South Dakota boasts numerous educational prospects for aspiring students seeking higher education. Nonetheless, not all higher education institutions in the state maintain the same standard.
Some grapple with low graduation rates, steep tuition fees, unsatisfactory student outcomes, and a negative return on investment. Black Hills State University, in particular, stands out as one such institution and has garnered the unenviable title of the poorest performing college in South Dakota by multiple sources.
Low Graduation Rate
A college’s quality often hinges on its graduation rate, which quantifies how many students successfully complete their degree programs within a reasonable timeframe. As per the U.S. Department of Education, the average graduation rate for four-year public institutions in South Dakota stands at 51%, while the national average is 62%.
However, Black Hills State University lags behind with a significantly lower graduation rate of just 33.2%. This stark figure implies that approximately two-thirds of its students do not see their academic journey through to the end.
High Tuition Cost
The cost of tuition is another pivotal factor in assessing a college’s standing, reflecting its affordability and accessibility to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. College Factual reports that the average annual cost of attendance for in-state students at a public four-year college in South Dakota is $18,723, with a national average of $21,950.
On the contrary, Black Hills State University demands a higher price, with an annual cost of $19,110 for in-state students. This financial burden means that attending this institution comes at a premium while delivering a subpar educational experience.
Poor Student Outcomes
A college’s reputation is further influenced by the outcomes achieved by its students, particularly their success in the job market and society. According to PayScale, the average starting salary for graduates of four-year public colleges in South Dakota is $46,600, against the national average of $54,100.
However, Black Hills State University paints a gloomier picture, with an average starting salary of only $35,900. This stark contrast signifies that graduates from this institution earn significantly less than their peers from other colleges.
Adding to the financial burden, College Factual reports that the average student loan debt for Black Hills State University graduates stands at $26,672, surpassing the state average of $25,400 and the national average of $23,700. This leaves students with more debt and reduced earning potential.
Negative Return on Investment
One more critical measure for assessing the value of a college education is its return on investment (ROI). ROI compares the financial investment students make in their education with the earnings they secure after graduation. As indicated by Academicful, the average ROI for four-year public colleges in South Dakota is $239,000, with a national average of $305,000. In contrast, Black Hills State University reports a disheartening negative ROI of -$24,000, implying that students who attend this institution experience financial losses rather than gains.
Conclusion
Given these compelling facts, it is irrefutable that Black Hills State University ranks as the lowest-performing college in South Dakota. It suffers from a meager graduation rate, exorbitant tuition costs, underwhelming student outcomes, and a dismal return on investment. As such, students seeking a quality education in South Dakota are strongly advised to explore alternatives that provide superior value and opportunities.
