South Dakota’s nursing students have a variety of quality registered nursing (RN) programs from which to choose. These programs provide a well-rounded curriculum including technical nursing skills, general studies, and hands-on clinical training. Upon graduation, South Dakota’s newly minted RNs can expect job opportunities and competitive salaries.
Profile of registered nursing
Registered nurses make up the core of the healthcare industry. South Dakota’s RNs can choose one of two education pathways: a two-year associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Depending on their degree, RNs may work in a breadth of areas including patient care, clinical research, and management. Degree coursework covers critical topics like nursing theory, nursing informatics, and the advanced sciences. Internships and clinical experiences provide valuable hands-on training that most employers seek in their new hires.
South Dakota is home to a dozen schools with state-approved prelicensure RN programs. Several small local colleges offer an ADN program, including Oglala Lakota, Sisseton Wahpeton, and Southeast Technical Institute. BSN degrees are offered at larger esteemed universities like National American University, South Dakota State University, and University of South Dakota.
Career outlook
There are more than 11,500 RNs employed in South Dakota. They earn a median annual salary of $51,000, although BSN-educated nurses frequently earn top-quartile pay of $61,500 or more. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists registered nursing as one of the nation’s top ten occupations by job growth.
Interested in becoming a registered nurse? We’ve included below a list of South Dakota schools with state-approved prelicensure RN programs.