Analysis
Based on comparable programs in South Dakota, graduates in computer science can expect first-year earnings around $67,500βa solid figure that exceeds the national median for the field by over $6,000. The estimated debt of roughly $26,000 translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38, meaning less than five months of gross income to cover total borrowing. That's the kind of math that makes tech degrees attractive investments, even when you're working with estimates rather than this specific school's track record.
The challenge is context. South Dakota's tech-focused institutions with reported data show a wide range: the School of Mines produces graduates earning $78,000, while National American University sits at $52,000. University of Sioux Falls likely falls somewhere in this middle band, but without actual outcomes data, you're making an educated guess based on statewide trends. The smaller program size that necessitates these estimates could mean more personalized attention or simply fewer alumni connections in the local tech market.
For families weighing this option, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable valueβbut consider that nearby Dakota State and SDSU provide transparent outcomes data showing strong tech employment at comparable or lower debt levels. If you're choosing University of Sioux Falls for fit, campus culture, or specific support services, the financial picture appears workable. If you're choosing it solely for career outcomes, the lack of reported data makes direct comparison difficult when alternatives publish clear results.
Where University of Sioux Falls Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in South Dakota
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in South Dakota (8 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $20,740 | $67,529* | β | $25,860* | β | |
| $10,400 | $78,193* | $96,987 | $27,000* | 0.35 | |
| $9,299 | $73,770* | $89,959 | $22,748* | 0.31 | |
| $9,633 | $61,287* | $60,977 | $23,000* | 0.38 | |
| $16,065 | $52,129* | $48,107 | $53,229* | 1.02 | |
| National Median | β | $61,322* | β | $25,000* | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer and information sciences graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
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 University of Sioux Falls, approximately 29% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in SD. Actual outcomes may vary.