Head-to-head · 2026
Dickinson State University vs Valley City State University
Compare average net price ($14,092 at Dickinson State University; $11,890 at Valley City State University), ROI score (9.00 vs 11.09), ten-year median earnings ($50,720 vs $52,725), and admissions selectivity (37% acceptance at Dickinson State University; 99.1% at Valley City State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Valley City State University has a 4-2 metric-level edge. Valley City State University has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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 | Valley City State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.00 | 11.09 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $14,092 | $11,890 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $50,720 | $52,725 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 37% ✓ | 99.1% |
| Graduation rate | 50.6% | 53.3% ✓ |
| Median debt | $18,442 ✓ | $20,369 |
| Enrollment | 1,090 | 958 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1041 |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Dickinson State University costs $2,202 more per year than Valley City State University ($14,092 vs $11,890). Valley City State University graduates report $2,005 higher median earnings after ten years ($52,725 vs $50,720). On EduGradify's model that puts Valley City State University ahead on projected ROI (11.09 vs 9.00, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Valley City 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 99.1% (accessible) at Valley City State University.
Frequently asked
Dickinson State University vs Valley City State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Dickinson State University or Valley City State University the better value?
Valley City State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (11.09 vs 9.00), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Valley City State University is cheaper — average net price $11,890 per year vs $14,092 at Dickinson State University. The annual difference of $2,202 adds up to about $8,808 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Valley City State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $52,725 vs $50,720 at Dickinson State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $2,005.
Which school is harder to get into?
Dickinson State University is more selective at 37% acceptance vs 99.1% at Valley City 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. Dickinson State University reports a B value grade; Valley City State University reports A.