LPN Programs in South Dakota
South Dakota, like many other parts of the US, is experiencing a large demand for qualified and registered medical professionals, including Licensed Practical Nurses.
Licensed practical nursing courses in South Dakota cost between $3,500 and about $5,000, but with earning potential of around $34,000 or more per annum, and a relatively short training period, it’s a great way to get into the healthcare industry.
If you like people, and you want to work in healthcare, then becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in South Dakota might be the solution you’re looking for in a career choice, but before you leap into a course, make sure you have your facts straight.
Admissions for LPN Courses in South Dakota
The first thing you need to determine, if you’re interested in becoming an LPN in South Dakota, is whether you qualify. Most courses will not accept students who are not at least 18 years old, or who don’t have a high school diploma or GED.
Most programs will also require prospective students to pass a criminal record check, and many have other requirements, like particular subjects at high school level, college admissions tests, or inoculation and language requirements.
State Approved LPN Programs in South Dakota
Licensure for LPNs in South Dakota starts with selecting the right school or program. The most important thing to remember is to find a course that’s accredited and approved by the South Dakota Board of Nursing. If you choose a program that is not approved, you may find that you are not eligible for the competency exam or registration and licensing later on.
Technical schools and colleges are the best place to start looking for courses that are approved.
Licensing for LPN’s in South Dakota
In order to accept a job from a hospital, maternity hospital, clinic or private medical or dental practice, or even to call yourself an LPN in South Dakota or any other state, you first need to pass the National Council Licensure Exam for Practical Nursing, or NCLEX-PN. The course test both practical and theoretical skill and competency, and if you pass it, you should be ready to take a position as an LPN anywhere in the state.
The final hurdle, once you have passed the exam, is to apply for registration with the South Dakota Board of Nursing. Registered members in good standing are allowed to work as LPN’s anywhere in the state, and you may be able to transfer your qualification to another state, if you move.
Accredited LPN Schools, Training Classes & Programs in South Dakota
Lake Area Technical Institute
230 11th Street NE
Watertown, SD 57201
605-882-5284
There is a program known and eDegree at this campus where students opt for a mix of online and on campus learning. The LPN program is included in the online-on-campus learning. The practical nursing program is 11 months and all courses, with the exception of math, anatomy, physiology and clinical trials, are taught online. You can also opt to do the entire program on campus, financial aid is available.
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Mount Marty College
1105 West 8th Street
Yankton, SD 57078
605-668-1593
Join in the athletics or take part in any of the arts at this school. Housing and dining are offered at this school along with a child day care center, bookstore, counseling, career placement and much more. There are grants, scholarships and tuition waver programs available here. Students acquire 53 credits in order to graduate from the LPN program.
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Sisseton Wahpeton College
Old Agency Road Box 689
Sisseton, SD 57262
605-698-3966, x1126
Students can get either peer or professional tutoring should they need it. Also available is counseling, advising, workshops and mentoring. There are some courses that students can access online and each student is given their own email. When you apply for your LPN program you may also apply for any of the financial aid options such as Pell grants, veterans benefits and more.
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Southeast Technical Institute
Health and Science Center
2320 North Career Avenue
Sioux Falls, SD 57107
605-367-4753
The school’s foundation awards scholarships to students in need. Other tuition assistance is available through grants, loans, other scholarship and work study programs. Get a laptop when you join this licensed practical nursing program in which you can complete in just less than one year. You need 59 credits to graduate.
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Western Dakota Technical Institute
800 East Mickelson Drive
Rapid City, SD 57703
605-394-4034, x315
This practical nursing program is an eleven month program that runs for three or four semesters depending on when you enter the program. You may have to complete one or two short semester sessions. There are scholarships, work study program and other types of financial aid available for the program. Student services at this school in not limited to current students but graduates also.
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