Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 50.0%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 46.4%
- Retention Rate
- 69.4%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $53,728
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $27,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 12:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 70.2%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $286/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | Master | $63,005 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $57,603 | $24,855 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $55,512 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $42,123 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Bachelor | $39,369 | |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $37,568 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $35,416 | |
| Human Services, General. | Bachelor | $34,526 | |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $33,993 | |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $28,019 |
Outcomes Overview
Dakota Wesleyan graduates earn a median of $53,728 ten years after graduation, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 50% based on the typical $27,000 in student loans. Monthly loan payments of $286 consume about 6.4% of gross income, which sits below the recommended 10% threshold. The 99% employment rate reflects the school's strong career services and tight-knit alumni network in the region. Many graduates remain in South Dakota or nearby states, often entering healthcare, education, business, and agricultural sectors where Methodist values and small-town connections prove valuable. The loan repayment rate of 70% suggests some financial strain for graduates. Despite the high employment rate, the modest salaries and graduation rate of 46% indicate an average return on investment.