Black Hills State University has a long history of providing a masters degree to educators in western South Dakota and eastern Wyoming. However, in recent years, BHSU responded to current needs for a graduate program beyond the general Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction (MSCI). Now, this Masters degree for teachers is designed to add advanced-level cerifications as  K-12 Reading Specialists, K-12 Mathematics Specialists, and K-12 Science Specialists. To further address teacher needs for advancing careers in education, the online reading and tecnology options were designed for anytime, anywhere learning.

In addition, Black Hills State University developed a Master of Science in Integrative Genomics (MSIG) to address the STEM workforce needs as a contemporary interdisciplinary approach in biology. This Masters in Genomics is designed to develop scientific skills and concepts to work cooperatively across the disciplines of Ecology, Evolution and Physiology. The Genomics Masters degree offers a hands-on learning experience in using modern techniques and instrumentation in the laboratory and in the field to prepare students for successful transition into PhD programs or manager-level positions in Ecological Genomic- and Biotechnology- related fields.

The most recently developed graduate degree for Black Hills State is the Online Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL). This master’s degree is an innovative, interdisciplinary program designed to advance careers in leading organizations in today’s knowledge-driven global economy. The program of study incorporates leadership theories, concepts, methodologies, and mentorship skills essential to leading and transforming organizations. The MSSL program prepares individuals for executive-level leadership positions and supports career advancement in government, businesses, non-profit organizations, and the military.

For more information about these Master of Science degrees in Curriculum and Instruction, Integrative Genomics, or Strategic Leadership, please contact Dr. Kristi L. Pearce, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs who oversees graduate studies for Black Hills State University by calling 605-642-6093, or emailing KristiPearce@bhsu.edu

The following graduate program descriptions provide a detailed overview of each Master of Science degree offered at Black Hills State University.

Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction (MSCI)
The overall goal of the Black Hills State University Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction is to create professional change through reflection, systematic inquiry, and collaboration while preparing graduate students for leadership beyond their classrooms. The five Propositions from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) are used as benchmarks in the specific design of core classes. Moving beyond the core, each specialization aligns courses with the standards of its specialized professional association. The MSCI has four specialization options that include reading, educational technology, math, and science. Courses for the reading and technology options are online except for a practicum arranged in each student's home school district near the end of the program. The MSCI reading specialization can lead to advanced certification as a Reading Specialists in South Dakota and Wyoming. Math and science specializations, which can lead to advanced certification in South Dakota, offer core courses online and content in a face-to-face format.

Master of Science in Integrative Genomics (MSIG)
Evolutionary and Ecological Functional Genomics, or Integrative Genomics, is a recent interdisciplinary approach in biology. It is a more thorough way of addressing the basic and applied questions that are of concern to many biologists and society in the 21st century. Training focuses on using traditional and genomic techniques to identify important ecological factors, to find genes that affect ecological traits of interest, to understanding the mechanisms underlying these effects, and to study the evolutionary forces that have shaped these genes. While any one thesis project may not span all of the disciplines, the program is designed to provide those seeking a Masters degree the necessary skills and concepts to work cooperatively at a system-wide level across the disciplines of Ecology, Evolution and Physiology. Exposure to modern techniques and instrumentation in the laboratory and out in the field prepares students for success in further academic pursuits or manager-level jobs in Ecological Genomics- and Biotechnology- related fields. Start with a program Overview to learn more about this exciting opportunity!

Master of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL)
The Online Master’s of Science in Strategic Leadership (MSSL) provides unique training to lead organizations in today’s knowledge-driven global economy. This innovative, interdisciplinary program incorporates leadership theories, concepts, methodologies, and mentorship skills that are essential to leading and transforming organizations. The MSSL program is designed to prepare for executive-level leadership positions and fosters career advancement in government, businesses, non-profit organizations, and the military. Expert faculty in key leadership areas, such as visioning, motivation, creative problem solving, strategic planning, forecasting, innovation, change management, ethics, and effective communication teach the core course work.