Criminal Justice and Corrections at National American University-Rapid City

National American University-Rapid City graduates earn significantly more than most criminal justice programs—outperforming 94% of similar programs nationally with first-year earnings of $45,720. That's $8,000 above the national median and places graduates in the top tier of the field. Within South Dakota, the earnings hold up reasonably well at the 60th percentile, though the state's overall criminal justice market is stronger than average.

The problem is price. At $51,547 in median debt—nearly double both the national and state medians for this program—students are paying premium tuition for outcomes that, while above-average, flatten completely by year four. That debt level ranks in the 5th percentile nationally, meaning 95% of criminal justice programs saddle graduates with less debt. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.13 is manageable but tight, especially given that earnings show zero growth over the first four years, suggesting limited advancement opportunities or career mobility.

For families considering this program, the core question is whether top-quartile starting pay justifies twice the typical debt load. If your child has access to University of South Dakota—which delivers nearly identical earnings with half the debt—that's a clearer financial path. This program works if scholarships can bring debt closer to $30,000 or if the specific career connections justify the premium, but at sticker price, you're paying luxury tuition for solid-but-not-exceptional results.