South Dakota has a variety of four-year nursing programs for local aspiring nurses. Students benefit from the high-quality training, breadth of exposure, and opportunities for career advancement that these nursing programs offer.
Four-year colleges and universities for nursing
Although they are best known for their bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree programs, some four-year colleges and universities also offer a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree for students with even higher academic aspirations. Key courses at both the BSN and MSN level are essential nursing techniques, nursing theory, and nursing management and psychology. Graduates from four-year nursing schools have a distinct advantage in their job search, since healthcare employers are demonstrating a significant preference for advanced education and extensive training.
Training and career outlook
With roughly a dozen four-year nursing schools, South Dakota is a promising destination for nursing students. Highly regarded nursing degrees are offered at several of the state’s large public universities, including University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University. The state also has a network of smaller private nursing colleges, like the Rapid City and Sioux Falls campuses of National American University. Registered nursing has the second-highest job growth rate of all occupations according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. South Dakota’s RNs earn approximately $51,000 per year in local hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities. Major local nursing employers include the Department of Veterans Affairs, Sanford USD Medical Center, and Avera McKenna Hospital and University Health Center.
Interested in a nursing career in South Dakota? To make the most informed choice, take a look at our list below of the state’s four-year nursing colleges and universities.