Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

CRNA Programs in South Dakota

Part of the CRNA Career Hub — browse every related guide in one place.

South Dakota's nurse anesthesia training runs through Mount Marty University's well-established program in Sioux Falls — a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) with both a BS-to-DNAP and an MS-to-DNAP track. It's one of the region's longest-running programs and a genuine in-state opportunity.

Mount Marty University — Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP)

Mount Marty University runs a nationally recognized graduate program in nurse anesthesia from its Sioux Falls campus. The DNAP comes in two tracks: a 36-month BS-to-DNAP for bachelor's-prepared nurses, which opens with a 14-month didactic phase (three months online followed by eleven months of classroom and hands-on learning) before clinical rotations, and a 24-month MS-to-DNAP delivered primarily through distance education with face-to-face time each semester. The program exceeds the courses, hours, and techniques required by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) and is also recognized by the International Federation of Nurse Anesthetists (IFNA).

Admission Requirements

Mount Marty follows the national CRNA template. You will need a qualifying nursing degree (BSN for the BS-to-DNAP track, a master's for the MS-to-DNAP track), a current unencumbered RN license, and critical-care experience. As everywhere, the ICU requirement is non-negotiable, and competitive applicants typically bring more than the minimum, high-acuity experience, and the CCRN credential — see the CCRN guide. For the full checklist, review the general CRNA school requirements.

Application Strategy for South Dakota

Mount Marty is a strong in-state anchor, but a competitive CRNA applicant always applies to more than one program. Pair Mount Marty with regional options like Minnesota, Iowa, and North Dakota. Strengthen your file with the required ICU experience (ideally more than the minimum), the CCRN, and a sharp personal statement. For realistic expectations, see CRNA acceptance rates.

Bottom Line

Mount Marty University in Sioux Falls gives South Dakota a long-established, COA-exceeding DNAP with two entry paths — a 36-month BS-to-DNAP and a 24-month MS-to-DNAP — plus IFNA recognition. It's a genuine in-state opportunity, and pairing it with a regional application list gives you the best odds. For the bigger picture, see how to become a CRNA and the CRNA job outlook.