Head-to-head · 2026
Augustana University vs South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for Augustana University, 4 for South Dakota School of Mines and Technology — South Dakota School of Mines and Technology 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 | South Dakota School of Mines and Technology |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.20 | 8.95 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $23,894 | $20,183 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $59,217 | $72,257 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 67.8% ✓ | 79.9% |
| Graduation rate | 73% ✓ | 53% |
| Median debt | $25,000 ✓ | $27,000 |
| Enrollment | 1,965 | 2,071 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1195 | 1245 ✓ |
| Wins | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Augustana University costs $3,711 more per year than South Dakota School of Mines and Technology ($23,894 vs $20,183). South Dakota School of Mines and Technology graduates report $13,040 higher median earnings after ten years ($72,257 vs $59,217). On EduGradify's model that puts South Dakota School of Mines and Technology ahead on projected ROI (8.95 vs 6.20, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (South Dakota School of Mines and Technology) 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 79.9% (accessible) at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.
Frequently asked
Augustana University vs South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Augustana University or South Dakota School of Mines and Technology the better value?
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.95 vs 6.20), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is cheaper — average net price $20,183 per year vs $23,894 at Augustana University. The annual difference of $3,711 adds up to about $14,844 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $72,257 vs $59,217 at Augustana University. The annual gap in the federal data is $13,040.
Which school is harder to get into?
Augustana University is more selective at 67.8% acceptance vs 79.9% at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.
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; South Dakota School of Mines and Technology reports B.