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Sinte Gleska University in Mission offers the state's most affordable accounting education at just $7,075 net cost, while other options reach $24,723 at Augustana University. This $17,648 cost gap reflects South Dakota's mix of tribal, public, and private institutions serving accounting students. The state's finance sector, anchored by major employers like Citibank's operations center, creates steady demand for accounting professionals. Graduates typically earn between $39,909 and $47,513 annually, with University of Sioux Falls graduates commanding the highest starting salaries at $47,513 despite moderate program costs of $20,874.
10
Programs
$7,075 – $24,723
Net Price Range
$42,685
Avg. Program Earnings
56.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

10 Accounting and Related Services Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,075 $4,714
2 $17,001 $9,000 38.6% 96.6%
3 $17,094 $8,845 52.2% 78.1%
4 $19,155 $9,432 61.4% 99.5%
5 $19,300 $32,890 46.4% 74.8%
6 $19,725 $9,633 49.3% 78.9%
7 $20,874 $20,740 60.5% 76.0%
8 $22,086 $16,065 60.0%
9 $23,295 $33,100 60.6% 68.4%
10 $24,723 $39,190 75.6% 65.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Sinte Gleska University's accounting program so affordable?

As a tribal college, Sinte Gleska University offers accounting education at $7,075 net cost, making it the most affordable option in South Dakota. The university serves Native American students primarily and receives federal funding that helps keep costs low.

How do graduation rates compare between public and private accounting programs?

Private institutions generally show stronger completion rates, with Augustana University leading at 75.6% graduation rate. Public universities range from 38.6% at Black Hills State to 61.4% at University of South Dakota, while private schools typically exceed 60%.

Does attending a more expensive program guarantee higher earnings?

Not necessarily - University of Sioux Falls graduates earn $47,513 despite a moderate $20,874 program cost. Mount Marty University costs $23,295 but produces the lowest graduate earnings at $39,909, showing cost doesn't always correlate with salary outcomes.

Where do most accounting graduates find employment in South Dakota?

South Dakota's finance sector, including Citibank's major operations center, provides accounting opportunities alongside agriculture and healthcare industries. The state's lack of income tax attracts financial services companies, creating steady demand for accounting professionals.

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