Business Administration, Management and Operations at National American University-Rapid City

National American University-Rapid City's business management program faces a significant debt challenge that overshadows its otherwise solid performance. While graduates earn above the state median—ranking in the 60th percentile among South Dakota business programs—they're carrying roughly $30,700 in debt, which is more than double the national median for these programs and among the highest 5% nationally. That creates an uncomfortable squeeze in the first year, when you're earning $33,364 while managing a debt load nearly equal to your entire salary.

The earnings trajectory offers some relief: graduates see 17% income growth by year four, reaching nearly $39,000, which moves them closer to the national 75th percentile. With over half of students receiving Pell grants, this program is clearly serving a population that needs credentials to advance, and it does deliver meaningful income gains. However, parents should recognize that even the strongest South Dakota business program (Western Dakota Tech) shows graduates earning around $24,500, suggesting this field's ceiling in the state may be modest regardless of where you study.

The math here is straightforward: if your child can access this program with significantly less borrowing—through scholarships, family support, or part-time work—the career outcomes justify enrollment. But taking on the full debt load for near-median earnings creates years of financial pressure that might not be necessary, especially when other paths to business careers exist at lower cost.