BHSU Ranked #1 College and Most Affordable in South Dakota by Research.com

November 21, 2025

Black Hills State University has been recognized as the top-ranked university in Research.com’s Best Colleges in South Dakota 2026 list. In addition, BHSU secured the number one spot in the Most Affordable Colleges in South Dakota ranking, underscoring the university’s dedication to delivering exceptional academic quality at an outstanding value. 

“At Black Hills State University, we take great pride in these recognitions,” said Steve Elliott, President of BHSU. “This honor reflects the authentic, welcoming spirit of our campus and the incredible opportunities found here in the heart of the Black Hills. Our commitment to personalized education and exceptional value ensures that every student can thrive academically during their time at BHSU.” 

The 2026 rankings by Research.com were compiled through an extensive analysis of data points from multiple sources, including Peterson, IPEDS, and College ScoreCard. These rankings consider various degree types and regions, focusing on key factors such as overall quality, affordability, popularity, and the time required to earn a degree.