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Black Hills State University and Northern State University are both public institutions — Black Hills State University in Spearfish, SD and Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Spearfish, SD · Public
Acceptance rate: 96.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,928
Tuition: $11,866/year
Student-faculty ratio: 17.0:1
Graduation rate: 42.6%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Education
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Spearfish, SD with published program strength in Business and marketing and Biological sciences.
Aberdeen, SD · Public
Acceptance rate: 93.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 1,273
Tuition: $11,947/year
Student-faculty ratio: 19.0:1
Graduation rate: 48.9%
Top programs: Education, Business and marketing, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Aberdeen, SD with published program strength in Education and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Black Hills State University | Northern State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 96.3% | 93.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 965–1135 |
| 980–1160 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 18–24 | 18–24 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,928 | 1,273 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $11,866/year | $11,947/year |
| Average net price after aid | $15,911 | $15,812 |
| Graduation rate | 42.6% | 48.9% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $46,674 | $47,618 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 17.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Spearfish, SD | Aberdeen, SD |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Education | Education, Business and marketing, Biological sciences |
Northern State University is more selective (93.0% vs 96.3% acceptance rate). Northern State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,812 vs $15,911). Northern State University reports the higher graduation rate (48.9% vs 42.6%). Black Hills State University is the larger undergraduate campus (1,928 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Black Hills State University and Northern State University
Black Hills State University has an acceptance rate of 96.3%; Northern State University is around 93.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Black Hills State University tuition is $11,866/year. Northern State University is $11,947/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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