Head-to-head · 2026
Black Hills State University vs Dakota State University
Compare average net price ($15,911 at Black Hills State University; $21,057 at Dakota State University), ROI score (7.33 vs 6.05), ten-year median earnings ($46,674 vs $50,970), and admissions selectivity (96.3% acceptance at Black Hills State University; 88.1% at Dakota State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Dakota State 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 | Black Hills State University | Dakota State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.33 ✓ | 6.05 |
| Avg net price | $15,911 ✓ | $21,057 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $46,674 | $50,970 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 96.3% | 88.1% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 42.6% | 51.3% ✓ |
| Median debt | $26,000 | $23,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,928 | 2,071 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1087 | 1215 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Dakota State University costs $5,146 more per year than Black Hills State University ($21,057 vs $15,911). Dakota State University graduates report $4,296 higher median earnings after ten years ($50,970 vs $46,674). On EduGradify's model that puts Black Hills State University ahead on projected ROI (7.33 vs 6.05, 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, Black Hills State University is accessible at 96.3% acceptance versus 88.1% (accessible) at Dakota State University.
Frequently asked
Black Hills State University vs Dakota State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Black Hills State University or Dakota State University the better value?
Black Hills State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.33 vs 6.05), 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 $21,057 at Dakota State University. The annual difference of $5,146 adds up to about $20,584 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Dakota State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $50,970 vs $46,674 at Black Hills State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $4,296.
Which school is harder to get into?
Dakota State University is more selective at 88.1% 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. Black Hills State University reports a C value grade; Dakota State University reports C.