Head-to-head · 2026
Dickinson State University vs Valley City State University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 2 wins for Dickinson State University, 4 for Valley City State University — Valley City 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 | 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 |
| Wins | 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.