To become a Physician Assistant (PA) in South Dakota (SD) complete a two-year accredited PA program, requiring a bachelor’s degree and relevant work experience.
Post-graduation, pass the national certification exam, and secure state licensure. Continuous education is mandatory for ongoing licensure maintenance, ensuring a steadfast commitment to professional excellence in healthcare.
Listed below are the top accredited Physician Assistant Schools in, or near to, South Dakota.
Accredited PA Schools in South Dakota
Choosing an ARC-PA-accredited PA school in South Dakota ensures a high-quality education, meeting stringent certification requirements. Accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous standards, enhancing the credibility of your qualifications.
Notably, in South Dakota, there is 1 accredited PA school, offering comprehensive and recognized training for aspiring healthcare professionals.
| School | City | ARC-PA | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Dakota | Grand Forks | Yes | Program Page |
The majority of institutions utilize the CASPA online application method. It is imperative to verify application deadlines directly on the CASPA website to ensure the timely submission of required materials. Stay informed and aligned with the application timeline by consulting the official CASPA platform.
PA Certification and Licensing in South Dakota
After completing an accredited PA program in South Dakota, aspiring Physician Assistants must undertake the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam. These exams are typically administered at designated testing centers across the country.
Certification precedes licensure, ensuring that PAs meet nationally recognized standards of competence and proficiency. Candidates should refer to official certification bodies for specific exam details and locations, navigating the crucial step toward professional validation and licensure in the healthcare sector.
License Requirements
Licensing for PAs is mandatory in all states however PA’s scope of practice can vary from state to state and therefore so do licensing requirements.
In South Dakota, PAs, and supervising physicians create a written practice agreement approved by the Board of Medical and Osteopathic Examiners. PAs can prescribe, dispense, administer, and procure Schedule II-V substances after obtaining an additional Controlled Substance License. They must meet with their supervising physicians twice monthly to discuss patient care, ensuring proper supervision by their practice agreement.
You can contact the Board directly using the contact details below:
Address: 101 North Main Avenue, Suite 301, Sioux Falls, SD 57104
Phone: (605) 367-7781
Website: https://www.sdbmoe.gov/professions-physician-assistant-pa/
PA Salary and Employment in South Dakota
In 2024, South Dakota employed 570 Physician Assistants with an average salary of $119,010, indicating a 5.26% deficit compared to the national average of $125,270. This equates to an hourly wage of $57.22. Among these professionals, the top 10% earned $139,050, while the bottom 10% earned $98,610.
In the five years spanning 2018 to 2022, the average salary for Physician Assistants in South Dakota increased by $16,180, reflecting a substantial 16% growth. Concurrently, employment saw a modest rise of 30 positions, marking a 6% increase.
Looking ahead, the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates a robust 27% growth in physician assistant employment between 2022 and 2032, indicating sustained opportunities in the field within South Dakota.