Dakota State University students walking around campus

Rise with us

DSU is a place where innovation meets opportunity. We are a nationally recognized leader in technology-driven education, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. With hands-on learning experiences, expert faculty, and cutting-edge facilities, we prepare you for modern careers. Choose from a wide range of affordable, forward-thinking programs that allow you to shape your own path. Your future begins today.

Majors & Degrees

Information Systems, Ph.D.

Credits

72

Start Terms

Fall

|

Spring

|

Summer

Available

On Campus

|

Online

Tuition

$3,365.10

estimated cost per semester

More tuition details

Pursue a PhD in information systems that prepares you to lead and support innovation in today’s fast-changing technology landscape. This program is designed for those interested in careers in research, teaching, or leadership roles in the field of information systems.

You’ll start by building a strong understanding of core concepts and current issues in information systems through coursework that integrates modern technologies and real-world applications. You’ll gain valuable skills in both qualitative and quantitative research methods—essential tools for conducting your own studies.

The program finishes with a dissertation, where you’ll conduct original research on a topic of your choice related to information systems. This allows you to contribute new knowledge to the field and prepare for the next step in your academic or professional journey.

PHDIS students presenting research projects

Choose a research specialization that aligns with your interests and career goals, allowing you to develop focused expertise in a specific area of information systems. Each specialization offers core courses to support your academic and professional development:

  • Analytics and decision support
  • Healthcare information systems
  • Information systems cybersecurity
FBLA National Competition

Extracurricular activities provide students with valuable opportunities to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world settings. These include national competitions, networking events, and community service initiatives. Students in the College of Business & Information Systems can also engage in faculty-led research projects and gain insight by collaborating with peers on their research—enhancing both their academic and professional development.

“The PhDIS program at DSU will enable me to research best practices and techniques of system design and data management, to support school counselors and advance both the school counseling and IS field.”

Kalee Crandall PhDIS - '24

Why choose DSU?

Technology is central to our mission, and we integrate the latest advancements in information systems into our PhD curriculum. You'll graduate as a sought-after expert in your field through coursework that encompasses theory and practice, qualitative design, quantitative research techniques, and more. As a Center of Excellence recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, there is no better place to pursue advanced studies.


Learn, lead, innovate

As you progress through the program, you'll develop the skills and knowledge needed to make original contributions to the field. Our graduates are well-prepared for rewarding careers in academia, government, finance, and industry, where they apply their research to real-world problems and innovations.

100%

Placement rate for PHDIS graduates seeking employment

$140,910

Median annual income for computer and information researchers in the US

26%

Projected growth of computer and information researchers from 2023 to 2033

Your future at DSU begins today.

  • A bachelor's and master's degree from an accredited institution in information systems or a related field.
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Transcripts showing areas of knowledge in business fundamentals and information systems.
  • If you don’t meet all requirements, you may still be accepted but might need to take additional courses.
  • No GRE is required.

Timelines & Requirements   

 

Next steps

  • March 15 for admission to the following fall semester

  • September 15 for admission to the following spring semester

Apply now     Application help