web development, health informatics, and data analytics.

The certificate is available on campus, online, and through approved in-district dual credit partnerships, giving students flexible options to get started. Those who qualify can take courses at the reduced dual-credit rate, saving both time and money. Created for high school students interested in digital technology pathways, the program provides up to 12 credits that can apply directly toward many DSU tech majors or count as general education electives. The certificate is stackable with programs in the College of Business & Information Systems and The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Sciences:

• Artificial intelligence (BS)
• Computer game design (BS)
• Computer science (BS)
• Cyber operations (BS)
• Network and security administration (AS), (BS)
• Software engineering (BS)
• Software development (AS)
• Computer information systems (BS)
• Cyber leadership and intelligence (BS)

Emerging leaders in technology

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs in computer and information technology to grow much faster than average for all occupations from 2023-2033. In South Dakota, information security analysts rank in the top ten occupations with the highest projected growth between 2020 and 2030. Dakota State University is the premier university in South Dakota and beyond providing degrees in technology and cybersecurity.