Head-to-head · 2026
Black Hills State University vs Northern State University
Compare average net price ($15,911 at Black Hills State University; $15,812 at Northern State University), ROI score (7.33 vs 7.53), ten-year median earnings ($46,674 vs $47,618), and admissions selectivity (96.3% acceptance at Black Hills State University; 93% at Northern State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Northern State University has a 7-0 metric-level edge. Northern State University has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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 | Northern State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.33 | 7.53 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $15,911 | $15,812 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $46,674 | $47,618 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 96.3% | 93% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 42.6% | 48.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $26,000 | $22,320 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,928 | 1,273 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1087 | 1089 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 0 | 7 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Black Hills State University costs $99 more per year than Northern State University ($15,911 vs $15,812). Northern State University graduates report $944 higher median earnings after ten years ($47,618 vs $46,674). On EduGradify's model that puts Northern State University ahead on projected ROI (7.53 vs 7.33, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Northern 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 93% (accessible) at Northern State University.
Frequently asked
Black Hills State University vs Northern State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Black Hills State University or Northern State University the better value?
Northern State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.53 vs 7.33), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Northern State University is cheaper — average net price $15,812 per year vs $15,911 at Black Hills State University. The annual difference of $99 adds up to about $396 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Northern State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $47,618 vs $46,674 at Black Hills State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $944.
Which school is harder to get into?
Northern State University is more selective at 93% 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; Northern State University reports B.