Black Hills State University has expanded eligibility for its reduced military tuition rates, extending the benefit to eligible spouses and dependents of active-duty military members stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base (EAFB) who attend BHSU classes in Rapid City and Spearfish, as well as Department of War civilian employees stationed at Camp Rapid.
Previously, eligible spouses and dependents of active-duty military members stationed at EAFB qualified for military tuition rates only for courses offered at EAFB and online. The expansion, recently approved by the South Dakota Board of Regents, allows those students to receive the same reduced tuition rate when attending in-person classes at BHSU-Rapid City and in Spearfish, providing greater flexibility and access to campus resources.
The expanded tuition program also includes Department of War civilian employees assigned to Camp Rapid. The change provides them with the same reduced tuition rates already available to Department of War civilian employees stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base.
Eligible students receive a reduced tuition rate of $250 per undergraduate credit hour and $300 per graduate credit hour for BHSU courses, regardless of residency.
"This change is about ensuring that the people who serve alongside our military, and the families who support them, have access to affordable pathways to advance their education and careers," said BHSU President Steve Elliott. "We are proud to continue BHSU's long tradition of serving those who serve."
BHSU has served military students and their families for more than 60 years through educational partnerships and programs designed to support the needs of military-connected learners throughout western South Dakota.
"BHSU has a long history of supporting military personnel and their families through accessible, affordable educational opportunities," said Dr. Ashley Armstrong, vice president for Continuing Education and Workforce Development. "This expansion helps remove barriers for military-connected students while strengthening our commitment to workforce development and educational access throughout western South Dakota."
More information about military tuition rates and educational opportunities for military-connected students is available at BHSU.edu/Veterans.