News Release
Contacts: Robert T. Tad Perry, Executive Director
tadp@ris.sdbor.edu
Janelle Toman, Director of Information and Institutional Research
janellet@ris.sdbor.edu
T: 605.773.3455
F: 605.773.5320
www.sdbor.edu

For Immediate Release: Friday, March 14, 2003

Regents Approve Software Engineering Degree at SDSU

VERMILLION – South Dakota State University received approval Friday to offer a bachelor’s degree in software engineering. The action was taken by the South Dakota Board of Regents meeting in Vermillion.

The new program, closely aligned with electrical engineering and computer science, will focus on applying engineering concepts and methods to software systems development. “There is a growing demand in South Dakota for professionals with expertise in advanced computer technology. This degree will help us meet those needs right here at home,” said Regents President Harvey C. Jewett.

SDSU estimates that about 25 students a year will enroll in the new degree program, which is being funded with existing resources. No new state funds were requested by the Board of Regents to develop or implement the program.

“This is a good example of the public university system’s ability to timely respond to the needs of business and industry within South Dakota,” Jewett said. He noted that the Regents first approved preliminary planning for this program last October. “We were able to shift existing resources in short order to develop a degree program that South Dakota companies are demanding,” Jewett said.

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