Head-to-head · 2026
University of Mary vs Valley City State University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 4 wins for University of Mary, 3 for Valley City State University — University of Mary 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 | University of Mary | Valley City State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.57 | 11.09 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $17,770 | $11,890 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $60,909 ✓ | $52,725 |
| Acceptance rate | 75.3% ✓ | 99.1% |
| Graduation rate | 66.6% ✓ | 53.3% |
| Median debt | $24,000 | $20,369 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,416 | 958 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1159 ✓ | 1041 |
| Wins | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Mary costs $5,880 more per year than Valley City State University ($17,770 vs $11,890). University of Mary graduates report $8,184 higher median earnings after ten years ($60,909 vs $52,725). On EduGradify's model that puts Valley City State University ahead on projected ROI (11.09 vs 8.57, 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, University of Mary is accessible at 75.3% acceptance versus 99.1% (accessible) at Valley City State University.
Frequently asked
University of Mary vs Valley City State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Mary or Valley City State University the better value?
Valley City State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (11.09 vs 8.57), 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 $17,770 at University of Mary. The annual difference of $5,880 adds up to about $23,520 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Mary reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $60,909 vs $52,725 at Valley City State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $8,184.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Mary is more selective at 75.3% 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. University of Mary reports a B value grade; Valley City State University reports A.