Guide to Online Nursing Programs in South Dakota

Inside Online Nursing Programs in South Dakota

South Dakota is in desperate need of nurses — so desperate that the state has one of the largest gaps between available nurses and job openings, with a projected demand of 13,600 registered nurses by 2030. With online nursing programs in South Dakota, you can meet that demand by entering the nursing field, becoming an RN, or leveling up your skills into an area of special practice.

Generally speaking, the more experience you have working as a nurse, the more coursework you can complete online. Mostly because less-experienced students — or those new to the field — must log more in-person instruction, labs, and clinicals to gain the proper skills. However, many schools allow nursing students to complete at least some of their schooling online, adding on in-person clinicals for online students. See how many of these programs in South Dakota at the various nursing degree levels.

Entry-Level to Mid-Level Nursing

If you’re just starting your nursing career, there are plenty of online undergraduate degree paths to getting a nursing degree. Students who are ready to enter the healthcare field fast may choose to become a certified nursing assistant, while those with an eye for a long career as an RN can opt for a bachelor’s degree.

Advanced Nursing Degree Programs

If you’re already working as a registered nurse and want to take your career to the next level, then graduate and post-graduate degree programs are for you. They provide RNs with the training to take on leadership roles, specialized nursing positions, or work in advanced practice nursing.

Nursing Bridge Programs

If you’re already working as a licensed nurse, then you can earn a higher level of nursing degree in less time than a traditional student. RN Bridge Programs allow you to take advantage of your existing career and previous education to work on an accelerated schedule.

South Dakota Requirements for RN Licensure

The South Dakota Board of Nursing dictates state RN licensing requirements. South Dakota also maintains a nurse licensure compact with North Dakota, Iowa, and Nebraska, meaning a nurse with a multistate license also has the ability to practice in other compact states remotely. The steps below walk you through RN requirements in South Dakota.

1 – Nursing Degree from Accredited School

Complete an accredited and state-approved pre-RN licensure program. Ensuring that you are enrolled in an accredited nursing program will help you avoid any potential issues once you have completed your degree. The programmatic accrediting bodies for nursing degrees are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Once you’ve received the educational and clinical requirements in South Dakota, you’ll be ready to move forward with getting your RN license.

2 – Passing the NCLEX-RN

You can schedule the exam once you receive the Authorization to Test (ATT) email. The ATT grants a 90-day window to take the NCLEX-RN exam, and you can expect NCLEX results within about 10 days. A candidate who fails the NCLEX-RN will be asked to submit a retake application along with a $100 fee. A candidate who needs to retake the exam will also receive diagnostic information to help them prepare for the next attempt.

3 – Apply for South Dakota Licensure

Once you’ve passed the NCLEX-RN, it’s time to apply for your nursing license, according to state licensing requirements. The South Dakota Board of Nursing application process involves submitting fees and materials to three separate agencies/organizations. The application fee is $100. The examination fee is $200 and must be sent to the testing company, and the candidate must submit fingerprint card to the Board (but make the $43.25 check payable to the South Dakota DCI.)

4 – Timely License Renewal

To renew your license, you must have 140 hours of practice within a 12-month period related to the practice of nursing. You can renew your license by taking an RN refresher course, which consists of 80 hours of supervised clinical practice. You must also submit proof that you have completed continuing education courses. The non-refundable fee for renewal is $90, and you can renew your license online or in person.

5 – Specialized Certifications (Optional)

Once you’ve completed your degree, passed the NCLEX-RN and obtained your license, you’re ready to begin your nursing career. But in South Dakota’s relatively small healthcare market, getting an additional specialty certification can help you stand out and qualify for in-demand nursing jobs. Earning an additional certification provides you with additional job security, potential for career advancement, and the ability to meet healthcare needs in your specific market.

Salary & Employment for RNs in South Dakota

Ranking Online Nursing Programs in South Dakota

Which nursing program in South Dakota should you choose? We’ve compiled a list of the best nursing schools in South Dakota based on data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). We researched their online programs, student support, and average financial aid awards. What you see below is based on ranking for factors like affordability, accreditation, program flexibility, curriculum quality, and student support services. For more on our ranking methodology, visit the “About the Rankings” pop-up below.