USD Beacom School of Business Gives Inside Look At Sales Center
The university recently announced the launch of its Sales Center and its complementary undergraduate and graduate professional sales certificates, set to begin in the fall of 2026. This initiative reflects a growing recognition that sales skills, from relationship building to strategic communication, are among the most versatile and in-demand skills in today’s economy.
“As the premier business school in the region, we’re always looking to stay abreast of industry needs and implement a curriculum that makes students the best fit for jobs,” said Klaus Beckmann, Ph.D., interim dean of the Beacom School of Business. “It’s part of our mission to develop future business leaders and meet regional business needs to foster growth in South Dakota and the region.”
Additionally, the business school’s goal is to advance the profession of sales while promoting ethical practices, innovative approaches and measurable impact—ultimately serving as a hub where students, faculty and corporate partners can come together to shape the future of sales leadership.
Designed to develop sales experts, the Sales Center’s undergraduate and graduate professional sales certificate curriculum will involve rigorous coursework, experiential learning and industry engagement—equipping students with in-demand skills needed for careers in professional selling. Training will span sales methodologies, Customer Relationship Management software and business competencies such as negotiation, communication and strategic relationship management.
Certificates are open to all majors and can complement bachelor’s and master’s degrees at USD. They are accessible to individuals seeking career development outside a degree program and are available at the Vermillion and University of South Dakota – Sioux Falls campuses. For USD – Sioux Falls, the business school anticipates offering the certificates in an executive-style format to nontraditional students, providing greater flexibility.
While no prerequisites are required, students must meet admissions criteria to be accepted to the programs.
“The professional sales certificates and the Sales Center itself are open to all students,” stated Beckmann. “The courses emphasize the interpersonal skills that students need across a wide range of professions, while the transferable skills support success in any career and enable students to confidently apply their skills in a variety of industry settings.”
Setting the Stage for Sales
Beyond coursework and skill development, students will gain opportunities to demonstrate their learning outside the classroom through experiences such as the National Collegiate Sales Competition, the International Collegiate Sales Competition and other regional contests.
Furthermore, students will collaborate with other campus organizations and programs—a priority for the Sales Center, which works closely with groups like Coyote Business Consulting and Coyote Capital Management. Additional opportunities for involvement in sales-oriented organizations include career mixers, Pi Sigma Epsilon, a professional development series and the South Dakota Sales Team.
Likewise, students will work with faculty and business leaders to apply real-world learning experiences that strengthen their abilities. This effort will be supported by the Sales Center’s planned technology space, where students can refine their skills in an enhanced environment equipped with monitors for practice, real-time feedback and performance evaluation.
“We’re committed to really developing principled sales leaders who excel in building trust, creating value and driving sustainable growth. Through innovative teaching, applied research and strong industry partnerships, we hope to elevate the role of sales as a cornerstone in business leadership,” said Beckmann.
Partners in Sales Success
Relationships with industry partners will play a vital role in the Sales Center as well, with recruiters, corporate sponsors and thought leaders opening pathways to internships, careers, mentorships and more.
“The Sales Center will expose the students to industry partners inside and outside of the classroom,” said Beckmann. “Guest speakers will provide industry insights, trainings will be designed for direct engagement within the sales profession and students may receive invitations to exclusive sales events.”
Beckmann also noted that partners will be encouraged to offer guidance and feedback on the business school’s sales courses and key areas of focus within the curriculum. Partners may also support sales labs, competitions, student travel and other collaborative opportunities.
“We believe becoming a partner means investing in the Sales Center, engaging with students and leveraging the relationship for talent recruitment and brand visibility,” said Beckmann. “We are looking forward to partnering with those who are excited about these opportunities and want to contribute to sales education.”
Early partners include Marsh McLennan Agency and Northwestern Mutual, along with additional private support from individuals and organizations. More partnerships are currently in development. Organizations interested in partnering with or supporting the Sales Center are encouraged to contact Jewel Shepherd, Ph.D., associate dean of the Beacom School of Business.
Selling the Future
In the future, Beckmann hopes the Sales Center will produce alumni who will elevate the reputation of the Sales Center by simply working hard, leading in their chosen careers and advocating for the business school.
“We want to be known for producing exceptional sales professionals,” Beckmann stated. “But we also want to be known for being innovative and deeply connected to the business community. We want to support South Dakota, as well as the business and sales industries, develop future business leaders and be the state’s flagship hub for sales talent—where employers know they’ll find graduates who can contribute on day one.”
For more information, visit the USD Sales Center website.
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