Dakota State authorized to offer PhD in artificial intelligence

The Board of Regents authorized Dakota State University to offer a PhD in artificial intelligence after hearing a presentation from DSU faculty and administrators. Lisa Bono introduced the request and Rebecca Hoy and Mark Spanier described the 72‑credit research doctoral program, its alignment with existing AI and cybersecurity strengths, and conservative enrollment projections of 15 new students per year.

Mark Spanier, the program author, emphasized DSU's long track record in AI curriculum and recent collaboration with the National Security Agency, noting the institution's role in NSA pilot designation work. "We've been offering courses in artificial intelligence since the year 2000," Hoy said, and the program will be available on campus or online. The board moved, seconded, and approved DSU's authorization to offer the PhD by voice vote.