Head-to-head · 2026
Dakota State University vs Dakota Wesleyan University
Compare average net price ($21,057 at Dakota State University; $19,735 at Dakota Wesleyan University), ROI score (6.05 vs 6.81), ten-year median earnings ($50,970 vs $53,728), and admissions selectivity (88.1% acceptance at Dakota State University; 73.4% at Dakota Wesleyan University) using federal College Scorecard data. Dakota Wesleyan University has a 4-2 metric-level edge. Dakota Wesleyan University has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Dakota State University | Dakota Wesleyan University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.05 | 6.81 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $21,057 | $19,735 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $50,970 | $53,728 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 88.1% | 73.4% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 51.3% ✓ | 48.3% |
| Median debt | $23,500 ✓ | $27,000 |
| Enrollment | 2,071 | 670 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1215 | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Dakota State University costs $1,322 more per year than Dakota Wesleyan University ($21,057 vs $19,735). Dakota Wesleyan University graduates report $2,758 higher median earnings after ten years ($53,728 vs $50,970). On EduGradify's model that puts Dakota Wesleyan University ahead on projected ROI (6.81 vs 6.05, 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, Dakota State University is accessible at 88.1% acceptance versus 73.4% (accessible) at Dakota Wesleyan University.
Frequently asked
Dakota State University vs Dakota Wesleyan University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Dakota State University or Dakota Wesleyan University the better value?
Dakota Wesleyan University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.81 vs 6.05), 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 $21,057 at Dakota State University. The annual difference of $1,322 adds up to about $5,288 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Dakota Wesleyan University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $53,728 vs $50,970 at Dakota State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,758.
Which school is harder to get into?
Dakota Wesleyan University is more selective at 73.4% acceptance vs 88.1% at Dakota State 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. Dakota State University reports a C value grade; Dakota Wesleyan University reports C.