South Dakota's nursing degree programs demonstrate strong career outcomes, with graduates earning between $59,670 and $74,077 across 5 ranked institutions. The state's nursing programs produce median earnings about the same as national averages, reflecting the consistent demand for healthcare careers throughout the region.
Leading the list is Dakota Wesleyan University, achieving the highest program earnings at $74,077. Augustana University follows with $69,254, while University Of South Dakota rounds out the top tier at $67,147. These BSN programs demonstrate how program selection directly impacts career earnings and healthcare career trajectories.
Compare net price, debt, and earnings scenarios
| Rank | School | Location | Earnings | Net Price | Acceptance Rate | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Dakota Wesleyan UniversityPrivate | Mitchell, SD | $74,077 Median Nursing Earnings | $14,366 | 72.8% | 46.4% |
| #2 | Augustana UniversityPrivate | Sioux Falls, SD | $69,254 Median Nursing Earnings | $20,552 | 59.3% | 75.6% |
| #3 | Vermillion, SD | $67,147 Median Nursing Earnings | $13,687 | 99.0% | 61.4% | |
| #4 | Brookings, SD | $64,471 Median Nursing Earnings | $12,517 | 98.7% | 59.6% | |
| #5 | Mount Marty UniversityPrivate | Yankton, SD | $59,711 Median Nursing Earnings | $18,894 | 48.1% | 60.6% |
| #6 | University Of Sioux FallsPrivate | Sioux Falls, SD | $59,670 Median Nursing Earnings | $17,733 | 82.1% | 60.5% |
