Northern State University and Avera have built a simulation lab for nursing program students to learn skills that prepare them for careers in healthcare.
Located in Northern’s new Business and Health Innovation Center, the Avera Simulation Center is a state-of-the-art nursing education facility designed to provide nursing program students with hands-on learning experiences.
Late last year (2025), Avera Health awarded a grant to Lake Area Technical College to support the remodeling of the nursing simulation lab used by students enrolled in their nursing program through Capital City Campus in Pierre. The Avera Learning & Simulation Center provides opportunities for high school outreach and tours, skills workshops, recruitment events and professional development for regional healthcare workers. Avera St. Mary’s Hospital in Pierre is also using the space for employee training across multiple health disciplines.
For both Northern State University and the Lake Area Tech/Capital City Campus collaboration, the advanced technology in their simulation labs strengthens the nursing program curriculum and enhances the students’ training. Each lab’s equipment provides an environment that replicates clinical situations through the use of advanced manikins, high-tech medical equipment and immersive simulations.
Northern’s nursing program has expanded to include an LPN to BSN pathway, providing licensed practical nurses the opportunity to advance their education and earn a bachelor’s degree without leaving the Aberdeen region.
Lake Area Tech offers both an LPN and an RN program at Capital City Campus. Students complete all classroom instruction in Pierre and make a limited number of trips to Watertown for skills checks.
Lake Area Technical College nursing simulation center at Capital City Campus in Pierre.
Courtesy photo.
Lake Area Technical College nursing simulation center at Capital City Campus in Pierre.
Courtesy photo.
Lake Area Technical College nursing simulation center at Capital City Campus in Pierre.
Courtesy photo.
Lake Area Technical College nursing simulation center at Capital City Campus in Pierre.
Courtesy photo.
Lake Area Technical College nursing simulation center at Capital City Campus in Pierre.
Courtesy photo.
Lake Area Technical College nursing simulation center at Capital City Campus in Pierre.
Courtesy photo.
The Avera Simulation Center at Northern State University supports NSU’s nursing program in Aberdeen.
Courtesy photo.
The Avera Simulation Center at Northern State University supports NSU’s nursing program in Aberdeen.
Courtesy photo.
The Avera Simulation Center at Northern State University supports NSU’s nursing program in Aberdeen.
Courtesy photo.
The Avera Simulation Center at Northern State University supports NSU’s nursing program in Aberdeen.
Courtesy photo.
The Avera Simulation Center at Northern State University supports NSU’s nursing program in Aberdeen.
Courtesy photo.
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