Best Value Business Administration Colleges in South Dakota

The earnings gap between South Dakota's business programs spans nearly $10,000, with National American University graduates earning $45,109 compared to Dakota Wesleyan's $35,416. Public universities dominate the value equation, with net costs ranging from $17,001 at Black Hills State to $19,725 at Dakota State. South Dakota's business-friendly environment, anchored by major employers like Citibank's operations center and the state's lack of income tax, creates strong demand for management graduates who understand both traditional agriculture sectors and modern financial services.

Programs

$2,065 – $24,723

Net Price Range

$39,772

Avg. Program Earnings

52.3%

Avg. Graduation Rate

12 Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	Program Earnings	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	South Dakota State University Brookings, South Dakota	$18,219	$43,798	$9,299	59.6%	86.1%
2	Northern State University Aberdeen, South Dakota	$17,094	$40,728	$8,845	52.2%	78.1%
3	Black Hills State University Spearfish, South Dakota	$17,001	$36,914	$9,000	38.6%	96.6%
4	National American University-Rapid City Rapid City, South Dakota	$22,086	$45,109	$16,065	60.0%
5	University of South Dakota Vermillion, South Dakota	$19,155	$38,289	$9,432	61.4%	99.5%
6	Dakota State University Madison, South Dakota	$19,725	$39,369	$9,633	49.3%	78.9%
7	Dakota Wesleyan University Mitchell, South Dakota	$19,300	$35,416	$32,890	46.4%	74.8%
8	Augustana University Sioux Falls, South Dakota	$24,723	$44,666	$39,190	75.6%	65.8%
9	University of Sioux Falls Sioux Falls, South Dakota	$20,874	$36,221	$20,740	60.5%	76.0%
10	Mount Marty University Yankton, South Dakota	$23,295	$37,208	$33,100	60.6%	68.4%
11	Oglala Lakota College Kyle, South Dakota	$2,065		$2,684	11.5%
12	Sinte Gleska University Mission, South Dakota	$7,075		$4,714

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Oglala Lakota College such an affordable option for business studies?

Oglala Lakota College offers the lowest net cost at just $2,065 annually, making it accessible for students seeking business education. However, the 11.50% graduation rate reflects the unique challenges facing tribal college students who often balance education with family and community responsibilities.

How do public university costs compare to private options for business majors?

Public universities average around $18,500 in net costs while private schools like Augustana reach $24,723. The cost difference narrows when considering that Augustana graduates earn $44,666 annually and maintain a 75.60% graduation rate, significantly higher than most public alternatives.

Does attending South Dakota State justify the higher cost among public options?

South Dakota State charges $18,219 in net costs but delivers the highest earnings at $43,798 among public universities. The 59.60% graduation rate and strong alumni network in Sioux Falls' financial sector often offset the premium pricing.

Where do business graduates typically find employment in South Dakota?

Citibank's major operations in Sioux Falls hire extensively from local business programs, while agricultural cooperatives and healthcare systems provide management opportunities statewide. The state's zero income tax policy attracts financial services companies, creating additional career paths for business graduates.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.