Concordia College has partnered with Dakota State University in Madison, South Dakota, to create learning opportunities that help address global workforce demands in cybersecurity, technology, and critical languages.
The partnership allows students to participate in a collaboration and exchange program aimed at providing skills necessary for successful careers.
“As our world becomes increasingly interconnected and technology driven, there’s a need for professionals with diverse capabilities,” Concordia College President Colin Irvine said. “This partnership helps meet that need.”
DSU President José-Marie Griffiths said the two schools “have distinct histories and missions, but our primary goal is the same — to see our graduates become creative problem solvers and innovative leaders.”
Concordia, a liberal arts college, views language as a bridge between people and cultures. The college provides multiple language learning opportunities through the department of world languages and cultures, the Concordia Language Institute, and Concordia Language Villages. Concordia is also home to a recognized language training center for the U.S. Department of Defense, offering education in critical languages including Russian, Arabic, Korean, and Chinese.
Concordia will offer DSU students a variety of learning experiences in language development.
DSU, a STEM-centered institution, brings experience with cyber-intensive and cyber-infused programs, along with three Center of Academic Excellence designations from the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security.
This relationship will create opportunities for Concordia students to take courses at DSU or participate in training opportunities to earn badges, certificates, or graduate degrees in cybersecurity, network security, artificial intelligence, cyber leadership and intelligence, and other technology-specific disciplines.
“Through this new partnership, students will be better equipped to accomplish their goals by becoming more competent in communication skills or technology,” Griffiths said. “This collaboration is ideal because it builds on our complementary expertise and capabilities to strengthen our missions and our global society.”
Irvine said the program highlights both schools’ commitment to enhancing opportunities for students from our region.
“Not only will it equip graduates with skills to thrive in their careers, but it will also contribute to the security and prosperity of our nation,” he said.