Dickinson State University vs California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Dickinson, ND — San Luis Obispo, CA

Metric
Dickinson State University
Dickinson, ND
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
Location Dickinson, ND San Luis Obispo, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 1,090 21,996
Acceptance Rate 37.0% 31.3%
SAT Average
In-State Tuition $9,118 $13,596
Out-of-State Tuition $9,118 $34,665
Avg Net Price $14,092 $16,665
Median Debt at Graduation $18,442 $18,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 46.8% 85.7%
Retention Rate 67.4% 95.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $48,628 $72,358
Median Earnings (10 yr) $50,720 $90,768
Loan Repayment Rate 88500.0% 437700.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Dickinson State University
Dickinson, ND
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California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Dickinson State University and California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo compare?
Dickinson State University (Dickinson, ND) has an acceptance rate of 37.0%, in-state tuition of $9,118, and median 10-year earnings of $50,720. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (San Luis Obispo, CA) has an acceptance rate of 31.3%, in-state tuition of $13,596, and median 10-year earnings of $90,768.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Dickinson State University or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $90,768 vs $50,720. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Dickinson State University or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Dickinson State University is the more affordable option at $14,092 per year versus $16,665.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.7% vs 46.8%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

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Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025