Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in South Dakota

Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in South Dakota (2 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
South Dakota State University$91,422
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology$73,551$22,5410.31
National Median$77,710$24,9890.32

Other Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering Programs in South Dakota

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across South Dakota schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
Rapid City
$10,400$73,551$22,541

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At South Dakota State University, approximately 16% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.