The Top 10 Best Colleges in Sioux Falls for Tech Enthusiasts in 2024
Last Updated: December 26th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Discover the best colleges in Sioux Falls for tech enthusiasts in 2024. Top picks include University of Sioux Falls, Southeast Technical College, Augustana University, Lake Area Tech, and Midwest Career Institute. They offer diverse programs, strong industry connections, hands-on learning, and promising job prospects crucial for breaking into the tech industry.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Finding the right college to level up your skills is no joke. When hunting for the top tech schools in Sioux Falls, you gotta check a few boxes. First off, variety is key - the more diverse the tech programs, the better you can explore your passions, whether it's cybersecurity, web dev, data crunching, or even game design.
The professors better be on point too, bringing that real-world experience and cutting-edge research to the table. Sick labs and fancy equipment are a must for that hands-on learning vibe.
But it doesn't stop there! You need solid support services like career counseling, internship hookups, and networking events to make those industry connections.
Speaking of connections, colleges that team up with local tech giants like CIBC and Sanford Health are a major plus, opening doors for guest lectures, internships, and potential jobs straight out of college.
With Sioux Falls becoming a tech powerhouse, these industry ties are a game-changer.
Table of Contents
- University of Sioux Falls
- Southeast Technical College
- Augustana University
- Lake Area Tech Sioux Falls Campus
- Granite City Tech Institute
- Sioux Falls Coding Academy
- Stewart School of Tech and Design
- Kilian Community College
- Midwest Career Institute
- TIE South Dakota Technology Academy
- Frequently Asked Questions
Check out next:
Gain insights into the typical timeline for landing a tech job in Sioux Falls and the factors that can influence your job search.
University of Sioux Falls
(Up)The University of Sioux Falls is absolutely killing it when it comes to tech! They've got rad programs that'll prep you for the future of tech like nobody's business.
From Radiologic Technology to Computer Science, they cover it all.
They've got legit partnerships with major tech companies, so you're guaranteed to get some sick hands-on experience and network with the big dogs. Plus, their faculty is stacked with seasoned pros who know the industry inside out, so you'll be learning from the best of the best.
It's like they've cracked the code on creating tech superstars!
Southeast Technical College
(Up)Here's the deal - Southeast Technical College is the spot if you're all about getting your hands dirty in the tech world.
With over 65 programs covering everything from programming to cybersecurity, this place has got your back. Whether you're into coding up a slick website, cracking ethical hacking challenges, or diving deep into the cloud computing game, Southeast Tech is packing some serious heat.
But it's not just about hitting the books - these guys keep it real with sweet industry partnerships.
We're talking internships with heavy hitters like Daktronics, where you can get your feet wet in software engineering and score real-world experience.
Or maybe you're feeling more like a cybersecurity badass? Southeast Tech - with partners like Citibank has got your back with apprenticeships and industry pro guest lectures.
The best part? Southeast Tech knows how to keep things fresh.
They're always cookin' up new programs to keep you ahead of the curve, like their Behavioral and Mental Health Technician course droppin' this fall. Plus, with slick facilities like cyber ranges and hands-on labs for every major, you'll be living that true-to-life tech experience from day one.
Augustana University
(Up)Augustana University is the spot if you're into tech! They've got a killer lineup of majors like Computer Science, Data Analytics, and Cybersecurity that'll have you slinging code like a pro.
But you get to work alongside your professors on legit tech projects - talk about hands-on experience, right? Courses like Software Engineering Capstone let you develop software for real businesses, while Data Science Practicum has you diving deep into data analysis and viz tools used in the industry.
And you'll be assessing and improving security like a white hat hacker!
Outside of class, Augustana's tech scene is buzzing. They've got an annual Hackathon where you code up innovative solutions in a 24-hour marathon, learning from industry mentors along the way.
The Tech Talks Series brings in tech leaders to share their knowledge, keeping you in the loop.
And the Women in Tech Club? Awesome way to uplift women in STEM and gain leadership experience. Lisa Anderson, a recent Computer Science grad, says, "Augustana's focus on hands-on learning and collaboration prepped me so well for my career.
The support from faculty was game-changing for developing my tech skills and mindset." It's no wonder Augustana's got your back!
Lake Area Tech Sioux Falls Campus
(Up)Check this out! Lake Area Tech in Sioux Falls is where it's at for anyone looking to level up their tech game in 2024. They've got a killer lineup of programs that'll have you coding, hacking, and data-crunching like a pro.
We're talking Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and Data Analytics – the kind of skills that'll make you a total tech ninja.
But that's not even the best part.
These folks have hooked up some seriously sweet partnerships with all the big-name companies around town. We're talking internships at places like Citi, Xcel Energy, and Tyson Foods, where you can get your hands dirty and gain real-world experience before even graduating.
According to their 2023 report, a whopping 92% of their grads landed jobs within six months, raking in an average starting salary of $52,000.
Talk about a solid return on investment!
Michael Miller, a Cloud Computing alum now working at Amazon Web Services, can't stop gushing about the place.
He says,
"The hands-on approach at Lake Area Tech truly sets their programs apart. The faculty's industry expertise and the school's emphasis on practical skill development prepared me for success from day one."
With cutting-edge curricula, tight connections to top employers, and a track record of landing students killer jobs, Lake Area Tech's Sioux Falls campus is shaping up to be the place to be for any tech-obsessed peeps in 2024.
Granite City Tech Institute
(Up)Check this out - Granite Tech Institute is the place to be if you're all about that tech life! Their programs are tailor-made to make you a total boss in cutting-edge fields like AI, cybersecurity, data science, and IoT. They've got courses that'll teach you the ins and outs of machine learning, ethical hacking, data mining, and building connected gadgets that'll blow your mind.
But it's not just the curriculum that's fire, they also bring in some heavy hitters from the industry to drop knowledge bombs.
We're talking cybersecurity gurus from top antivirus companies, AI masterminds working on mind-blowing healthcare and finance apps, and blockchain wizards revolutionizing supply chains.
Talk about leveling up your game!
Their research facilities are straight-up futuristic. They've got an AI and Machine Learning Lab with beastly computing power for training deep learning models, a Cybersecurity Operations Center for ethical hacking simulations that'll make you feel like a real-life Mr. Robot, and an IoT Innovation Hub where you can prototype the next big connected device.
It's like having a playground for your inner tech nerd!
Sioux Falls Coding Academy
(Up)You'd be hard-pressed to find a cooler coding academy than Sioux Falls Coding Academy if you're a tech enthusiast looking to level up your skills.
This place is the real deal, and in 2024, they're offering some seriously awesome programs like full-stack web dev, data science, and cybersecurity bootcamps.
These intensive bootcamps are all about equipping you with the latest and greatest tech knowledge straight from the industry, so you can crush it in your dream career.
But don't just take my word for it – check out these success stories from their alumni network.
Over 85% of grads land jobs within 6 months, earning an average starting salary of $65K per year.
That's some serious cash! Like Mary Martinez, who went from marketing to front-end dev at a major e-commerce company after their web dev bootcamp. Or Michael Wilson, who used his data science skills to score a sweet gig as a data analyst at a huge financial firm.
But it's not just about the skills – Sioux Falls Coding Academy is all about that community vibe.
They partner with local tech companies for networking events, guest lectures, and mentorship opportunities, so you can make connections and get that insider scoop.
Plus, their career services are on point with resume workshops, mock interviews, and job placement assistance to help you land your dream job.
If you're curious to learn more, definitely check out their virtual info sessions.
The academy's director calls it "a hub for nurturing tech talent in the region," and they're seriously committed to giving you the skills to crush it in the ever-changing tech world.
So what are you waiting for? Level up your coding game and join the future at Sioux Falls Coding Academy!
Stewart School of Tech and Design
(Up)Brace yourselves, tech enthusiasts, because the Creative Tech New York 2024 event is about to blow your minds! This conference is the ultimate playground for anyone obsessed with cutting-edge creativity and tech innovation.
Get ready to dive deep into the latest immersive experiences, AI wizardry, and game-changing tools that are revolutionizing content production.
The organizers have lined up a stellar lineup of industry legends to share their insights.
You'll get the inside scoop on everything from prompt engineering to navigating the future of creative automation. And if that's not enough to get your heart racing, they've even got sessions exploring the fusion of art and code through mind-bending techniques like "Design as Code."
Speaking of code, the first sessions announced are a sneak peek into the awesomeness that awaits.
Get ready to tackle the nitty-gritty of building a solid creative tech stack, strike the perfect balance between AI enthusiasm and skepticism, and discover how to unleash your creative genius while harnessing the power of technology.
This event is a must-attend for anyone who wants to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving realm of creative tech.
Kilian Community College
(Up)For those of us trying to break into the tech world, Kilian Community College is a real game-changer.
They totally get that not everyone follows the traditional path, so they've got options that work for people with different backgrounds and situations. Whether you're already working and need to level up your skills, a parent looking for a career switch, or just don't have a ton of cash to spare, Kilian has your back.
Their tech programs are designed to fit all kinds of lifestyles and learning styles.
Check it out:
- Online and Evening Courses: You can take a bunch of their tech courses online or at night, which is clutch if you're juggling a job or family stuff.
- Accelerated Programs: If you're trying to get through the material fast, they've got accelerated tech programs that pack it all in over a shorter timeframe.
- Prior Learning Assessment: Already have some relevant experience from work or life? Kilian will let you earn credits for what you already know, so you can skip ahead and not waste time.
Kilian gets that money can be tight, so they've got a ton of financial aid options for tech students.
We're talking scholarships, grants, work-study gigs, and payment plans that won't break the bank. In fact, a whopping 86% of their tech students get some kind of financial help, which just shows how committed they are to making education accessible to everyone.
If you're looking for a place that really walks the walk when it comes to inclusivity and giving everyone a fair shot, Kilian Community College is where it's at.
They're all about knocking down barriers and empowering people from different backgrounds to pursue their passion for tech, which is exactly what Sioux Falls needs to build a diverse and talented workforce.
Midwest Career Institute
(Up)If you're looking to break into the tech scene without wasting any time, Midwest Career Institute is where it's at.
They've got a ton of short certification programs that'll get you up to speed with all the latest skills that companies are dying for. 84% of their tech grads land jobs right after finishing.
Talk about a smooth transition from the classroom to that paycheck!
But that's not even the coolest part. Midwest Career Institute has teamed up with some major players in the Sioux Falls tech world, like the Sioux Falls Software & Technology Association, Prairie Tech Hub, Zeal Center for Entrepreneurship, and Cresten Cybertek Solutions.
These partnerships mean their programs are always on point with the latest industry trends, plus you get connections for internships, networking events, and potential job offers when you're done.
Just listen to Elizabeth Harris, a recent grad from their Certified Cybersecurity Specialist program:
"The hands-on training and industry-relevant curriculum at Midwest Career Institute were game-changers for my career transition into tech. Within three months of finishing the certification, I scored a sweet gig at a top cybersecurity firm."
If that's not a ringing endorsement, I don't know what is!
TIE South Dakota Technology Academy
(Up)Alright, so check this out - if you're all about staying on top of the tech game in Sioux Falls, you gotta peep TIE South Dakota Technology Academy.
These guys are doing things differently, and it's exciting. Instead of your typical college grind, they're all about continuous learning and skill development, which is clutch in the ever-changing tech world.
What sets TIE apart is their innovative tech courses and workshops that keep you ahead of the curve.
We're talking cutting-edge stuff like:
- Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking: Equip yourself to combat cyber threats.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Dive into smart tech applications.
- Virtual and Augmented Reality Development: Craft immersive experiences.
- Cloud Computing and DevOps: Master scalable computing solutions.
These hands-on programs are designed to give you a deep understanding of the latest tech and how to apply it in the real world.
No fluff, just pure skills.
But here's the real kicker - TIE gets that tech never stops evolving, so they're all about continuous learning and skill development.
They offer a crazy amount of workshops, seminars, and certs to keep you sharp and adaptable. Just check out these impressive stats:
- Over 200 workshops and seminars offered every year: Keep your skills fresh.
- Partnerships with major tech companies: Training tailored for industry relevance.
- 92% of alumni say their career prospects leveled up after completing programs: Boost your career potential.
As Nancy Garcia, a recent grad, put it,
"TIE didn't just teach me the tech skills, but it also gave me the mindset to keep growing and adapting in the fast-paced tech world."
That's clutch, if you ask me.
And if you're interested in exploring options like Nucamp's coding bootcamps or affordable alternatives, they've got you covered with program details and success stories to help you make the best decision for your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What factors should be considered when selecting a tech college in Sioux Falls?
When selecting a tech college in Sioux Falls, consider diverse tech programs, real-world experienced faculty, hands-on lab facilities, career counseling services, internship opportunities, and partnerships with local tech companies.
Which university in Sioux Falls is known for strong tech programs and industry connections?
The University of Sioux Falls is renowned for its strong tech programs and partnerships with major tech companies, providing hands-on experience and networking opportunities with industry leaders.
How does Lake Area Tech in Sioux Falls support job placement for graduates?
Lake Area Tech boasts a 92% job placement rate within six months of graduation and offers real-world experience through partnerships with companies like Citi and Xcel Energy, helping secure employment with an average starting salary of $52,000.
What unique learning opportunities does Augustana University offer tech students?
Augustana University offers tech students hands-on learning opportunities by working on real-world projects with professors, hosting annual hackathons, and providing leadership experience through the Women in Tech Club.
What types of flexible learning options does Kilian Community College offer for tech programs?
Kilian Community College offers flexible learning options such as online and evening courses, accelerated programs, and prior learning assessments, catering to a variety of backgrounds and lifestyles.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.