| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Black Hills State University (BHSU) is a public university located in Spearfish, South Dakota, USA. It was founded in 1883 and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is known for its strong business, education, natural sciences, and fine arts programs.
Location: Spearfish, South Dakota
Type: Public university
Founded: 1883
Campus: 123 acres in the scenic Black Hills region
Student Population: Around 4,000 students
Mascot: Sting (Yellow Jacket)
Athletics: NCAA Division II (Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference)
BHSU offers over 80 academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Degrees: Business, Education, Natural Sciences, Humanities, Arts, and more
Graduate Programs: Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), Education, Integrative Genomics, and Strategic Leadership
The Black Hills Advantage: Located in the beautiful Black Hills region, providing students with outdoor recreational opportunities like hiking, skiing, and biking.
Research Opportunities: The university partners with organizations such as the Sanford Underground Research Facility for science and research projects.
Sustainability Efforts: BHSU is recognized for its sustainability initiatives, including solar panels, wind energy projects, and a strong recycling program.
Small Class Sizes: Offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, ensuring personalized learning experiences.
More than 70 student clubs and organizations
Modern residence halls and dining facilities
Active performing arts and theater programs
Strong athletic programs competing in NCAA Division II
BHSU offers 80+ undergraduate programs in the following fields:
College of Business & Natural Sciences
Business & Management
Accounting
Business Administration (with specializations in Economics/Finance, Entrepreneurial Studies, Human Resource Management, Management, Marketing, Tourism & Hospitality Management)
Professional Accountancy
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Biology (with specializations in Cellular/Molecular, Environmental Biology, Physiology)
Chemistry
Computer Science
Mathematics
Physics
Technology & Innovation
Applied Health Sciences
Composite Science
Information Technology
College of Education & Behavioral Sciences
Education (BHSU is known for its strong teacher education programs)
Early Childhood Special Education
Elementary Education
Physical Education
Secondary Education (specializations in Biology, Business, Chemistry, English, History, Mathematics, Social Science)
Special Education
Psychology & Behavioral Sciences
Human Services
Psychology
Sociology
College of Liberal Arts
Arts & Humanities
Art (Studio Art, Art Education)
English
Graphic Design
History
Music (Performance, Music Education)
Spanish
Communication & Media
Communication Studies
Journalism
Mass Communication (Photography, Public Relations, Sports Media, Integrated Media)
BHSU offers several graduate-level programs, including:
Master’s Degrees
MBA (Master of Business Administration) – Applied Management
M.S. in Integrative Genomics
M.S. in Strategic Leadership
M.Ed. in Reading (Education)
M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction (Education)
M.S. in Secondary Education
Graduate Certificates & Endorsements
Special Education
Early Childhood Education
School Library Media
Math Specialist
BHSU offers several online degree programs for flexibility, including:
Business Administration
General Studies
Psychology
Education & Teaching Endorsements
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business & Management |
|
|
|
Accounting |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Business Administration |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Entrepreneurial Studies |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Professional Accountancy |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Tourism & Hospitality Management |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Natural Sciences & Technology |
|
|
|
Biology (Cellular/Molecular, Environmental, Physiology) |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Chemistry |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Computer Science |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Information Technology |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Mathematics |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Physics |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Education & Behavioral Sciences |
|
|
|
Early Childhood Special Education |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Elementary Education |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Physical Education |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Secondary Education |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Special Education |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Psychology |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Human Services |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Sociology |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Arts, Humanities & Communication |
|
|
|
Art (Studio Art, Art Education) |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
English |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Graphic Design |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
History |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Mass Communication (Photography, PR, Sports Media) |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Music (Performance, Music Education) |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Spanish |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Communication Studies |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
|
Journalism |
4 Years |
$12,100 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business & Management |
|
|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Applied Management |
2 Years |
$12,600 |
|
Science & Technology |
|
|
|
M.S. in Integrative Genomics |
2 Years |
$12,600 |
|
Education & Leadership |
|
|
|
M.Ed. in Reading |
2 Years |
$12,600 |
|
M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction |
2 Years |
$12,600 |
|
M.S. in Secondary Education |
2 Years |
$12,600 |
|
M.S. in Strategic Leadership |
2 Years |
$12,600 |
Affordable Tuition & Scholarships – Competitive tuition rates with scholarship opportunities.
Student Support Services – International student advisors, ESL support, and academic assistance.
Safe & Friendly Environment – Located in the scenic town of Spearfish, known for its low crime rate.
Cultural Diversity – Students from over 20+ countries study at BHSU.
Research Opportunities – Partnerships with Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) and other organizations.
Outdoor Activities – Close to Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and Spearfish Canyon for hiking, skiing, and biking.
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Admissions
Completed Application (Online via BHSU website)
High School Transcripts (Translated to English if necessary)
English Proficiency Test Scores
TOEFL: 71 iBT (minimum)
IELTS: 6.0 (minimum)
Duolingo: 100 (minimum)
SAT/ACT (optional)
Financial Statement (Proof of funds for tuition and living expenses)
Copy of Passport
Graduate (Master’s) Admissions
Completed Application
Bachelor’s Degree Transcripts
English Proficiency Test Scores
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (Varies by program)
Resume/CV (for some programs)
International students can apply for:
International Student Scholarships – Based on GPA and test scores.
Merit-Based Scholarships – Up to $4,000 per year for high-achieving students.
Athletic & Talent-Based Scholarships – For students excelling in sports, music, or the arts.
Graduate Assistantships (for Master’s Students) – Opportunities to work while studying.
70+ Student Clubs & Organizations (Including International Student Club)
Modern Residence Halls & Dining Options
Free Campus Wi-Fi, Gym, and Library Access
Internship & Career Services to help students find jobs after graduation
Outdoor Recreation – Close to national parks, hiking trails, and ski resorts
Step 1: Choose Your Program
Explore bachelor’s and master’s degree programs at BHSU.
Visit for detailed course offerings.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Apply Online through the official BHSU Application Portal.
Pay the non-refundable application fee of $35 USD.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
You must upload or send the following documents:
For Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Admissions
High School Transcripts (Official, translated into English if needed)
English Proficiency Test Scores (Any one of the following)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 71
IELTS: Minimum 6.0
Duolingo: Minimum 100
Copy of Passport
Financial Support Statement (Proof of funding for at least one year of study)
For Graduate (Master’s) Admissions
Bachelor’s Degree Transcripts (Official, translated into English)
English Proficiency Test Scores (Same as undergraduate requirements)
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – A personal essay on why you want to study at BHSU
Two Letters of Recommendation (From professors or employers)
Resume/CV (For some programs)
Financial Support Statement
Step 4: Receive Your Admission Decision
Processing Time: Typically 2-4 weeks after submission.
If accepted, you will receive an Acceptance Letter and an I-20 Form (needed for a student visa).
Step 5: Apply for a U.S. Student Visa (F-1 Visa)
Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee ($350) at.
Schedule a Visa Interview at the nearest U.S. embassy.
Carry your I-20, Acceptance Letter, Proof of Funds, and Passport for the interview.
Step 6: Prepare for Arrival at BHSU
Book your flight to Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), South Dakota.
Attend International Student Orientation before classes start.
Semester |
Application Deadline for International Students |
Semester Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August Intake) |
May 1 |
Late August |
|
Spring (January Intake) |
October 1 |
Mid-January |
|
Summer (Limited Courses) |
March 1 |
Early June |
Tip: Apply at least 3-4 months before the deadline to allow enough time for visa processing.
Academic Qualification:
High school diploma (equivalent to U.S. high school completion).
Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (some programs may require higher).
English Proficiency Requirements (Any one of the following):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 71
IELTS: Minimum 6.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 100
SAT/ACT (optional but recommended for scholarships).
Other Requirements:
Financial Proof (Bank Statement showing at least $24,000 – $27,000 for tuition & living expenses).
Copy of Passport.
Academic Qualification:
A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized university.
Minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program).
English Proficiency Requirements (Any one of the following):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 110
Additional Documents Required:
Statement of Purpose (SOP) (explaining your study goals).
Two Letters of Recommendation (academic or professional references).
Resume/CV (for some programs).
Financial Proof & Passport Copy.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD per Year) |
Application Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
International Student Scholarship |
Minimum GPA 3.0+ (out of 4.0) |
Up to $4,000 |
Yes |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
High academic achievement (GPA 3.5+) |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
No (Automatic) |
|
Buzz Bonus Scholarship |
New first-year international students |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
No (Automatic) |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
Based on sports performance |
(Full/Partial Tuition) |
Yes |
|
Talent Scholarships (Music, Art, Theatre, Debate) |
Audition/Portfolio Required |
N/A |
Yes |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD per Year) |
Application Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Graduate Assistantship (GA) |
Work 10-20 hours per week |
Tuition waiver + Stipend |
Yes |
|
MBA Merit Scholarship |
GPA 3.5+ in Bachelor’s |
Up to $3,000 |
Yes |
|
Research Assistantships |
Offered by faculty for research programs |
Tuition waiver + Stipend |
Yes |
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Library (E.Y. Berry Library) |
Large collection of books, research materials, and study spaces |
|
Student Union |
Dining, recreation areas, game rooms, and student lounge |
|
Wellness Center & Gym |
Fitness center, indoor sports courts, and exercise classes |
|
Outdoor Recreation |
Hiking trails, biking paths, and ski areas nearby |
|
Computer Labs & Wi-Fi |
Free high-speed internet and 24/7 computer lab access |
|
Career Services |
Job placement, internships, and career counseling |
BHSU provides on-campus residence halls and apartment-style housing.
Residence Hall / Apartment |
Room Type |
Cost per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Wenona Cook Hall |
Shared Room |
$3,800 – $4,400 |
|
Heidepriem Hall |
Shared Room |
$4,000 – $4,500 |
|
Thomas Hall |
Shared Room |
$4,200 – $4,600 |
|
Humbert Hall |
Private Room |
$5,000 – $5,500 |
|
Yellow Jacket Apartments |
Apartment-Style |
$5,800 – $6,500 |
Meal Plans (Optional):
Unlimited Meal Plan – $3,500 per year
14 Meals/Week Plan – $2,900 per year
10 Meals/Week Plan – $2,500 per year
Total Estimated Cost (Housing + Meals): $7,500 – $10,000 per year
BHSU has 70+ student clubs covering academics, culture, leadership, and recreation. Some popular clubs include:
International Student Organization – Connects global students and hosts cultural events.
Student Government Association (SGA) – Represents student interests on campus.
Business Club & Enactus – Provides networking and leadership opportunities.
Music & Theatre Groups – Perform in concerts, plays, and talent shows.
Outdoor Adventure Club – Organizes hiking, skiing, and camping trips in the Black Hills.
BHSU competes in NCAA Division II sports through the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC).
Men’s Sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Track & Field.
Women’s Sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Track & Field, Volleyball.
Wellness Center & Gym: Includes a fitness center, swimming pool, basketball courts, and yoga classes.
BHSU hosts numerous annual events to keep students engaged, such as:
Swarm Days (Homecoming Week) – Parade, concerts, and sports events.
Cultural Festivals – Celebrating diversity through food, music, and performances.
Karaoke & Game Nights – Regular fun nights organized by student groups.
Career Fairs & Networking Events – Connecting students with potential employers.
BHSU is located in Spearfish, South Dakota, near the stunning Black Hills, offering:
Hiking & Biking – Trails in Spearfish Canyon & Black Hills National Forest.
Skiing & Snowboarding – At Terry Peak Ski Area (only 30 minutes away).
Camping & Wildlife Exploration – In nearby Custer State Park & Badlands National Park.
Modern Student Union & Dining Hall – Offers various dining options including vegetarian and international cuisines.
Library & Study Spaces – 24/7 study rooms and research resources.
Career Services – Internship placement, resume workshops, and career coaching.
Counseling & Wellness Services – Free mental health and wellness support.
Job Placement Rate: ~90% of graduates find employment or pursue further studies within six months of graduation.
Internship Opportunities: Many degree programs require or encourage internships, increasing job readiness.
Top Hiring Companies: BHSU has partnerships with local, national, and international companies for recruitment.
BHSU’s Career Development Office offers:
Job Fairs & Career Expos – Connects students with employers for full-time jobs and internships.
Resume & Interview Coaching – Helps students build professional resumes and prepare for job interviews.
On-Campus Jobs & Work-Study Programs – Provides part-time work for students during their studies.
Alumni Networking Events – Helps students connect with successful alumni for mentorship and job opportunities.
BHSU graduates work in various sectors, including:
Business & Management – Marketing Analyst, Financial Advisor, HR Specialist.
Education & Teaching – School Teacher, Academic Advisor, Special Education Instructor.
Technology & IT – Software Developer, Data Analyst, IT Support Specialist.
Science & Healthcare – Lab Technician, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist.
Media & Communications – Journalist, Public Relations Manager, Social Media Strategist.
Some major companies and organizations that recruit from BHSU include:
Sanford Health
Black Hills Energy
Rapid City Regional Hospital
First Interstate Bank
South Dakota State Government
Technology & Media Companies
Acceptance Rate: 97%
Admission Type: Less Selective
BHSU has a high acceptance rate, making it an accessible option for students meeting the basic admission requirements.
Since it follows an open admissions policy for many programs, students with a strong academic background and required documents have a great chance of getting accepted.
Address:
Black Hills State University
1200 University St, Spearfish, South Dakota, 57799, USA
City: Spearfish, South Dakota
Region: Located in the scenic Black Hills region of western South Dakota
Nearest Airport: Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) (about 50 miles from campus)
Surrounded by Nature: Close to Spearfish Canyon, Black Hills National Forest, and Mount Rushmore
Small-Town Atmosphere: Spearfish is a safe, friendly, and student-focused community
Outdoor Activities: Hiking, skiing, biking, and more near campus
Nearby Cities:
Rapid City, SD – 45 minutes away
Denver, CO – About 6-hour drive
Minneapolis, MN – About 8-hour drive
