Black Hills State University
The Vibe Check
Black Hills State University offers a close-knit, community-focused campus experience where students are known by name, not just by number. The vibe is grounded in South Dakota's natural beauty, with a strong sense of school spirit and a pace that balances academic focus with outdoor adventure. It feels like a place where you can build genuine connections and find your niche without getting lost in the crowd.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1050
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
BHSU is a leader in sustainability and offers unique programs like its Bachelor of Science in Business with a Sustainability minor, reflecting its commitment to the environment. The university provides hands-on learning through undergraduate research in biology and environmental science, often utilizing the nearby Black Hills National Forest. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from faculty who are focused on practical, career-ready teaching.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Spearfish
Spearfish is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with students frequently hiking, biking, and fishing in the surrounding Black Hills National Forest. The city boasts a vibrant downtown with local coffee shops, breweries, and unique restaurants, offering a cozy college town feel without the chaos of a major city. In the winter, students can easily access world-class skiing and snowboarding just a short drive away.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($46,674):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus and the city of Spearfish are known for being exceptionally safe, with crime rates significantly below the national average. Students generally feel comfortable walking around campus and the charming downtown area at any time of day.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely affordable tuition, especially for South Dakota residents
- ✓ Stunning location in the Black Hills with unparalleled outdoor recreation
- ✓ Small class sizes and accessible, supportive faculty
- ✓ Strong focus on sustainability and hands-on learning opportunities
Cons
- ✗ Graduation and retention rates are below the national average
- ✗ Limited diversity in a predominantly rural and homogenous region
- ✗ Remote location may feel isolated for students accustomed to large urban centers
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Black Hills State University is renowned for its stunning location in the heart of the Black Hills and its strong commitment to sustainability, being the first university in South Dakota to achieve sustainability certification. It is particularly well-regarded for its programs in business, education, and environmental sciences, offering unique hands-on learning experiences that leverage its natural surroundings. The university fosters a close-knit community where students receive personalized attention from faculty.
No, Black Hills State University has a very high acceptance rate of approximately 94%, making it an accessible option for a wide range of students. While it's not highly selective, a complete application with a solid academic record is still necessary. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1050, and applicants are encouraged to apply early to maximize their chances for admission and scholarship opportunities.
Campus life at BHSU is characterized by a strong sense of community and school spirit, centered around its mascot, the Yellow Jackets. Students enjoy a close-knit environment where it's easy to get involved in over 70 student organizations, including outdoor adventure clubs and academic groups. The campus itself is located in a scenic, suburban setting, and its proximity to Spearfish offers a blend of small-town charm and outdoor recreation, from hiking and biking to exploring local shops and eateries.
Yes, Black Hills State University represents an excellent value, particularly for in-state students with a tuition of just $9,000. The combination of affordable tuition, a reasonable average net price, and strong programs in high-demand fields like business and education makes it a financially sound choice. The 10-year median earnings of $46,674 for graduates, coupled with the low cost of living in Spearfish, indicates a strong return on investment for its degree.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 4,950
- In-State Tuition $9,000
- Out-of-State $12,100
- Zip Code 57799
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
At around $9,000 for in-state tuition, BHSU offers a high-quality education at an exceptionally affordable price, making it a fantastic financial investment. For out-of-state students, the $12,100 tuition is still well below the national average for public universities. With median 10-year earnings of nearly $47,000, the return on investment is strong, especially given the low cost of attendance and the availability of scholarships.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.