Accelerated BSN Programs – South Dakota Nursing Schools
There are many educational opportunities for South Dakota Students that want to earn a nursing degree. Perhaps one of the most popular is the accelerated BSN, also called a second degree BSN program. In this program, students with bachelor’s degrees in other fields can apply their general education credits to a BSN in South Dakota.
If you fit this description, you may find that a Fast Track BSN program is something to look deeper in to. These programs are designed to be completed in just 12 to 18 months, allowing you to complete your education quickly and start your nursing career. BSN degrees are especially advantageous because Baccalaureate prepared nurses are valued in almost any field and specialty in nursing.
To learn more about your options for earning your Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree in an accelerated program simply submit a request for information to the schools featured on this page. We have compiled both online and campus based offerings, and encourage you to amass as much information as you need to make a well informed decision.
Accelerated BSN Curriculum in South Dakota
Beginning an accelerated BSN program in South Dakota can be a rewarding endeavor. Not only can you improve your career outlook, you may be of benefit to the community as well. Since you have to learn everything that a traditional BSN student learns in just 18 months, be prepared to work hard and focus in these programs. Whether you pursue an online BSN or a traditional in-person BSN, you will have to spend a considerably amount of time studying and practicing.
The early part of your nursing program will require you to learn about nursing techniques from a variety of fields. BSN holders have the benefit of being able to work in highly specialized fields like maternity, obstetrics, and pediatrics. In addition to these specialties, you’ll learn about nursing leadership, nursing management, and working in a healthcare field.
Once you understand nursing skills, your role as a nurse, and nursing laws, your school will send you off to a clinical site to get your clinical experience. This may be in a nursing home, hospital, or regular clinic. Under the oversight of a nursing supervisor, you will have to perform various nursing skills. You will be assessed on your performance, and you will also receive valuable feedback on how to improve as a nurse.
Nursing Career Outlook in South Dakota
After earning an accelerated BSN in South Dakota, you may choose to start your career in South Dakota. With a growth rate of 24% between 2010 and 2020, there are expected to be opportunities for both new and experienced nurses. The median salary for a registered nurse in South Dakota is $50,400 per year; nurses with experience or training in special areas can earn over $70,000 per year (O*Net, 2012).
Many healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, are based out of South Dakota. Some of the largest employers of nurses in the state are St. Mary’s Healthcare Center, Sioux Falls Center, CRC Health Group, Community Regional Medical, and Compassionate Care Hospice.
Nursing Licensing Considerations in South Dakota
After you have graduated from an approved, accredited nursing program, the next step is examination. You have to take the NCLEX-RN in South Dakota to be licensed to work as a Registered Nurse in South Dakota. Once you have passed the exam, you may apply for your license from the South Dakota Board of Nursing. Your license must be renewed every two years with a fee of $90.
Once nurses finish school, get licensed, and begin to work in the field, many choose to join the South Dakota Nurses Association. When you join the nurses association, you can be part of committees like the ANA Immunize campaign, the team for health care reform, and a legislative agenda committee. Nurses can also receive advocacy support, help with workplace issues, and information on new job listings.
