North Dakota State University-Main Campus vs University of Mary: which has better ROI?
The verdict
North Dakota State University-Main Campus has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $62,172 in 4.5 years versus 5.7 years at University of Mary, on median earnings of $62,203 vs $60,909 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | North Dakota State University-Main Campus | University of Mary |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $15,543 | $17,770 |
| Total net cost | $62,172 | $71,080 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $62,203 | $60,909 |
| Median debt | $23,199 | $24,000 |
| Payback | 4.5 yrs | 5.7 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $214,688 | $179,900 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
North Dakota State University-Main Campus vs University of Mary: frequently asked questions
Is North Dakota State University-Main Campus or University of Mary a better value?
North Dakota State University-Main Campus. It clears its $62,172 net cost in about 4.5 years versus 5.7 years at University of Mary, on median earnings of $62,203 vs $60,909 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, North Dakota State University-Main Campus or University of Mary?
North Dakota State University-Main Campus: $15,543/yr net price after aid versus $17,770/yr at University of Mary — a difference of $2,227 a year, or about $8,908 over four years.
Do North Dakota State University-Main Campus or University of Mary graduates earn more?
North Dakota State University-Main Campus graduates earn a median $62,203 ten years after entry, versus $60,909 at University of Mary — a $1,294 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.