Head-to-head · 2026
Dakota State University vs University of Sioux Falls
Compare average net price ($21,057 at Dakota State University; $21,383 at University of Sioux Falls), ROI score (6.05 vs 6.37), ten-year median earnings ($50,970 vs $54,521), and admissions selectivity (88.1% acceptance at Dakota State University; 82.9% at University of Sioux Falls) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Sioux Falls has a 5-1 metric-level edge. University of Sioux Falls leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
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 | University of Sioux Falls |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.05 | 6.37 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $21,057 ✓ | $21,383 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $50,970 | $54,521 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 88.1% | 82.9% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 51.3% | 62.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $23,500 | $23,249 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,071 | 1,218 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1215 | — |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Sioux Falls costs $326 more per year than Dakota State University ($21,383 vs $21,057). University of Sioux Falls graduates report $3,551 higher median earnings after ten years ($54,521 vs $50,970). On EduGradify's model that puts University of Sioux Falls ahead on projected ROI (6.37 vs 6.05, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (University of Sioux Falls) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Dakota State University is accessible at 88.1% acceptance versus 82.9% (accessible) at University of Sioux Falls.
Frequently asked
Dakota State University vs University of Sioux Falls, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Dakota State University or University of Sioux Falls the better value?
University of Sioux Falls has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.37 vs 6.05), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Dakota State University is cheaper — average net price $21,057 per year vs $21,383 at University of Sioux Falls. The annual difference of $326 adds up to about $1,304 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Sioux Falls reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $54,521 vs $50,970 at Dakota State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $3,551.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Sioux Falls is more selective at 82.9% 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; University of Sioux Falls reports C.