Homeland Security at National American University-Rapid City

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49 suggests manageable repayment prospects for this bachelor's in Homeland Security, assuming the national benchmarks hold true locally. With estimated first-year earnings around $48,676 and debt near $23,625, graduates would be dedicating roughly half their first year's salary to what they borrowed—a reasonable starting point for a four-year degree. The challenge here is that both figures are drawn from peer programs nationally rather than National American University's actual graduate outcomes, meaning there's no way to know whether this specific program delivers on those projections.

The broader Homeland Security field shows considerable variation nationally, with top programs reaching $62,313 in first-year earnings while others presumably fall well below the median. Where National American sits in that range is unclear, and with 57% of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are making this investment with limited financial cushion. Homeland Security degrees can lead to federal, state, or private sector roles, but job placement often depends heavily on regional opportunities and the school's connections with hiring agencies—factors that estimated data can't capture.

For parents weighing this program, the key question is whether National American's career services and alumni network can actually deliver outcomes matching the national median. Request concrete placement rates and typical employer partnerships before committing, especially given the estimation uncertainty.