Student Nurse Internship Program

Workplace Details Join our team and see why Prairie Lakes Healthcare System continues to be named a Top Rural and Community Hospital year after year. Be a part of our mission to make a positive difference in the health of the patients and communities we serve by delivering accessible, high-quality, affordable, and compassionate healthcare. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is an independent, non-profit rural healthcare system serving 10 counties in northeastern South Dakota and west-central Minnesota.

Start your nursing journey with purpose and impact.

Where you begin your career in nursing can shape your entire path. At Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, our Student Nurse Internship Program offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, build confidence, and grow under the guidance of experienced healthcare professionals.

Program Overview

Program Dates: May 18th- July 31st

This approximately 10-week, 240-hour paid internship provides one-on-one clinical training in a supportive learning environment. Interns will work alongside a dedicated RN preceptor, gaining valuable experience in inpatient and specialty care areas.

You'll actively participate in patient care, applying the nursing process to address the bio-psycho-social needs of patients facing real or potential life-threatening health challenges. This immersive experience is designed to strengthen your clinical skills and prepare you for the transition into professional practice.

Internships are available in the following departments: Critical Care Unit Maternal Child Health Medical/Surgical/Pediatrics Emergency Room Interns will follow their RN preceptor's schedule and must be available for all shifts. Each intern will receive a badge for identification and will introduce themselves to patients as a Nurse Intern .

About Prairie Lakes Healthcare System

Prairie Lakes Healthcare System is licensed for 81 acute care beds, including: Labor & Delivery Telemetry Critical Care General Hospital Services We also offer: 24-hour Emergency Department Surgical Services Interventional Cardiology Diagnostic & Imaging Services Beyond the hospital, Prairie Lakes operates: Prairie Lakes Cancer Center Mallard Pointe Surgical Center Dialysis units in Sisseton, SD and Watertown, SD Rehabilitation and Specialty Services Our specialties include Cardiology, Dermatology, ENT, General Surgery, Hospice, Home Care, Nephrology, Orthopedics, Pulmonology, Urology, and Wound Care. With the acquisition of Brown Clinic, we now offer Primary Care, creating a full continuum of care for our community.

Application Eligibility & Requirements

To apply, student nurse interns must: Be currently enrolled in an accredited nursing program Have completed junior-level clinical requirements Have an expected graduation date of Winter 2026, Spring 2027, or Winter 2027 Hold a minimum 3.0 GPA Submit: Resume Unofficial transcript Two letters of recommendation (one from a program instructor) A goal statement (see below)

Goal Statement Options

Your goal statement should include one of the following: Share two specific goals you hope to achieve through this internship Describe how your clinical and work experience has prepared you for this opportunity Reflect on how you would contribute to diversity and inclusion at Prairie Lakes Healthcare System as a nurse intern