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

National American University's business program produces above-average earnings but pairs them with debt levels that should concern any parent. At $48,827 in first-year earnings, graduates earn more than the typical South Dakota business graduate ($45,215) and land near the 60th percentile both statewide and nationally. The problem? Nearly $47,000 in student debt—roughly double the national median for business programs and the highest debt load among all 13 South Dakota schools offering this degree.

That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.95 means graduates owe almost a full year's salary, making loan payments a significant burden even with decent income. Compare this to nearby Augustana University, where business graduates earn slightly more ($50,516) presumably with more manageable debt, or Black Hills State, where graduates earn similar salaries but likely carry far less debt. The 9% earnings growth to year four is modest but steady, though it doesn't fundamentally change the financial equation.

For families already stretching financially—more than half the students here receive Pell grants—this debt load creates real risk. Unless your child has significant scholarship offers that drastically reduce borrowing, the other South Dakota options offer better value for a business degree that produces comparable career outcomes.