According to the South Dakota Board of Nursing (SDBN), nearly 13,600 RNs were licensed in the state in December 2010. South Dakota has more RNs per 100,000 people than the national average, 1,357 for the state, compared to 854 for the nation. About half of South Dakota's RNs work in hospitals; other sites of high employment include offices, clinics, long term care, and home health/community health.
About 49 percent of RNs in South Dakota have an associate degree or diploma, while the rest have a baccalaureate degree (in nursing or another major) or higher, the SDBN reports. That compares favorably with national statistics which show that 60 percent of new RN graduates have an associate degree while 37 percent have a BSN. The National Advisory Council on Nurse Education and Practice recommends at least two-thirds of RNs hold a BSN or higher degree in order to meet the demands of today's healthcare environments.
Schools to consider
South Dakota State University (Brookings). A large part of this program's curriculum is available online. Two courses - health assessment and clinical decision making and community health - have a clinical component. Students may work with an agency in their area to complete the required practicum. Full-time and part-time options are offered.
University of Sioux Falls. Students are admitted year-round to this largely online program, which can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Some onsite attendance is necessary and is scheduled one evening per week. Courses include evidence-based nursing practice and management, leadership and professional issues.
University of South Dakota (Vermillion). Students move through the program in a cohort and are admitted in the fall. Graduation is in December of the following year. Students take an average of two classes per semester and are able to continue working full-time if needed. Two courses require practicums which can be arranged in the student's community.
