Rapid City, SD

Western Dakota Technical College

Introduction to Patient Care (CNA)

Location

Rapid City, SD

Cost

$585

State Required Hours

75 hours minimum

Address

800 Mickelson Drive

Rapid City, SD 57703

About This Program

Western Dakota Tech's Introduction to Patient Care course prepares students in western South Dakota for the state CNA exam. The program is approved by the South Dakota Board of Nursing and combines classroom instruction with simulated lab work and clinical rotations in Rapid City-area long-term care facilities.

Location & Directions

800 Mickelson Drive, Rapid City, SD 57703

Becoming a CNA in South Dakota

South Dakota is one of a small group of states where Certified Nurse Aides are regulated directly by the Board of Nursing rather than the Department of Health. SDBON's Unlicensed Assistive Personnel Program (SDUAP) maintains the official CNA registry, approves training programs, contracts with D&SDT-Headmaster for competency testing, and acts on disciplinary findings.

Minimum Age

16

Training Hours

75 hours minimum

Exam Vendor

D&SDT-Headmaster (delivered through the TestMaster Universe / TMU platform)

Time to Cert

6-12 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the CNA program at Western Dakota Technical College include?

Western Dakota Tech's Introduction to Patient Care course prepares students in western South Dakota for the state CNA exam. The program is located at 800 Mickelson Drive, Rapid City, SD 57703. For the current curriculum, admission requirements, and start dates, call (605) 718-2400 or visit https://www.wdt.edu/degree-programs/health-sciences/.

How much does Western Dakota Technical College cost?

Western Dakota Technical College lists tuition for its introduction to patient care (cna) at $585. Total program cost for students typically includes state exam fees, background-check fees, books, and supplies on top of tuition, so the final out-of-pocket figure can vary. Call Western Dakota Technical College at (605) 718-2400 for the current fee breakdown and any available scholarships or financial aid.

How long is the program at Western Dakota Technical College?

Western Dakota Technical College has not published a fixed length for this directory. Programs in South Dakota must meet the state minimum of 75 hours minimum, so plan accordingly. Call (605) 718-2400 or check the program website at https://www.wdt.edu/degree-programs/health-sciences/ to confirm the program length, start dates, and full-time vs part-time schedule options.

How do I apply or contact Western Dakota Technical College?

Call Western Dakota Technical College directly at (605) 718-2400 or visit https://www.wdt.edu/degree-programs/health-sciences/. The program is located at 800 Mickelson Drive, Rapid City, SD 57703. Ask about upcoming cohort start dates, application deadlines, background-check requirements, and any scholarships or financial-aid options before enrolling.

What South Dakota CNA requirements should I know before enrolling at Western Dakota Technical College?

Before enrolling at Western Dakota Technical College, make sure you meet South Dakota's minimum age (16), education requirements, and background-check rules. South Dakota requires 75 hours minimum of state-approved training and uses D&SDT-Headmaster (delivered through the TestMaster Universe / TMU platform) for the competency exam, with most candidates reaching certification in 6-12 weeks. See the full South Dakota CNA requirements page for a complete checklist.

Are there other CNA programs near Rapid City?

Yes. In addition to Western Dakota Technical College in Rapid City, our directory includes CNA training programs in Sioux Falls, Watertown, Mitchell, Yankton. Comparing programs by location, schedule, and cost is the easiest way to find the best fit for your situation. Browse all South Dakota CNA classes for the full list.