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.
| Rank | School | Location | Earnings | Net Price | Acceptance Rate | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | University Of Sioux FallsPrivate | Sioux Falls, SD | $79,077 Median Nursing Earnings | $18,145 | 82.9% | 62.9% |
| #2 | Brookings, SD | $77,932 Median Nursing Earnings | $14,266 | 98.3% | 62.4% | |
| #3 | Augustana UniversityPrivate | Sioux Falls, SD | $77,844 Median Nursing Earnings | $18,746 | 67.8% | 73.0% |
| #4 | Dakota Wesleyan UniversityPrivate | Mitchell, SD | $76,515 Median Nursing Earnings | $15,251 | 73.4% | 48.3% |
| #5 | Vermillion, SD | $73,025 Median Nursing Earnings | $14,921 | 98.8% | 59.9% | |
| #6 | Mount Marty UniversityPrivate | Yankton, SD | $67,187 Median Nursing Earnings | $19,564 | 42.6% | 52.4% |
