Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at South Dakota State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
South Dakota State's nursing program delivers solid starting salaries but faces an unusual challenge: earnings actually decline over the first four years after graduation. While new graduates earn $71,758—competitive with other South Dakota nursing programs and ranking in the 60th percentile statewide—that figure drops to $64,471 by year four, representing a 10% decline when most careers show growth.
The debt picture offers some consolation. At $28,000, student loans are manageable and slightly below the state median, creating a reasonable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39. This means graduates can realistically handle their loan payments even as their earnings plateau. However, the program's 33rd percentile ranking nationally suggests stronger nursing programs exist elsewhere, though SDSU does outperform several in-state competitors.
The earnings decline pattern raises questions about career trajectory for SDSU nursing graduates. This could reflect graduates moving to lower-paying rural positions, taking time for family, or facing limited advancement opportunities in South Dakota's healthcare market. For families prioritizing immediate post-graduation earning power and manageable debt, SDSU delivers on both fronts. But if long-term earning growth matters more, exploring nursing programs with stronger four-year outcomes—particularly those ranking higher nationally—might better serve your investment.
Where South Dakota State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How South Dakota State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
South Dakota State University graduates earn $72k, placing them in the 33th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors programs nationally.
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
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in South Dakota (7 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota State University | $71,758 | $64,471 | $28,000 | 0.39 |
| Augustana University | $72,237 | $69,254 | $27,000 | 0.37 |
| University of South Dakota | $71,758 | $67,147 | $28,644 | 0.40 |
| University of Sioux Falls | $70,622 | $59,670 | $31,000 | 0.44 |
| National American University-Rapid City | $69,890 | $67,202 | $52,969 | 0.76 |
| Dakota Wesleyan University | $67,981 | $74,077 | $31,000 | 0.46 |
| National Median | $74,888 | — | $27,000 | 0.36 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in South Dakota
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across South Dakota schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Augustana University Sioux Falls | $39,190 | $72,237 | $27,000 |
| University of South Dakota Vermillion | $9,432 | $71,758 | $28,644 |
| University of Sioux Falls Sioux Falls | $20,740 | $70,622 | $31,000 |
| National American University-Rapid City Rapid City | $16,065 | $69,890 | $52,969 |
| Dakota Wesleyan University Mitchell | $32,890 | $67,981 | $31,000 |
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.
Sample Size: Based on 438 graduates with reported earnings and 463 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.