Head-to-head · 2026
Dalton State College vs Valdosta State University
Compare average net price ($5,012 at Dalton State College; $10,945 at Valdosta State University), ROI score (20.08 vs 11.27), ten-year median earnings ($40,251 vs $49,361), and admissions context (Open / not reported at Dalton State College; 72.3% at Valdosta State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Dalton State College has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. Dalton State College 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 | Dalton State College | Valdosta State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 20.08 ✓ | 11.27 |
| Avg net price | $5,012 ✓ | $10,945 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $40,251 | $49,361 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 72.3% |
| Graduation rate | 25.3% | 42.4% ✓ |
| Median debt | $12,937 ✓ | $24,779 |
| Enrollment | 4,553 | 6,622 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1013 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Valdosta State University costs $5,933 more per year than Dalton State College ($10,945 vs $5,012). Valdosta State University graduates report $9,110 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,361 vs $40,251). On EduGradify's model that puts Dalton State College ahead on projected ROI (20.08 vs 11.27, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Dalton State College) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Valdosta State University reports 72.3% acceptance; Dalton State College does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Dalton State College vs Valdosta State University, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Dalton State College or Valdosta State University the better value?
Dalton State College has the higher EduGradify ROI score (20.08 vs 11.27), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Dalton State College is cheaper — average net price $5,012 per year vs $10,945 at Valdosta State University. The annual difference of $5,933 adds up to about $23,732 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Valdosta State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,361 vs $40,251 at Dalton State College. The annual gap in the federal data is $9,110.
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. Dalton State College reports a A+ value grade; Valdosta State University reports A.