Best Colleges in South Dakota

South Dakota College Guide – What You Need to Know

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South Dakota may be a relatively sparsely populated state, but it is full of great educational opportunities. The state has terrific, traditional colleges and universities, and the online opportunities expand your degree possibilities beyond your wildest imagination. Which are the best colleges and universities in South Dakota? That’s up to you but hopefully we can help you decide.

Education has more to do with how students engage with their professors and the material than any objective measure can show. That is why there is virtually no difference in student outcomes between online and traditional courses. If you buckle down, study the material, and engage with your instructors, your education and career will reflect the effort. In fact, smaller schools and even online universities might have an edge over some of their larger, traditional counterparts.

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What are the most popular bachelor's degrees offered in South Dakota?

South Dakota's colleges and universities have spent decades, if not centuries, preparing students for the career world. Over that span of time, they have developed faculties who are dedicated to providing the very best education. While trends come and go, South Dakota bachelor's degrees have remained strong. These days the most popular bachelor's degrees in South Dakota probably resemble those from decades ago, but contemporary professors are primed to support students through rigorous programs that create leaders. Look over the list of most popular bachelor's degrees. One might appeal to you, but perhaps not; these are only the most common degrees in SD, you can feel free to create your own path. Nonetheless, keep reading to discover more about your degree and career options in South Dakota.

The top degrees in South Dakota include:

How Much More Can You Make by Having a Degree in South Dakota

NO FORMAL EDUCATION HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA ASSOCIATE DEGREE BACHELOR’S DEGREE MASTER’S DEGREE DOCTORAL DEGREE
$30,784* $38,792* $46,124* $64,896* $77,844* $96,772*
*National Average Earnings by Degree Level
arizona-National-Average-earning-by-educational-attainment

Most Popular Degrees and Careers in South Dakota

Career Trends in South Dakota by Field of Study

As South Dakota continues to grow and develop, the state is slated for expansion across a range of occupations. In fact, the state has experienced a dramatic uptick in non-farm employment. In 2018, the state showed growth across a range of employment sectors, with professional and business services standing out with 9.6% growth. The next closest growth was in Mining, Logging, and Construction, which expanded by 4.7%. Unemployment was also low, even lower than the national averages. Non-farm personal income also rose by 6.4%

South Dakota has a lot to offer its future college graduates.

Top Accounting Careers and Salaries

CAREER NAME NUMBER OF JOBS AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Actuary n/a $86,900
Forensic Accountant 4,410 (accountants and auditors) $65,400
Financial Analyst 450 $73,870
Financial Manager 680 $139,620
Management Analyst 2,730 $77,930

  • Actuary:
    Your accounting degree will enable you to work in risk management as an actuary. Essentially, your job will be to minimize the overall risk and loss of a firm, most often an insurance company. You will need top skills in statistics, mathematics, and finance to excel in the field.

  • Forensic Accountant:
    This occupation is more exotic sounding than what most accountants do. You'll work with law enforcement to prosecute white collar crimes, divorce attorneys to best represent their clients, and otherwise investigate financial wrongdoing. Since there is more awareness of money laundering, tax evasion, and other financial crimes these days, this field is set to explode.

  • Financial Analyst:
    This occupation is often a springboard into the world of Investment Banking and Corporate Finance. If that's the path you choose, you'll probably spend two years as an analyst before heading back to receive an MBA, then head to Wall Street.

  • Financial Manager:
    Accounting majors are great financial managers. Financial managers look for ways to maximize a firm's assets through clever investing. For instance, you might purchase debt for your firm to avoid a certain amount of taxation. You could also spend your days trading equities and ensuring long-term wealth for the company.

  • Management Analyst:
    This occupation is often employed on a contract, consultation basis. You will be hired to audit a firm's management practices and then make recommendations based on your findings. Your goal will be to discover how a firm can achieve its goals without spending too much money.

Best South Dakota Schools for Accounting

  • South Dakota State University
  • University of South Dakota
  • Augustana University

Top Careers in Business Administration and Management

CAREER NAME NUMBER OF JOBS AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Logistics Manager 110 $74,950
General Manager 340 $61,900
Salesman/woman 200 $43,100
Sales Manager 330 $131,620
Systems Analyst 750 $75,680
  • Logistics Manager:
    As supply chains become more international and thus more complex, logisticians are needed to ensure that packages are delivered with the utmost efficiency. A strong background in accounting will help you excel in this profession, and you might find relevant courses listed as Supply Chain Management.
  • Manager:
    Every business needs a manager to oversee employees, monitor inventories, and other concerns. You can rise through the ranks to land a management position or you might find a company that has a management training program. When you work towards your degree, make sure you focus on courses like communication, accounting, and leadership.
  • Salesman/woman:
    You could sell food to restaurants, financial products such as insurance, or work in a showroom of some sort. With a business degree, you might want to look into selling business-related products or services. Your knowledge of business will impress your clients and your commission checks will reflect your hard work.
  • Sales Manager:
    After a few years in the field, you might prefer to move into a managerial position. You'll need to monitor sales figures and inventories, and keep abreast of new product lines, but you should also be a great leader. Sales managers often mentor newly hired sales personnel and help to smooth over the minor conflicts that arise from time to time.
  • Systems Analyst:
    This position sits somewhere between the IT department and the rest of the organization. Your job is to analyze your firm's technological systems and determine how to optimize them for maximum efficiency. Many systems analysts work as consultants and do a lot of traveling, but also reap great financial rewards.

Best South Dakota Schools for Business Administration and Management

  • South Dakota State University
  • University of South Dakota
  • Augustana University

Top Humanities Careers and Salaries

CAREER NAME NUMBER OF JOBS AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Technical Writer 120 $50,320
Information Technology Specialist 180 $55,200
Paralegal 510 $49,130
Librarian 570 $41,480
  • Technical Writer:
    Most humanities majors graduate with fantastic writing abilities. Thus, if you acquire additional knowledge and experience in specific areas you might be hired to write about them. Technical writers often learn about their subject areas while on the job. With the keen research skills of a humanities major, you can get to the bottom of any topic, no matter how technical.
  • Information Technology:
    Though humanities might not specifically address IT issues, if you have an aptitude for fixing computers or writing code, you can find an IT department that is willing to train you. You might also take your keen analytical skills and either teach yourself coding or work towards a high-tech, professional certification. For instance, there are many low-cost, yet top-quality, certification programs available for online students.
  • Paralegal:
    As a humanities major, you will do lots of research and writing. These skills are the essentials of a paralegal's work. You might need to complete a certificate program, but you can also learn on the job. A related position in the Docket Department of a litigation firm might be a great way to get your foot in the door.
  • Librarian:
    Many humanities majors take work-study jobs in their college libraries and then go on to work as full-fledged librarians later on. You could complete a master's or doctoral degree in the field and find work on a college campus, public library, or even for a law firm or other corporation.

Best South Dakota Schools for Humanities

  • South Dakota State University
  • University of South Dakota
  • Augustana University
  • University of Sioux Falls

Top Marketing Careers and Salaries

CAREER NAME NUMBER OF JOBS AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Market Research Analyst 1,100 $55,650
Marketing Manager 70 $162,890
Public Relations Specialist 580 $54,100
  • Market Research Analyst:
    This occupation is concerned with collecting and analyzing data on various market demographics. Your objective will be to determine what motivates certain segments of the population to purchase your firm's products. A strong background in statistics will be very helpful, as will any other experience with quantitative analysis.
  • Marketing Manager:
    These managers are in charge of the marketing team and sometimes even the graphic designers and other creatives. They are responsible for making sure a marketing project comes together on time while staying under budget.
  • Public Relations Specialist:
    These professionals are concerned with maintaining reputation and image. If you are in this field, you might work to protect and enhance the reputation of a person, product, or corporation. PR specialists frequently work with celebrities and other public figures.

Best South Dakota Schools for Marketing/Marketing Management

  • South Dakota State University
  • University of South Dakota
  • Augustana University

Top Registered Nursing Careers and Salaries

CAREER NAME NUMBER OF JOBS AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Registered Nurse 12,950 $59,540
Occupational Therapist 400 $72,370
Physical Therapist 920 $77,130
Nurse Practitioner 550 $102,230
Dental Hygienist 680 $62,560
  • Registered Nurse:
    This is a diverse credential that spans a wide range of specialty areas. You could choose to specialize in mental health, maternity, surgical procedures, or the emergency room. RNs are the core of any healthcare system. They are expert clinicians and administrators, too.
  • Occupational Therapist:
    This career path has so much to offer. OTs work to help people attain optimal functioning in their lives. On any day your patients could be recovering from stroke, accidents, disease, or attempting to recover lost movement from old age. As an OT you can forge a career path as unique as you.
  • Physical Therapist:
    You will need a doctoral degree to work as a PT, but it's worth it. You can help people learn to walk with prosthetic legs, recover from tendinitis, or maximize their athletic potential. Along the way to becoming a PT, you can likely find work as a PT Assistant.
  • Nurse Practitioner:
    If you love healthcare but don't wish to be a doctor, this is perhaps the path for you. NPs are able to prescribe medications, diagnose illness, and order diagnostic tests. In fact, some NPs operate their own clinics under the license of an MD. You'll need to first become an RN and then complete additional graduate coursework before you can become a full NP.
  • Dental Hygienist:
    In this position you will be a key part of any Dental team. Dental Hygienists are primarily known for their teeth cleaning duties, but they do much more than that. If you pursue a degree in this field, you might consider additional credentials that enable you to administer anesthetics.

Best South Dakota Schools for Registered Nursing

  • Augustana University
  • University of Sioux Falls
  • South Dakota State University
  • University of South Dakota

Want to See All the South Dakota Occupational Wage Averages
Occupation Title - *Salary information provided by BLS Median Hourly Wage Mean Hourly Wage Annual Mean Wage
All Occupations $15.55 $19.60 $40,770
Management Occupations $44.62 $50.37 $104,770
Chief Executives (5) $115.80 $240,870
General and Operations Managers $52.96 $59.28 $123,310
Marketing Managers $59.43 $65.21 $135,630
Sales Managers $56.67 $62.35 $129,680
Administrative Services Managers $38.76 $40.16 $83,530
Computer and Information Systems Managers $59.23 $61.53 $127,970
Financial Managers $58.51 $64.73 $134,630
Industrial Production Managers $45.74 $49.55 $103,060
Purchasing Managers $55.98 $66.22 $137,740
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers $41.50 $44.39 $92,330
Human Resources Managers $43.57 $45.58 $94,810
Construction Managers $45.04 $45.26 $94,150
Education Administrators, Preschool and Childcare Center/Program $26.70 $26.71 $55,550
Education Administrators, Elementary and Secondary School (4) (4) $79,210
Education Administrators, Postsecondary $45.70 $51.65 $107,420
Education Administrators, All Other $34.75 $35.18 $73,170
Architectural and Engineering Managers $57.40 $64.27 $133,690
Food Service Managers $24.78 $25.34 $52,700
Lodging Managers $25.02 $25.70 $53,460
Medical and Health Services Managers $48.10 $50.88 $105,820
Natural Sciences Managers $48.13 $51.10 $106,280
Postmasters and Mail Superintendents $32.01 $33.51 $69,700
Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers $16.72 $18.27 $38,000
Social and Community Service Managers $32.77 $34.36 $71,480
Emergency Management Directors $20.87 $22.62 $47,050
Managers, All Other $45.89 $46.32 $96,340
Business and Financial Operations Occupations $28.15 $30.43 $63,290
Buyers and Purchasing Agents $27.71 $28.46 $59,190
Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators $28.53 $29.89 $62,180
Compliance Officers $26.26 $27.61 $57,420
Cost Estimators $25.04 $25.45 $52,940
Human Resources Specialists $24.02 $25.71 $53,470
Logisticians $33.34 $36.03 $74,950
Management Analysts $32.45 $38.03 $79,100
Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners $15.79 $16.83 $35,000
Fundraisers $22.21 $21.20 $44,100
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists $24.63 $25.34 $52,710
Training and Development Specialists $22.61 $24.13 $50,200
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists $24.30 $26.09 $54,270
Business Operations Specialists, All Other $31.85 $33.39 $69,450
Accountants and Auditors $29.58 $31.47 $65,460
Appraisers and Assessors of Real Estate $21.68 $24.18 $50,300
Budget Analysts $28.77 $29.85 $62,090
Credit Analysts $27.38 $28.94 $60,200
Financial Analysts $32.64 $35.25 $73,320
Personal Financial Advisors $34.42 $40.16 $83,530
Insurance Underwriters $36.01 $37.79 $78,600
Financial Examiners $39.33 $41.14 $85,560
Credit Counselors $16.40 $18.10 $37,640
Loan Officers $28.93 $30.76 $63,990
Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents $23.32 $25.13 $52,260
Tax Preparers $19.17 $20.47 $42,570
Computer and Mathematical Occupations $28.89 $30.78 $64,020
Computer Systems Analysts $34.80 $35.79 $74,440
Information Security Analysts $42.27 $42.88 $89,200
Computer Programmers $25.64 $26.42 $54,950
Software Developers, Applications $35.59 $36.56 $76,050
Software Developers, Systems Software $40.76 $42.97 $89,370
Web Developers $25.89 $26.79 $55,720
Database Administrators $34.05 $35.25 $73,310
Network and Computer Systems Administrators $29.01 $29.73 $61,840
Computer Network Architects $45.96 $47.62 $99,050
Computer User Support Specialists $17.90 $18.55 $38,590
Computer Network Support Specialists $22.32 $23.13 $48,110
Computer Occupations, All Other $38.16 $38.10 $79,250
Operations Research Analysts $32.93 $37.97 $78,970
Architecture and Engineering Occupations $30.89 $32.23 $67,040
Architects, Except Landscape and Naval $37.81 $39.65 $82,470
Landscape Architects $30.11 $31.91 $66,370
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists $27.18 $26.64 $55,410
Surveyors $31.56 $32.76 $68,140
Agricultural Engineers $24.90 $29.49 $61,340
Civil Engineers $35.30 $36.81 $76,570
Electrical Engineers $36.59 $38.26 $79,580
Electronics Engineers, Except Computer $37.14 $38.04 $79,120
Environmental Engineers $44.36 $47.57 $98,940
Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers and Inspectors $30.68 $34.62 $72,020
Industrial Engineers $36.60 $39.05 $81,220
Mechanical Engineers $34.47 $35.62 $74,100
Architectural and Civil Drafters $18.70 $19.80 $41,190
Electrical and Electronics Drafters $19.16 $18.28 $38,030
Mechanical Drafters $20.24 $19.90 $41,390
Civil Engineering Technicians $20.96 $21.05 $43,790
Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians $22.18 $23.89 $49,700
Industrial Engineering Technicians $18.20 $18.82 $39,150
Mechanical Engineering Technicians $19.73 $19.67 $40,900
Engineering Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other $26.44 $24.83 $51,640
Surveying and Mapping Technicians $18.80 $19.22 $39,970
Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations $24.55 $26.16 $54,400
Animal Scientists $24.51 $27.21 $56,590
Food Scientists and Technologists $24.53 $27.19 $56,560
Soil and Plant Scientists $27.08 $27.88 $57,990
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists $25.15 $26.10 $54,290
Biological Scientists, All Other $31.10 $30.74 $63,930
Conservation Scientists $29.50 $29.84 $62,060
Foresters $24.25 $25.16 $52,340
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists $31.13 $35.66 $74,170
Atmospheric and Space Scientists $42.80 $41.58 $86,490
Chemists $28.12 $29.54 $61,440
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health $26.34 $27.26 $56,690
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers $28.71 $31.29 $65,080
Physical Scientists, All Other $49.51 $48.08 $100,000
Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists $34.63 $36.01 $74,900
Psychologists, All Other $46.76 $41.66 $86,640
Urban and Regional Planners $24.76 $25.76 $53,580
Geographers $34.97 $34.62 $72,000
Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other $31.85 $32.49 $67,580
Agricultural and Food Science Technicians $13.29 $13.52 $28,130
Biological Technicians $15.61 $15.40 $32,030
Chemical Technicians $16.87 $18.16 $37,770
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health $12.73 $12.96 $26,950
Forensic Science Technicians $25.11 $24.85 $51,680
Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other $19.55 $21.16 $44,010
Community and Social Service Occupations $18.31 $19.19 $39,920
Educational, Guidance, School, and Vocational Counselors $19.48 $20.04 $41,680
Marriage and Family Therapists $18.37 $19.27 $40,080
Rehabilitation Counselors $18.50 $20.16 $41,930
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors $19.10 $20.18 $41,980
Child, Family, and School Social Workers $18.35 $19.12 $39,770
Healthcare Social Workers $19.58 $20.80 $43,270
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers $17.26 $17.81 $37,050
Social Workers, All Other $34.73 $33.58 $69,850
Health Educators $21.53 $23.07 $47,980
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists $22.52 $22.50 $46,790
Social and Human Service Assistants $11.50 $12.20 $25,380
Clergy $21.22 $22.61 $47,040
Directors, Religious Activities and Education $19.08 $22.83 $47,480
Legal Occupations $29.51 $35.98 $74,830
Lawyers $36.96 $48.08 $100,000
Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates $42.67 $40.75 $84,760
Paralegals and Legal Assistants $21.84 $22.22 $46,220
Court Reporters $26.46 $25.34 $52,700
Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers $24.64 $26.18 $54,460
Legal Support Workers, All Other $16.01 $18.42 $38,310
Education, Training, and Library Occupations $18.50 $19.84 $41,260
Business Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $78,780
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $70,700
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $64,230
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $84,420
Agricultural Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $78,910
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $84,650
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $80,560
Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $72,570
Physics Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $75,770
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $84,410
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $74,810
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $75,960
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $62,220
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $91,300
Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $65,230
Education Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $65,840
Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $76,690
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $61,220
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $62,430
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $57,300
Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $62,510
History Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $69,070
Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $63,480
Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary (4) (4) $63,390
Vocational Education Teachers, Postsecondary $22.63 $22.76 $47,340
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education $13.84 $14.35 $29,840
Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education (4) (4) $40,540
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education (4) (4) $41,570
Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education (4) (4) $42,520
Career/Technical Education Teachers, Middle School (4) (4) $44,410
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education (4) (4) $41,980
Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School (4) (4) $43,310
Special Education Teachers, Preschool (4) (4) $41,390
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School (4) (4) $42,880
Special Education Teachers, Middle School (4) (4) $43,030
Special Education Teachers, Secondary School (4) (4) $41,810
Adult Basic and Secondary Education and Literacy Teachers and Instructors $16.30 $17.54 $36,490
Self-Enrichment Education Teachers $15.42 $16.28 $33,870
Teachers and Instructors, All Other, Except Substitute Teachers (4) (4) $44,120
Substitute Teachers $13.58 $13.52 $28,130
Curators $22.51 $23.56 $49,000
Museum Technicians and Conservators $13.98 $14.46 $30,070
Librarians $18.58 $19.95 $41,490
Library Technicians $11.39 $12.55 $26,100
Farm and Home Management Advisors $21.12 $22.05 $45,870
Instructional Coordinators $27.77 $29.15 $60,630
Teacher Assistants (4) (4) $23,680
Education, Training, and Library Workers, All Other $18.48 $18.78 $39,060
Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media Occupations $16.52 $18.49 $38,460
Multimedia Artists and Animators $18.47 $18.92 $39,360
Commercial and Industrial Designers $19.86 $21.50 $44,720
Floral Designers $12.98 $12.98 $27,000
Graphic Designers $16.65 $17.33 $36,040
Interior Designers $20.95 $21.80 $45,340
Merchandise Displayers and Window Trimmers $11.42 $12.34 $25,670
Producers and Directors $26.78 $28.24 $58,740
Coaches and Scouts (4) (4) $33,980
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials (4) (4) $28,020
Choreographers $16.06 $16.21 $33,710
Musicians and Singers (8) (8) (8)
Radio and Television Announcers $14.93 $15.48 $32,190
Public Address System and Other Announcers $9.98 $12.54 $26,080
Reporters and Correspondents $13.58 $14.32 $29,790
Public Relations Specialists $21.89 $23.12 $48,090
Editors $22.11 $24.57 $51,100
Technical Writers $23.07 $23.22 $48,290
Writers and Authors $21.11 $22.20 $46,170
Interpreters and Translators $16.65 $17.64 $36,690
Audio and Video Equipment Technicians $14.06 $15.24 $31,700
Broadcast Technicians $14.89 $17.22 $35,820
Photographers $14.21 $14.84 $30,870
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Motion Picture $12.89 $13.65 $28,390
Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations $26.43 $34.17 $71,080
Chiropractors $35.63 $40.53 $84,310
Dentists, General $65.04 $86.52 $179,960
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (5) (5) (5)
Dentists, All Other Specialists $95.63 $102.37 $212,920
Dietitians and Nutritionists $26.14 $26.32 $54,750
Optometrists $46.02 $48.57 $101,020
Pharmacists $56.58 $55.47 $115,370
Anesthesiologists (5) $137.44 $285,880
Family and General Practitioners $97.69 $105.20 $218,810
Internists, General (5) $136.05 $282,980
Obstetricians and Gynecologists (5) $132.90 $276,430
Pediatricians, General (5) $116.31 $241,930
Surgeons (5) (5) (5)
Physicians and Surgeons, All Other (5) $124.17 $258,280
Physician Assistants $47.26 $47.87 $99,570
Occupational Therapists $31.42 $32.21 $66,990
Physical Therapists $35.99 $36.47 $75,850
Radiation Therapists $36.66 $37.34 $77,670
Recreational Therapists $22.05 $23.30 $48,460
Respiratory Therapists $24.47 $25.08 $52,170
Speech-Language Pathologists $27.73 $28.86 $60,030
Veterinarians $36.64 $41.49 $86,300
Registered Nurses $26.76 $27.41 $57,010
Nurse Anesthetists $89.27 $88.85 $184,810
Nurse Practitioners $47.80 $48.09 $100,030
Health Diagnosing and Treating Practitioners, All Other $28.16 $31.27 $65,050
Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians $22.80 $23.99 $49,900
Dental Hygienists $30.40 $30.08 $62,560
Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians $24.01 $24.73 $51,440
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers $28.69 $28.52 $59,320
Nuclear Medicine Technologists $28.96 $29.07 $60,470
Radiologic Technologists $23.80 $24.46 $50,870
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists $29.11 $28.82 $59,950
Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics $13.44 $14.46 $30,080
Pharmacy Technicians $15.23 $15.69 $32,630
Surgical Technologists $18.70 $19.14 $39,800
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians $15.25 $15.21 $31,630
Ophthalmic Medical Technicians $15.02 $15.61 $32,480
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses $18.08 $18.12 $37,690
Medical Records and Health Information Technicians $17.87 $19.46 $40,490
Opticians, Dispensing $14.09 $14.79 $30,770
Orthotists and Prosthetists $39.64 $36.53 $75,980
Health Technologists and Technicians, All Other $26.17 $27.73 $57,670
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists $30.23 $31.79 $66,120
Athletic Trainers (4) (4) $44,130
Healthcare Support Occupations $13.19 $13.84 $28,780
Home Health Aides $13.14 $13.34 $27,750
Nursing Assistants $11.99 $12.48 $25,970
Orderlies $11.31 $11.64 $24,210
Occupational Therapy Assistants $18.05 $18.99 $39,490
Physical Therapist Assistants $19.05 $19.75 $41,080
Physical Therapist Aides $12.90 $13.14 $27,330
Massage Therapists $14.96 $16.75 $34,830
Dental Assistants $18.28 $18.46 $38,410
Medical Assistants $14.22 $14.37 $29,890
Medical Equipment Preparers $14.64 $14.75 $30,680
Medical Transcriptionists $16.01 $16.14 $33,570
Pharmacy Aides $12.35 $13.42 $27,920
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers $11.33 $11.64 $24,200
Phlebotomists $13.35 $13.48 $28,040
Healthcare Support Workers, All Other $20.37 $20.32 $42,260
Protective Service Occupations $17.99 $19.71 $40,990
First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers $28.72 $30.56 $63,570
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives $34.48 $37.06 $77,090
First-Line Supervisors of Fire Fighting and Prevention Workers $35.85 $34.92 $72,640
First-Line Supervisors of Protective Service Workers, All Other $24.24 $25.65 $53,350
Firefighters $21.09 $21.52 $44,750
Correctional Officers and Jailers $17.20 $17.90 $37,230
Detectives and Criminal Investigators $30.30 $35.37 $73,580
Fish and Game Wardens $21.60 $21.23 $44,160
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers $22.12 $22.98 $47,800
Animal Control Workers $14.05 $14.43 $30,010
Private Detectives and Investigators $19.43 $18.87 $39,260
Gaming Surveillance Officers and Gaming Investigators $13.89 $14.54 $30,230
Security Guards $13.13 $13.94 $28,990
Crossing Guards $11.66 $12.43 $25,840
Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers $9.99 $10.35 $21,520
Transportation Security Screeners $17.81 $18.23 $37,920
Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations $10.08 $10.87 $22,610
Chefs and Head Cooks $23.64 $23.97 $49,860
First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers $15.79 $16.09 $33,470
Cooks, Fast Food $10.16 $10.37 $21,570
Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria $11.70 $12.22 $25,420
Cooks, Restaurant $12.25 $12.48 $25,970
Cooks, Short Order $10.99 $11.27 $23,440
Food Preparation Workers $10.25 $10.58 $22,010
Bartenders $10.15 $10.71 $22,270
Combined Food Preparation and Serving Workers, Including Fast Food $9.67 $10.15 $21,110
Counter Attendants, Cafeteria, Food Concession, and Coffee Shop $9.70 $10.39 $21,610
Waiters and Waitresses $9.51 $10.24 $21,310
Food Servers, Nonrestaurant $11.73 $12.29 $25,560
Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers $9.67 $10.15 $21,110
Dishwashers $9.57 $10.06 $20,930
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop $10.25 $10.52 $21,880
Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance Occupations $11.62 $12.43 $25,850
First-Line Supervisors of Housekeeping and Janitorial Workers $18.50 $19.27 $40,080
First-Line Supervisors of Landscaping, Lawn Service, and Groundskeeping Workers $23.35 $23.82 $49,540
Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners $11.58 $12.06 $25,090
Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners $10.33 $10.71 $22,280
Pest Control Workers $17.09 $18.32 $38,100
Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers $12.41 $13.00 $27,050
Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation $15.15 $15.74 $32,740
Tree Trimmers and Pruners $15.22 $15.10 $31,420
Personal Care and Service Occupations $11.20 $12.23 $25,440
First-Line Supervisors of Gaming Workers $19.18 $19.86 $41,310
First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers $17.29 $17.67 $36,760
Nonfarm Animal Caretakers $9.63 $10.83 $22,530
Gaming Dealers $13.03 $13.49 $28,060
Gaming and Sports Book Writers and Runners $11.33 $12.76 $26,540
Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers $9.56 $10.15 $21,110
Amusement and Recreation Attendants $9.67 $10.07 $20,950
Funeral Attendants $11.51 $12.62 $26,240
Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Directors $28.74 $29.07 $60,470
Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists $13.76 $14.34 $29,820
Skincare Specialists $19.70 $17.40 $36,190
Baggage Porters and Bellhops $11.43 $12.24 $25,460
Tour and Travel Guides $12.11 $12.56 $26,130
Childcare Workers $9.68 $10.19 $21,200
Personal Care Aides $11.00 $11.19 $23,270
Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors $13.04 $14.06 $29,250
Recreation Workers $14.52 $15.47 $32,190
Residential Advisors $11.74 $12.21 $25,400
Sales and Related Occupations $12.52 $17.85 $37,130
First-Line Supervisors of Retail Sales Workers $20.53 $22.62 $47,040
First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers $42.18 $43.77 $91,050
Cashiers $9.86 $10.29 $21,410
Gaming Change Persons and Booth Cashiers $10.93 $11.13 $23,140
Counter and Rental Clerks $10.91 $12.37 $25,730
Parts Salespersons $15.58 $16.60 $34,540
Retail Salespersons $11.37 $13.67 $28,430
Advertising Sales Agents $20.26 $22.03 $45,830
Insurance Sales Agents $22.91 $31.14 $64,760
Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents $37.35 $50.88 $105,830
Travel Agents $15.65 $17.05 $35,460
Sales Representatives, Services, All Other $23.09 $24.83 $51,640
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products $34.57 $40.67 $84,580
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products $27.49 $29.89 $62,180
Demonstrators and Product Promoters $10.69 $10.85 $22,570
Real Estate Sales Agents $26.13 $27.46 $57,110
Sales Engineers $53.54 $54.87 $114,130
Telemarketers (8) (8) (8)
Sales and Related Workers, All Other $13.92 $16.69 $34,720
Office and Administrative Support Occupations $14.29 $15.07 $31,340
First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers $22.83 $23.69 $49,260
Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service $13.63 $13.32 $27,700
Bill and Account Collectors $15.01 $15.60 $32,440
Billing and Posting Clerks $14.34 $14.81 $30,810
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks $15.67 $15.97 $33,210
Gaming Cage Workers $11.86 $12.05 $25,070
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks $17.29 $17.35 $36,090
Procurement Clerks $18.04 $18.17 $37,800
Tellers $12.66 $12.75 $26,520
Brokerage Clerks $20.34 $20.77 $43,210
Correspondence Clerks $13.67 $13.89 $28,900
Court, Municipal, and License Clerks $15.00 $15.72 $32,700
Credit Authorizers, Checkers, and Clerks $15.11 $15.79 $32,840
Customer Service Representatives $13.88 $14.37 $29,880
Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs $17.32 $17.40 $36,200
File Clerks $12.71 $13.32 $27,710
Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks $10.54 $10.72 $22,300
Interviewers, Except Eligibility and Loan $14.19 $14.68 $30,540
Loan Interviewers and Clerks $15.73 $16.07 $33,430
New Accounts Clerks $17.24 $17.54 $36,480
Order Clerks $14.83 $15.73 $32,720
Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping $15.60 $16.03 $33,340
Receptionists and Information Clerks $12.28 $12.67 $26,340
Reservation and Transportation Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks $12.30 $13.34 $27,750
Information and Record Clerks, All Other $19.48 $21.73 $45,190
Cargo and Freight Agents $23.13 $23.33 $48,520
Couriers and Messengers $11.64 $11.99 $24,930
Police, Fire, and Ambulance Dispatchers $15.57 $16.25 $33,800
Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance $14.33 $15.08 $31,370
Postal Service Clerks $20.40 $20.84 $43,350
Postal Service Mail Carriers $21.95 $23.43 $48,740
Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators $20.97 $22.59 $46,980
Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks $18.30 $19.40 $40,340
Shipping, Receiving, and Traffic Clerks $14.77 $15.28 $31,780
Stock Clerks and Order Fillers $11.23 $12.23 $25,450
Weighers, Measurers, Checkers, and Samplers, Recordkeeping $13.90 $14.17 $29,470
Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants $18.13 $18.58 $38,650
Legal Secretaries $15.93 $16.53 $34,370
Medical Secretaries $16.50 $16.74 $34,820
Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive $13.61 $13.81 $28,720
Data Entry Keyers $12.02 $12.70 $26,410
Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks $14.78 $15.60 $32,440
Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service $12.71 $13.07 $27,190
Office Clerks, General $11.65 $12.42 $25,830
Office Machine Operators, Except Computer $11.28 $12.01 $24,970
Office and Administrative Support Workers, All Other $20.54 $20.08 $41,780
Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Occupations $13.63 $14.62 $30,400
First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers $17.68 $20.14 $41,880
Agricultural Inspectors $14.63 $18.07 $37,590
Animal Breeders $18.79 $17.35 $36,090
Graders and Sorters, Agricultural Products $13.27 $13.23 $27,510
Agricultural Equipment Operators $14.78 $15.62 $32,480
Farmworkers and Laborers, Crop, Nursery, and Greenhouse $12.50 $12.59 $26,190
Farmworkers, Farm, Ranch, and Aquacultural Animals $12.99 $12.96 $26,960
Forest and Conservation Workers $12.20 $13.33 $27,730
Logging Equipment Operators $18.39 $20.27 $42,170
Log Graders and Scalers $17.04 $16.78 $34,900
Construction and Extraction Occupations $17.75 $18.90 $39,320
First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers $29.46 $30.39 $63,210
Brickmasons and Blockmasons $24.12 $24.88 $51,750
Carpenters $16.59 $17.20 $35,770
Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard Tiles $17.08 $16.87 $35,080
Tile and Marble Setters $21.64 $21.17 $44,030
Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers $17.56 $17.80 $37,030
Construction Laborers $14.44 $15.08 $31,370
Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators $19.28 $19.13 $39,780
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators $20.53 $21.04 $43,750
Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers $15.85 $16.98 $35,320
Tapers $16.77 $17.22 $35,810
Electricians $21.43 $22.09 $45,950
Glaziers $19.46 $18.91 $39,340
Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall $16.77 $16.99 $35,330
Insulation Workers, Mechanical $15.15 $15.36 $31,940
Painters, Construction and Maintenance $15.49 $16.17 $33,620
Pipelayers $17.90 $18.58 $38,640
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters $19.76 $20.77 $43,200
Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers $14.95 $16.52 $34,370
Roofers $14.65 $14.74 $30,660
Sheet Metal Workers $18.07 $19.93 $41,450
Structural Iron and Steel Workers $17.99 $19.10 $39,720
Helpers--Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters $13.77 $14.10 $29,330
Helpers--Carpenters $11.66 $12.52 $26,030
Helpers--Electricians $13.55 $13.84 $28,800
Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters $13.59 $13.66 $28,410
Helpers--Roofers $11.59 $11.74 $24,430
Construction and Building Inspectors $21.80 $23.45 $48,770
Fence Erectors $14.66 $15.13 $31,470
Hazardous Materials Removal Workers $17.12 $18.04 $37,530
Highway Maintenance Workers $16.02 $16.20 $33,690
Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators $22.72 $22.62 $47,040
Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners $14.52 $14.72 $30,610
Miscellaneous Construction and Related Workers $22.23 $21.71 $45,150
Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas $18.09 $20.16 $41,940
Continuous Mining Machine Operators $17.92 $19.06 $39,650
Helpers--Extraction Workers $10.48 $10.54 $21,920
Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Occupations $20.19 $22.04 $45,850
First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers $33.72 $34.98 $72,750
Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers $17.92 $18.57 $38,620
Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers $29.05 $28.96 $60,230
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment $22.23 $23.74 $49,380
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles $17.66 $18.38 $38,240
Electronic Home Entertainment Equipment Installers and Repairers $17.49 $17.76 $36,930
Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers $23.31 $24.82 $51,630
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians $25.58 $25.84 $53,740
Automotive Body and Related Repairers $19.02 $19.44 $40,440
Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers $17.93 $18.82 $39,140
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics $18.19 $19.03 $39,580
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists $20.56 $20.80 $43,270
Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians $19.76 $20.45 $42,530
Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines $24.19 $23.96 $49,830
Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians $18.06 $18.31 $38,090
Motorcycle Mechanics $16.05 $17.19 $35,760
Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics $14.78 $15.15 $31,510
Bicycle Repairers $12.46 $12.42 $25,830
Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians $13.91 $14.56 $30,280
Tire Repairers and Changers $12.88 $13.25 $27,570
Mechanical Door Repairers $16.56 $17.39 $36,180
Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door $35.10 $34.45 $71,660
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers $19.46 $20.12 $41,850
Home Appliance Repairers $17.20 $17.59 $36,590
Industrial Machinery Mechanics $21.37 $22.02 $45,790
Maintenance Workers, Machinery $13.12 $14.71 $30,600
Millwrights $25.68 $25.28 $52,590
Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers $35.43 $34.91 $72,610
Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers $23.03 $23.96 $49,850
Medical Equipment Repairers $23.05 $24.26 $50,460
Maintenance and Repair Workers, General $17.20 $17.60 $36,600
Wind Turbine Service Technicians $29.65 $29.42 $61,190
Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicers and Repairers $16.60 $16.73 $34,810
Manufactured Building and Mobile Home Installers $17.62 $17.70 $36,820
Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other $21.37 $21.42 $44,560
Production Occupations $15.18 $16.36 $34,020
First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers $28.05 $28.63 $59,540
Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers $13.26 $13.36 $27,780
Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers $12.66 $12.86 $26,760
Engine and Other Machine Assemblers $16.77 $16.82 $34,990
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters $16.96 $17.09 $35,560
Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators $13.89 $14.53 $30,230
Assemblers and Fabricators, All Other, Including Team Assemblers $13.35 $13.75 $28,600
Bakers $11.54 $12.43 $25,850
Butchers and Meat Cutters $14.22 $14.61 $30,380
Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers $13.80 $13.97 $29,050
Slaughterers and Meat Packers $13.85 $14.05 $29,230
Food and Tobacco Roasting, Baking, and Drying Machine Operators and Tenders $13.62 $14.14 $29,410
Food Batchmakers $14.29 $14.52 $30,200
Food Cooking Machine Operators and Tenders $14.30 $14.30 $29,750
Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic $18.19 $18.52 $38,510
Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers, Metal and Plastic $22.52 $24.16 $50,250
Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $16.83 $17.14 $35,660
Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $17.92 $18.21 $37,870
Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $17.53 $17.64 $36,700
Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $17.12 $17.35 $36,080
Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $17.05 $18.09 $37,630
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $16.29 $16.06 $33,410
Machinists $17.74 $18.07 $37,580
Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $14.57 $15.33 $31,890
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $19.23 $18.70 $38,900
Tool and Die Makers $19.51 $20.23 $42,090
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers $17.75 $18.08 $37,610
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $20.81 $20.54 $42,720
Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $18.16 $18.42 $38,320
Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners $15.89 $16.33 $33,970
Prepress Technicians and Workers $15.68 $16.22 $33,730
Printing Press Operators $15.76 $16.66 $34,660
Print Binding and Finishing Workers $16.99 $17.00 $35,360
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers $10.60 $10.89 $22,660
Pressers, Textile, Garment, and Related Materials $10.80 $10.91 $22,680
Sewing Machine Operators $12.67 $12.56 $26,120
Upholsterers $19.69 $17.55 $36,510
Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters $14.65 $15.38 $31,990
Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood $14.05 $14.43 $30,010
Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing $13.65 $13.91 $28,930
Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators $21.86 $21.72 $45,170
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators $19.36 $19.92 $41,440
Chemical Plant and System Operators $21.10 $22.14 $46,050
Plant and System Operators, All Other $22.99 $23.02 $47,870
Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders $17.53 $18.72 $38,930
Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $17.15 $17.79 $36,990
Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $14.31 $15.42 $32,080
Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand $14.48 $14.69 $30,560
Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $17.11 $17.25 $35,870
Cutters and Trimmers, Hand $11.66 $12.21 $25,390
Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $16.59 $17.09 $35,550
Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $15.24 $15.83 $32,930
Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders $16.78 $17.16 $35,690
Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers $16.66 $17.19 $35,760
Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers $17.02 $17.47 $36,350
Dental Laboratory Technicians $15.48 $15.83 $32,930
Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians $14.02 $15.39 $32,010
Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders $13.95 $14.27 $29,680
Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $16.13 $16.79 $34,930
Painters, Transportation Equipment $18.28 $19.06 $39,650
Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers $14.65 $15.67 $32,590
Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators $13.03 $13.47 $28,010
Adhesive Bonding Machine Operators and Tenders $13.05 $13.10 $27,250
Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders $15.14 $15.61 $32,460
Etchers and Engravers $13.77 $14.29 $29,720
Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic $14.73 $14.85 $30,890
Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $16.06 $16.52 $34,350
Tire Builders $14.48 $14.69 $30,550
Helpers--Production Workers $15.60 $16.47 $34,260
Transportation and Material Moving Occupations $14.59 $16.25 $33,800
First-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors $28.02 $28.68 $59,660
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers (4) (4) $91,260
Commercial Pilots (4) (4) $61,640
Air Traffic Controllers $36.64 $37.99 $79,020
Ambulance Drivers and Attendants, Except Emergency Medical Technicians $11.13 $11.12 $23,120
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity $14.76 $16.05 $33,380
Bus Drivers, School or Special Client $14.00 $14.84 $30,860
Driver/Sales Workers $14.07 $15.52 $32,290
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers $18.53 $19.64 $40,850
Light Truck or Delivery Services Drivers $13.71 $15.29 $31,810
Taxi Drivers and Chauffeurs $11.77 $12.30 $25,590
Locomotive Engineers $37.00 $35.84 $74,540
Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters $28.99 $30.81 $64,090
Parking Lot Attendants $11.08 $11.21 $23,310
Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants $11.78 $12.14 $25,240
Transportation Inspectors $21.30 $27.62 $57,450
Conveyor Operators and Tenders $14.75 $14.98 $31,160
Crane and Tower Operators $23.45 $22.32 $46,430
Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators $19.92 $19.50 $40,550
Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators $15.67 $16.07 $33,430
Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment $10.78 $11.17 $23,220
Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand $12.62 $13.11 $27,270
Machine Feeders and Offbearers $11.73 $11.90 $24,760
Packers and Packagers, Hand $11.54 $11.76 $24,460
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors $12.66 $13.04 $27,130

The top occupations with the highest forecasted growth rate in South Dakota

The top ten South Dakota occupations expected to grow the most in the ten years between 2014 and 2024.

Occupation Projected Growth
Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic 36%
Industrial Machinery Mechanics 28%
Nurse Practitioners 24%
Web Developers 24%
Machinists 23%
Physical Therapist Assistants 22%
Brick masons and Block masons 20%
Restaurant Cooks 20%
Market Research Analysts 20%
Farm Equipment Mechanics 19%

Best 2 Year Associate Degree Colleges in South Dakota

South Dakota's students can launch their academic and professional careers at some of the best colleges in the state. South Dakota's community college system provides loads of options for students seeking technical, pre-professional, or even liberal arts degrees. Since associate degrees cost less at community colleges, students can save money on their core curriculum, earn a degree, and venture off to a four-year university when they're ready.

Mitchell Technical Institute
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
1,162		 Graduation Rate
73%		 Net Price
$11,382
Lake Area Technical College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
2,228		 Graduation Rate
72%		 Net Price
$11,400
Southeast Technical Institute
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
2,380		 Graduation Rate
59%		 Net Price
$12,046
Western Dakota Technical Institute
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
1,214		 Graduation Rate
51%		 Net Price
$13,443
Sinte Gleska University
College Type
4-year, Primarily associate's, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
549		 Graduation Rate
7%		 Net Price
$14,107
Sisseton Wahpeton College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
119		 Graduation Rate
7%		 Net Price
$3,413
Oglala Lakota College
College Type
4-year, Primarily associate's, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,306		 Graduation Rate
4%		 Net Price
$5

Best 4 Year Bachelor's Degree Colleges in South Dakota

South Dakota may be a sparsely populated state, but they still have excellent bachelor's programs. Here is a list of the best colleges in the state that support students with an academic foundation that rivals institutions nationwide. With these top-notch academic institutions providing great bachelor's degrees, South Dakota maintains high levels of education within the state.

Augustana University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
2,113		 Graduation Rate
71%		 Net Price
$24,481
University of Sioux Falls
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,675		 Graduation Rate
64%		 Net Price
$19,744
University of South Dakota
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
9,920		 Graduation Rate
59%		 Net Price
$17,689
Mount Marty College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,049		 Graduation Rate
56%		 Net Price
$19,704
South Dakota State University
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
11,512		 Graduation Rate
56%		 Net Price
$18,195
Dakota Wesleyan University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
880		 Graduation Rate
54%		 Net Price
$21,891
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
2,525		 Graduation Rate
49%		 Net Price
$19,444
Northern State University
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
3,427		 Graduation Rate
48%		 Net Price
$15,575
Dakota State University
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
3,268		 Graduation Rate
43%		 Net Price
$17,063
Black Hills State University
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
3,858		 Graduation Rate
38%		 Net Price
$15,861
Presentation College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
584		 Graduation Rate
34%		 Net Price
$21,798
National American University-Rapid City
College Type
4-year, Private for-Profit		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
1,855		 Graduation Rate
19%		 Net Price
$16,918
Sinte Gleska University
College Type
4-year, Primarily associate's, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
549		 Graduation Rate
7%		 Net Price
$14,107
Oglala Lakota College
College Type
4-year, Primarily associate's, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,306		 Graduation Rate
4%		 Net Price
$5
National American University-Ellsworth AFB Extension
College Type
4-year, Private for-Profit		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
199		 Graduation Rate
NA		 Net Price
NA

Best Advanced and Master's Degree Colleges in South Dakota

Once South Dakota's students complete their associate and bachelor's degrees, they can move on to a graduate program. Master’s degrees often translate into higher professional status, larger salaries, and the opportunity to achieve top certifications in many fields. Here are some of the best master's degrees in South Dakota. For those who are especially motivated or prepared to move toward their ultimate culminating degree, the list also includes the best doctoral degree programs available.

Augustana University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
295		 Graduation Rate
71%		 Net Price
$24,481
University of Sioux Falls
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
285		 Graduation Rate
64%		 Net Price
$19,744
University of South Dakota
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
2,445		 Graduation Rate
59%		 Net Price
$17,689
Mount Marty College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
182		 Graduation Rate
56%		 Net Price
$19,704
South Dakota State University
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,445		 Graduation Rate
56%		 Net Price
$18,195
Dakota Wesleyan University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
133		 Graduation Rate
54%		 Net Price
$21,891
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
323		 Graduation Rate
49%		 Net Price
$19,444
Northern State University
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
419		 Graduation Rate
48%		 Net Price
$15,575
Dakota State University
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
450		 Graduation Rate
43%		 Net Price
$17,063
Black Hills State University
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
174		 Graduation Rate
38%		 Net Price
$15,861
Presentation College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
26		 Graduation Rate
34%		 Net Price
$21,798
National American University-Rapid City
College Type
4-year, Private for-Profit		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
409		 Graduation Rate
19%		 Net Price
$16,918
Sinte Gleska University
College Type
4-year, Primarily associate's, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
65		 Graduation Rate
7%		 Net Price
$14,107
Oglala Lakota College
College Type
4-year, Primarily associate's, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
26		 Graduation Rate
4%		 Net Price
$5
Institute of Lutheran Theology
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
0		 Graduation Rate
NA		 Net Price
NA
National American University-Harold D. Buckingham Graduate School
College Type
4-year, Private for-Profit		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
0		 Graduation Rate
NA		 Net Price
NA
Sioux Falls Seminary
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
419		 Graduation Rate
NA		 Net Price
NA
Learn about MBA's in South Dakota

Best Online Degree Colleges in South Dakota (Distance Learning Only)

Since there are so many remote towns in South Dakota, online college degrees are becoming more and more prevalent. The best online colleges are a mere click away, whether they physically located in South Dakota or New York City. Online programs can include accounting, business administration, or a full range of health care opportunities. Distance learning in South Dakota is enriching minds and communities like never before..

Institute of Lutheran Theology
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-Profit		 Student Population
NA		 Graduation Rate
NA		 Net Price
NA
Colorado Technical University
College Type
4-year, Private for-profit		 Student Population
27,232		 Graduation Rate
26%		 Net Price
$16,260
Purdue
College Type
4-year, Public		 Student Population
38,138		 Graduation Rate
27%		 Net Price
NA
Southern New Hampshire University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Student Population
113,514		 Graduation Rate
44%		 Net Price
$39,743
Western Governors University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Student Population
136,139		 Graduation Rate
21%		 Net Price
$7,785
Capella University
College Type
4-year, Private for-profit		 Student Population
37,859		 Graduation Rate
NA		 Net Price
$17,368
Walden University
College Type
4-year, Private for-profit		 Student Population
48,420		 Graduation Rate
33%		 Net Price
NA

Cost of South Dakota College Education & Salaries

College degrees are not cheap. For that reason, every student should think through their reasons before they start researching a degree program. First, you should decide what field you wish to study. What appeals to you the most? If you were a strong math and science student in high school, you might look into a degree in the sciences, math, or accounting. If you loved your humanities courses, such as literature, history, and social studies, you could pursue a degree that plays to those strengths.

Once you know what you want, determine how to get the degree for the lowest cost without sacrificing value. One way to ensure lower educational costs is to attend a public college or university. As a South Dakotan, you have the option of attending a school in your state, but you can also pay in-state tuition at any public college or university in a state that is part of the Western Undergraduate Exchange. Those states include Colorado, California, Washington, and Oregon, among others.

Keep in mind that public universities can also be quite expensive. You might consider taking your core curriculum through a community college. Community college credits should transfer to your eventual four-year institution and their classes are typically smaller. You may even find that your excitement for academics increases in a community college, which means your GPA is likely to rise, too.

Finally, another way to reduce the cost of your South Dakota degree is to apply for scholarships and grants. There are so many out there that if you make a practice of applying for several every term you are sure to win at least a few. You can also list all of your scholarships as achievements on your resume. Future employers will be impressed.

Cost Analysis and Maximizing Your Earning Potential South Dakota vs National

Average South Dakota Tuition & Fees at 4 Year Public School

In-State Tuition - 8,700

National – $16,757

Out-of-State – $12,000

National – $26,290

Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid

South Dakotans are highly likely to receive financial aid for higher education. This means that you will have little trouble finding funding for your education. Interestingly, they also receive less per student. However, universities in South Dakota tend to be a bit more affordable than those in other states, so the effect of this shouldn’t be too strong.

Financial Aid South Dakota Nationally
Received Federal Grants 72% 37.7%
Average $ per Recipient $9,414 $10,927

* Institutional aid represents grant and scholarship funds directly awarded by a postsecondary institution.
* Financial aid data represents 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.

Best Scholarships for South Dakota

Scholarships and Grants are a great way to help pay for your college education. Since they will never need to be repaid, they never accrue interest. You might find that there are many scholarships that pay a small amount, such as $500. That might pay for one term's worth of supplies, but the real value comes later. Be sure to add every scholarship award to your resume. Future employers will take note, especially if you win a scholarship in an industry or occupation specific area.

  • EMFS
  • MDSDDS
  • CTNS
  • DCSP
  • JSS
  • SDOS
  • NBSP
EMFS_logo

EMFS

Erickson Merkel Foundation Scholarships

http://www.ericksonmerkel.org/2019-scholarship/
Amount: $500-$1,500
Deadline: March 31
This scholarship fund awards students between $500 and $1,500. To qualify, you should be a resident of South Dakota, among other Midwestern states. Your application should include an essay that discusses your efforts to reduce your college loan debt and how you intend to benefit your community.

HAS_logo
MDSDDS_logo

MDSDDS

Midwest Dairy – South Dakota Division Scholarships

https://www.midwestdairy.com/for-farmers/scholarships/
Amount: $3,500 (2 Awards – Juniors & Seniors); $1,000 (3 Awards – Freshmen)
Deadline: March 15
If you intend on majoring in Dairy Science at South Dakota State University in Brookings, this is a great scholarship to pursue. Midwest Dairy awards a total of five scholarships to Dairy students – two $3,500 scholarships for upper class students (Juniors and Seniors) and then three $1,000 scholarships for incoming first year students. When you apply be sure to demonstrate financial need, upstanding character, leadership qualities, and academic achievement.

CTNS_logo

CTNS

Critical Teaching Needs Scholarship

https://www.sdbor.edu/student-information/scholarships/CTNS/Pages/default.aspx
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies
The South Dakota Board of Regents administers this scholarship for budding educators. If you love children and want to help create tomorrow's leaders, this scholarship is for you. You will need to verify in writing that you will work as a South Dakota teacher for a minimum of five years. Qualifying students must be entering their Junior year and must also show a minimum of a 2.8 GPA. You must reapply to qualify for funds to cover your senior year. Before you apply, be certain to check with the Board of Regents to ascertain what teaching areas are currently considered critical. As a rule of thumb, school districts frequently need science and math teachers, but they may need other areas, too.

DCSP_logo

DCSP

Dakota Corps Scholarship Program

https://www.sdbor.edu/dakotacorps/Pages/How-Do-I-Apply.aspx
Amount: Varies
Deadline: February 1
This is a scholarship awarded by the state of South Dakota as an effort to retain the state's top talent. To apply, you must have a minimum GPA of 2.8, composite ACT scores of 27 (or the SAT equivalent), and agree to remain in the state and work in a critical need occupation. Qualifying occupations include:

  • High School Math Teacher
  • High School Science Teacher
  • Accountants and Auditors
  • Engineer (except mining)
  • Information Technology
  • Registered Nurse
JSS_logo

JSS

Jump Start Scholarship

https://www.sdbor.edu/student-information/Pages/Jump-Start-Scholarship.aspx
Amount: $1,500
Deadline: Varies
If you are in a hurry to get out of high school and graduate in three or fewer years you can apply to this scholarship fund. The South Dakota legislature instituted this scholarship to replay students for saving the state money in the public-school system. The award is $1,500 and will be distributed evenly between your first two terms of a college located in South Dakota.

SDOS_logo

SDOS

South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship

https://sdos.sdbor.edu/Pages/default.aspx
Amount: $1,300 (1st, 2nd, & 3rd year of attendance); $2,600 (4th year of attendance)
Deadline: Varies
This scholarship awards $6,500 over the course of four years to a top South Dakota student. Each year, students receive their award disbursed in two equal payments. You must complete your education in eight consecutive fall and spring semesters. You should attend a South Dakota institution such as: Black Hills State University, University of South Dakota, or South Dakota State University, among others.

NBSP

Need Based Scholarship Program

https://www.sdbor.edu/student-information/scholarships/need-based-scholarship/Pages/default.aspx
Amount: $500-$2,000
Deadline: N/A
This scholarship fund is for students who can demonstrate significant financial need. The program is administered by the South Dakota Needs Based Grant Program (SDNBGP) which has been endowed with a one-time payment of $1.5 million. There is no need to apply for this scholarship, as students will be selected based on the standard FAFSA form. University administrators will determine which students receive aid and amounts range between $500 and $2,000. You must attend a South Dakota institution such as: Mount Marty College, Dakota Wesleyan University, or Augustana University, among others.

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