Black Hills State University
Spearfish, South Dakota
About Black Hills State University
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 1883, Black Hills State University is a 4-year college serving students in Spearfish, South Dakota. With a tradition of academic excellence, Black Hills State University prepares graduates for success in Business, Education, Biology, and more.
A Diverse Community in Spearfish
Students come from across the country and around the world, creating a campus culture rich in perspectives and experiences. Campus housing options foster community and connection among students. With a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know students by name and provide mentorship that extends beyond the classroom.
Commitment to Access and Affordability
Black Hills State University is committed to meeting full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Families earning less than $30,000 per year typically pay $12,475, and those earning up to $48,000 contribute a portion of their income. This need-aware policy ensures that talent and drive matter more than bank accounts, opening doors for first-generation and low-income students.
Research That Shapes the World
Black Hills State University emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and close faculty mentorship. Students gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and co-ops, preparing them for immediate career success or graduate study. The focus on undergraduate teaching means professors prioritize your growth and development.
Outcomes for Black Hills State University students
| Graduation rate (within 6 years) | 42% |
|---|---|
| Graduation rate (within 4 years) | 26% |
| First-year retention rate | 72% |
| Median earnings 8 years after enrolling | $42,393 |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $46,674 |
| Median debt at graduation | $26,000 |
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Students at Black Hills State University
| Total enrollment | 3,475 |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate students | 3,279 |
| Graduate students | 196 |
| International students | 1% |
| First-generation students | 28% |
What you can study at Black Hills State University
70 programs, most of them in these fields:
Education (18)
Art Teacher Education, Biology Teacher Education, Chemistry Teacher Education, and more
Business Management Marketing Support (8)
Accounting, Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General, Business Administration and Management, General, and more
Visual and Performing Arts (8)
Art/Art Studies, General, Commercial and Advertising Art, Fine/Studio Arts, General, and more
Parks Recreation Leisure Fitness (6)
Outdoor Education, Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies, Physical Education Teaching and Coaching, and more
Engineering Technologies (4)
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General, Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General, Industrial Technology/Technician, and more
Computer Information Sciences (3)
Computer and Information Sciences, General, Computer Programming/Programmer, General, Computer Science
Physical Sciences (3)
Chemistry, General, Physical Sciences, General, Physical Sciences, Other
Social Sciences (3)
Political Science and Government, General, Social Sciences, General, Sociology, General
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