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Black Hills State University and University of South Dakota are both public institutions — Black Hills State University in Spearfish, SD and University of South Dakota in Vermillion, 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.
Vermillion, SD · Public
Acceptance rate: 98.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 5,439
Tuition: $12,942/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 59.9%
Top programs: Health professions, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Vermillion, SD with published program strength in Health professions and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Black Hills State University | University of South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 96.3% | 98.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 965–1135 |
| 1125–1315 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 18–24 | 19–25 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 1,928 | 5,439 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $11,866/year | $12,942/year |
| Average net price after aid | $15,911 | $19,858 |
| Graduation rate | 42.6% | 59.9% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $46,674 | $51,926 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 17.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Spearfish, SD | Vermillion, SD |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Education | Health professions, Business and marketing, Education |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (96.3% vs 98.8%). Black Hills State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,911 vs $19,858). University of South Dakota reports the higher graduation rate (59.9% vs 42.6%). University of South Dakota is the larger undergraduate campus (5,439 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 University of South Dakota
Black Hills State University has an acceptance rate of 96.3%; University of South Dakota is around 98.8%. 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. University of South Dakota is $12,942/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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