Black Hills State University
Black Hills State: Learn, Lead, Thrive in the Black Hills.
📍 Spearfish, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #967 in United States
Quick Facts about Black Hills State University
- Type: Public
- Students: 3,475
- International: 2%
- Campus: Rural
- Tuition: $11,865 – $12,206/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
- Intakes: August, January
About Black Hills State University
Academics
BHSU is organized into three colleges: the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Business and Natural Sciences, and the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences. The university offers over 120 majors and minors, 8 master's degree programs, and 7 associate degree programs. Notable programs include the AACSB-accredited business school and a distinguished teacher preparation program, with 90% of teacher education graduates finding employment in their field. The university emphasizes small class sizes, with most courses capping at around 25 students, fostering a personalized learning experience.
International Students
BHSU had 59 international students on campus in 2020, with 55 being undergraduates, making up approximately 1.6% of the student body. The International Relations and Global Engagement office assists international students with application and arrival procedures, providing support throughout their stay. While specific English-taught programs are not explicitly detailed as a separate category, the university offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines. International students can apply for the competitive Global Ambassador Scholarship, which covers on-campus housing costs for up to eight academic semesters.
Campus & Location
Black Hills State University's campus spans 123 acres in Spearfish, South Dakota, a town known for its outdoor adventures, diverse dining, and vibrant arts and culture. The campus features 20 main buildings, including a student union that has been expanded to offer more space for students, and a modern science building. Spearfish offers a balance of academics and outdoor activities, with the surrounding Black Hills providing opportunities for hiking and exploring.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Black Hills State University experience varied earning potentials depending on their field of study, with Special Education and Teaching graduates reporting some of the highest average annual incomes around $38,787. Business Administration, Management, and Operations graduates also show promising earning potential, with an average salary of about $36,641. The university's career services aim to assist students with employment, and the overall employment rate five years after graduation is 89%. While specific notable employers are not listed, the university's strong connections with school districts contribute to high placement rates for education majors.
Information for International Students at Black Hills State University
Black Hills State University in Spearfish, United States welcomes international students, with 2% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 2% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Black Hills State University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Black Hills State University:
- IELTS minimum: 5.5
- TOEFL minimum: 61
- Duolingo minimum: 90
- GPA minimum: 2.6
- Application fee: $20
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: Fall Enrollment: June 1; Spring Enrollment: November 1
Programs at Black Hills State University (35 programs)
Black Hills State University offers 35 programs across Bachelor, Master levels.
Bachelor Programs (29)
- Accounting (BS) — 48 months · English
This program prepares students for careers in public accounting, corporate accounting, and government, focusing on financial reporting, auditing, and taxation.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Tax Preparer, Financial Analyst - Chemistry (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students explore the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, with opportunities for hands-on laboratory experience and research.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Chemist, Laboratory Technician, Research Scientist, Pharmacist - History (BA) — 48 months · English
Students explore past events, societies, and cultures, developing critical analysis, research, and interpretive skills essential for understanding the present.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Teacher - Human Services (BS) — 48 months · English
This program prepares students to work with individuals, families, and communities to address social and personal challenges, promoting well-being and positive change.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Case Manager, Counselor Assistant, Community Outreach Coordinator - Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students learn the theoretical foundations of information and computation, and their practical application in designing and developing software and hardware systems.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst - Mathematics (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills through the study of mathematical theories, concepts, and their applications in various fields.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Data Analyst, Teacher - Environmental Physical Science (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
This interdisciplinary program combines aspects of biology, chemistry, and geology to address environmental issues and sustainable practices.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Geologist, Policy Analyst - Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English
Students examine social structures, interactions, and cultural phenomena, developing an understanding of societal issues and human behavior in groups.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Sociologist, Social Researcher, Community Organizer, Policy Analyst - Elementary Education (BSEd) — 48 months · English
This program prepares future educators to teach in elementary school settings, focusing on child development, curriculum design, and effective teaching methodologies.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Elementary School Teacher, Curriculum Developer, Educational Consultant - Physical Education (BSEd) — 48 months · English
This program prepares students to teach physical education in K-12 settings, focusing on motor skill development, health, and fitness.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Physical Education Teacher, Coach, Athletic Director - English (BA) — 48 months · English
Students engage with literature, writing, and language studies, developing critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills applicable to various professions.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Journalist, Teacher - Psychology (BS) — 48 months · English
This program explores human behavior and mental processes, covering topics such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, and developmental psychology.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Psychologist Assistant, Counselor Assistant, Human Resources Specialist, Researcher - Chemistry (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students explore the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, with opportunities for hands-on laboratory experience and research.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Chemist, Laboratory Technician, Research Scientist, Pharmacist - History (BA) — 48 months · English
Students explore past events, societies, and cultures, developing critical analysis, research, and interpretive skills essential for understanding the present.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Teacher - Human Services (BS) — 48 months · English
This program prepares students to work with individuals, families, and communities to address social and personal challenges, promoting well-being and positive change.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Case Manager, Counselor Assistant, Community Outreach Coordinator - Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students learn the theoretical foundations of information and computation, and their practical application in designing and developing software and hardware systems.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst - Mathematics (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills through the study of mathematical theories, concepts, and their applications in various fields.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Data Analyst, Teacher - Environmental Physical Science (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
This interdisciplinary program combines aspects of biology, chemistry, and geology to address environmental issues and sustainable practices.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Geologist, Policy Analyst - Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English
Students examine social structures, interactions, and cultural phenomena, developing an understanding of societal issues and human behavior in groups.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Sociologist, Social Researcher, Community Organizer, Policy Analyst - Elementary Education (BSEd) — 48 months · English
This program prepares future educators to teach in elementary school settings, focusing on child development, curriculum design, and effective teaching methodologies.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Elementary School Teacher, Curriculum Developer, Educational Consultant - Physical Education (BSEd) — 48 months · English
This program prepares students to teach physical education in K-12 settings, focusing on motor skill development, health, and fitness.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Physical Education Teacher, Coach, Athletic Director - English (BA) — 48 months · English
Students engage with literature, writing, and language studies, developing critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills applicable to various professions.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Journalist, Teacher - Psychology (BS) — 48 months · English
This program explores human behavior and mental processes, covering topics such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, and developmental psychology.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Psychologist Assistant, Counselor Assistant, Human Resources Specialist, Researcher - Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English
Students analyze political systems, institutions, and behaviors, developing an understanding of governance, public policy, and international relations.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager, Government Official - Applied Health Sciences (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students in this program gain a broad understanding of health-related fields, preparing them for careers in health promotion, wellness, and allied health professions.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Health Educator, Wellness Coordinator, Fitness Professional - Business Administration (BBA) — 48 months · English
This program offers a broad foundation in business principles, including management, marketing, finance, and economics, preparing students for diverse business careers.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Specialist, Financial Advisor, Entrepreneur - Secondary Education (BSEd) — 48 months · English
This program prepares students to teach specific subjects at the middle and high school levels, combining pedagogical training with in-depth subject matter knowledge.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Secondary School Teacher, Curriculum Specialist, Educational Administrator - Criminal Justice (BS) — 48 months · English
This program examines the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections, preparing students for careers in public service and related fields.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Police Officer, Probation Officer, Corrections Officer, Forensic Investigator - Communication Studies (BA) — 48 months · English
This program focuses on effective communication in various contexts, including interpersonal, organizational, and public communication, developing strong analytical and presentation skills.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Marketing Communications Manager, Journalist, Mediator
Master Programs (6)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $12,000/yr
An advanced business degree focusing on leadership, strategic management, and decision-making. Designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Business Consultant, Executive, Entrepreneur - Master of Science in Education (MSEd) - Curriculum & Instruction (MSEd) — 24 months · English · $10,500/yr
Designed for educators seeking to enhance their skills in curriculum development, instructional design, and educational leadership. Focuses on advanced pedagogical practices.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Curriculum Specialist, Instructional Coordinator, School Administrator, Teacher Leader - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $12,000/yr
An advanced business degree focusing on leadership, strategic management, and decision-making. Designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Business Consultant, Executive, Entrepreneur - Master of Science in Education (MSEd) - Curriculum & Instruction (MSEd) — 24 months · English · $10,500/yr
Designed for educators seeking to enhance their skills in curriculum development, instructional design, and educational leadership. Focuses on advanced pedagogical practices.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Curriculum Specialist, Instructional Coordinator, School Administrator, Teacher Leader - Master of Science in Education (MSEd) (MSEd) — 24 months · English
This graduate program enhances the skills of educators, offering specializations in areas like curriculum and instruction, educational leadership, and reading.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Administrator, Curriculum Specialist, Instructional Designer, Master Teacher - Master of Science in Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
This program provides advanced business knowledge and leadership skills, preparing graduates for management and executive roles in various industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, CEO, Consultant, Financial Manager
Scholarships & Tuition at Black Hills State University
Annual tuition for international students: $11,865 – $12,206/year
✅ Black Hills State University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Black Hills State University
- National Ranking: #967 in United States
- Ranking tier: Research University
Campus & Facilities at Black Hills State University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Rural
Key Highlights
- Historic 1883 founding
- AACSB-accredited business school
- Strong teacher education program
- Small class sizes, personalized learning
- Beautiful Black Hills location
- Global Ambassador Scholarship available
Accreditation
- AACSB International (for MBA)
Notable Alumni
- Myron Floren
- Stacy Phelps
- Mary Duvall
- Zac Alcorn
- Jillian Balow
Frequently Asked Questions about Black Hills State University
What is Black Hills State University?
Black Hills State University is a public university located in Spearfish, United States. It has approximately 3,475 students, with 2% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Black Hills State University?
Tuition fees at Black Hills State University for international students range from $11,865 – $12,206/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Black Hills State University?
IELTS minimum: 5.5. TOEFL minimum: 61. Duolingo minimum: 90. GPA minimum: 2.6. Application fee: $20. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: Fall Enrollment: June 1; Spring Enrollment: November 1.
What language are courses taught in at Black Hills State University?
Courses at Black Hills State University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 5.5.
How many programs does Black Hills State University offer?
Black Hills State University offers 35 programs: 29 Bachelor's, 6 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Black Hills State University ranked?
#967 in United States.
Does Black Hills State University offer scholarships?
Yes, Black Hills State University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Black Hills State University provide visa support?
Yes, Black Hills State University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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