Black Hills State University

Black Hills State University is a mid-size public master's university located in Spearfish, South Dakota, with an undergraduate enrollment of 1,928. The institution offers master's-level programs across multiple professional and academic fields alongside its undergraduate curriculum, serving students seeking advanced credentials in applied disciplines. As a public institution primarily funded through state appropriations and federal grants, it operates within the broader South Dakota postsecondary education landscape and is regionally accredited, making its credits and degrees eligible for federal financial aid. With a 96% acceptance rate, admission is open to most applicants. The 96% acceptance rate reflects a broadly open admissions approach serving a wide range of students. Net price for families earning \$48,001–$75,000 averages $15,588 per year. The 4-year graduation rate is 40%, 5 percentage points below the national average of 45%. Among students who received federal financial aid, 10-year median earnings are $46,674. The student-to-faculty ratio is 17:1. Prospective students are encouraged to review net price calculators and complete the FAFSA early, as institutional aid availability varies significantly by family income level.