Overview
Enrollment
| Location | Spearfish, South Dakota |
| Online | bhsu.edu |
| School Type | Public 4 Year |
| Setting | Remote Town |
| Size | Small |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad/Graduate |
Founded in 1883, Black Hills State University (BHSU) is a public institution located in the Northern Black Hills of Spearfish, South Dakota. The campus, noted for its picturesque setting and contemporary facilities, provides a contrast between modern academic environments and the rugged natural beauty surrounding it. BHSU is situated approximately 45 miles from Rapid City, offering access to urban amenities while maintaining a close-knit, rural university atmosphere. Academically, the institution offers undergraduate programs across a multitude of disciplines, with education, business, and liberal arts being particularly popular among students. BHSU has a less competitive, open admissions policy. The university also provides on-campus living options to foster an inclusive educational experience. While BHSU is not primarily recognized for its athletic programs, it competes in NCAA Division II sports as the Yellow Jackets.
In the most recent statistical year 1,579 prospective students applied, and 1,526 were granted admission. Of those admitted 481 enrolled in the school. 1,619 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 1,806 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $7,700 plus fees of $1,300. Black Hills State University is ranked 1006 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
Black Hills State University is rated within the lower 22% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 3 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for Black Hills State University within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#1006 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#422 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#8 in Best Colleges in South Dakota
#6 in Best Public Colleges in South Dakota
#4 in Best Value Colleges in South Dakota
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 970/1085 |
| ACT | 18/24 |
| Estimated GPA | 3.22 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | - |
| Applicant Competition | Very Low |
| Application Fee | $20 |
Annual Cost to Attend
South Dakota Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Other Fees | $1,300 |
| Room and Board | $7,528 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $4,500 |
| Total One Year Cost | $22,228 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Other Fees | $1,300 |
| Room and Board | $7,528 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $4,500 |
| Total One Year Cost | $25,328 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Education | 21% |
| Business | 18% |
| Social Sciences | 10% |
| Recreation, Leisure and Fitness Studies | 8% |
| Psychology | 6% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering Black Hills State University are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Questions and Answers
CollegeSimply Advisor posts about Black Hills State University.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=219046 IPEDS survey data for Black Hills State University.
Current students may use the Black Hills State University GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.
Last updated February 24, 2024