Computer and Information Sciences at National American University-Rapid City

With median debt more than double both the national and South Dakota averages—$53,229 versus $25,000—this program saddles graduates with obligations that their starting salaries barely cover. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.02 means you'd need essentially your entire first year's salary just to pay off student loans, a concerning position for any field but particularly troubling in computer science where debt loads are typically much lighter. Among South Dakota's eight computer science programs, this ranks in the bottom quartile for earnings while carrying the highest debt burden.

The trajectory makes matters worse: earnings actually decline 8% between years one and four, dropping from $52,129 to $48,107. Compare this to South Dakota School of Mines ($78,193) or Dakota State ($61,287), where graduates start higher and likely see growth rather than contraction. Even acknowledging the small sample size—under 30 graduates—the pattern is stark enough to warrant serious concern.

For families considering this program, the math is straightforward: you're paying twice the typical debt load to earn below the state median in a field known for strong returns. South Dakota has multiple public universities offering the same credential with better outcomes and lower cost. Unless there are compelling personal circumstances making those alternatives unavailable, this program represents a difficult financial proposition.