Acceptance
96%
Avg SAT
1087
In-State
$8,764
Grad Rate (4yr)
29%
Retention
72%
Earnings
$46,674
AI Overview
Nestled in the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota, this public university offers accessible education with standout programs in cultural studies and communications. The small-town Spearfish setting creates a tight-knit campus where students build genuine relationships with professors and peers. With a 94% acceptance rate, BHSU welcomes motivated learners ready to engage deeply rather than those chasing prestige. The surrounding Black Hills provide an unbeatable backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts who want adventure right outside the classroom.
AI-generated interpretation, separate from the federal statistics on this page · refreshed Mar 2026
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
In-State Tuition
$8,764
Out-of-State Tuition
$11,866
Room & Board
$12,160
Average Net Price
$15,911
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual cost after grants & scholarships
Receive Pell Grants
20%
Take Federal Loans
28%
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,000
6-Year Graduation Rate
1st Year Retention Rate
Median Earnings
10 years after enrollment
$46,674Median Debt
At graduation for completers
$26,000Top Programs by Earnings
Bachelor's degree graduatesBusiness Administration, Management and Operations
82 graduates
$59,626
4 yrs after graduation
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
26 graduates
$55,622
4 yrs after graduation
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
14 graduates
$52,883
4 yrs after graduation
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
41 graduates
$44,958
4 yrs after graduation
Community Organization and Advocacy
21 graduates
$42,781
4 yrs after graduation
Psychology, General
20 graduates
$42,417
4 yrs after graduation
Biology, General
27 graduates
$40,967
4 yrs after graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard
Available Programs
45+ programsAnd 33 more programs available
Is Black Hills State University right for you?
Get your personalized match report in minutes
See if Black Hills State University is right for you