Black Hills State University Overview

Black Hills State University is a four-year, medium full-time, inclusive, higher transfer-in, higher education institution located in Spearfish, SD. It has an enrollment of 2,042 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 97.25%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $16,448. Tuition is $9,000.00 without financial aid.

Black Hills State University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Black Hills State University, 61.35% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Black Hills State University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 17 to 1.

Black Hills State University Website

Black Hills State University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 97.25%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required

• The average SAT score was 1065.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 21.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Black Hills State University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $16,448. The in-state tuition is $9,000.00. Out-of-state tuition is $12,100.00

The average tuition is:

• $12,147, when family income is less than $30,000

• $13,989, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $17,062, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $18,323, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $19,133, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 35.66% of students received a federal student loan and 22.18% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $12,100.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

Black Hills State University Net Price Calculator

Black Hills State University Majors/Salaries

Black Hills State University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Black Hills State University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Special Education and Teaching. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,725
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,768
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $38,289
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,768
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,967
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,669
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,295
• Community Organization and Advocacy. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,138
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,881
• Design and Applied Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,038
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,914
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $22,824

Black Hills State University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Black Hills State University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 1.96%
• Asian: 0.44%
• Black: 0.69%
• Hispanic: 4.02%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.10%
• Non-resident alien: 1.22%
• Two or more races: 3.62%
• Unknown: 0.98%
• White: 86.97%

At Black Hills State University, 17.12% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Black Hills State University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Black Hills State University?

Black Hills State University, located in Spearfish, South Dakota, has a strong school spirit culture, with plenty of opportunities for students to get involved in campus life and show their school pride. The university has a variety of athletic teams, including football, basketball, volleyball, cross country, track and field, and rodeo. Students can attend games and support their teams, as well as participate in intramural sports and clubs related to their interests. In addition to athletics, Black Hills State University hosts a diverse range of events throughout the year, including Homecoming Week, which includes a parade, bonfire, and tailgate party. There are also spirit days, such as Black Out Day and Gold Rush Day, where students dress up in school colors to show their pride. Overall, Black Hills State University has a strong sense of community and school spirit, making it a great place to get involved and feel like a part of something bigger.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Black Hills State University?

At Black Hills State University, there are various extracurriculars that students can participate in. Some of the popular extracurriculars include: 1. Student Government Association (SGA) 2. Greek Life- sororities and fraternities 3. Outdoor Adventure Club 4. National Society of Leadership and Success 5. Health and Wellness Club 6. Music and Theater clubs 7. Honors Program 8. Intramural sports clubs These are just a few examples of the many extracurriculars available at Black Hills State University. Students are also encouraged to start their own clubs based on their interests and passions.

How are the food choices at Black Hills State University?

Black Hills State University offers a variety of food choices for students, including options for those with dietary restrictions. The on-campus dining locations include a cafeteria-style dining hall, a cafe, a convenience store, and a grill. The dining hall and cafe offer a range of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free meals, as well as snacks and drinks. Additionally, there are several dining options available off-campus in the nearby Spearfish community. Overall, the food choices at Black Hills State University are diverse and cater to the needs of their students.

Is there Greek life at Black Hills State University?

Yes, Black Hills State University does have Greek life on campus. There are six fraternities and sororities that are part of the university’s Greek community. These include Alpha Sigma Alpha, Delta Zeta, Sigma Kappa, Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Sigma, and Delta Tau Delta.

What is Black Hills State University known for?

Black Hills State University is a public university located in Spearfish, South Dakota. It is known for its strong focus on liberal arts education and also offers programs in education, business, natural sciences, social sciences, and arts. The university is particularly known for its programs in environmental studies, business administration, biology, chemistry, and education. BHSU also has a unique partnership with the Sanford Underground Research Facility, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with research related to physics, geology, engineering, and biology.

What are the most popular school clubs at Black Hills State University?

Black Hills State University has several popular school clubs, including the following: 1. Campus Activities Board: This club is responsible for coordinating and planning social events on campus such as dances, concerts, and other fun activities. 2. Multicultural Mosaics: A club that promotes cultural diversity, acceptance, and awareness on campus. 3. Enactus: A club that focuses on entrepreneurship, sustainable business development, and community service. 4. Wildlife Society: A club that focuses on wildlife conservation and ecology. 5. Student Senate: A club that serves as a liaison between the student body and the administration and is responsible for advocating for student voices and needs. 6. Psychology Club: A club where students who are interested in psychology can come together to discuss topics related to the field and engage in social activities. 7. Athletic Clubs: There are also several athletic clubs such as the running club, hockey club, and volleyball club.

Is the campus at Black Hills State University safe?

Yes, Black Hills State University (BHSU) is generally considered a safe campus. The university has its own campus security department that provides 24-hour security services, and all buildings on campus are equipped with security systems. In addition, BHSU has an emergency notification system that alerts students and faculty in the event of a campus emergency. As with any college campus, it is always important to take personal safety precautions and adhere to campus rules and regulations.