University of North Dakota vs Bismarck State College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Bismarck State College has the better ROI: it clears its 2-year net cost of $20,540 in 3.5 years versus 4.9 years at University of North Dakota, on median earnings of $54,277 vs $63,552 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of North Dakota | Bismarck State College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $18,551 | $10,270 |
| Total net cost | $74,204 | $20,540 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $63,552 | $54,277 |
| Median debt | $22,057 | $11,533 |
| Payback | 4.9 yrs | 3.5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $229,636 | $97,800 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of North Dakota vs Bismarck State College: frequently asked questions
Is University of North Dakota or Bismarck State College a better value?
Bismarck State College. It clears its $20,540 net cost in about 3.5 years versus 4.9 years at University of North Dakota, on median earnings of $54,277 vs $63,552 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of North Dakota or Bismarck State College?
Bismarck State College: $10,270/yr net price after aid versus $18,551/yr at University of North Dakota — a difference of $8,281 a year, or about $53,664 over four years.
Do University of North Dakota or Bismarck State College graduates earn more?
University of North Dakota graduates earn a median $63,552 ten years after entry, versus $54,277 at Bismarck State College — a $9,275 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.