Head-to-head · 2026
Dakota Wesleyan University vs South Dakota State University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 2 wins for Dakota Wesleyan University, 4 for South Dakota State University — South Dakota State University 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 | Dakota Wesleyan University | South Dakota State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.81 | 6.94 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $19,735 ✓ | $19,841 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $53,728 | $55,070 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 73.4% ✓ | 98.3% |
| Graduation rate | 48.3% | 62.4% ✓ |
| Median debt | $27,000 | $23,250 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 670 | 9,198 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1120 |
| Wins | 2 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
South Dakota State University costs $106 more per year than Dakota Wesleyan University ($19,841 vs $19,735). South Dakota State University graduates report $1,342 higher median earnings after ten years ($55,070 vs $53,728). On EduGradify's model that puts South Dakota State University ahead on projected ROI (6.94 vs 6.81, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (South Dakota State University) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Dakota Wesleyan University is accessible at 73.4% acceptance versus 98.3% (accessible) at South Dakota State University.
Frequently asked
Dakota Wesleyan University vs South Dakota State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Dakota Wesleyan University or South Dakota State University the better value?
South Dakota State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (6.94 vs 6.81), 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 $19,841 at South Dakota State University. The annual difference of $106 adds up to about $424 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
South Dakota State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $55,070 vs $53,728 at Dakota Wesleyan University. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,342.
Which school is harder to get into?
Dakota Wesleyan University is more selective at 73.4% acceptance vs 98.3% at South 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 Wesleyan University reports a C value grade; South Dakota State University reports C.