Black Hills State University is a masters-level state university with 4,200 students. The campus leads the region in sustainability efforts and maintains top academic programs in business (AACSB), exercise science, natural sciences, social sciences, the arts, mass communication, health sciences and education.
The university, founded in 1883, is located in the northern Black Hills, a region abundant with outdoor activity and culture. Spearfish, S.D., is recognized as one of the top 10 most livable small town in the USA and has also been recognized nationally for outdoor recreational opportunities.
A second location, BHSU-RC, was recently established in Rapid City, the state’s second largest city.
BHSU, a member of NCAA Division II athletics, offers 14 sports. BHSU has a legacy of champion rodeo teams.
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Live
BHSU offers the best of both worlds - a welcoming, small-town atmosphere and easy access to all the activities and amenities of a larger town, and it's just 50 miles from the second-largest city in South Dakota.
Learn
The BHSU experience goes beyond the classroom. The scenic Black Hills that surround our 123-acre campus not only offer endless options for recreation, they are also host to many unique research opportunities.
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Our Spearfish campus is within an hour and a half drive of 2,000+ climbing routes and endless bouldering. Just minutes from our doorstep, the Northern Black Hills offer great ice climbing, mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding.