Best Online MSN Programs in South Dakota

The Great Plains state of South Dakota, renowned for its rolling prairies, stunning Badlands, and iconic Mount Rushmore, offers more than just breathtaking landscapes and historical landmarks. It is also home to excellent nursing programs that create opportunities for students looking to build fulfilling careers in healthcare. From Sioux Falls to Rapid City and the quieter rural regions, South Dakota provides an ideal environment for aspiring nurses. With an increasing demand for healthcare professionals, including nurse practitioners, the state offers strong incentives for those pursuing advanced nursing roles.

Master of Nursing Science (MSN) programs are particularly crucial for advancing nursing careers, and preparing professionals for roles such as nurse practitioners, clinical leaders, and healthcare administrators. South Dakota boasts a range of MSN options, from traditional programs to accelerated pathways, designed to meet the needs of diverse students. Below, explore everything you need to know about qualifying for these programs, finding the fastest and most cost-effective options, and taking the next step in your nursing career.

2025 - Best Online MSN Program in South Dakota

RegisteredNursing.org has identified the Best Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program in South Dakota for 2025. This program is celebrated for their academic rigor, flexible learning options, and dedication to preparing advanced nursing professionals. Rankings are based on a thorough methodology evaluating program quality, accessibility, and student success. For more details, visit our rankings methodology page.

1.

South Dakota State University

Brookings, SD

South Dakota State University offers highly regarded MSN programs through their esteemed nursing department. With a focus on evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration, SDSU prepares graduates to be leaders in the nursing field. The program boasts state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge research opportunities, attracting top students and faculty from around the world.

MSN Programs

• Master's to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid
• Nurse Administrator Online/Hybrid
• Nurse Educator Online/Hybrid

RN to MSN Programs in South Dakota

RN to MSN programs, also known as ADN to MSN or RN to NP programs, are bridge pathways tailored for registered nurses with an associate degree. These programs enable nurses to earn their MSN without the need to first complete a BSN, providing a more streamlined and cost-effective route to advanced practice nursing. Typically completed in two to four years, these programs save both time and money. In South Dakota, several institutions offer RN to MSN programs, providing convenient options for nurses to further their education and meet the increasing demand for healthcare professionals in the state.

Typical admissions requirements for RN to MSN programs include:

• South Dakota RN license
• ADN or nursing diploma
• GPA transcripts (usually 3.0 or higher)
• Professional nursing experience (often 1–2 years of clinical practice)
• Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and/or a resume

While there aren’t a large selection of RN to MSN programs available in South Dakota, you can still find a great school that meets your needs. Check out South Dakota’s option below:

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Fast & Affordable MSN Programs in South Dakota

What Are the Fastest Online MSN Programs?

For many nurses, balancing a demanding work schedule while pursuing a graduate degree can be challenging. Thankfully, MSN programs are designed with flexibility in mind, typically requiring no more than four years of full-time study—and sometimes as little as two years or less. You can save even more time by opting for online classes or enrolling in summer courses. One of the fastest MSN programs available in South Dakota is offered by South Dakota State University (SDSU), which offers an MSN program that can be completed in as little as a year and a half.

What Are the Most Affordable Online MSN Programs?

The thought of returning to school often brings up concerns about tuition costs. While pursuing an MSN degree requires an investment, many programs in South Dakota are relatively affordable compared to those in other states. Tuition rates can vary based on factors such as program size, whether you are a South Dakota resident, and other considerations. One of the most affordable options for nursing students in South Dakota is Augustana University (AU) which has a tuition rate of between $700 to $900 per credit.

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP)

Accelerated MSN & Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs are ideal for individuals with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field who want to transition into advanced nursing careers without earning a second bachelor's degree. While MENP programs are typically longer than traditional MSN programs, they are much faster than completing two separate degrees. Below is a list of common admissions requirements for MENP programs in South Dakota:

• Bachelor's degree
• Minimum GPA (often 3.0+)
• GRE or TEAS scores (if required)
• Transcripts, recommendations, personal statement, resume
• Healthcare experience (preferred or required)
• Admissions interview

There is currently one MENP program in South Dakota – South Dakota State University (SDSU).

Schools Offering Popular MSN Specialties

The opportunity to specialize in a specific area of practice is a major motivator for many nurses considering graduate school. Specialized MSN programs in South Dakota enable students to focus on fields in high demand. For example, the University of South Dakota (USD) offers an MSN program with a focus on Nursing Informatics, providing students with the skills needed to bridge the gap between clinical practice and technology.

What is MSN Accreditation?

When selecting an MSN program, accreditation is one of the most important factors to consider, alongside cost and time investment. Graduating from an unaccredited program could prevent you from obtaining licensure or certification. To ensure your program meets the necessary standards, verify that it is accredited by recognized bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). If you’re unsure about a program’s accreditation status, reach out to the school’s admissions department for confirmation.

2025 List of MSN Programs in South Dakota

Finding the perfect MSN program takes time. If you're still looking for a good fit, take a look at the full list of MSN programs offered in South Dakota below:

MSN Programs By City:

• Sioux Falls MSN Programs

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.