Salaries at BHSU

At Black Hills State University (BHSU), located in South Dakota, salary expectations for faculty and staff are typically determined by a combination of factors including role, academic rank, years of experience, and field of expertise. Salaries often vary significantly between academic disciplines, with fields like business or technology potentially commanding higher compensation due to market demand. Administrative roles may also reflect differences based on responsibility and seniority. While BHSU does not widely publish transparent salary bands or detailed public data for all positions, some information may be accessible through state employee salary databases or university reports, as BHSU is a public institution. For the most accurate and up-to-date figures, prospective employees are encouraged to consult directly with the university’s human resources department.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is approximately $45,000–$55,000 USD per year, depending on the department and prior experience. Entry-level roles may start lower, with potential increases based on research output or teaching evaluations.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is around $55,000–$70,000 USD annually. Mid-career faculty often see increments tied to tenure status and contributions to academic service.
• Full Professor: Salaries generally fall between $70,000–$90,000 USD per year, with higher earnings possible for those with significant research funding or leadership roles within the university.
• Academic Advisor: Typical range is $35,000–$45,000 USD annually, often influenced by years of service and student caseload.
• Administrative Director: Salaries can range from $60,000–$80,000 USD per year, with variations based on the scope of departmental oversight and budget responsibilities.

In general, salaries at Black Hills State University appear to align with regional benchmarks for public universities in South Dakota, though they may not be as competitive as those at larger research institutions or private colleges in urban areas. As a public university, compensation often follows state guidelines, which can limit rapid salary progression but provide stability and benefits such as retirement plans. Faculty and staff may experience incremental raises through promotions, tenure, or additional responsibilities, though significant jumps often depend on external grants or administrative appointments. For those considering a career at BHSU, it’s worth noting that cost of living in the region is relatively low, which can offset modest salary figures compared to national averages.