Nicknamed the Mount Rushmore State for its iconic mountain carving of presidents, South Dakota may be sparsely populated, but it offers growing opportunities in nursing. With over 14,000 registered nurses earning an average salary of $60,540 per year, the need for nurses is expected to rise 15% by 2030, requiring 900 new nurses annually. Though small in size, the state requires the 19th highest percentage increase of new registered nurses in the country by 2030 to meet growing health care demands across its rural landscape.
Meeting the rising need for 15,050 registered nurses over the next few years poses a challenge for South Dakota; however, exceptional nursing graduates from first-rate schools stand ready to provide compassionate care while earning competitive wages around the state. Identifying the premier nursing schools in South Dakota can launch graduates into fulfilling careers.
- There are 13 nursing schools in South Dakota.
- The CCNE accredits 8 nursing school(s)
- The ACEN accredits 3 nursing school(s).
- The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in South Dakota is between 64.10% and 96.95%.
- The NCLEX passing rate for ADN students in South Dakota is between 67.47% and 91.29%.
- RNs currently employed in South Dakota are 14,140.
- RNs in South Dakota earn an average of $60,540 per year or $29.11 per hour.
- South Dakota needs 15,050 new RNs by 2030 or 900 new nurses per year.
Nursing Schools in South Dakota
Overview of Nursing Programs in South Dakota
South Dakota offers a variety of nursing degree programs to prepare students for licensure and practice as registered nurses. These programs include:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – Usually takes 2 years and prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become RNs. Offered at community colleges statewide.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Traditional 4-year degree for RNs, covers more advanced topics versus the ADN. Graduates still take the NCLEX-RN. Offered at universities and colleges.
- RN to BSN programs – For current RNs with an associate’s degree to bridge to the bachelor’s level. Expanding leadership skills and career options. Can often be completed online in 1-2 years.
- Accelerated BSN (ABSN) – Intensive 12-18 month bachelor’s degree for those who already have a bachelors in another field. Coursework plus hundreds of clinical hours prepare graduates to be RNs.
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Graduate-level degree for advanced specialty nursing careers like nurse practitioner or educator roles. Usually takes 2+ years.
- DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) – Designed for very high level nursing practice in a chosen specialty, with more clinical hours and residency components. Leads to titles like DNP or DrNP.
- PhD in Nursing – Focused on nursing research and academia. 4+ year program typically requires a dissertation and specializations are available.
When considering nursing programs in South Dakota, key factors include accreditation status, NCLEX-RN exam pass rates, and types of program formats offered (online, in-person, hybrid). It is also important to understand the licensure requirements set by the South Dakota Board of Nursing to practice as an RN within the state.
Accreditation for South Dakota Nursing Schools
The South Dakota Board of Nursing requires nursing schools to have accreditation from either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for program graduates to be eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam and licensure. These accreditors help ensure quality standards for nursing curriculum, faculty, clinical training, and student outcomes are met.
Overview of Licensing Requirements in South Dakota
To obtain a registered nursing license in South Dakota, candidates must graduate from an approved nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and meet character qualifications required by the Board of Nursing. Nurses must renew their license every 2 years with proof of continued education hours.
Online Nursing Programs for South Dakota Students
Many nursing programs in South Dakota are now offered in online or hybrid formats, which allow students to complete didactic nursing coursework remotely. However, students still complete in-person clinical rotations at approved healthcare facilities as required by the state Board of Nursing for specific degree types (LPN, ADN, BSN). This allows nurses in training to directly apply knowledge gained online through patient care experiences.
When researching online nursing programs in South Dakota, it is important to confirm they officially accept students residing in-state who plan to pursue RN licensure there after graduation
What Are the Best Nursing Schools in South Dakota?
#1 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
South Dakota State University
1004 Campanile Ave, Brookings, SD - 57007-1898
(800) 952-3541
- Programs: CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
South Dakota State University is located in Brookings, South Dakota. They offer a traditional BSN program, an accelerated BSN program and an online RN to BSN program. They also offer LPN and RN refresher courses for those nurses who have been out of practice and need to brush up on their skills.
South Dakota State University College of Nursing is one of the most prominent nursing schools in South Dakota. The school proudly states 90% job placement rates and NCLEX-RN pass rates. In addition to that, South Dakota State University is also generous when it comes to educational funding and scholarships; the College of Nursing alone provided a scholarship of more than $400,000 in the year 2020-2021 for more than 200 students.
In South Dakota State University College of Nursing, students actively take part in multiple research activities that are aimed towards impacting and changing the local and global healthcare scenario. The expert faculty at the College of Nursing is committed to providing firsthand knowledge based on experience and research. Similarly, the students also get to practice in the high-fidelity simulation labs, equipped with the latest technology that provides a realistic learning environment. In addition to the outstanding academic opportunities, South Dakota State University also offers 240+ unique student organizations, daily campus events, community outreach, innovative research, as well as Division I athletics to help students find their individuality and develop leadership skills.
Undergraduate Programs: The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the South Dakota State University College of Nursing is aimed towards providing a strong academic and clinical foundation for entry into the nursing profession. Students can choose to enroll in the Standard four years BSN course, or the one-year Accelerated BSN course, or working RNs without a bachelor’s degree can get into the RN-to-BSN course to advance their career.
Graduate Programs: The university also offers an outstanding MSN course that offer fall admission and flexible scheduling that allows students to finish the course in three to four and one half years. There are both online and in-person courses available. The online courses include Nurse Administrator, Clinical Nurse Leader, and Nurse Educator. Similarly, the in-person courses include Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Similarly, the DNP program at South Dakota State University College of Nursing aims to prepare Advanced Practice Registered Nurses who can transform clinical practice as expert clinicians and leaders with a special focus on rural and underserved populations. There are two pathways to the DNP course; the Bachelor’s to DNP and the Master’s to DNP pathway.
Furthermore, the university offers a Ph.D. in Nursing course that prepares nurse scientists who can assume roles as healthcare researchers, faculty, and healthcare administrations. This course also offers a Master’s to Ph.D. and a Bachelor’s to Ph.D. pathways.
Last but not the least, South Dakota State University College of Nursing encourages students with a master’s degree or a doctorate degree in nursing to obtain further education in the Postgraduate Certificates courses.
#2 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Augustana University
- 2001 S Summit Ave, Sioux Falls, SD - 57197-0001
- (605) 274-5516
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor
Augustana University is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Their nursing program has been in existence for more than 70 years and they are a regional leader in nursing education. They offer a BSN program and an accelerated BSN program. They also offer training in parish nursing; a parish nurse is "...a licensed registered nurse who facilitates the holistic health of the congregation, thus reclaiming the healing ministry of the church. The parish nurse focuses on the spiritual, emotional, physical and social dimensions of people as they strive to achieve healing and wholeness." Augustana University also offers a nursing student exchange program in Norway.
Founded more than 70 years ago, Augustana University consistently ranks higher than the state and national average when it comes to the NCLEX pass rates. Moreover, the college also ranks among the state’s best in terms of program pass rates, retention rates, and employment rates.
At Augustana University the nursing program promotes excellence and service via various educational and extra-curricular activities. These activities and experiences help students cultivate their personal, intellectual, and professional growth; values that are empirical in the modern healthcare environment. In addition to the small class size and diverse faculty, the nursing students at Augustana University are also assigned an academic advisor who helps them with individualized mentoring and guidance. Similarly, the campus is well-equipped with a Simulation Center where students practice various nursing skills with the state-of-the-art interactive mannequin. Moreover, they also get the chance to participate in clinical experiences every week in various healthcare facilities under the supervision and guidance of expert faculty members. In addition to that, nursing students are also encouraged to participate in study abroad opportunities where they can encounter cultural diversity that helps them grow both professionally and personally.
Undergraduate Programs: Augustana University offers a competitive and relevant Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing Degree which prepares students to provide the best care to their patients. The degree is a four-year professional nursing program that has a liberal arts curriculum as its foundation.
In addition to the traditional BSN program, the University also offers an Accelerated Track Nursing program that is a full-time course designed for students who have a previous bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing.
#3 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of South Dakota
- 414 E Clark St, Vermillion, SD - 57069-2390
- (605) 658-6200
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor, RN to BSN
University of South Dakota is located in Vermillion, South Dakota. They also have multiple campuses throughout the state. Their nursing program offers an LPN to RN program at the Watertown campus. Otherwise, they offer a BSN program, an accelerated BSN program and an RN to BSN program, which is offered online. The programs are offered at most of their campuses.
#4 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Sioux Falls
- 1101 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD - 57105-1699
- (605) 331-5000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor
University of Sioux Falls is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. They offer three nursing tracks: a traditional BSN program, an accelerated BSN program and an RN to BSN program. The online RN to BSN program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.
The University of Sioux Falls School of Nursing is among the top colleges for nursing education. The university prides itself in teaching nursing students with a nurturing, Christian-based environment that respects the individuality of each student and helps them reach their full potential.
The school uses the latest simulation technology in classrooms and clinical rotations to ensure that the students are fully equipped with the skills and knowledge to lead a successful nursing career. They also get the chance to participate in an extensive clinical experience that allows them patient contact and on-site training throughout the program. The clinical rotations take place in all kinds of state-of-the-art healthcare facilities that encompass all areas of nursing practice across the lifespan. In addition to that, the university provides its nursing courses in a nurturing, Christian-based environment that allows each student to find their value and become the best healthcare personnel that they possibly can.
Undergraduate Programs: University of Sioux Falls School of Nursing offers a comprehensive and highly competitive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Students can choose to enroll in the traditional or accelerated tracks. The traditional track is available for students with no prior undergraduate degree and can be completed in eight semesters or four years. Similarly, the accelerated track exists for students who hold a previous bachelor’s degree in a different field.
#5 Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Dakota Wesleyan University
Arlene Gates Department of Nursing
- 1200 W University Ave, Mitchell, SD - 57301-4398
- (605) 995-2600
- Programs: Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursingg, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor, LPN to BSN
Dakota Wesleyan University is located in Mitchell, South Dakota. The school offers a traditional BSN program, an RN to BSN program, and an LPN to BSN program. The LPN to BSN program is located at their Sioux Falls campus and the RN to BSN program is an online program.
At Dakota Wesleyan University nursing students learn and grow along with a supportive community that comprises of the faculty, peers, and staff. The university encourages and fosters trusting relationships with students and professors who are always available for mentorship and encouragement.
Nursing students gain immense clinical experience while studying at Dakota Wesleyan University as the university has partnerships with multiple healthcare facilities like hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, community agencies, and other facilities in the region. The students also get the opportunity to practice in rural settings which enables them to learn about the healthcare needs of the underprivileged and diverse population. Similarly, the state-of-the-art simulation labs allow students to take part in realistic healthcare scenarios while also observing, critiquing, and learning from others’ simulation practices.
Undergraduate Programs: Dakota Wesleyan University offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing course in its Mitchell campus. The program aims to encourage professional growth, lifelong learning, leadership, and commitment to service among the students. Upon completion of the program, the students are eligible to take their NCLEX-RN examinations and practice as Registered Nurses in various healthcare facilities.
Similarly, the LPN to RN course at the Sioux Falls campus allows working LPNs to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in just 28 months. The program includes clinical practice hours in almost every semester.
Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs provide a fast-track path to a Bachelor’s degree in nursing, catering to those who already hold a Bachelor’s degree in another field. South Dakota ABSN programs typically last 12-18 months.
Prerequisites and Admission Requirements
Because ABSN programs are intensive, strict admissions criteria apply including:
- Hold a qualifying Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
- Complete nursing pre-requisite courses (A&P, Microbiology etc.) with minimum “B” grades
- Submit test scores from TEAS or GRE exams
- Pass background check and drug screening
- Provide health records and CPR certification
In exchange for the heavy course load, ABSN students can become eligible for RN licensure and begin working after just 12-18 months of study.
ABSN Clinical Requirements
While didactic nursing classes are completed online or on-campus, required clinical hours give invaluable real medical experience. Faculty help arrange clinical rotations at hospitals, clinics and other facilities – often the same ones that later hire graduating nurses! Typical requirements include 500-1,000 supervised clinical hours across specialty areas like adult health, pediatrics, mental health and critical care.
ABSN Program Outcomes
Given the intensity, nursing schools offering Accelerated BSN programs also boast exceptional NCLEX-RN first time pass rates and job placement rates after graduation. Their students’ licensure exam pass rates typically exceed state or national averages.
RN to BSN Programs
Registered nurses who hold an Associate’s Degree in nursing or hospital diploma can broaden their knowledge and career prospects by pursuing an RN to BSN program. These flexible programs recognize prior nursing education and are tailored for working nurses.
Best RN to BSN Schools in South Dakota
Difference Between ADN and BSN for Nurses
While ADN nurses gain vital clinical skills at the bedside during the 2 year diploma or Associate degree training, BSN programs provide leadership, research, and community health knowledge required for advancement to roles like nurse manager or public health. A BSN degree has also become expected or required by many healthcare employers.
RN to Online BSN Program Formats
Balancing existing work and life commitments, RN to BSN programs available at universities across South Dakota offer flexible online, in-person and hybrid formats taking 1-2 years to complete. Nursing classes along with general education credits typically transfer from earlier nursing coursework.
Transfer Credits and Prior Coursework Policies
Schools make it more affordable and efficient for Associate degree RNs to return through generous transfer credit allowances and possibly waiving some nursing classes taken in the initial degree. When researching programs, ask schools about their specific testing or articulation options for receiving maximum credits based on your unique academic background.
Evaluate Program Cost and Scholarship Options
While pay and career prospects increase after earning a BSN, the degree still represents a valuable investment. Learn about ways to offset tuition costs through school payment plans, employer education benefits, nursing scholarships and State or Federal loan repayment assistance programs.
Dedicated Nursing Advisors
Quality BSN completion programs provide dedicated nursing academic advisors to help create a personalized degree roadmap that optimizes transfer credits and matches each student’s background, specialization interests and career trajectory. Check schools’ nursing advisor to student ratios when selecting an RN to BSN program.
Master’s in Nursing Programs in South Dakota
Those committed to advanced nursing practice may consider pursuing a Master’s of Science in Nursing degree, with specializations like Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Healthcare Administration and Clinical Nurse Specialist.
MSN Specializations
Master’s programs allow RNs to specialize through advanced coursework tailored to specific roles, in order to excel in a clinical focus area matching their strengths and professional interests.
Program Formats
Depending on university preferences, MSN programs may be offered in mostly online, hybrid or campus-based formats, with required hands-on clinical intensives. Full-time students typically complete coursework in 2 years.
Admissions Considerations
Given intense graduate level content, competitive MSN programs examine applicants’:
- Bachelor’s GPA – 3.0 minimum
- GRE test scores
- Relevant RN experience
- Professional endorsements
- Service activities related to the desired specialization
Make sure to complete required undergraduate statistics coursework before applying.
Nurse Practitioner Job Outlook
As the most popular MSN track, becoming a Family, Adult-Gerontology, Pediatric or Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (NP) enables South Dakota nurses to provide direct comprehensive care across the wellness-illness spectrum. NPs take health histories, diagnose illness, prescribe medications and therapies – collaborating with supervising physicians as another access point within the healthcare team.
Advanced practice also leads NPs to higher roles and earning potential. The Department of Labor projects Nurse Practitioner employment to grow 45% nationally from 2020-2030 as providers press to improve population health outcomes.
Steps to Become a Nurse Practitioner:
- Complete accredited BSN pre-licensure program
- Obtain RN work experience 1-2 years minimum recommended
- Enroll in an accredited MSN Nurse Practitioner track (~2 years full-time)
- Complete 500+ clinical hours
- Take NP certification exam for chosen population focus
- Apply for advanced practice recognition in South Dakota
NP graduates deliver clinical services across diverse settings like hospitals, clinics, skilled nursing and correctional facilities. Making a profound difference through evidence based care and preventative health measures, they find deep purpose advancing community wellbeing.
Best Nurse Practitioner Schools in South Dakota
Doctoral Programs: DNP and PhD Pathways
Difference Between DNP and PhD Degrees
For nurses seeking the highest levels of clinical knowledge or research focus, South Dakota schools offer both Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in nursing pathways.
While the DNP represents a practice-oriented doctorate, training experts in specialized advanced care, health systems leadership and policy, the PhD focuses on academic research rigor and methods, preparing graduates for faculty and investigative roles advancing science and evidence based practice.
DNP Capstone Project
Earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice involves progressing through rigorous coursework emphasizing skills like analytical epidemiology, research methodology, and translating evidence to practice. Learners culminate experience in the DNP capstone project concentrating on a specific clinical question with quantifiable patient outcomes. This intense process takes several academic terms under close mentorship.
PhD Research and Dissertation
The Doctor of Philosophy in nursing emphasizes broad and deep hands-on research, quantitative analysis and submission for scientific publication throughout the multi-year curriculum. PhD candidates partner with a faculty advisor based on aligned research interests to complete the dissertation process – the written report detailing an original major research project the student designed, conducted, analyzed and defended. Portions of dissertations get presented at academic conferences and the PhD graduate leads future studies as a university scholar.
Both DNP and PhD nursing pathways exemplify nursing excellence that transforms practice standards, enhances system policy and empowers the rising generation through instruction and mentorship roles.
Benefits of Becoming a Nurse in South Dakota
Along offering quality programs centered on holistic patient care through multiple academic routes, South Dakota needs dedicated nurses and boasts excellent job prospects upon completion of degrees.
High Nursing Job Demand and Growth Outlook
With its small town charm yet cutting edge medical centers, South Dakota currently has over 12,000 practicing RNs projected to rise 18% this decade as the population ages – much higher than all occupations. Hospitals, clinics of all sizes, long term care centers, schools and home health agencies seek new nurses, especially BSN graduates pursuing licensure.
Competitive Nursing Salaries
Matching demand, excellent RN compensation attracts candidates to the profession. Average South Dakota registered nursing salaries range from $60,000 (starting median) up beyond $90,000 for specialized advanced practice nurses. Certain settings and employers offer generous sign-on bonuses, loan forgiveness and tuition reimbursement that improves earning potential.
Variety of Work Environments
Beyond competitive pay, nursing delivers immense meaning found in disease prevention, research innovation and profound moments at the bedside. Nurses possess unlimited opportunities to pursue special interests and serve communities while advancing ethically and intellectually.
With South Dakota being predominantly rural, nurses work closely with multidisciplinary teams across diverse settings like critical access hospitals, clinics, long term care, mental health agencies and NGOs improving public health through telemedicine, advocacy and compassion.
How to Earn Your South Dakota Nursing License
Here are the steps on how to earn your nursing license and jumpstart your career as a healthcare professional in South Dakota:
Licensure Steps
- Graduate from an approved nursing diploma, Associate or Bachelor’s degree pre-licensure program meeting South Dakota Board of Nursing education standards
- Apply to take the NCLEX-RN exam through the national Pearson Vue testing company
- Upon passing the computerized multiple choice test, the board issues an RN license
- Newly licensed RNs must then apply for working registration through an online application to begin professional nursing practice
In-Demand Specializations
While nurses get hired across all hospital units, ample openings exist in specialty areas projected to have the highest growth this decade like:
- Emergency room
- Operating room
- Oncology
- Ambulatory care clinics
- Community health education
Nurses can also pursue focused MSN tracks or post-graduate certifications related to preferred practice areas like midwifery, psychiatry, pediatrics, critical care transport or aesthetics.
South Dakota Nursing Job Outlook
With over 1,300 annual job openings expected this decade besides replacing retiring nurses, beginner and experienced registered nurses enjoy abundant employment options and competitive salaries from healthcare employers seeking to hire talent produced by quality regional nursing schools.
Choosing the Right Nursing School and Program in South Dakota
When researching the 25+ ACEN or CCNE accredited nursing schools across South Dakota, prospective students should closely compare program components including:
Nursing Accreditation
Ensuring program investment results in professional registration, South Dakota mandates all pre-licensure nursing schools receive authorization by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Diploma, ADN, and BSN programs approved by these oversight bodies validate quality standards for curriculum, faculty, clinical training, student evaluation and resource support meet or exceeds industry criteria.
NCLEX Pass Rates
As a quality indicator of graduate readiness for licensure exams, nursing schools track their students’ first-time NCLEX-RN passing rates each year, aiming to meet or exceed state and national passing averages. Programs prominently display these outcome metrics signifying learners are prepared for entry level practice meeting the state Board of Nursing’s standards. Prospective students should absolutely evaluate pass rates when selecting between nursing programs.
Tuition Costs and Financial Assistance
While investing in an accredited nursing education generates excellent ROI with South Dakota’s robust employment demand, tuition costs can range widely between $20,000 – $50,000+ for BSN programs depending on school size and public or private status. Know that most universities provide academic scholarships and financial aid support that lowers real individual costs.
Begin financial planning early and ask schools about available relevant aid awards upon applying. Also research South Dakota nursing student loan forgiveness programs and local hospital system partnerships offering tuition repayment in exchange for short term graduate work commitments.
Some top ranked nursing colleges like South Dakota State University public university also pledge affordable in-state rates for regional learners seeking high value accredited programs with ample clinical experience opportunities built-in across their state of the art simulation labs and expansive telehealth partners.
Clinical Rotation Partners
Beyond virtual simulations, students benefit from quality clinical rotations exposing them to diverse real patient care environments needed to apply developing skills across outpatient clinics, large regional medical centers, critical access hospitals, long term care facilities and community health agencies.
Noted ranked programs often secure exclusive clinical rotation partnerships granting access for targeted student interaction across prestigious flagship health systems advancing practical training. Ask schools about recent clinical partners as this hands-on networking lays groundwork for graduate employment placement.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
While online lectures prove convenient and accessible for supplementary content, nursing remains a practice-based competency focused discipline requiring hands-on instructor observation and correction in the skills lab and clinical setting. Along nursing simulation technology integration, schools must provide sufficient faculty numbers and availability leading to reasonable student-to-instructor oversight ratios that facilitate value added learning.
Academic Support Resources
Managing intense health science course loads, the transition from classroom into practice includes accessing layers like tutoring services, writing labs, technical support, counseling, career placement prep and more that enables students to graduate timely and secure licensure.
Ask schools about the support infrastructure available so learners receive the remediation and assistance needed if challenged at times academically or personally while balancing program demands. Advisors help customize plans to set students up for completion success.
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Getting Licensed as an RN in South Dakota
Becoming a registered nurse in South Dakota involves completing key licensure steps demonstrating competency standards are met to begin professional practice.
Licensure Steps
The central requirements to earn a nursing license after finishing an approved diploma or degree program are:
- Graduating from a Board of Nursing-approved RN diploma or degree program meeting academic and clinical hour criteria
- Passing the NCLEX-RN licensure examination measuring entry-level nursing knowledge
- Applying for RN registration and background check through the Board of Nursing online portal as a part of your nursing career.
- Maintaining licensure through renewal every 2 years before expiration
Newly licensed RNs must then apply for legal registrant status authorizing formal nursing work privileges within healthcare settings across the state.
In-Demand Specializations
While the RN license qualifies nurses for diverse openings state-wide, certain specialization areas expecting the highest job growth currently and into 2030 that new nurses may want to consider gaining specific credentials around include:
- Emergency and trauma care
- Surgery, perioperative nursing
- Oncology, cancer care nursing
- Mother-baby, labor and delivery nursing
- Ambulatory clinic nursing
These high demand specialties often require targeted certifications and trainings new nurses would complete after getting experience in their initial RN roles.
Nursing Job Outlook and Salaries
With over 1,300 annual openings projected besides replacing retiring nurses, South Dakota posts full employment for qualified RNs with competitive earning potential that continues rising to attract talent.
Registered nurses start around $23-$28 per hour or $48,000 – $60,000 salary range. With a few years’ experience advancing to specialty units, nurse supervisor roles or advanced certifications, average pay can reach over $35 per hour or $90,000+ annually.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Schools and Programs in South Dakota
What are the best nursing schools in South Dakota?
Some of the top ranked nursing schools in South Dakota include Augustana University, South Dakota State University, University of South Dakota, Dakota Wesleyan University, Mount Marty University, and Presentation College. These schools offer accredited BSN and MSN nursing degree programs.
What are the highest demand nursing careers in South Dakota currently?
With over 1,300 annual openings projected besides replacing retiring nurses, the most in-demand nursing careers currently include emergency, trauma, OR, oncology, L&D, pediatric and ambulatory care nursing. Experienced RNs and advanced practice Nurse Practitioners are especially sought after.
Can I pursue practical nursing training in South Dakota?
Yes, Southeast Technical Institute offers a 12 month practical nursing certificate program teaching essential skills like administering medications, patient care, and supports graduates with job placement for roles like LPNs upon passing the NCLEX-PN exam.
What training is required to become a Family Nurse Practitioner?
Registered nurses complete 2-3 years of specialized Master’s level MSN coursework and 500+ clinical hours focused on family health to sit for national Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams and apply for advanced practice licensure through the South Dakota Board of Nursing.
More of the Best South Dakota Nursing Schools
|
Grade
|
University
|
South Dakota Rank
|
Degree
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 85.96 | Dakota Wesleyan University | 5 | BSN |
| 74.77 | Mount Marty College | 6 | BSN |
| 69.59 | Presentation College | 7 | BSN |
Ranking Methodology and Data Sources
- Ranking Methodology
- University Webpages
- South Dakota Board of Nursing
- Department of Education’s College Scorecard
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings
- Bureau of Labor Statistics Salary Data
- Department of Labor Projected Employment
- Bureau of Economic Analysis Cost of Living Data
