South Dakota Board of Regents Approves High-Demand Programs in Accounting and Artificial Intelligence

The South Dakota Board of Regents (BOR) has approved two new high-need programs that are set to launch in Fall 2024 to meet workforce demands within and beyond the state. These programs, focusing on Accounting and Artificial Intelligence (AI), aim to address critical areas of need in the job market.

South Dakota State University (SDSU) will introduce a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, providing students with comprehensive training in various aspects of accounting such as managerial, financial, cost, and income tax accounting. Recognizing the strong demand for accounting professionals in South Dakota, SDSU is expanding its educational offerings to meet the needs of the job market.

On the other hand, the University of South Dakota (USD) will offer a cutting-edge Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) program. This graduate program is designed to address the rapid advancements and growing needs in the AI sector. Graduates of the MSAI program will be well-prepared for leadership roles in AI research, development, and application across diverse industries.

These new programs aim to fill critical gaps in South Dakota’s labor market by equipping students with specialized skills in accounting and artificial intelligence. BOR President Tim Rave emphasizes that both programs uniquely address the state’s economic needs, while Nathan Lukkes, BOR Executive Director, highlights the importance of the accounting program in contributing to businesses’ financial health and stability.

USD’s MSAI program not only trains graduates in AI technologies but also emphasizes ethical implications and responsibilities in the field. The South Dakota Board of Regents remains dedicated to preparing students for successful careers aligned with industry demands, and these new programs reflect that commitment to shaping the future workforce in South Dakota.