Head-to-head · 2026
Augustana University vs Black Hills State University
Compare average net price ($23,894 at Augustana University; $15,911 at Black Hills State University), ROI score (6.20 vs 7.33), ten-year median earnings ($59,217 vs $46,674), and admissions selectivity (67.8% acceptance at Augustana University; 96.3% at Black Hills State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Augustana University has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Black Hills State University leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Augustana University | Black Hills State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 6.20 | 7.33 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $23,894 | $15,911 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $59,217 ✓ | $46,674 |
| Acceptance rate | 67.8% ✓ | 96.3% |
| Graduation rate | 73% ✓ | 42.6% |
| Median debt | $25,000 ✓ | $26,000 |
| Enrollment | 1,965 | 1,928 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1195 ✓ | 1087 |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Augustana University costs $7,983 more per year than Black Hills State University ($23,894 vs $15,911). Augustana University graduates report $12,543 higher median earnings after ten years ($59,217 vs $46,674). On EduGradify's model that puts Black Hills State University ahead on projected ROI (7.33 vs 6.20, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Black Hills State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Augustana University is accessible at 67.8% acceptance versus 96.3% (accessible) at Black Hills State University.
Frequently asked
Augustana University vs Black Hills State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Augustana University or Black Hills State University the better value?
Black Hills State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.33 vs 6.20), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Black Hills State University is cheaper — average net price $15,911 per year vs $23,894 at Augustana University. The annual difference of $7,983 adds up to about $31,932 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Augustana University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $59,217 vs $46,674 at Black Hills State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $12,543.
Which school is harder to get into?
Augustana University is more selective at 67.8% acceptance vs 96.3% at Black Hills State University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Augustana University reports a C value grade; Black Hills State University reports C.