BROOKINGS — A study conducted by Vention, a global software development firm, ranked South Dakota State University’s computer science program at No. 9 in the nation in high-paying employment following graduation.

The comprehensive study of 1,790 computer science programs in the U.S. showed SDSU graduates with a degree in computer science have a 100% employment rate and some of the highest median pay in the country.

The report shows a median earning of $89,959 four years after graduation from SDSU.

“Compared to other fields of study with 100% employment rates, bachelor’s degrees that can kickstart an artificial intelligence career lead to 56% higher salaries four years after graduation,” according to the report.

“The computer science program at South Dakota State University prepares it students in all areas of computer science by providing a strong theoretical background,” said Sungyong Jung, head of SDSU’s McComish Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. “All students graduate with great programing skills, strong mathematical and statistics understanding, and the background needed to solve tomorrow’s toughest challenges.”

He added that specializations in cloud computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning, data science and several other fields are available for students to choose.

The accredited program in the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering offers students careers in software development, computer programing, web development, computer systems analyst and information security analyst, among others.

SDSU was the only school in the region recognized for the success of its computer science graduates.

“Our study aims to help artificial intelligence enthusiasts make more informed choices when submitting their college applications,” Mark Karasu, CMO at Vention, said of the study.

Artificial intelligence was a $86.9 billion market in 2022. By 2027, it’s projected to reach $407 billion, according to Vention. As careers in the field grow, SDSU is providing students with the foundations to be successful in leading artificial intelligence.

The study evaluated the employment rate at one and four years after graduating and used the median salary of the fourth year to compile the rankings.