Agricultural Production Operations at Mitchell Technical College

Mitchell Technical College's ag production program places graduates ahead of 94% of similar programs nationally—a remarkable achievement that merits attention from families considering agricultural careers. First-year earnings of $40,871 nearly double what many associate degree programs deliver, and the $12,000 median debt represents just three months of earnings, creating one of the most favorable debt-to-income ratios you'll find in higher education.

The modest earnings growth to $42,129 by year four reflects agriculture's immediate earning potential rather than weakness. Unlike programs that rely on years of advancement to justify their cost, ag production grads start at strong wages and maintain them through cyclical commodity markets. That 60th percentile ranking among South Dakota programs (though Mitchell is the only in-state option in this dataset) suggests these earnings align with regional agricultural realities rather than inflated projections.

For families with farming backgrounds or students committed to production agriculture, this represents an efficient path to viable employment. The 30% Pell grant rate indicates the program serves working families who need education to deliver quick returns—and at under $12,000 in debt, it does exactly that. You're paying associate degree prices for earnings that compete with many bachelor's programs.