Trust Administration

Learn About the SD Trust Industry

The University of Sioux Falls offers courses and certifications to help those wanting to learn more about the South Dakota trust industry. Introduction to Trust Administration is a class for professionals who are new to the industry and undergraduate student who desire to learn more about careers in the trust industry and build a knowledge base for entry level positions and internships.

The Trust Administration & Wealth Management Certification, is a three class sequence that provides additional training and professional development for a career professional in the industry. The Trust Administration & Wealth Management Certification is granted by University of Sioux Falls to students who complete Trust Law & Administration, Advanced Trust Law & Administration and Fiduciary Wealth Management.

Courses

There are four course levels offered, and each will be completely online.

A Look Into the Program

Mary Schaefbauer, South Dakota Trust Association president, and Heidi Coatsworth, who works in the industry and has taken multiple trust administration courses through the University of Sioux Falls, speak about the growing partnership between the SDTA and USF, in addition to the real-world impact the courses have on students and professionals no matter what stage of career they are in.

FAQs

What is the format of the class?

All classes are online without required weekly meeting times. A typical week runs from Monday to Sunday, with assignments usually due on Sunday. During the week, the student is able to review content and do the work in a timeline that works for them.

Are there required meeting times?

There will be optional Zoom sessions throughout the courses. There are no required meeting times, if a student can't attend a Zoom session, they will be recorded and available for viewing at a later date.

What is the cost of the class?

The tuition rate for the Fall 2025 semester is $450 per semester hour, all of the Trust Administration classes are 3 semester hours. Books and instructional materials are an additional cost.

When will Trust Administration be available?

The three course certification begins each fall and, if taken in succession, will be competed in early March. Introduction to Trust Administration is also offered every fall.

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