Online MBA · South Dakota · 3 programs compared

Best Online MBA Programs
in South Dakota 2025

Compare the top 3 accredited online MBA programs in South Dakota — real tuition ($14,400–$15,524), GMAT requirements, specializations, and acceptance rates. All data sourced directly from the schools.

3
Programs
$14,400
Lowest tuition
1/3
AACSB-accredited
3/3
GMAT optional
See all programs ↓ Compare all 49 states

Online MBA in South Dakota: what to know

South Dakota offers a solid choice of accredited online MBA programs, led by University of South Dakota, Dakota State University, and Dakota Wesleyan University. 1 of the 3 carry AACSB accreditation, the most widely recognized business-school standard; the others hold regional or specialized accreditation.

On cost, the most affordable option on our list is Dakota Wesleyan University at roughly $14,400 in total tuition (about $400/credit). Across the listed programs, published tuition ranges up to about $15,524, so it pays to compare. Tuition and fees change every year and in-state and out-of-state rates often differ, so confirm the current figure directly with the school before you budget.

Admissions are relatively accessible: every program here makes the GMAT optional or waivable, which removes a common barrier for working applicants. Available specializations include Business Analytics, Business Leadership, Economics, and Finance. Because the format is fully online, it suits professionals who want to keep working while they study rather than relocate to campus.

International applicants are generally welcome — check each school's TOEFL or IELTS requirements early. Treat the numbers on this page as a starting point for comparison, and verify accreditation, deadlines, and specialization availability on the university's official admissions pages before you apply.

Researched top 3

Top Online MBA Programs in South Dakota

★ #1 in SDAACSB

University of South Dakota

Vermillion, SD
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Total tuition
$15,524
Per credit
$470/credit
GMAT
Optional
GPA
3.2 average
Duration
2 years
Acceptance
100%
Artificial Intelligence for…Business AnalyticsBusiness LeadershipEconomics+2 more
Intl students No visa info TOEFL required
#172 U.S. News (tie)
Official site ↗
#2 in SDACBSP

Dakota State University

Madison, SD
Business Administration, MBA
Total tuition
Under $15,000
Per credit
N/A
GMAT
Optional
GPA
3.0 minimum
Duration
12 to 21 months
Acceptance
N/A
Artificial IntelligenceAnalyticsHealthcare InformaticsInformation Systems+2 more
Intl n/a No visa info TOEFL flexible
Official site ↗
#3 in SDN/A

Dakota Wesleyan University

Mitchell, SD
Master of Business Administration
Total tuition
$14,400
Per credit
$400/credit
GMAT
Optional
GPA
N/A
Duration
12 months
Acceptance
N/A
Strategic LeadershipAthletic and Activities Adm…Nonprofit AdministrationPractical Church Leadership
Intl n/a No visa info TOEFL flexible
Official site ↗

South Dakota Online MBA — Quick Comparison

SchoolTuitionPer credit GMATDurationAcceptance AccreditationIntl
University of South Dakota $15,524 $470/credit Optional 2 years 100% AACSB
Dakota State University Under $15,000 N/A Optional 12 to 21 months N/A ACBSP
Dakota Wesleyan University $14,400 $400/credit Optional 12 months N/A N/A
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Online MBA in South Dakota — FAQ

What is the cheapest online MBA in South Dakota?
The lowest-cost online MBA in South Dakota on our list starts at $14,400 in total tuition. See the comparison table above for all programs and their costs. Always check with the school for current pricing and any financial aid options.
Do online MBA programs in South Dakota require the GMAT?
3 of the 3 programs listed for South Dakota have waived or made the GMAT optional. Check the GMAT row in the comparison above and confirm the current admissions policy directly with each school.
Are online MBA programs in South Dakota AACSB-accredited?
1 of the 3 programs on this page hold AACSB accreditation — the gold standard for business education worldwide. Use our main comparison tool to filter by AACSB only across all 49 states.
Can international students enroll in an online MBA in South Dakota?
1 of the programs listed for South Dakota welcome international students. Check the Intl and Visa indicators on each program card above for details, and confirm TOEFL/IELTS requirements with the school.
How does MBA Compass choose these programs?
We compile programs from publicly available sources including U.S. News rankings, Poets&Quants, AACSB directories, and the schools' official websites. We list the top 3 programs per state based on accreditation, reputation, and availability. Schools cannot pay to appear or rank higher.
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