SDSU and DSU launch new pathway into nursing

May 21, 2026

Dakota State University (DSU) and South Dakota State University (SDSU) have established a new articulation agreement that will create an expanded route into nursing for students studying biology and exercise science. Under the new agreement, students completing a Bachelor of Science degree in either biology or exercise science at DSU will have a streamlined application process into SDSU's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

The collaboration was developed to help students transition more efficiently into nursing while supporting the increasing demand for healthcare professionals throughout South Dakota and the surrounding region.

"This partnership creates an important new opportunity for students interested in healthcare careers while helping address critical workforce needs across the region," said Stacey Berry, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at DSU. "By aligning our biology and exercise science programs with SDSU's accelerated nursing pathway, we are giving students a clear and efficient route into nursing while allowing them to build strong scientific and interdisciplinary foundations during their time at DSU."

Students who complete their bachelor's degree at DSU and meet SDSU admissions standards will be eligible to apply for the accelerated nursing program during their final year of study without having to take additional courses to meet admission requirements. Completed prerequisite courses like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, psychology, nutrition, sociology, and human development will transfer seamlessly between institutions, allowing students to focus on advancing toward their professional goals.

"This articulation agreement reflects SDSU's commitment to expanding accessible, high-quality pathways into nursing to address the critical need for nurses," said Heidi Mennenga, Associate Dean for Academic Programs and Professor for the SDSU College of Nursing. "The partnership between SDSU and DSU strengthens collaboration across our Board of Regents institutions while leveraging the strong academic preparation students receive at Dakota State University to support their successful completion of a nursing degree."

Students interested in the pathway are encouraged to work with admission counselors at DSU to develop an academic plan aligned with SDSU nursing program requirements. Additional application and admission information is available on SDSU's nursing program webpages.

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