Black Hills State University
School Overview
Black Hills State University is located in Spearfish, SD, 57799. The university is ranked #143 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers programs at the bachelor’s degree level, serving students with a range of academic interests and career aspirations.
Black Hills State University has an acceptance rate of 96%, providing broad access to higher education and welcoming students from diverse academic backgrounds. Successful applicants typically present SAT scores of 965-1135 and ACT scores of 18-24.
Black Hills State University enrolls 3,279 undergraduate students, creating a mid-sized community where students can explore diverse academic interests while still being recognized by their professors. The student-to-faculty ratio is 17:01, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. The institution achieves a four-year graduation rate of 25%, a strong indicator that students receive the support they need to finish on time and move into their careers or further study.
Room and board adds approximately $7,556. However, the average net price after financial aid is $17,111, which is the amount most aided students actually pay — often considerably less than the sticker price. For families evaluating the return on a college investment, these figures — combined with Black Hills State University's academic reputation and graduate outcomes — provide a concrete basis for comparison.
Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and family will make. Black Hills State University combines nationally recognized academic quality, a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, meaningful financial aid to create an environment where students can grow intellectually, build professional skills, and form lasting connections. We encourage prospective students to explore the detailed data on this page to determine whether Black Hills State University is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.
Academics & Admissions
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- SAT Range: 965-1135
- ACT Range: 18-24
- Graduation Rate (4yr): 25%
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:01
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,279
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s Degree
Cost & Financial Aid
- Food & Housing: $7,556
- Annual Cost: $17,111
Official Website
College Rankings
Black Hills State University Online Grad Education Program
Black Hills State University, based in Spearfish, SD 57799-9004, offers an online grad education program that allows students to earn an accredited degree without relocating or leaving their current employment. The program delivers its curriculum through a modern digital learning platform, with recorded lectures, interactive assignments, and virtual collaboration tools that replicate the engagement of an on-campus experience.
Tuition is structured at $622 per credit hour, giving students a transparent and predictable way to budget their educational investment. The program currently enrolls 51 online students, a figure that speaks to both the demand for flexible education and the program's ability to deliver on its academic promises. Admissions follow a rolling deadline, meaning students can apply at any time and begin their studies when ready — an ideal structure for those whose timelines don't align with traditional academic calendars.
From the program: MS in Sec Ed leads to teacher certification. MEd in Reading and MSCI prepare already certified teachers for positions beyond the classroom; national standards competencies assessed in all programs; student teaching or practicum required, depending on program; we have a two-step admission process that includes one step to get into graduate studies and another step to be admitted to candidacy for the degree; capstone project required.
What Students Gain
Students enrolled in Black Hills State University's online program gain more than a credential — they develop practical skills and professional knowledge that translate directly into career advancement. The asynchronous format means coursework can be completed around work schedules, family responsibilities, and other commitments, removing the barriers that prevent many qualified individuals from pursuing higher education. The per-credit pricing model means you only pay for the courses you take each term, allowing you to control the pace and cost of your degree simultaneously. Black Hills State University provides online students with the same academic standards, faculty expertise, and institutional resources as its on-campus programs, ensuring that your degree carries the same weight with employers and graduate schools. Support services — including academic advising, technical help, and career counseling — are available to distance learners throughout their enrollment, from orientation through commencement.
Cost & Enrollment
- Tuition/Credit: $622.0
- Online Enrollment: 51
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Program Type: Grad Education
Online Program Contact
- Director of Admissions: Joe Rainboth
- Phone: (605) 642-6131
- Email: Admissions@BHSU.edu
- Application Website →
- Program Website →
- Admissions Website →
Online Rankings
- #244-323 in Best Online Master's in Education Programs