National American University-Rapid City earns 2027 Research.com recognition

National American University-Rapid City was named among South Dakota’s best universities in Research.com’s 2027 rankings and also received a Best MBA Programs in South Dakota Award. The recognition lands as the university expands online offerings and continues to report outcomes aimed at adult and working learners.

Why it matters: - Research.com’s ranking signals where National American University-Rapid City stands among South Dakota colleges on measures tied to quality, affordability and student demand. - The recognition also adds visibility to the university’s focus on flexible, career-oriented education for adult learners and working professionals. - The Best MBA Programs in South Dakota Award gives the university a second point of recognition in the same ranking cycle.

What happened: - National American University-Rapid City was recognized in Research.com’s 2027 best universities in South Dakota ranking. - The university was also named a winner of Research.com’s Best MBA Programs in South Dakota Award. - Research.com released the rankings on Nov. 4, 2026.

The details: - Research.com says its best colleges rankings are designed to help students make informed education choices. - The platform says the rankings assess quality of education, popularity and affordability. - Research.com compiled the 2027 rankings using data from Peterson, IPEDS and College ScoreCard. - The methodology also considers degree types and regions, along with overall quality, affordability, popularity and the time required to earn a degree. - In July 2025, National American University launched its Bachelor of Science in Information Technology – Focused program. - The program is fully online and carries 135 quarter credits. - The university says the degree can be completed in about three years by students enrolled full time. - The IT program includes optional focus areas in cybersecurity, network administration, artificial intelligence and cloud computing. - NAU’s 2026 reporting shows 89% of undergraduate students attend part time. - NAU’s 2026 reporting shows 85% of undergraduate students are age 25 or older. - The university reports 246 students completed programs between Feb. 13, 2025, and March 4, 2026. - Among respondents to a September 2025 graduate survey, 90% reported satisfaction with their NAU education. - In that same survey, 81% said they were currently employed. - Also in that survey, 73% said NAU prepared them for suitable employment. - The university notes that the survey results should not be interpreted as employment placement rates.

Between the lines: - The ranking fits a broader strategy built around online access, adult learners and job-linked programs. - The university’s public reporting appears aimed at making student outcomes easier to see, especially for prospective students weighing flexibility against career value. - Research.com’s methodology favors practical signals that students often use when comparing schools, which can benefit institutions with clear affordability and completion narratives.

What’s next: - National American University is likely to keep promoting programs that fit working adults and students seeking online pathways. - The university’s ongoing performance reporting will continue to shape how it communicates student outcomes and degree completion. - Future ranking cycles will show whether the university can sustain or improve its standing in South Dakota and beyond.

The bottom line: - Research.com’s 2027 recognition gives National American University-Rapid City another external credential as it leans into flexible, career-focused education for adult learners.