Olivia Chen, NP
June 4, 2025
LPNs deliver fundamental bedside care throughout South Dakota’s varied healthcare networks. Under the direction of registered nurses and physicians LPNs monitor patient health status and give medications as well as help with daily patient needs. The medical resources in rural and underserved areas of South Dakota depend heavily on LPNs to provide necessary healthcare services. The state of South Dakota requires LPNs to provide hands-on nursing care at every healthcare facility ranging from long-term care facilities to outpatient clinics throughout the state.
Mitchell, SD - Public 2-Year - mitchelltech.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) diploma at Mitchell Technical College provides a fast-track pathway to a rewarding healthcare career, completed in just one calendar year. Students learn essential nursing skills through classroom instruction, simulation labs, and diverse clinical experiences across healthcare settings. The comprehensive program prepares graduates for roles in long-term care, home health, clinics, and acute care environments. With a total program cost around $4,627 and a 100% job placement rate, students receive robust training in patient care, critical thinking, and professional nursing standards. Admission requires an ACT score of 18+, 2.5 GPA, and a TEAS exam composite score of 62% or higher.
Sioux Falls, SD - Public 2-Year - southeasttech.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Kickstart a rewarding healthcare career with Southeast Technical College's comprehensive Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) diploma program. In just 11 months, students gain critical skills to serve patients across diverse medical settings. The program boasts an impressive 100% job placement rate and prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-PN licensing exam. With affordable tuition at $255 per credit hour and potential full-ride scholarship opportunities through Build Dakota, this intensive 47-credit program provides hands-on training in state-of-the-art simulation labs, equipping students with the technical and compassionate skills needed in today's dynamic healthcare landscape.
Watertown, SD - Public 2-Year - lakeareatech.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Lake Area Technical College's Practical Nursing program provides a fast-track pathway to a rewarding healthcare career. In just 11-18 months, students can become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) with exceptional career prospects. The program boasts a remarkable 99% placement rate and an impressive average starting salary of $58,822 after six months of employment. Designed for flexibility, students can choose between full-time and part-time options, with on-campus and hybrid learning formats. Admission requires meeting specific academic criteria, including ACT scores or TEAS exam performance. Clinical training occurs at multiple locations, ensuring comprehensive practical experience across various healthcare settings.
Rapid City, SD - Public 2-Year - wdt.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dive into a rewarding healthcare career with Western Dakota Technical College's Practical Nursing program. This comprehensive 12-month diploma prepares aspiring nurses to provide essential patient care across diverse medical settings. Students gain hands-on clinical experience with 480 supervised clinical hours, learning critical skills in patient monitoring, medication administration, and personal care assistance. Build Dakota Scholarships may cover full tuition, making this an affordable pathway to a stable career. Graduates are positioned for success, with excellent job placement rates and opportunities in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and home health environments. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and prepares students to take the NCLEX-PN licensure exam.
Mission, SD - Public 4-Year - sintegleska.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Sinte Gleska University in South Dakota offers an Associate of Applied Science in Licensed Practical Nursing, designed for students aiming to enter the healthcare field. This campus-based program is fully approved by the South Dakota Board of Nursing, ensuring high-quality education. Prospective students can expect a curriculum that prepares them for practical nursing roles, with a focus on hands-on experience. The program supports students at various life stages, offering a pathway to a rewarding career in nursing. Admissions requirements and costs are competitive, making it an accessible option for many.
The state of South Dakota does not provide complete online LPN programs since it requires students to complete hands-on clinical experience in person. Several educational institutions provide dual-learning options through online classes and laboratory instruction combined with clinical training at their facilities. Students who need to balance their education with work responsibilities and family needs find these adaptable learning approaches suitable. Students learn nursing theory and pharmacology along with medical terminology through online lectures. Students need to perform in-person clinical training under supervision after completing their online-based learning activities.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Mitchell Technical College |
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| Lake Area Technical College |
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| Southeast Technical College |
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| Certifying Board | South Dakota Board of Nursing |
|---|---|
| Certification | NCLEX-PN via Pearson VUE |
| Educational Prerequisite | Graduation from an approved practical nursing program with official transcript and program verification |
| Application & Fees | $100 Board application fee, $200 NCLEX-PN exam fee (paid to Pearson VUE), $43.25 fingerprint/background check fee, optional $25 temporary permit for graduates pending exam |
| Processing Time | Authorization to Test issued in 1–2 weeks, permanent license usually granted 4–6 weeks after passing NCLEX and completing background clearance |
| License Renewal | Biennial renewal every two years, $115 renewal fee |
| Continuing Education | Not required for LPN license renewal in South Dakota |
| Licensure by Endorsement | $100 endorsement application fee, verification of current unrestricted LPN license via Nursys, submission of official transcript and background check. |
The job market for Licensed Practical Nurses in South Dakota remains strong along with their stable earning potential. The average yearly compensation for LPNs in South Dakota during 2025 extends from $45,000 to $50,000 but local conditions and work experience influence these salary levels. The starting salaries for new nurses are generally lower but experienced professionals in specific roles and leadership positions receive higher compensation. The demand for LPNs remains strong because these nurses find employment in long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and rural healthcare clinics. The aging population combined with healthcare worker shortages in remote areas make LPNs vital for providing patient care services in South Dakota.
| Salary & Career Outlook | South Dakota | USA |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Annual LVN Salary | $52,197 | $62,340 |
| Avg Hourly Wage | $25.00 | $29.97 |
| 90th Percentile Salary | >$58,334 | $80,510 |
| Median Salary | $52,197 | $62,340 |
| 10th Percentile Salary | <$47,053 | $47,960 |
| Projected Job Growth (2022–2032) | ~7.7% | 3% |
| Annual Job Openings | ~190 | ~54,000 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Mitchell Technical College |
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| Sinte Gleska University |
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| Lake Area Technical College |
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The LPN-to-RN bridge programs enable nurses who are already educated and experienced to work towards earning an Associate Degree in Nursing. These programs are flexible, accommodating both part-time and blended learning. Once registered as a nurse, students can complete RN-to-BSN programs and later a master’s degree. There are also specific certifications available, such as wound care, IV therapy, or gerontology, which can strengthen an LPN’s qualifications and salary. Upon gaining experience, RNs often progress to leadership positions, overseeing nursing staff or providing patient care coordination in healthcare settings. LPNs in South Dakota can take advantage of lifelong learning thanks to the ongoing support whenever they want to develop professionally, whether during their schools days or by current employer.
Additional Nursing Programs in South Dakota
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