Top Nursing Schools & Programs in South Dakota

Dakota Wesleyan University's A.S. in Nursing program in Rapid City is designed for those called to nursing, offering a path to make a difference in South Dakota's healthcare landscape. This hybrid program blends online coursework with simulation-based lessons, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam in just 24 months. No prior healthcare experience is required, making it ideal for recent high school graduates or those seeking a second career. The curriculum covers anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care, with clinical rotations enhancing hands-on skills. Admission requires a 2.7 GPA, and financial aid options are available to support your journey into nursing.

• 24-month program duration.
• Hybrid online and on-campus.
• High NCLEX-RN pass rates.
• No healthcare experience needed.
• Clinical rotations included.
• 2.7 GPA admission requirement.
• Financial aid available.
• Focus on hands-on skills.
• Prepares for diverse nursing roles.
• Supportive learning environment.

Dakota Wesleyan University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in nursing. The program emphasizes hands-on learning in high-tech simulation labs and clinical experiences across various healthcare settings. With a focus on Christian values and diversity, students benefit from a supportive learning environment and mentorship from experienced faculty. The BSN program boasts a 100% job placement rate for graduates, who are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam. Admission requires meeting specific prerequisites, and financial aid options are available to eligible students.

• 100% job placement rate
• High-tech simulation labs
• Christian values-based education
• Diverse clinical experiences
• Supportive faculty mentorship
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
• Financial aid available
• Campus-based program
• Focus on hands-on learning
• Accredited by CCNE

Oglala Lakota College offers an Associate's Degree in Nursing, designed to prepare students for the dynamic field of nursing with a focus on holistic care. The program emphasizes cultural competency, professional accountability, and evidence-based practice. Located in Pine Ridge, SD, it provides hands-on experience to meet healthcare needs. Prerequisites include courses in chemistry, psychology, and anatomy. The program spans two years, covering foundational and advanced nursing topics. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN for licensure. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to eligible students.

• Hands-on nursing program.
• Focus on cultural competency.
• Eligible for NCLEX-RN licensure.
• Two-year program duration.
• Located in Pine Ridge, SD.
• Prerequisites include chemistry, psychology.
• Financial aid available.
• Scholarships for eligible students.
• Emphasizes holistic care.
• Professional accountability focus.

Oglala Lakota College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in nursing. This program focuses on providing hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of nursing practices, tailored to meet the healthcare needs of tribal communities and beyond. Students will gain knowledge in critical thinking, cultural competency, and professional accountability, ensuring they are well-equipped for various nursing roles. The program is campus-based, offering a blend of theoretical and practical learning. While specific cost details are not provided, the college emphasizes affordability and accessibility, especially for the Lakota people. Admissions requirements include completion of prerequisites, with applications due by March 1st.

• Campus-based program.
• Focuses on cultural competency.
• Hands-on nursing experience.
• Prepares for diverse nursing roles.
• Applications due March 1st.
• Affordable and accessible education.
• Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
• Emphasis on Lakota community needs.
• Blend of theoretical and practical learning.
• Approved by South Dakota Board of Nursing.

Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD, offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that stands out for its holistic nursing approach, the only one in South Dakota with such an endorsement. The program boasts NCLEX pass rates above state and national averages, preparing students through interactive learning environments, including advanced simulation centers and weekly clinical experiences in Sioux Falls' health care hub. With a focus on leadership and practical skills, students engage in leadership practicums and have access to diverse clinical opportunities. The program is accredited by the CCNE, ensuring high-quality education for aspiring nurses.

• Holistic Nursing Program endorsed.
• Higher NCLEX pass rates.
• Interactive learning environment.
• Weekly clinical experiences.
• Leadership practicums included.
• CCNE accredited program.
• Simulation center available.
• Diverse clinical opportunities.
• Located in health care hub.
• Focus on practical skills.

The University of Sioux Falls offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that blends evidence-based education with Christian values. Designed for aspiring nurses, this program prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare. With extensive clinical experiences and state-of-the-art facilities, students gain hands-on practice across various nursing specialties. The program boasts the highest NCLEX pass rate in the state, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the nursing profession. While specific costs and admissions requirements are not detailed, the program's focus on comprehensive training and ethical practice makes it a standout choice for those looking to make a difference in healthcare.

• Highest NCLEX pass rate.
• Extensive clinical experience.
• State-of-the-art facilities.
• Christian values integration.
• Evidence-based education.

The University of Sioux Falls offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) program designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field. This intensive program spans four semesters, starting each January, and combines classroom instruction with extensive clinical experience. Students benefit from state-of-the-art nursing facilities and simulation technology. The program boasts a 97.37% NCLEX pass rate, the highest among BSN programs in the state. Admission requires a minimum 2.75 GPA, completion of prerequisite courses, and a background check. Financial aid is available, with tuition at $450 per credit for 57-60 credits.

• Four-semester program.
• Starts every January.
• 97.37% NCLEX pass rate.
• State-of-the-art facilities.
• Extensive clinical experience.
• Simulation technology used.
• Minimum 2.75 GPA required.
• Background check needed.
• Financial aid available.
• $450 per credit.

Mount Marty University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program prepares students for dynamic and rewarding nursing careers. Students gain comprehensive skills across various healthcare specialties, including pediatrics, maternity, medical-surgical, and critical care. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate patient care rooted in Catholic Benedictine values. Graduates are highly sought after, often receiving job offers before graduation. With a holistic approach to nursing education, students learn to provide exceptional care while developing professional expertise in a supportive learning environment.

• Hands-on clinical experiences
• Multiple nursing specialty options
• Catholic Benedictine values
• Comprehensive curriculum
• High job placement rate
• No grade lower than C accepted
• Varied clinical settings
• Advanced technology training
• Community service focus
• Professional skill development