National American University-Rapid City
The Vibe Check
National American University-Rapid City offers an intimate, close-knit learning environment where students are not just a number but a familiar face. The small class sizes foster a supportive atmosphere where faculty know you by name and are invested in your personal and academic journey. It feels like a community college with a broader university reach, catering primarily to working adults and non-traditional students.
Academics & Majors
The university focuses heavily on practical, career-oriented education with strengths in Business, Health Professions, and Criminal Justice. Teaching quality is defined by small class sizes and instructors who bring real-world experience to the classroom. While research opportunities are limited compared to large state universities, the curriculum is designed for immediate workforce applicability.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Rapid City
Rapid City serves as a gateway to the Black Hills, offering endless outdoor recreation like hiking at Mount Rushmore or exploring Custer State Park. For those who prefer urban activities, the downtown area features a growing arts scene, local breweries, and seasonal festivals. The student body is largely non-traditional, so campus social life is quieter and more focused on academic networking than typical college parties.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($37,325):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The Rapid City campus is generally considered safe, benefiting from its smaller footprint and location within a mid-sized urban area. However, like any city, students should remain aware of their surroundings, especially when commuting at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Flat tuition rate for all students regardless of residency.
- ✓ Flexible scheduling options for working adults and non-traditional students.
- ✓ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from faculty.
- ✓ Open admissions policy makes higher education accessible.
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate is significantly lower than the national average.
- ✗ Limited campus amenities and traditional college social life.
- ✗ 10-year median earnings are below the national average for bachelor's degree holders.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
National American University-Rapid City is known for its flexible, career-focused education tailored to non-traditional and adult students. It specializes in programs like Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and Health Information Technology, offering both online and on-campus courses to accommodate working professionals.
No, National American University-Rapid City has an open admissions policy, meaning it accepts virtually all applicants with a high school diploma or GED. The acceptance rate is effectively 100%, prioritizing access to education over selectivity. However, admitted students must demonstrate the ability to succeed in a college environment.
Campus life is quiet and academically focused, with a student body comprised largely of working adults and commuters. There is little of the traditional 'college town' atmosphere, and social activities are often limited to student organizations and academic events. The environment is supportive but not socially vibrant in the traditional sense.
The value depends heavily on the student's career path and financial aid situation. While the net price is manageable and Pell Grant funding is high (57%), the median 10-year earnings of $37,325 are below the national average for bachelor's degree holders. It is likely worth the investment if you are a non-traditional student seeking flexible, career-specific training without taking on massive debt.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,559
- In-State Tuition $16,065
- Zip Code 57702
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $22,086, the cost is moderate, but the 10-year median earnings of $37,325 suggest a cautious return on investment. The flat tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students adds value for those relocating from more expensive states. Prospective students should weigh the lower cost of living in South Dakota against the starting salary potential in their chosen field.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.