Head-to-head · 2026
Augustana University vs Dakota Wesleyan University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 4 wins for Augustana University, 2 for Dakota Wesleyan University — Augustana University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Augustana University | Dakota Wesleyan University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.20 | 6.81 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $23,894 | $19,735 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $59,217 ✓ | $53,728 |
| Acceptance rate | 67.8% ✓ | 73.4% |
| Graduation rate | 73% ✓ | 48.3% |
| Median debt | $25,000 ✓ | $27,000 |
| Enrollment | 1,965 | 670 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1195 | — |
| Wins | 4 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Augustana University costs $4,159 more per year than Dakota Wesleyan University ($23,894 vs $19,735). Augustana University graduates report $5,489 higher median earnings after ten years ($59,217 vs $53,728). On EduGradify's model that puts Dakota Wesleyan University ahead on projected ROI (6.81 vs 6.20, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Dakota Wesleyan University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Augustana University is accessible at 67.8% acceptance versus 73.4% (accessible) at Dakota Wesleyan University.
Frequently asked
Augustana University vs Dakota Wesleyan University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Augustana University or Dakota Wesleyan University the better value?
Dakota Wesleyan University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.81 vs 6.20), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Dakota Wesleyan University is cheaper — average net price $19,735 per year vs $23,894 at Augustana University. The annual difference of $4,159 adds up to about $16,636 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Augustana University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $59,217 vs $53,728 at Dakota Wesleyan University. The annual gap in the federal data is $5,489.
Which school is harder to get into?
Augustana University is more selective at 67.8% acceptance vs 73.4% at Dakota Wesleyan University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Augustana University reports a C value grade; Dakota Wesleyan University reports C.