Head-to-head · 2026
Dakota Wesleyan University vs Northern State University
Compare average net price ($19,735 at Dakota Wesleyan University; $15,812 at Northern State University), ROI score (6.81 vs 7.53), ten-year median earnings ($53,728 vs $47,618), and admissions selectivity (73.4% acceptance at Dakota Wesleyan University; 93% at Northern State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Northern State University has a 4-2 metric-level edge. Northern State University 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 Wesleyan University | Northern State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.81 | 7.53 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $19,735 | $15,812 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $53,728 ✓ | $47,618 |
| Acceptance rate | 73.4% ✓ | 93% |
| Graduation rate | 48.3% | 48.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $27,000 | $22,320 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 670 | 1,273 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1089 |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Dakota Wesleyan University costs $3,923 more per year than Northern State University ($19,735 vs $15,812). Dakota Wesleyan University graduates report $6,110 higher median earnings after ten years ($53,728 vs $47,618). On EduGradify's model that puts Northern State University ahead on projected ROI (7.53 vs 6.81, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Northern State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Dakota Wesleyan University is accessible at 73.4% acceptance versus 93% (accessible) at Northern State University.
Frequently asked
Dakota Wesleyan University vs Northern State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Dakota Wesleyan University or Northern State University the better value?
Northern State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.53 vs 6.81), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Northern State University is cheaper — average net price $15,812 per year vs $19,735 at Dakota Wesleyan University. The annual difference of $3,923 adds up to about $15,692 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Dakota Wesleyan University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $53,728 vs $47,618 at Northern State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $6,110.
Which school is harder to get into?
Dakota Wesleyan University is more selective at 73.4% acceptance vs 93% at Northern 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 Wesleyan University reports a C value grade; Northern State University reports B.