Head-to-head · 2026
Northern State University vs University of South Dakota
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 4 wins for Northern State University, 3 for University of South Dakota — Northern 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 | Northern State University | University of South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.53 ✓ | 6.54 |
| Avg net price | $15,812 ✓ | $19,858 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $47,618 | $51,926 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 93% ✓ | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 48.9% | 59.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $22,320 ✓ | $23,592 |
| Enrollment | 1,273 | 5,439 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1089 | 1125 ✓ |
| Wins | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of South Dakota costs $4,046 more per year than Northern State University ($19,858 vs $15,812). University of South Dakota graduates report $4,308 higher median earnings after ten years ($51,926 vs $47,618). On EduGradify's model that puts Northern State University ahead on projected ROI (7.53 vs 6.54, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Northern State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Northern State University is accessible at 93% acceptance versus 98.8% (accessible) at University of South Dakota.
Frequently asked
Northern State University vs University of South Dakota, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Northern State University or University of South Dakota the better value?
Northern State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.53 vs 6.54), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Northern State University is cheaper — average net price $15,812 per year vs $19,858 at University of South Dakota. The annual difference of $4,046 adds up to about $16,184 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of South Dakota reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $51,926 vs $47,618 at Northern State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $4,308.
Which school is harder to get into?
Northern State University is more selective at 93% acceptance vs 98.8% at University of South Dakota.
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. Northern State University reports a B value grade; University of South Dakota reports C.