Northern State University offers a reputable business education through the School of Business. The SoB consistently exceeds its high standards of measurement, such as retention rates and student placement rates. The class of 2017 actually had 100% employment or graduate school enrollment. Most notable alumni include Joe Robbie, the original owner of the Miami Dolphins, as well as the local success story of Elmer Diedtrich, a South Dakota insurance entrepreneur and politician.
U.S. News and World Report recognized Northern among the best colleges in the Midwest and for affordable out-of-state tuition. The Wolfpack Scholarship is the largest scholarship in the region. Over 60% of students qualify for this scholarship, which ranges from $4,000 to $12,000 annually, based on students’ high school GPA and ACT/SAT scores.
Education
Regardless of your dreams, there is a degree perfect for you from the associate’s through the master’s level. Associate’s degree options include Banking and Financial Services, Business Administration, and Management Information Systems. These degrees are offered at the bachelor’s level, with additional options available in Accounting, Professional Accountancy, Finance, Management, International Business, and Marketing. These degrees are highly customizable, allowing students to select their niche. Management students can follow the Entrepreneurship, General, Leadership, or Supply Chain Analytics course of study. Digital Marketing and Marketing Management emphases are available for Marketing majors. Information Systems options include E-Commerce and Data Analytics, Financial Systems Assurance and Security, and Resource Management and Planning. Business Administration students are able to create their degree with courses that are the most beneficial to them, from Accounting, Business Law, Finance, Information Systems, Management, and Marketing.
Earning a master’s degree in Accounting Analytics from NSU can place students at the front of the line for the next promotion at work or new career openings. This program can be completed in one year. Students enrolled in this accounting analytics program will be prepared to sit for the CPA or CMA exam.
Student Life
The SoB has multiple award-winning competition teams and organizations. In 2020, seniors from the Policy and Strategy class tied for first place in a stock stimulation. Another student’s research project was accepted into the Association of Leadership Educators Annual Conference. The Business Club also competed in the North Dakota Virtual Conference and placed 1st through 3rd in over 20 categories, including Organization Behavior and Leadership, Sports Management and Marketing, Human Resource Management, and Future Business Educator. The Accounting Club provides free annual tax assistance through the VITA program.
The SoB also hosts many business events, such as the Global Entrepreneurship Week and Pitch Competition. Students are encouraged to collaborate with peers from other majors on their designs for the pitch. After working with a faculty member and perfecting their business plan, students compete for cash prizes. A partnership with the South Dakota Secretary of State provides students with the opportunity to produce an economic journal.
Online Programs
A flexible online master’s degree is available in Banking and Financial Services and Accounting Analytics through the Center for Statewide e-Learning. These programs are 36-credit hours. Students will complete a capstone project.