Cheapest Political Science and Government Colleges in South Dakota

Black Hills State University offers the most affordable Political Science and Government education in South Dakota at just $17,001 net cost, while graduates from the University of South Dakota earn $35,060 annually after completing their degrees. These programs prepare students for careers in state government, where South Dakota's absence of state income tax creates unique policy challenges and opportunities. The $7,722 cost difference between the least and most expensive options reflects the state's mix of public universities and private colleges serving future political leaders.

Programs

$17,001 – $24,723

Net Price Range

$32,735

Avg. Program Earnings

56.3%

Avg. Graduation Rate

7 Political Science and Government Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Black Hills State University Spearfish, South Dakota	$17,001	$9,000	38.6%	96.6%
2	Northern State University Aberdeen, South Dakota	$17,094	$8,845	52.2%	78.1%
3	South Dakota State University Brookings, South Dakota	$18,219	$9,299	59.6%	86.1%
4	University of South Dakota Vermillion, South Dakota	$19,155	$9,432	61.4%	99.5%
5	Dakota Wesleyan University Mitchell, South Dakota	$19,300	$32,890	46.4%	74.8%
6	University of Sioux Falls Sioux Falls, South Dakota	$20,874	$20,740	60.5%	76.0%
7	Augustana University Sioux Falls, South Dakota	$24,723	$39,190	75.6%	65.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide earnings gap between South Dakota political science programs?

University of South Dakota graduates earn $35,060 annually compared to South Dakota State University graduates at $30,409, a difference of $4,651. This gap likely reflects the University of South Dakota's stronger connections to state government in the capital region and its higher graduation rate of 61.40%.

How do private college costs compare to public universities for this major?

Augustana University charges $24,723 net cost compared to Black Hills State at $17,001, creating a $7,722 annual difference. However, Augustana delivers a 75.60% graduation rate, significantly higher than most public options in the state.

Does student debt vary significantly across these programs?

Available debt data shows graduates owing between $24,250 at South Dakota State University and $26,625 at Augustana University. These modest debt levels reflect South Dakota's generally affordable education costs and the state's low cost of living.

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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.