At $19,725/yr net price, Dakota State University graduates earn $50,970/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $16,970/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $19,725 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $78,900 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $50,970/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$16,970/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 49.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $15,948/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $16,778/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $20,432/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $21,975/yr |
| $110,001+ | $21,121/yr |
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 |
The Risk Factor
49.3% of students at Dakota State University graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Dakota State University offers strong financial returns if you choose the right major, but the school carries significant graduation risks that could derail your investment. The computer and information technology programs deliver strong value, with IT administration graduates earning $84,653 annually and information science majors pulling in $76,460.
Your major choice determines everything at DSU. Computer science and information technology graduates see excellent debt-to-income ratios, typically borrowing around $20,000 to earn $55,000-plus starting salaries. However, the school's 49% graduation rate means roughly half of students never finish their degrees, making this a high-risk investment if you struggle with persistence or lack strong study habits.
The regional job market in South Dakota supports tech graduates well, but career growth may require eventual relocation to larger metro areas. DSU's location gives you lower living costs during school but potentially limits long-term earning potential compared to graduates who start careers in major tech hubs.
You should consider DSU if you're committed to technology fields and confident in your ability to graduate. The school works best for self-motivated students who can handle the academic demands without extensive support systems. Avoid DSU if you're undecided about your major, struggle with independent learning, or want backup career options beyond technology.
The school's low financial aid percentage suggests limited need-based support, but the modest debt levels indicate costs remain manageable for most families. Focus on securing merit scholarships and maintaining good academic standing to maximize your return on this investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dakota State University worth the cost?
Dakota State University offers strong ROI for computer and information technology programs, with graduates earning $51,000-$84,000 annually. However, the 49% graduation rate means many students don't finish, and the $23,500 median debt load is reasonable but only worthwhile if you complete your degree.
What programs at Dakota State University have the best job prospects?
Computer and Information Technology Administration graduates earn the highest salaries at $84,653, while Information Science majors average $76,460. General computer science programs pay less at around $56,000, so picking your specific tech focus matters for earnings potential.
How much debt do Dakota State University students typically graduate with?
Dakota State graduates carry $23,500 in median debt, which is manageable for tech majors earning $50,000+ but could be problematic for lower-paying fields. With nearly half of students not graduating, debt without a degree is a real risk.
Are Dakota State University graduates earning enough to justify the tuition?
Tech program graduates typically earn enough to justify the $19,725 annual cost, but the 49% graduation rate is concerning. Students who don't finish often struggle with debt and limited career prospects compared to those who complete their degrees.