Online Nurse Practitioner Schools in South Dakota

Registered nurses are often called the “unsung heroes” of the healthcare industry and for a good reason — they consistently provide a crucial level of care, regardless of the patient or the nature of the injury or illness. For many registered nurses, however, there comes a day when they begin to consider higher-level nursing positions that offer better pay and more specialized practice opportunities. The role of a nurse practitioner is just one of these career options. To become a nurse practitioner, you’ll need to get a graduate degree in nursing. Nurse practitioner programs are widely available in the state including in cities like Sioux Falls or Rapid City and many more. Jump to program listings.

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

The cost of tuition and the amount of time invested in a nurse practitioner program is often the first two things most people consider when deciding whether or not they want to pursue this career track. You may be surprised to learn that there are actually plenty of nurse practitioner programs located in South Dakota that is sure to fit the budget and timeline for most nurses, even those with very busy work schedules. This is especially true if you already have some nursing experience and nursing education, such as a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

If you’re looking to become a nurse practitioner in the shortest amount of time, you’ll likely want to aim for graduating with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree versus a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. MSNs have a shorter enrollment period (usually 2 -6 years, but sometimes less) especially if you’re able to transfer credits or study in the summertime. If you’re looking for a shorter MSN program in South Dakota, check out South Dakota State University which offers an MSN program that can be completed in as little as a year and a half.

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

There are hundreds of nurse practitioner programs across the state, but students based in South Dakota are fortunate to have access to both well-respected and affordable nurse practitioner programs all equipped with a number of specialized curriculums. Again, MSN programs outshine some of the other nurse practitioner degree routes as they’re much shorter and therefore are much cheaper to attend. One cheap MSN program in the state is offered by Augustana University which has a tuition rate of between $700 to $900 per credit.

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

One of the most well-known benefits to nurse practitioner programs is that they allow students to specialize in a particular medical field such as pediatrics, cardiology, or nursing education. This is true regardless of the level of degree you choose. One example of these types of programs is the Nursing Informatics specialization offered by the University of South Dakota.

Find out more about popular NP specialty programs: Acute Care (ACNP), Adult Gerontology (AGNP), Family (FNP), Pediatric (PNP), Psychiatric (PHMNP), Women’s Health (WHNP).

Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus

As mentioned, there are alternative educational routes for becoming a nurse practitioner besides MSN and DNP degrees. Below are a few other degree options you be interested based on your own specific circumstances.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

As mentioned, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is one of the most common NP degrees. It is available in many NP specializations and takes about two years to complete. Here are a few you can find in South Dakota:

• University of South Dakota – Vermillion, SD
• South Dakota State University – Brookings, SD

RN to NP Programs

RN to NP programs (also known as RN to MSN programs and ADN/ASN programs) are ideal for nurses who want to become nurse practitioners and have an associate’s degree in nursing and an RN license. They usually take about four years, give or take, depending on how many credits you’re able to transfer. Here are some options in South Dakota:

• South Dakota State University – Brookings, SD

DNP Nurse Practioner Programs

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest degree an NP can obtain. These programs can take 6-8 years to complete, depending on the education level you enter with. Here are your options in South Dakota:

• South Dakota State University – Brookings, SD
• University of South Dakota – Vermillion, SD

Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs

While they’re not technically degrees, Post-Master's Nursing Certificates are a great option for licensed nurse practitioners who want to change their specialization or dual specialize in a different practice area. Here are a few that are available in South Dakota:

• South Dakota State University – Brookings, SD

Accelerated, Direct & Master’s Entry (MENP/MEPN) to Nursing Practice

Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs, also called direct-entry or accelerated MSN programs, allow non-nurses with a bachelor's degree in an alternative area to become nurse practitioners in a shorter amount of time. Schools in South Dakota that offer these types of programs include:

• South Dakota State University – Brookings, SD

General Admissions Requirements

To enroll in a nurse practitioner program, you’ll need to meet certain requirements to be accepted. Here are some common requirements you’ll need to meet:

• BSN from an accredited school
• Transcripts from all colleges attended
• Minimum grade point average (often 3.0 or above, but varies by school/program)
• Active, unencumbered RN license
• Essay or statement of purpose outlining career goals
• Letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
• Resume or CV

South Dakota NP License and Certification Requirements

Nurses who want to get licensed as a nurse practitioner are required to submit official documentation proving they meet these criteria, including academic transcripts and proof of their current RN license. Additionally, they must complete the formal application and pay a processing fee, which is typically around $100. For detailed instructions and guidance on applying for NP licensure in South Dakota, the state’s nursing board website provides a comprehensive guide.

Nurse practitioners in South Dakota must also obtain national certification in their chosen specialty, which can be achieved through recognized organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). To qualify, candidates generally need a valid RN license and completion of a master's or doctoral-level NP program in their specialty. Certification usually involves passing an exam to confirm expertise in the chosen field.

Since 2024, nurse practitioners in South Dakota have full practice authority. This enables them to work independently, performing duties such as diagnosing, prescribing medications, and managing patient care without needing a physician's supervision. More information, resources, and professional development opportunities are available through the South Dakota Nurses Association (SDNA), which supports NPs throughout the state with continuing education and advocacy.

List of NP Programs in South Dakota

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