Career Pathway Planning

The South Dakota Board of Regents system is committed to helping you turn your goals into a clear, achievable plan. Career Pathway planning gives you the tools to explore your interests, match them with in-demand careers, and build an education that works for you—step by step.

Stack Credentials for Greater Opportunity

Through our stackable degree options, every step you take builds toward the next. Stackable degrees let you build your education step-by-step, so each credential you earn counts toward the next level. Instead of starting over every time, “stack” certificates and associate degrees into a bachelor’s degree and even beyond.

Why Choose a Stackable Pathway?

FLEXIBILITY
Start small and grow your education as your goals evolve.

AFFORDABILITY
Pay for each step as you go—while gaining credentials along the way.

EMPLOYABILITY
Enter the workforce sooner with stackable, career-ready credentials.

Start with a Gateway Certificate

Not sure where to begin? Career Pathway Certificates are short, focused programs designed to give you practical skills in a specific career area. These certificates can help you:

Explore different fields before committing to a degree
Gain industry-relevant skills that increase employability
Begin earning credits that count toward a larger degree

Choose a Gateway Certificate that Matches You Career Interests

Students will begin the Career Pathway degree by enrolling in one of eight gateway certificate programs, each carefully designed to align with potential interests and career objectives. These programs not only introduce students to various professions but also serve as a foundational step toward a personalized Career Pathway degree and add a credential to undergraduate transcripts, showcasing students’ commitment and readiness to employers.

Agriculture

Learn the basics of agribusiness, plant science, and animal systems to prepare for one of South Dakota’s largest industries.
Certificate Coursework → Associate in Agriculture → Bachelor’s in Agricultural Science or Agribusiness

STEM

Love science and problem-solving? Build a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Certificate → Associate in STEM → Bachelor’s in Biology, Chemistry, Science or Math

Teacher Education

Start your journey to becoming an educator with courses in child development, teaching strategies, and classroom tech.
Certificate → Associate in Education → Bachelor’s in Elementary or Secondary Education

Explore all the Gateway Certificates

Continue with a Career Pathways Associate Degree

The Career Pathways Associate Degree is designed for students who want to explore academic and career interests while earning college credit. Whether you’re undecided about your major or want a flexible, guided path toward a career, this two-year program gives you room to discover your strengths and make confident choices.

Core Features of a Career Pathway Associates

Complete 60 credit hours that apply toward an associate or bachelor’s degree
Enroll in a First-Year Seminar focused on goal-setting
Take core courses aligned with your pathway
Participate in career exploration and receive one-on-one advising
Gain transferable skills in writing, communication, teamwork, and problem solving

Find the Bachelor Degree Right for You

Your associate’s degree helps you explore your interests, build a solid academic foundation, and satisfy credit requirements for a four-year program. Stepping confidently into the right bachelor’s degree can turn your foundation into a powerful career launchpad, and South Dakota offers a variety of schools ready to help you get there. Explore programs here.