South Dakota State University

South Dakota State University's College of Nursing provides a comprehensive nursing education, preparing students for successful healthcare careers with experienced faculty and realistic learning environments. Graduates from SDSU are equipped with a strong educational foundation and extensive clinical experience, ensuring they are highly competitive in the job market and supported by resources for academic and professional success.

Discover South Dakota State University

Brookings, South Dakota

School Ranking: B

South Dakota State University is a 4 year or higher State Institution. It is a public and non-profit institution. The institution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, DNP, MSN, PhD, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. South Dakota State University admits 86% of applicants and graduates 54% of its students.

Contact Info

Quick Overview

  • $45,240 Undergraduate Tuition
  • $32,618 Graduate Tuition
  • Doctoral University: Very High Research Activity
  • 8,627 Undergraduate Enrolled
    *Certificate and degree-seeking students
  • 1,410 Graduate Students Enrolled
  • 86% Acceptance Rate
  • 54% Graduation Rate

Student Demographics

  • 20 Average Age
  • 46% Men
  • 54% Women
  • 0% Veterans
  • 94% White
  • 2% Hispanic
  • 1% Black
  • 1% Asian

College Data provided by the U.S. Department of Education and complemented with additional insights from our analysts. Learn more about our Rankings Methodology.

Nursing Programs

  • Clinical Nurse Leader CNL

  • Online BSN to DNP Program
  • $21,760 In-State Tuition
  • 64 Credits
  • 48 Months
  • 1000 Clincal Hours
  • 4.2 Program Score
  • Family Nurse Practitioner FNP

  • Hybrid BSN to DNP Program
  • $47,814 In-State Tuition
  • 78 Credits
  • 48 Months
  • 3.00 GPA Required
  • 1000 Clincal Hours
  • 4.2 Program Score
  • Family Nurse Practitioner FNP

  • Online MSN to DNP Program
  • $42,297 In-State Tuition
  • 69 Credits
  • 36 Months
  • 3.00 GPA Required
  • 1000 Clincal Hours
  • 4.4 Program Score
  • Nurse Education

  • Online BSN to MSN Program
  • $33,102 In-State Tuition
  • 54 Credits
  • 36 Months
  • 3.00 GPA Required
  • 540 Clincal Hours
  • 4.0 Program Score
  • Nurse Educator

  • Online MSN to Post Grad Certificate Program
  • $4,760 In-State Tuition
  • 14 Credits
  • 12 Months
  • 4.4 Program Score
  • Traditional BSN

  • On-Campus BSN Program
  • $45,240 In-State Tuition
  • 120 Credits
  • 36 Months
  • 2.70 GPA Required
  • 930 Clincal Hours
  • 4.3 Program Score

*Program Score compares similar specialty programs across our database. Learn more about our Rankings Methodology

The College of Nursing at South Dakota State University (SDSU) provides a robust and comprehensive nursing education. With a strong academic program, experienced faculty, and realistic learning environments, the college prepares students for successful careers in nursing. The college offers programs on four campuses across South Dakota, emphasizing a close-knit and supportive community.

Programs Offered

Undergraduate Programs

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Prepares students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam with a curriculum that includes clinical experiences in various healthcare settings.
  • RN to BSN: Designed for registered nurses with an associate degree who want to earn their BSN.
  • Direct Admit Program: Allows high school seniors to secure a place in the nursing program, making their future pathway clearer.

Graduate Programs

  • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
  • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing
  • Postgraduate Certificates
  • Continuing Education
  • Refresher Courses: For nurses looking to update their skills and knowledge.

Accreditation and Approvals

The nursing programs at SDSU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality and rigor in nursing education.

Highlights

  • Clinical Simulation Centers: SDSU's College of Nursing features state-of-the-art simulation labs that provide students with realistic clinical scenarios. These facilities help students gain practical experience in a controlled environment, enhancing their readiness for real-world healthcare settings.
  • Community and Global Impact: The College of Nursing emphasizes community service and global health. Students engage in initiatives that improve health outcomes and increase access to care for underserved populations. The college also features the Native American Nursing Education Center (NANEC) and the Population Health Evaluation Center, which focus on enhancing healthcare in diverse communities.
  • Real-World Experience: Students at SDSU gain extensive real-world experience through clinical placements, community health projects, and interprofessional collaborations. These experiences are crucial for developing the practical skills and confidence needed to excel in the nursing profession.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from SDSU's College of Nursing are well-prepared for various roles in the healthcare field, including:

  • Registered Nurses (RNs)
  • Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
  • Nurse Educators
  • Nurse Leaders
  • Researchers

The strong educational foundation and extensive clinical experience provided by SDSU ensure that graduates are highly competitive in the job market.

Supportive Learning Environment

SDSU offers a supportive learning environment with resources such as academic advising, financial aid, and career services. These resources help students succeed both academically and professionally.

Edited by Joe V

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