View of campus green with pillars

ABERDEEN, S.D. – This summer, Northern State University is merging two of its academic areas to create one larger administrative unit that blends business and education.

Northern’s new College of Professional Studies will bring together the Millicent Atkins School of Education and NSU School of Business, creating a shared mission of preparing students for professional careers.

Dr. Doug Ohmer will serve as Dean of the College of Professional Studies. Each school will also have an Associate Dean. Dr. Sara Schmidt will serve as Associate Dean of the School of Business, and Dr. Andria Moon will serve as Associate Dean of the Millicent Atkins School of Education.

No physical movement of departments and faculty is anticipated, with the School of Business remaining in Lincoln Hall and School of Education staying in the Gerber Building.

The new name, College of Professional Studies, was chosen by a faculty-led taskforce and approved by NSU Senior Cabinet.

The change is effective July 1, 2020.

About Northern State University

Northern State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, Northern offers rigorous academics; diverse civic, social and cultural opportunities; and a commitment to building an inclusive environment for all points of view. Northern also offers a broad-based athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC). The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign, which opened a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; new athletic and recreation fields; and, soon, an on-campus regional sports complex. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $120 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.