RAPID CITY, S.D. — Dakota Wesleyan University’s nursing program in Rapid City is growing after graduating 19 students who have already entered the workforce.
In response to increasing demand, DWU has expanded enrollment, raising its cap to 32 new students each semester. Program leaders say the goal is to provide a strong nursing foundation while helping address South Dakota’s healthcare workforce needs.
DWU Administrative Chair of Nursing Penny Tilton said the program works closely with Monument Health and prepares students for careers both in and outside the state, while encouraging graduates to remain in South Dakota.
The Rapid City-based program also allows nontraditional students and those with families to pursue nursing careers without relocating.
Students gain clinical experience in more than a dozen healthcare settings, including medical-surgical units, intensive care, and emergency departments, allowing them to explore different career paths before graduation.
The associate nursing degree program runs year-round and can be completed in 24 months. Officials say its smaller class sizes provide students with greater access to instructors and individualized support throughout their education.
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