The Best Nursing Schools in South Dakota

The Best Nursing Schools in South Dakota

Nursing is a profession in high demand in South Dakota, and the nursing schools in the state boast an above-average National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rate. If you’re considering attending nursing school in South Dakota, this comprehensive guide is designed to assist you in selecting the best schools, understanding the licensure process, and exploring potential job opportunities and salaries. This guide aims to aid you in choosing the most suitable nursing program in South Dakota based on your goals and background. It provides insights into obtaining a nursing license, along with an overview of job prospects and typical salaries in the field.

Best Nursing Schools in South Dakota

South Dakota is home to three fully approved nursing schools offering an associate degree in nursing (ADN), with an additional two holding interim approval. For those pursuing a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), there are seven fully accredited nursing programs in the state.

Methodology: Our rankings employ a data-driven approach to identify the top nursing schools in South Dakota, streamlining the process of finding a program that aligns with your needs. We consider key metrics such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. The data is sourced from publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and reflects information current as of the publication date of this article. Please note that program-specific details may vary.

Dialysis Nurse Career Overview

1. Lake Area Technical College

Location: Watertown, SD
Duration: 2 years
Delivery: Online + Campus

Lake Area Technical College is renowned for hosting one of the premier nursing schools in South Dakota. The institution offers a licensed practical nurse (LPN) program, available for both on-campus and online completion. Students can opt for full-time or part-time enrollment, with the full-time track commencing in August and spanning 11 months, while the part-time track begins in January and extends over 22 months.

The LPN program equips degree-seekers with skills in caring for various patient demographics, including pediatric, surgical, and geriatric cases. Graduates of this program can further enroll in Lake Area Technical Institute’s registered nurse program, considered one of the top nursing programs in South Dakota.

Program: LPN
Campus: Watertown
Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $124 per credit
Admission Requirements: Completion of ATI TEAS exam; minimum 2.5 GPA; and fulfillment of all prerequisite courses
Minimum Time Commitment: 11 months
On-Campus Requirements: None
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.72%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $2,904
Out-of-state: $2,904
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 84%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 2,228
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 46%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

Top Nursing Schools in South Dakota

2. Mitchell Technical Institute

Location: Mitchell, SD
Duration: 2 years
Delivery: Online + Campus

Mitchell Technical Institute offers a licensed practical nurse (LPN) program that delves into the art and science of nursing. The program can be completed in 12 months.

Participants learn how to provide care for diverse patient populations, including obstetrical, psychiatric, and geriatric patients. Mitchell Technical Institute does not require prerequisite classes for application; instead, students complete these classes after enrollment.

Program: LPN
Campus: Watertown
Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $124 per credit
Admission Requirements: ACT score of 18 or above in all sections or ACCUPLACER equivalent; minimum 2.5 GPA; TEAS Exam composite score of 62% or higher
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $3,872
Out-of-state: $3,872
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 1,162
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 23%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#3 Mount Marty College

Yankton, SD
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + Campus

Nurses aspiring to elevate their careers can explore Mount Marty University’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. Participants can opt for either a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track or an FNP postgraduate certificate program.

Degree-seekers engage in providing care to underserved communities, particularly in rural areas. The programs incorporate a blend of online and on-campus classes.

Program: MSN
Campus: Watertown
Type: Private
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $635 per credit
Admission Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in nursing from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; minimum 3.0 GPA; current RN license with at least one year (two years preferred) of professional RN practice; three recommendation letters
Minimum Time Commitment: 6 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $169,590
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $25,976
Out-of-state: $25,976
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $6,825
Out-of-state: $6,825
Retention Rate: 72%
Admission Rate: 72%
Students Enrolled: 1,049
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 34%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#4 Sinte Gleska University

Mission, SD
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Campus

Sinte Gleska University stands as one of the preeminent nursing schools in South Dakota. Students can choose from a variety of options, including an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Licensed Practical Nursing and a Certificate of Licensed Practical Nursing. SGU also offers certification programs for Certified Nursing Assistant and Medication Aide.

The AAS program integrates practical clinicals, teaching students to provide patient care from a holistic and culturally sensitive approach.

Program: AAS
Campus: Mission
Type: Public
Accreditations: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $1,320 per semester
Admission Requirements: ACT score of 18 or higher or completion of the Accuplacer Test; completion of first-year LPN prerequisite classes with a “B” average; minimum 3.0 GPA; and maintenance of a current CNA or Medication Aide license
Minimum Time Commitment: 6 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $2,640
Out-of-state: $2,640
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $1,500
Out-of-state: $1,500
Retention Rate: 100%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 549
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: Not provided
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#5 South Dakota State University

Brookings, SD
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + Campus

Earning a place among the top nursing schools in South Dakota, South Dakota State University provides four postgraduate certificates in nursing. Students can pursue certificates in Clinical Nurse Leader, Nurse Educator, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). While all programs are offered online, the FNP program follows a hybrid format.

The FNP and PMHNP certificates allow students with a master’s or doctorate in nursing to achieve certification in their respective specialties.

Program: Postgraduate certificates in nursing
Campus: Brookings
Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $340 per credit for in-state learners; $648 per credit for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: Current RN license; bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA from an accredited institution; and 1,500 hours of documented nursing practice experience before the first clinical course
Minimum Time Commitment: Varies by program
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 92.4%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $7,697
Out-of-state: $11,172
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $8,083
Out-of-state: $15,541
Retention Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 90%
Students Enrolled: 11,512
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 38%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#6 University of South Dakota

Vermillion, SD
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + Campus

Prospective students exploring nursing programs in South Dakota can explore various options at the University of South Dakota. USD offers an on-campus Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an on-campus LPN-to-BSN, and an online RN-to-BSN.

Enrollees benefit from an 11-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention, mentoring, and advising. Students must complete at least one year at USD before applying to the nursing program.

Program: BSN
Campus: Vermillion
Type: Public
Accreditations: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $7,773 for 30 credits for in-state learners; $11,283 for 30 credits for out-of-state learners
Admission Requirements: Students should contact an academic advisor for specific program requirements
Minimum Time Commitment: 120 hours
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90.8%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,690
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $7,697
Out-of-state: $11,172
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $6,062
Out-of-state: $11,656
Retention Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 86%
Students Enrolled: 9,920
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 50%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

#7 Dakota Wesleyan University

Mitchell, SD
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + Campus

Dakota Wesleyan University presents one of the premier nursing programs in South Dakota. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program encompasses classes such as Health Concepts and Pharmacology for Nursing Care.

DWU nurtures nurses in a liberal arts environment, with learners completing this 124-credit program on campus. The program spans four years, preparing graduates for the NCLEX exam.

Program: BSN
Campus: Mitchell
Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $1,023 per credit
Admission Requirements: ACT score of 19 or above or SAT score of 900 or above; minimum 2.7 GPA; 3.0 GPA in nursing prerequisite classes
Minimum Time Commitment: 4 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,600
Average Undergrad Tuition

In-state: $27,700
Out-of-state: $27,700
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $14,400
Out-of-state: $14,400
Retention Rate: 65%
Admission Rate: 67%
Students Enrolled: 880
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 15%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

How to Choose a Nursing Program in South Dakota

When considering attending a nursing school in South Dakota, it is crucial to decide on the type of degree you aim for (ADN or BSN), while also taking into account factors such as the cost of the school, available financial aid options, program quality and reputation, NCLEX pass rate, school size, and acceptance and graduation rates.

If you opt for an online or hybrid nursing program in South Dakota, ensure that there are provisions for clinical placement for online nursing students within your local community.

This guide exclusively highlights accredited nursing programs due to the substantial risks associated with attending unaccredited programs.

Reasons to Pursue a Nursing Career in South Dakota

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has projected a shortage of 1,900 registered nurses (RNs) from 2014-2030, a figure that predates the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating an even greater demand now. Certain employers are offering signing bonuses of up to $40,000 for specific specialties.

Nursing school expenses in South Dakota are below the national average, with the University of South Dakota boasting one of the lowest out-of-state rates for four-year public programs at $12,940.

Additionally, South Dakota is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, enabling graduates to apply for a multistate license valid in any of the 37 participating states. The NCLEX-RN pass rate stands at 92.4%, exceeding the national average of 86.6%.

South Dakota features breathtaking scenery, including Mount Rushmore, the legendary Black Hills, and the Badlands. Those interested in working with under-served populations can find opportunities on Native American reservations, where nurses may be eligible for loan forgiveness or scholarships.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in South Dakota

The cost of living in South Dakota is slightly above average, with an index of 101, and the state does not impose a state income tax.

The average salary for RNs in South Dakota is $60,960, in contrast to the national average of $82,750. Nurse practitioners (NPs) earn an average of $103,080, compared to the national average of $118,040, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

The BLS projects a 13.1% job growth rate for registered nurses from 2018-2028, exceeding the national average of 12.1%. NP jobs in South Dakota could see a 27.3% growth, slightly below the 28.2% national average.

Top-Paying Cities for Nurses in South Dakota

With an increasing focus on remote work and a desire for a high quality of life with lower living costs, Sioux Falls was rated as the best city for young professionals in 2021 by SmartAsset. This was driven by factors such as low rent, unemployment rates, and a wealth of entertainment options.

For those who enjoy outdoor recreation and access to stunning landscapes, Badlands National Park and the Black Hills are within driving distance of larger cities.

Highest-Paying Cities

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Median Salary for RNs
Sioux Falls	$61,770
Rapid City	$61,540
Sioux City	$60,160

Source: BLS

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in South Dakota

All states mandate registered nurses to possess a degree from an accredited nursing school, pass the relevant national examination, and undergo a criminal background check. While many states require continuing education for license renewal, South Dakota stands out as one of the few that necessitates active employment as a nurse.

RN Requirements

To obtain an RN license in South Dakota, one must graduate from an ADN or BSN program, pass the NCLEX-RN examination, and complete a criminal background check with fingerprinting.

If you attended a nursing program in South Dakota, the state board of nursing will automatically receive your transcripts; otherwise, you must send an official copy. The application fee is $100, with an option to pay $25 for a temporary license upon completion of all paperwork and a background check.

APRN Requirements

For an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) license, you need an active and unencumbered South Dakota or multistate RN license, an accredited master of science in nursing or a doctor of nursing practice degree, board certification in your specialty, and a background check. NPs in South Dakota must have a minimum of 1,040 hours of practice or work in collaboration with a licensed physician or NP. The fee is $100.

Other Notable Nursing Programs and Resources

The Top Nursing Schools in South Dakota

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in South Dakota

What is the average salary for nurses in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, the average salary for Registered Nurses (RNs) is $60,960, while Nurse Practitioners (NPs) earn an average of $103,080. As of April 2022, nurses with less than one year of experience make an average of $167,380 annually, and those with more than 10 years of experience earn $218,760.

Is there a high demand for nurses in South Dakota?

Yes, there is a significant demand for nurses in South Dakota, and this demand is expected to continue growing. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services projected a shortage of 1,900 nurses from 2014-2030. Some employers are now offering high signing bonuses and employing travel nurses to address the increasing demand.

How long does it take to become a Registered Nurse (RN) in South Dakota?

The timeframe to become an RN in South Dakota depends on the type of degree pursued. It takes two years to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and four years for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The state board of nursing typically processes completed applications in about 10 working days. Upon completion of the application and a criminal background check, individuals can receive a temporary license.

What are the steps to obtain a nursing license in South Dakota?

To obtain a nursing license in South Dakota, you must have either an ADN or a BSN from an accredited nursing school in South Dakota or another state. Additionally, you need to pass the NCLEX-RN examination and undergo a criminal background check. If you already hold a multistate license, you are eligible to practice in South Dakota, as it is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state.