Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 49.0%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 49.3%
- Retention Rate
- 75.3%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $50,970
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $23,500
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 19:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 67.3%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $249/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Master | $84,653 | |
| Information Science/Studies. | Master | $76,460 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $55,964 | $20,059 |
| Information Science/Studies. | Bachelor | $55,964 | $19,343 |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Bachelor | $51,035 | $24,000 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Bachelor | $46,087 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $42,682 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Bachelor | $41,205 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $39,369 | $20,508 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $39,153 | $23,500 |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Bachelor | $38,721 | $27,625 |
| Computer Software and Media Applications. | Bachelor | $28,598 | $27,000 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $22,192 |
Outcomes Overview
Dakota State graduates earn a median salary of $50,970 ten years after graduation, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 46% based on typical debt of $23,500. Monthly loan payments of $249 consume about 6% of gross income for recent graduates. The university's 98.3% employment rate reflects strong demand for its cybersecurity and technology graduates in fields like information security, software development, and digital forensics. Many alumni find work at regional healthcare systems, financial institutions, and government agencies seeking cyber professionals. While the 49% graduation rate raises concerns, graduates who complete their degrees typically secure stable tech careers. The combination of moderate debt, solid earnings, and excellent job placement creates an average return on investment.