Head-to-head · 2026
Black Hills State University vs University of South Dakota
Compare average net price ($15,911 at Black Hills State University; $19,858 at University of South Dakota), ROI score (7.33 vs 6.54), ten-year median earnings ($46,674 vs $51,926), and admissions selectivity (96.3% acceptance at Black Hills State University; 98.8% at University of South Dakota) using federal College Scorecard data. University of South Dakota has a narrow 4-3 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 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 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 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.