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Black Hills State University and South Dakota State University are both public institutions — Black Hills State University in Spearfish, SD and South Dakota State University in Brookings, 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.
Brookings, SD · Public
Acceptance rate: 98.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 9,198
Tuition: $12,809/year
Student-faculty ratio: 17.0:1
Graduation rate: 62.4%
Top programs: Health professions, Agriculture, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Brookings, SD with published program strength in Health professions and Agriculture.
| Factor | Black Hills State University | South Dakota State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 96.3% | 98.3% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 965–1135 |
| 1060–1240 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 18–24 | 19–25 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,928 | 9,198 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $11,866/year | $12,809/year |
| Average net price after aid | $15,911 | $19,841 |
| Graduation rate | 42.6% | 62.4% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $46,674 | $55,070 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 17.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Spearfish, SD | Brookings, SD |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Education | Health professions, Agriculture, Business and marketing |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (96.3% vs 98.3%). Black Hills State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,911 vs $19,841). South Dakota State University reports the higher graduation rate (62.4% vs 42.6%). South Dakota State University is the larger undergraduate campus (9,198 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 South Dakota State University
Black Hills State University has an acceptance rate of 96.3%; South Dakota State University is around 98.3%. 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. South Dakota State University is $12,809/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.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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