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
Mitchell Technical College's Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) diploma is a one-year hybrid program that combines classroom learning with simulation labs and clinical experiences to prepare students for diverse healthcare roles. With a total cost of approximately $4,627 and a 100% job placement rate, it emphasizes practical skills in patient care and critical thinking. Admission requires an ACT score of 18 or higher, a 2.5 GPA, and a TEAS exam composite score of 62% or above, ensuring a rigorous entry process for this NCLEX-PN-focused training.
Sioux Falls, SD - Public 2-Year - southeasttech.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Southeast Technical College offers an intensive 11-month Licensed Practical Nursing diploma program, combining hybrid learning with hands-on training in advanced simulation labs. With a 100% job placement rate, the 47-credit curriculum prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam, featuring affordable tuition at $255 per credit and opportunities for full-ride scholarships through Build Dakota. Part-time day and evening classes provide flexibility, equipping graduates with essential skills for diverse healthcare settings.
Watertown, SD - Public 2-Year - lakeareatech.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Lake Area Technical College's Practical Nursing program offers a fast-track to becoming an LPN in 11-18 months, with a 99% placement rate and an average starting salary of $58,822. It features flexible full-time or part-time options, on-campus or hybrid formats, and requires the ATI-TEAS entrance exam. Clinical training occurs at various sites in South Dakota and Minnesota, and the program is ACEN accredited, providing a pathway to RN advancement.
Rapid City, SD - Public 2-Year - wdt.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Dakota Technical College offers a 12-month Practical Nursing diploma program, providing 480 hours of hands-on clinical training in patient care, medication administration, and monitoring. Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, it prepares students for the NCLEX-PN exam and careers in diverse healthcare settings. Build Dakota Scholarships may cover full tuition, enhancing affordability. With high job placement rates, this program is ideal for those seeking a fast-track to a stable nursing career in South Dakota.
Mission, SD - Public 4-Year - sintegleska.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Sinte Gleska University's campus-based Associate of Applied Science in Licensed Practical Nursing program is fully approved by the South Dakota Board of Nursing, emphasizing hands-on experience for aspiring healthcare professionals. With competitive admissions and an accessible cost structure, it provides a practical pathway to nursing careers, tailored for students at various life stages without requiring entrance exams.
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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