Head-to-head · 2026
Black Hills State University vs University of Sioux Falls
Compare average net price ($15,911 at Black Hills State University; $21,383 at University of Sioux Falls), ROI score (7.33 vs 6.37), ten-year median earnings ($46,674 vs $54,521), and admissions selectivity (96.3% acceptance at Black Hills State University; 82.9% at University of Sioux Falls) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Sioux Falls has a 4-2 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 | University of Sioux Falls |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.33 ✓ | 6.37 |
| Avg net price | $15,911 ✓ | $21,383 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $46,674 | $54,521 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 96.3% | 82.9% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 42.6% | 62.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $26,000 | $23,249 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,928 | 1,218 |
| Ownership | Public | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1087 | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Sioux Falls costs $5,472 more per year than Black Hills State University ($21,383 vs $15,911). University of Sioux Falls graduates report $7,847 higher median earnings after ten years ($54,521 vs $46,674). On EduGradify's model that puts Black Hills State University ahead on projected ROI (7.33 vs 6.37, 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 82.9% (accessible) at University of Sioux Falls.
Frequently asked
Black Hills State University vs University of Sioux Falls, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Black Hills State University or University of Sioux Falls the better value?
Black Hills State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.33 vs 6.37), 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 $21,383 at University of Sioux Falls. The annual difference of $5,472 adds up to about $21,888 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Sioux Falls reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $54,521 vs $46,674 at Black Hills State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $7,847.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Sioux Falls is more selective at 82.9% 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; University of Sioux Falls reports C.