Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 43.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 43.4%
- Retention Rate
- 60.4%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $50,720
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $18,442
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 13:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 75.6%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $196/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $63,005 | $25,250 |
| Data Processing. | Bachelor | $45,696 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Bachelor | $42,682 | |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $42,682 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $42,123 | $20,856 |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Bachelor | $41,789 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $40,621 | $15,000 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $38,597 | $19,000 |
| Agriculture, General. | Bachelor | $37,748 |
Outcomes Overview
Dickinson State graduates earn a median of $50,720 ten years after graduation, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 36% with typical debt loads of $18,442. Monthly loan payments of $196 represent just 4.6% of median monthly income, well below the recommended 10% threshold. The 75.59% loan repayment rate suggests most graduates can handle their obligations. Many alumni find work in agriculture, education, and business throughout North Dakota's energy sector, where the 97.9% employment rate reflects strong regional job demand. Teachers, agricultural specialists, and business managers represent common career paths. Given the low debt burden, reasonable earnings, and strong employment prospects in a growing regional economy, Dickinson State delivers a strong return on investment for students seeking affordable, practical education.