University of South Dakota vs Southeast Technical College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of South Dakota has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $79,432 in 22.3 years versus not at all at Southeast Technical College, on median earnings of $51,926 vs $46,709 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of South Dakota | Southeast Technical College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $19,858 | $17,400 |
| Total net cost | $79,432 | $34,800 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $51,926 | $46,709 |
| Median debt | $23,592 | $12,000 |
| Payback | 22.3 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $-8,112 | $-67,820 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of South Dakota vs Southeast Technical College: frequently asked questions
Is University of South Dakota or Southeast Technical College a better value?
University of South Dakota. It clears its $79,432 net cost in about 22.3 years versus no clear payback at Southeast Technical College, on median earnings of $51,926 vs $46,709 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of South Dakota or Southeast Technical College?
Southeast Technical College: $17,400/yr net price after aid versus $19,858/yr at University of South Dakota — a difference of $2,458 a year, or about $44,632 over four years.
Do University of South Dakota or Southeast Technical College graduates earn more?
University of South Dakota graduates earn a median $51,926 ten years after entry, versus $46,709 at Southeast Technical College — a $5,217 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.