Head-to-head · 2026
Dickinson State University vs University of Mary
Compare average net price ($14,092 at Dickinson State University; $17,770 at University of Mary), ROI score (9.00 vs 8.57), ten-year median earnings ($50,720 vs $60,909), and admissions selectivity (37% acceptance at Dickinson State University; 75.3% at University of Mary) using federal College Scorecard data. Dickinson State University has a 4-2 metric-level edge. Dickinson 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 | Dickinson State University | University of Mary |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.00 ✓ | 8.57 |
| Avg net price | $14,092 ✓ | $17,770 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $50,720 | $60,909 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 37% ✓ | 75.3% |
| Graduation rate | 50.6% | 66.6% ✓ |
| Median debt | $18,442 ✓ | $24,000 |
| Enrollment | 1,090 | 2,416 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | — | 1159 |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Mary costs $3,678 more per year than Dickinson State University ($17,770 vs $14,092). University of Mary graduates report $10,189 higher median earnings after ten years ($60,909 vs $50,720). On EduGradify's model that puts Dickinson State University ahead on projected ROI (9.00 vs 8.57, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Dickinson State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Dickinson State University is selective at 37% acceptance versus 75.3% (accessible) at University of Mary.
Frequently asked
Dickinson State University vs University of Mary, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Dickinson State University or University of Mary the better value?
Dickinson State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.00 vs 8.57), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Dickinson State University is cheaper — average net price $14,092 per year vs $17,770 at University of Mary. The annual difference of $3,678 adds up to about $14,712 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Mary reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $60,909 vs $50,720 at Dickinson State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $10,189.
Which school is harder to get into?
Dickinson State University is more selective at 37% acceptance vs 75.3% at University of Mary.
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. Dickinson State University reports a B value grade; University of Mary reports B.