Head-to-head · 2026
Dakota State University vs South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
Compare average net price ($21,057 at Dakota State University; $20,183 at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology), ROI score (6.05 vs 8.95), ten-year median earnings ($50,970 vs $72,257), and admissions selectivity (88.1% acceptance at Dakota State University; 79.9% at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology) using federal College Scorecard data. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology has a 6-1 metric-level edge. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology 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 | South Dakota School of Mines and Technology |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.05 | 8.95 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $21,057 | $20,183 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $50,970 | $72,257 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 88.1% | 79.9% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 51.3% | 53% ✓ |
| Median debt | $23,500 ✓ | $27,000 |
| Enrollment | 2,071 | 2,071 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1215 | 1245 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 6 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Dakota State University costs $874 more per year than South Dakota School of Mines and Technology ($21,057 vs $20,183). South Dakota School of Mines and Technology graduates report $21,287 higher median earnings after ten years ($72,257 vs $50,970). On EduGradify's model that puts South Dakota School of Mines and Technology ahead on projected ROI (8.95 vs 6.05, 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, Dakota State University is accessible at 88.1% acceptance versus 79.9% (accessible) at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.
Frequently asked
Dakota State University vs South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Dakota State 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 6.05), 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 $21,057 at Dakota State University. The annual difference of $874 adds up to about $3,496 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 $50,970 at Dakota State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $21,287.
Which school is harder to get into?
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is more selective at 79.9% 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; South Dakota School of Mines and Technology reports B.