BLACK HILLS STATE UNIVERSITY ENROLLMENT DIPS SLIGHTLY; SEES GROWTH IN NEW FRESHMEN AND TRANSFER STUDENTS

Picture of BHSU campus; Woodburn Hall, Meier Hall, and The Peaks Residence HallsAlthough overall enrollment at Black Hills State University declined slightly this year, the University saw several indicators that point to future growth. The number of first-time freshmen enrolling at the University increased 3.4 percent. Transfers into BHSU also increased this fall by 9.8 percent. The University’s current enrollment is 3,539, a 1.9 percent decline compared to Fall 2020.

“While we are disappointed with an overall enrollment decline, there is strong growth to report in several key areas,” BHSU President Laurie S. Nichols said. “We are welcoming more first-time freshmen, transfer, and dual credit students to campus as students continue to appreciate the value of in-person learning and the quality of a Black Hills State University degree.”

Nichols added that ongoing disruption stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to a decline in retention of returning students at BHSU, a national trend that is particularly affecting colleges and universities that serve students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

“We learned a great deal last year and have resumed a more normal campus life this fall, but the ongoing pandemic continues to have an impact on the lives of students and their families,” Nichols said.  “Students who seem particularly hard hit by COVID are those from lower income families. BHSU has seen a 32 percent drop in Pell-eligible students over the past two academic years. Many students have financial concerns or are struggling with the uncertainty of the pandemic. We’re reaching out to those not returning this fall to let them know we are here to help provide financial and academic solutions to help them reach their educational and career goals.”

BHSU saw a two percent drop in full-time students while part-time student enrollment grew by two percent. “It appears that for some, continuing their education is important, yet taking less credits to maintain a part-time or full-time job was necessary,” said Nichols.

BHSU is addressing COVID-19 concerns with continued safety protocols and monitoring of the situation. The University also has dedicated funding to help students who have been negatively affected by the pandemic. Resources are also being allocated to specific programs that will provide greater support to diverse student populations and students in need.

Other measures are being implemented to better engage students and serve them along their career journey. The Student Success Center offers professional advising and expanded career services with a goal of matching students with regional companies.

The University is also offering courses at Ellsworth Air Force Base that will serve military members, their families, Department of Defense civilians and veterans. Additionally, BHSU has added new programs that address workforce needs and directly integrate students into experiential learning opportunities with internships in their areas of interest. BHSU programs that directly connect students with in-demand careers in the Black Hills region include the new Forestry program and the Applied Health Sciences program.

BHSU also saw a more than 16 percent increase in enrollment from states in which it offers in-state tuition – Colorado, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wyoming. The University also saw a 33 percent increase in students from Minnesota, who also receive a special tuition rate at BHSU. This year’s student body includes students from every county in South Dakota, 45 states, and 32 countries.