South Dakota’s Top-Rated Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024
There has never been a better time to become a nurse. The need for nurses continues to grow, with a national growth rate of 6% for registered nurses (RNs) between 2021-2031. South Dakota has a growth rate of 12% with a projected 900 annual job openings. That means there will be plenty of jobs to choose from.
The cost of living in South Dakota is lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to live. In addition to this, South Dakota is one of the few states that does not impose a state income tax, a state pension, or a state social security tax. As a result, South Dakota has one of the lowest tax burdens in the country. The tax benefits in the state allow its residents to keep more of their hard-earned dollars.
While the state population may be small, South Dakota has much to offer. It is home to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which attracts over three million visitors annually. Additional state and national parks, like Custer State Park and Badlands National Park, offer plenty of hiking, fishing, biking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
South Dakota has a strong economy with many nursing jobs to choose from. In addition to this, it has several great in-state colleges and universities, making it an affordable place to obtain your nursing degree.
The Best Nursing Schools in South Dakota
Learn more about the best nursing schools in South Dakota to help determine which college may be best for you.
Our site has ranked the best nursing schools in South Dakota based on the NCLEX-RN pass rates posted on the South Dakota Board of Nursing website. The schools are categorized into Associate Degree in Nursing programs (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs.
ADN Nursing Programs:
#1 ADN Nursing Program
Mitchell Technical College
Mitchell Technical College is a public technical college in Mitchell, South Dakota. They offer a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to RN program that builds upon previously learned and practiced foundational nursing knowledge as an LPN, which can be completed in one year. Nursing theory and general education classes are delivered online, which means there are minimal trips to campus for their students. Students are given hands-on learning opportunities with one clinical day per week in the Mitchell and surrounding communities and clinical simulation experiences using Mitchell Tech’s simulation labs and virtual technology.
Average Tuition
In-State: $11,916
Out-of-State: $11,916
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$11,916 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$11,916 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
95% |
| Program Completion Rate 2022-2023 |
84% |
| Job Placement 2022 |
100% |
| Students Enrolled |
1,223 |
| Institution Type |
Public Technical College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the South Dakota Board of Nursing (SDBON) |
#2 ADN Nursing Program
Western Dakota Technical College
Western Dakota Technical College is a public community college in Rapid City, South Dakota. They offer an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) RN program for LPNs seeking to further their education and career path. LPNs are given an opportunity to expand on their technical skills learned through their LPN licensure and experience to become RNs. Students are given hands-on learning experiences through clinical rotations and simulation. The RN program is designed for students seeking accessibility while continuing their education.
Average Tuition
In-State: $8,332
Out-of-State: $8,332
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$8,332 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$8,332 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
85% |
| Program Completion Rate 2022 |
85% |
| Job Placement 2022 |
100% |
| Students Enrolled |
1,324 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
#3 ADN Nursing Program
Lake Area Technical College
Lake Area Technical College is a public community college in Watertown, South Dakota. They offer an AAS nursing program that prepares current LPN students to expand their knowledge to become RNs. Their program incorporates theory, clinical, lab, and simulation experiences that last 11 months over three semesters and are available both on-campus and online. Their online program follows the same curriculum as the on-campus program, but it is mostly online. It is considered a hybrid e-degree since it does require some on-campus attendance, usually for two to three days once or twice a semester. Students interested in this program option must have a current LPN license and maintain a minimum of a 2.75 grade point average.
Average Tuition
In-State: $9,600
Out-of-State: $9,600
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$9,600 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$9,600 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2019-2020 |
81.82% |
| Program Completion Rate 2020-2021 |
96.1% |
| Job Placement 2022 |
99% |
| Students Enrolled |
2,655 |
| Institution Type |
Public Community College |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the ACEN |
BSN Programs:
#1 BSN Program
Augustana University
Augustana University is a private Lutheran university in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. They offer a BSN program and is the only university in South Dakota to earn a Holistic Nursing Program endorsement. Students in the program are given hands-on learning experiences in their advanced simulation center, case study reviews, role-playing, and clinical rotations. Students also participate in leadership practicums focused on collaboration, delegation, and prioritizing skills essential to success in healthcare.
Average Tuition
In-State: $35,914
Out-of-State: $35,914
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$35,914 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$35,914 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
97.5% |
| Admission Rate |
72% |
| Retention Rate |
84% |
| Students Enrolled |
1,831 |
| Institution Type |
Private Lutheran University |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
#2 BSN Program
University of South Dakota
University of South Dakota is a public university in Vermillion, South Dakota. They offer a BSN program and RN-to-BSN program that allows students to gain the expertise and adaptability needed to be a leader in healthcare. Students will learn the technical skills necessary to provide high-quality care with invaluable skills in compassion and empathy. Hands-on learning opportunities are given to students through clinical experiences, service learning, and simulation in their state-of-the-art facilities. Upon graduation, students are prepared to work on a collaborative healthcare team in entry-level RN positions in various settings.
Average Tuition
In-State: $7,773
Out-of-State: $9,131.10 for MN residents
$11,283 for out-of-state residents
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$7,773 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$9,131.10 for MN residents
$11,283 for out-of-state residents |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
94.1% |
| Admission Rate |
87% |
| Retention Rate |
81% |
| Students Enrolled |
7,132 |
| Institution Type |
Public University |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the CCNE |
#3 BSN Program
South Dakota State University
South Dakota State University is a public university in Brookings, South Dakota. They offer traditional, accelerated, and RN-to-BSN programs that prepare graduates to practice in various settings. Students are given an education that provides the foundation for developing professional knowledge, critical thinking, ethical decision-making, leadership skills, and the pursuit of delivering quality care.
Average Tuition
In-State: $9,299
Out-of-State:$12,809
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| Average In-State Tuition |
$9,299 |
| Average Out-of-State Tuition |
$12,809 |
| NCLEX-RN Pass Rate 2022 |
89.6% |
| Admission Rate |
87.4% |
| Retention Rate |
83% |
| Students Enrolled |
11,331 |
| Institution Type |
Public University |
| Percent Online Enrollment |
Not given |
| Accreditation |
Yes-by the CCNE |
How to Choose a Nursing Program in South Dakota
When choosing a nursing program in South Dakota, you will want to look at the NCLEX-RN pass rates, admission and retention rates, and job placement rates. Programs with a high NCLEX-RN pass rate provide their students with the tools and support to succeed and prepare them well to be RNs. You may also want to consider the cost of the program and scholarship opportunities, as a BSN program usually takes longer to complete. However, most ADN programs require you to meet your general education requirements before entering the program, so make sure you know what is required before entering the program.
Accreditation is important when choosing a nursing program. Some schools may transfer credits earned while receiving your RN, and some employers may only hire nurses who have completed their degrees through an accredited program.
Why Become a Nurse in South Dakota
US News ranks South Dakota 12th overall and 33rd in healthcare. According to America’s Health Rankings 2022 Annual Report South Dakota showed strengths in a low prevalence of non-medical drug use, low prevalence of frequent physical distress, high adult flu vaccination rate, and increased HPV vaccination rates in adolescents aged 13-17.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that RNs in South Dakota earn an average annual salary of $64,500. While this is below the national average, South Dakota’s cost of living is lower than the national average, and it is one of the few states that does not impose a state income tax. This means your dollar can stretch further.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in South Dakota
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics the average mean wage for an RN in South Dakota is $64,500, and it employs 14,360 nurses. South Dakota also employs 810 advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who make an average wage of $115,610.
The projected nationwide employment growth rate for registered nurses between 2021 and 2031 is 6%, with an anticipated 203,200 yearly job openings. Many of these job openings are expected due to workers retiring or transferring to different occupations.
| Top Paying Cities in South Dakota for RNs |
| West South Dakota, SC |
$70,500 |
| Rapid City, SC |
$66,250 |
| East South Dakota, SC |
$64,320 |
Citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, at https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/home (visited February 25, 2022).
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in South Dakota
To become an RN and advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), candidates must complete a program approved by the South Dakota Board of Nursing Upon completing an approved nursing program, candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
After gaining experience as an RN, some nurses return to school to obtain their APRN. After you have completed an APRN program, you will need to take the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) exam or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) exam.
Maintaining your nursing license requires meeting specific requirements. To become a nurse in South Dakota, you must complete the following requirements:
RN Requirements
These are the steps to take to become an RN in South Dakota:
- Enroll in an Associate Degree in Nursing Program (ADN) OR a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN).
- An ADN program usually takes two years, while a BSN program usually takes four years to complete. Courses can be taken in person or online. However, both programs may offer a part-time track that will take longer.
- After completing your chosen nursing program, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam. In addition, you must submit your transcripts, proof of graduation, proof of primary residence, and complete a fingerprint and criminal background check to the state board of nursing to receive your license.
- Once you have been issued your first RN license in South Dakota, you must renew it every two years. Before renewal, you must have worked at least 140 hours in 12 months or 480 hours within six years. No continuing education hours are required for license renewal in South Dakota.
APRN Requirements
These are the steps to become an APRN in South Dakota:
- Candidates must hold an active RN license to practice in South Dakota.
- RNs must have earned their BSN before entering an APRN program.
- RNs must enter an accredited nursing program to earn their Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice.
- Once an APRN program has successfully been completed, you will be required to pass the certification exam and hold and maintain current certification as a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse anesthetist from one of the following national organizations:
- American Nurses Credentialing Center
- National Certification Corporation for the Obstetric
- Gynecologic
- Neonatal Nursing Specialties
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
- American Association of Nurse Anesthetists
- American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
- Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
- South Dakota APRN licenses must be renewed every two years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in South Dakota
Is South Dakota a good place for nurses to work?
South Dakota is an excellent place for nurses to work. With a growth rate of 12% for RNs, there are plenty of jobs to choose from.
Is South Dakota a compact state for nursing?
South Dakota is a compact state for nursing. If you hold a compact RN license for another state, you can practice nursing in South Dakota.
What are the requirements for RNs in South Dakota?
Once you have been issued your first RN license in South Dakota, you must renew it every two years. Before renewal, you must have worked at least 140 hours in 12 months or 480 hours within six years. No continuing education hours are required for license renewal in South Dakota.
How much does a South Dakota RN license cost?
It costs $200 to take your NCLEX-RN exam in South Dakota. The application fee for a South Dakota RN license by exam and endorsement is $100. It costs $115 to renew your RN license in South Dakota.
