Head-to-head · 2026
Black Hills State University vs University of South Dakota
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for Black Hills State University, 4 for University of South Dakota — University of South Dakota has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Black Hills State University | University of South Dakota |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.33 ✓ | 6.54 |
| Avg net price | $15,911 ✓ | $19,858 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $46,674 | $51,926 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 96.3% ✓ | 98.8% |
| Graduation rate | 42.6% | 59.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $26,000 | $23,592 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,928 | 5,439 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1087 | 1125 ✓ |
| Wins | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of South Dakota costs $3,947 more per year than Black Hills State University ($19,858 vs $15,911). University of South Dakota graduates report $5,252 higher median earnings after ten years ($51,926 vs $46,674). On EduGradify's model that puts Black Hills State University ahead on projected ROI (7.33 vs 6.54, 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 98.8% (accessible) at University of South Dakota.
Frequently asked
Black Hills State University vs University of South Dakota, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Black Hills State University or University of South Dakota the better value?
Black Hills State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (7.33 vs 6.54), 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 $19,858 at University of South Dakota. The annual difference of $3,947 adds up to about $15,788 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of South Dakota reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $51,926 vs $46,674 at Black Hills State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $5,252.
Which school is harder to get into?
Black Hills State University is more selective at 96.3% acceptance vs 98.8% at University of South Dakota.
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 South Dakota reports C.