Degrees and Certificates

Bachelor's Degrees  
Master's Degrees  
Associate's Degrees
CEU Non-Credit Offerings  
Certificate Programs
Endorsement Programs  
Military Programs  
Schedule of Classes

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Bachelor's Degrees

Create an Opportunity.

Earning your bachelor's degree opens doors to better jobs and higher salaries. In fact, studies show that people with bachelor's degrees earn as much as a million dollars more over the course of their working lives than those who only have an associate's degree or high school diploma.

Fort Hays State Virtual College offers affordable, fully-accredited Bachelor of Science degrees in:

• Elementary Education
• Information Networking & Telecommunications (Computer Networking and Telecommunication)
• Information Networking & Telecommunication (Web Development)
• Justice Studies
• Nursing (RN to BSN)
• Organizational Leadership
• Technology Leadership

Additional Degrees:

• Business Administration in Management
• Bachelor of General Studies
• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

Need something tailor made for you? Our flexible, innovative Bachelor of General Studies degree lets you customize a program of study that best meets your needs. Whether you just have a few semesters left to finish that undergraduate degree or you're just getting started, work with an advisor to build a program that gives you the knowledge and skills you need for success.

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Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

Have you always wanted to make a difference in the lives of children?  Earning a Bachelor of Science in Education, with an emphasis in Elementary Education, gives you the opportunity to begin a new career or become licensed to teach in the state of Kansas.  This program is not available entirely online. Rather, the BS in Education is offered through a blended delivery model through face-to-face, Internet Protocol Television (IPTV), online courses and by arrangement.  IPTV sites are located in Salina and at Barton County, Cloud County, Seward County, Colby, Dodge City, Garden City, and Pratt Community Colleges.

The TEAM Elementary Education program is designed to:
(1) focus on themes which provide links between general education, professional education, and the practical application of field experience; (2) provide extensive field experience with measurable outcomes each semester; (3) link content, theoretical components, and field experiences through professional education which emphasize reflective thinking; (4) model integration of content and diverse teaching strategies; (5) emphasize proficiency in oral and written language skills, professionalism, and technology; and (6) provide experience in a diverse environment.

Program Requirements Overview

Bachelor of Science in Information Networking & Telecommunications Computer Networking

Information Networking and Telecommunications graduates are designing, implementing and supporting the communications networks of tomorrow. The concentration in Computer Networking and Telecommunications prepares graduates to work in telecommunications companies or in corporate, education, law enforcement, health care, and other computer and network positions. Graduates typically serve in engineering, production, operations, managerial, sales, consulting or regulatory positions.

Fort Hays State University offers a nationally recognized degree in Information Networking and Telecommunications that has been repeatedly designated as a "best practice" program. This concentration can include course work necessary to sit for the Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) and advanced Cisco certifications.

Program Requirements Overview

Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies

The Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies is an interdisciplinary program that focuses on the cause of crime and society’s response to crime. FHSU graduates are uniquely qualified and prepared to enter one of the many careers related to criminal justice, including state and federal special agents; U.S. Secret Service; U.S. Marshals; customs agents; court administrators; law enforcement agents; security, correction, parole, probation and community correction officers; juvenile intake personnel; and victim services personnel.

The majority of distance education students pursuing a degree in Justice Studies are adult learners, going back to school to finish or start a degree in order to change careers, obtain a promotion or increase their salary. A number of our students are already criminal justice practitioners and military veterans employed at the local, state or federal level. 

The Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies is an accredited program, falling under the auspices of the Northeastern Associate of Criminal Justice Sciences.  FHSU accepts previous credit and the Department of Justice Studies provides job placement assistance. 

Program Requirements Overview

Contact Information

Dr. Rob Scott,
Chair, Department of Justice Studies
Fort Hays State University
Rarick Hall 233G
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601-4099

Phone:  (785) 628-5945
Email:  bkinnair@fhsu.edu
Web:  Justice Studies

Bachelor of Science in Nursing - RN to BSN

Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership

If you are looking for an academic challenge that will enrich both your personal and professional development, consider a nationally recognized degree in organizational leadership from Fort Hays State University. Organizational leadership is a broad academic field that is adaptable to organizations large and small, private and public.

The Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership is an interdisciplinary degree that focuses on the study of leadership in the context of the modern organization. It examines the theoretical foundation as well as the practical behaviors and processes that promote positive leadership and organizational development.

This degree program prepares students to become effective players in today's workplace. Rather than preparing graduates for a single particular career, this interdisciplinary liberal arts degree program provides the knowledge and skills necessary for a broad range of organizational and supervisory positions. Graduates find themselves in high demand for a wide variety of career choices because of skills gained in communication, team building, collaboration, problem solving, and change making.

Program Requirements Overview

Bachelor of Science in Technology Leadership

The purpose of this degree is to provide students the opportunity to advance their technical or applied degree beyond the community or technical college level. This degree is called the "Workforce Baccalaureate" because it is designed for students who have (or are pursuing) AAS degrees in technical, applied or practical areas such as auto-mechanics, electronics, computer-aided drafting, office management and telecommunications, among others.

The BTL combines the knowledge and skills obtained in an accredited AAS program with advanced courses in technology, industrial management and leadership to complete your bachelors degree. Graduates find careers in business, industry and agriculture, where their skills are vital to the success of society. Once you have completed this degree program, you will have a liberal arts education and the leadership skills to become a team leader, manager, foreman or supervisor in the work place.

Program Requirements Overview

Bachelor of Business Administration in Management

The online management degree program at FHSU provides you the avenue to develop the knowledge, analytical skills, and leadership that you need to excel in today's fast-paced business environment. You will gain a broad perspective of the organization and an in-depth understanding of the operation of the modern business enterprise.

Through the online BBA program, you have the opportunity to work with full-time management professors who have acquired the highest possible degrees for university teaching, possess corporate experience, and are dedicated to providing a high quality virtual learning experience. The Virtual BBA in Management offers the same academic rigor as our on-campus program, with courses designed and taught by the same on-campus, full-time faculty or off-campus faculty with expertise and experience in their specialized field.

Your degree prepares you for the workforce through specialized training and experience in the analysis of typical problem situations. Students trained in management may find jobs in a variety of fields and geographical locations. Human resource managers, operation managers, department managers, and administrative managers are always in demand. You have chosen the right field if you enjoy planning, organizing, decision-making, staffing, and leading.

Program Requirements Overview

Bachelor of General Studies

Offered at a distance since 1980, the Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) is a general degree program available through the College of Arts and Sciences that provides you a solid liberal arts education. Designed for adult students with well-defined career objectives, the BGS offers maximum flexibility to students who wish to determine the specific content of their degree program, rather than pursue one of the established majors at FHSU. The BGS prepares you to enter a wide variety of occupations and serves as a bridge to numerous graduate degree programs to further advance your education.

The program includes a cross section of upper division general education requirements and an area of concentration equaling 21 credit hours. Currently, nine areas of concentration are available online, although a BGS advisor will work with you to customize and approve a program of study to meet your educational goals. Students interested in the BGS degree may transfer up to 94 credits, with a maximum of 64 credits from a two-year school. Military personnel may transfer up to 64 units of ACE-approved credit and credit-by-exam.

Program Requirements Overview

The BGS degree serves as a bridge to numerous graduate degree programs and prepares students for employment in areas not requiring specific baccalaureate degrees. The area of emphasis or concentration can be tailored to prepare students for entry into a particular career area. Concentrations available to students through the Virtual College include, but are not limited to:

Child Development
General Business
Geography/GIS
Gerontology
Health Promotion
Human Services
Information Networking and Telecommunications
Justice Studies
Organizational Leadership

If you do not see a program you are interested in, please contact Joleen Briggs, BGS Coordinator, at jmbriggs@fhsu.edu or 1-800-628-FHSU.

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

Sociology is a dynamic field of study that leads to fascinating employment opportunities in fields with high social importance. If you are interested in exploring the relationships among groups and between groups and individuals, wish to prepare for an exciting professional career, and have a general desire to make the world a better place then welcome to the Sociology Program at Fort Hays State University! Sociology courses are taught via the Internet, videotape, CD-ROM, Internet Protocol Television (IPTV), email and traditional correspondence methods.

As a student majoring in sociology, you have the opportunity to craft (with the aid of an individual advisor) a program of study to best suit your own interests and needs. Along with a set of core courses, you will select among many elective sociology and university courses to complete your degree. In addition, sociology majors complete a very popular internship requirement. Internships are tailored to help students sample potential careers, build resumes, learn new skills, hone current skills, and pave the way for subsequent employment.

Program Requirements Overview

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CEU Non-Credit Offerings

Continuing Education Units (CEU), or non credit offerings allow you to renew a professional license, obtain personal & professional enrichment, or learn about a specific topic in a short time. Fort Hays State offers a variety of single courses, or select three courses from any one content area and receive a Certificate of Completion. Our instructor facilitated online courses are informative, convenient, and highly interactive.

Complete any three of the course offerings under a content category and earn a Certificate of Completion from Fort Hays State. Content category list found here.

Courses begin about every month and last four - six weeks. Courses are project-oriented and include lessons, quizzes, hands-on assignments, discussion areas, supplementary links, and more. You can participate in any course from your home or office any time of day or night.

Full list of CEU offerings
Content category list for Certificate of Completion
Be sure to check with your advisor on licensing issues.

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Master your next move.

If you really want to get ahead of your competition in the job market, a master's degree is the way to go. And it's not as difficult as you think. By taking fully-accredited online courses you can move your career and your income to the next levelwithout turning your whole life upside down.

The Virtual College offers several graduate degrees.

• Our Master of Liberal Studies is a fully customizable, interdisciplinary program that can advance your career in any number of fields.
• Our Master of Science in Health and Human Performance provides you with the conceptual, analytical, and communication skills necessary for successful careers in teaching/coaching, exercise science, and sport administration.
• Our Master of Science in Instructional Technology prepares you to assume a role of leadership in instructional technology settings in schools, business, and industry
• Our Master of Science in Nursing (Administration or Education) will prepare you to take on more responsibility and earn more money in a number of education, clinical, and health care management settings.
• Our Master of Business Administration in Leadership will help you grab the next rung on the corporate ladder or maybe even launch your own business.
• Our Master of Science in Education, Master of Science in Educational Administration and Master of Science in Special Education programs combine the latest in education theory and course design with practical, real-world scenarios to prepare you to assume a leadership role at the classroom, building or district level.

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If you have a passion for learning, intellectual curiosity and a desire to explore a subject matter in greater depth, the Master of Liberal Studies (MLS) is a unique, flexible degree program designed to meet your personal and educational goals. With many online courses and concentration areas to choose from, Fort Hays State University makes it easier for you to balance work and personal commitments to achieve your goals.

But what does "liberal studies" mean? Liberal studies means providing you the opportunity to systematically explore a wide realm of knowledge and wisdom to help you better understand yourself, others and the world around you. Liberal studies focus on intellectual, social, and moral growth and helps foster your love of learning. The 10-hour core curriculum is designed to address these goals in different ways, and provide you the foundation you need to more deeply explore a specific area of concentration.

Select an area of concentration from the list below, or work with an MLS advisor to customize a program of study that best meets your personal and educational goals:

• Communication Studies
• Criminal Justice
• Educational Leadership and Management
• English
• ESOL
• Gerontology
• Health and Human Performance
• History
• Human Resource Management
• Information Assurance
• Information Networking and Telecommunications
• Instructional Technology
• Organizational Leadership
• Public Administration
• Social Science Education

FHSU's Master of Liberal Studies program is a full member of the Association of Graduate Liberal Studies Programs.

Program Requirements Overview

Master of Science in Health and Human Performance

The online Master of Science Degree in Health and Human Performance (HHP) provides opportunities for students to continue developing their conceptual, technical, analytical, and communication skills related to careers in health and human performance. The program consists of 32 hours, with most students taking 6-8 credit hours per semester and completing their degrees within a three year period. Students may join the program at any time during the year (fall, spring or summer). Core courses are only offered during the summer and must be scheduled accordingly.

Program Requirements Overview

Contact Information

Mr. Glen McNeil, Interim Chair
Department of Health and Human Performance
Fort Hays State University
600 Park Street
Cunningham Hall 139
Hays, KS 67601-4099

Phone:  (785) 628-4376
Email:   gmcneil@fhsu.edu

Master of Science in Instructional Technology

Contact Information

Dr. Robert Howell, Program Coordinator
Department of Technology Studies
Fort Hays State University
600 Park Street, Hays, KS 67601-4099

Phone:  (785) 628-4306
Email:   bhowell@fhsu.edu
Web:    Instructional Tech

Master of Science in Nursing Administration Track

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) prepares you to assume advanced nursing specialty roles, opening doors to you for promotion and increased earning power. The nursing administration track prepares you to take on leadership roles in the rapidly changing healthcare environment, and it is ideal for nurses who want to pursue leadership careers in hospitals and other healthcare agencies. Throughout your program of study, you will complete courses in healthcare management and leadership in complex organizations. You will gain further knowledge by working with expert nurse leaders and completing a research study.

The MSN program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). CCNE is a national autonomous accreditation agency officially recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education, which ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate and graduate education programs. This program is available throughout the United States.

Program Requirements Overview

Master of Science in Nursing - Education Track

Master of Science in Nursing Education Track

Teaching the nurses of tomorrow is a growing field. A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with an emphasis in education specializes in teaching strategies (using instructional technology and theory), curriculum development and evaluation. Throughout your program of study, you will complete courses through online course delivery systems and audio conferencing. You will gain further knowledge by working with expert nurse educators and completing a research study.

The MSN program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). CCNE is a national autonomous accreditation agency officially recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education, which ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate and graduate education programs. This program is available to those who are registered nurses in the United States, as well as, a Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing from an accredited school.

Program Requirements Overview

Contact Information

Dr. Liane Connelly, Chair
Department of Nursing
Fort Hays State University
Stroup Hall 129
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601-4099
Phone: (785) 628-4327 or 800-684-2242
Email: lconnell@fhsu.edu
Web: Nursing Education

Master of Business Administration in Leadership

Take the next step to reach your personal and professional goals with FHSU's Virtual MBA in Leadership program. Designed for working professionals who may or may not have a business degree, this program combines core MBA coursework with the study of organizational leadership. You will examine the theoretical foundation and the practical behaviors that promote positive leadership and organizational development.

FHSU's MBA program combines academic rigor, real-world experience, convenience and flexibility to enhance your leadership potential in a dynamic and exciting business world. The degree consists of 37 credit hours with an additional nine hours (three Foundation courses) for students who do not have an undergraduate degree in business. Six to nine hours of graduate credit may be transferred in from other accredited institutions, subject to approval.

Program Requirements Overview

Master of Science in Education

The newly designed Master of Science in Education (MSE) offered through the Department of Teacher Education has a core of 20 credit hours infused with the educational philosophy and strategies associated with the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).  This core also supports the goal of preparing candidates for instructional leadership roles at the elementary, middle school or secondary level. 

In your program of study, you may choose an 18-19 credit-hour area of emphasis in areas like ESOL, library media specialist, reading specialist, school improvement specialist or subject area specialist. The emphasis areas may lead to an endorsement or a program of professional improvement.

An action research project conducted in a school environment is required of all MSE candidates. 

Program Requirements Overview

Contact Information

Dr. Tom Newton, Chair
Department of Teacher Education
Fort Hays State University
244 Rarick Hall
600 Park Street
Hays, KS  67601-4099

Phone:  785.628.4204
Email:   tnewton@fhsu.edu
Web:    Education

Master of Science in Educational Administration

The principal is the person responsible for all the activities that occur in and around the school building. It is
the principal’s leadership that sets the tone of the school, the climate for learning, the level of professionalism and morale of teachers, and the degree of concern for what students may or may not become. Completing the building leadership degree program will enable school leaders to demonstrate competency in the standards as developed by the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium (ISLLC).

Program Requirements Overview

Master of Science in Special Education

If you are interested in making a difference in the lives of children, you should consider an advanced degree in special education. Teachers licensed in special education and/or English for Speakers of Other Languages are in high demand throughout Kansas and across the country.

The goal of the Department of Special Education is to prepare exceptional professional educators for today’s schools. The Special Education teaching programs are fully accredited by the National Council on Accreditation of Teacher Education and the Kansas State Department of Education.

Program Requirements Overview

Contact Information

Department of Special Education 
Fort Hays State University
210 Rarick Hall
600 Park Street
Hays, KS  67601

Phone:  (785) 628-4212
Email:   phoernic@fhsu.edu  
Web:    SPED

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Associate's Degrees

Act now.  Decide Later.

A lot of people don't know what they want to study or what career is best for them. An Associate of General Studies degree from Fort Hays State Virtual College will help you make the decision. Through our fully-accredited online courses, you'll explore a wide range of subjects and consider an array of careers. When you find the perfect fit, you'll already have your general education requirements under your belt. To find out more contact our Academic Advising and Career Exploration Center.

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Associate of General Studies (AGS)

Whether you're just getting started or already have some college credit, the Associate of General Studies degree may be an excellent choice. An Associate's degree allows you to meet short-term educational goals and gain critical-thinking, problem-solving, math and communication skills to help you move ahead in your current job or prepare you for a new career.

To earn an Associate of General Studies degree, you will complete 60 credit hours, or roughly 20 classes. The program of study fulfills the core requirements for a four-year degree, but it also allows you to explore a wide range of information in many disciplines. Plus, you will customize your program of study by taking 12 hours of electives and 12 hours in a concentration area that you select - you can focus on subjects that connect to your current position or prepare you for your dream job.

FHSU will accept up to 45 hours of transfer credit from other institutions.

Program Requirements Overview

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Certificate Programs

Target your skills.

Maybe you're just a skill or two away from landing your dream job. Or maybe you've got a great job that a little extra training will make even better. A certificate from Fort Hays State Virtual College is just for you. You'll study online and on your own schedule with the same faculty that teach on campus and build the skills you need to achieve your goals. We offer certificate programs in:

• Applied Sociology
• Community Development
• Cisco Networking
• E-Commerce
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) User Certificate
• Grant Proposal Writing and Program Evaluation
• Human Resource Management
• Leadership
• Life Issues
• Management
• Web Development
• Post Master's Nursing Administration
• Post Master's Nursing Education

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Applied Sociology

Community Development Certificate

Coordinator: Mike Walker
Astonishing social and economic change presents urban, suburban, and rural neighborhoods and communities with uncertain futures and great challenges. Some urban neighborhoods and rural communities are scrambling to stem population out-migration, while others are dealing with population growth and urban sprawl. Community development is a fast-growing field of employment that addresses the social, physical, and economic revitalization and/or restructuring of a neighborhood or community.

The Certificate in Community Development provides you with a base of community theory uniquely offered through the Department of Sociology and Social Work, and vital technical skills (such as strategic planning, focus group research, and small group dynamics) to address real-world community issues and problems.

Required Courses:

Contact Information

Rose Marie Arnhold, Chair
Department of Sociology and Social Work
Fort Hays State University
Rarick Hall 354
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601-4099

Phone:  (785) 628-5397
Email:   rarnhold@fhsu.edu
Web:    sociology

Cisco Online Certification - Prep-Program for Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Background

Cisco Systems, Inc. is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. Cisco's product portfolio offers a broad range of end-to-end networking solutions including Routing, Switching, Access, System Network Architecture/Local-area Networks (SNA/LAN), Internet Services, Cisco Internetwork Operating System (IOS) Software, and Network Management. Fort Hays State University, through its Department of Information Networking and Telecommunications, offers the online preparatory curriculum to prepare professionals to sit for the highly sought-after Cisco Certified Network Associate Certification (CCNA) Examination.

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) preparation curriculum is offered in a three-course sequence with two options.

The primary difference between the standard and the military offering is that the military offering is designed to be somewhat more lab intensive and includes an additional project in each course. Both series are designed to teach students internetworking skills and to prepare students with the knowledge necessary to pass the CCNA examination.

In each series, delivery is Internet based with text, graphics, illustrations, and streaming audio and video. Students are provided toll-free telephone, email, and chat room assistance from faculty and tutors who have passed the CCNA. Students have the opportunity to practice router configuration on Cisco routers using the Department of Information Networking and Telecommunication's Virtual Lab.

Both options apply toward the Bachelors of Science in Information Networking and Telecommunications with a Concentration in Computer Networking and Telecommunications or the General Studies in Information Networking and Telecommunications.

Students who enhance their studies by taking targeted course work in Network Architecture and Data Communications increase their probability of passing the CCNA examination and enhance their employability. A student who has completed the CCNA prep-curriculum, INT 680 Network Architecture and Data Communications I and INT 681 Network Architecture and Data Communications II will earn the Fort Hays State University Certificate in Internetworking. For information on the Department of Information Networking and Telecommunications and this certification, visit www.fhsu.edu/int or call (785) 628-5373.

Access to a Pentium 500 MHz or better processor with at least 64 MB (128 MB recommended) of RAM, rx CD-ROM, sound card, with a 28.8 kbps or faster modem or Macintosh OS 7.0. Reliable access to the Internet via your own provider, a web browser such as Netscape 4.7 or Microsoft Explorer 5.0, and e-mail address to receive messages. For Internet courses, contact the instructor for login information.

E-Commerce Web Development Certificate

Fort Hays State University offers a series of courses and certificate options to prepare you in web-based applications. All courses listed are offered online with no requirement for you to come to campus. You may earn a 15-hour certificate as a stand alone credential if you're in the working world and need real time knowledge and skills. Additionally, you can earn a certificate to supplement an undergraduate online degree such as the Bachelors of General Studies or the Bachelor of Science in Information Networking and Telecommunications - Web Development Concentration. You may apply graduate-level classes toward an MLS in Information Networking and Telecommunications.

Certificate in E-Commerce Web Development
This certificate is designed for someone who seeks the skills to create an e-commerce site and who desires to understand the fundamentals of e-commerce marketing and strategy.

(Prerequisite: Business Law, Introduction to Law or Public Policy, Ethics and Law in Information Networking)

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) User Certificate

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are used in many professions to gain valuable insights into and answer spatial questions. Because there is an increasing need among local, state, and federal agencies for individuals with skills in Geographic Information Systems, this certificate may help you enhance your employment potential.

This nine credit hour certificate program offers you the opportunity to develop a solid understanding of the fundamental principles and analytical techniques of GIS and other geospatial technologies and to develop technical skills in analyzing geographic patterns and relationships. The GIS certificate is an effective to add value to your program of study for a bachelor’s or master’s degree, or to develop real-time knowledge and skills for individuals already in the workforce as a stand-alone certificate.

Contact Information

Dr. John Heinrichs, Chair
Department of Geosciences
Fort Hays State University
Tomanek Hall 233
600 Park Street
Hays, KS, 67601-4099

Phone:  (785) 628-5389
Email:   jheinric@fhsu.edu
Web:    Geosciences

Grant Proposal and Program Evaluation

Coordinator: Dr. Keith Campbell

Grants from government and private sources provide important supplemental funding to schools, hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and many other social service agencies. FHSU’s Department of Sociology and Social Work is pleased to offer one of the few undergraduate grant proposal writing and program evaluation programs in the nation. The skills you develop through this certificate program can increase your employment potential greatly as employers recognize the considerable value and financial benefit of well-trained grant proposal writers.

Required Courses:

Contact Information

Rose Marie Arnhold, Chair
Department of Sociology and Social Work
Fort Hays State University
Rarick Hall 354
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601-4099

Phone:  (785) 628-5397
Email:   rarnhold@fhsu.edu
Web:    sociology

Human Resource Management

Remaining competitive in today's constantly changing business environment requires an understanding that people are a company's greatest asset, and managers must take proactive steps to keep employees satisfied and motivated. Today's human resource management (HRM) professional has to have in-depth knowledge about a variety of topics. Whether you pursue a certificate in Human Resource Management to complement a degree program or to obtain knowledge and skills while in your current position, the certificate will equip you with tools and training you need to maximize the potential of your organization’s workforce. 

Leadership Certificate Program

Fort Hays State University offers a variety of leadership programs for online students interested in enhancing their education with a specialized leadership component. Whether you add the Leadership Certificate to an online degree program or simply take the nine-hour sequence of courses for a stand alone certificate, the Leadership Certificate Program will contribute to your personal and professional development.

Utilizing an interactive online format, this program introduces you to the basic components of leadership thinking. The curriculum focuses on the what, how, and why of leadership. In an effort to provide you a comprehensive experience, the Department of Leadership Studies has incorporated an online learning environment that includes both course activities and practical field experience. This combination of theory and practice allows you to reflect and then act upon what you have learned about effective leadership behavior.

Life Issues

Many students earn a BA in Sociology in order to hone their “people skills.”  This certificate program includes courses that deal with major life passages, such as marriage, remarriage, childrearing, aging, and death and dying. The Life Issues certificate provides students with a background to work in human services fields or to enhance the knowledge of those currently working in such fields.

Contact Information

Rose Marie Arnhold, Chair
Department of Sociology and Social Work
Fort Hays State University
Rarick Hall 354
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601-4099

Phone:  (785) 628-5397
Email:   rarnhold@fhsu.edu
Web:  Sociology

Management

Because many of us find ourselves working in a modern business environment, a 12-hour Management certificate is a perfect complement to virtually any program of study. Comprised of an introductory course plus three other courses that you select, the management certificate can be customized to meet the needs of the sector in which you work or plan to work. You will receive a broad perspective on the organization and its operations, and this knowledge may help open doors to middle- or upper-level management position.

Web Development

Certificate in Web Development
This certificate is designed for someone who seeks the skills to create high-end websites with strong design and functional abilities. Such sites are used for e-commerce, data services, internal organization workflow, multimedia distribution and other uses where information is provided or gathered. This certificate includes design as well as coding courses.

Nursing Administration Post Master's Certificate

Individuals who already hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) are eligible to complete a post master’s certificate in nursing administration. This certificate enables you to broaden your career opportunities or strengthen your skills in a current career path.

Contact Information

Dr. Liane Connelly, Chair
Department of Nursing
Fort Hays State University
Stroup Hall 129
600 Park Street
Hays, KS  67601-4099

Phone: (785) 628-4498 or 800-684-2242
Email:   lconnell@fhsu.edu
Web:    Nursing

Nursing Education Post Master's Certificate

Individuals who already hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) are eligible to complete a post master’s certificate in nursing education. this certificate enables you to broaden your career opportunities or strengthen your skills in a current career path.

Contact Information

Dr. Liane Connelly, Chair
Department of Nursing
Fort Hays State University
Stroup Hall 129
600 Park Street
Hays, KS  67601-4099

Phone: (785) 628-4498 or 800-684-2242
Email:   lconnell@fhsu.edu
Web:    Nursing

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Endorsements

Target your skills.

Maybe you're just a skill or two away from landing your dream job. Or maybe you've got a great job that a little extra training will make even better. An endorsement from Fort Hays State Virtual College is just for you. You'll study online and on your own schedule with the same faculty that teach on campus and build the skills you need to achieve your goals. We offer certificate programs in:

• English for Speakers of Other Languages
• Library Media Specialist
• Reading Specialist

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English Speakers of Other Languages

Teachers licensed in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) are in high demand in Kansas and across the country. If you are interested in making a difference in children’s lives you should consider an endorsement in ESOL.

Prior to beginning the ESOL Endorsement program, you will need to be admitted to the Fort Hays State University Graduate School as a degree-seeking or non-degree seeking student. In addition, you will need to file an ESOL Endorsement Program form with the department.  If you wish to teach in Kansas, a valid Kansas teaching license is required for this program. If you are from outside Kansas, please check with the department regarding licensure in your state.

The ESOL teaching program is fully accredited by the National Council on Accreditation of Teacher Education and the Kansas State Department of Education.

Contact Information

Department of Special Education
210 Rarick Hall
600 Park Street
Hays, KS  67601

Phone:  (785) 628-4212
Email:   phoernic@fhsu.edu  
Web: ESOL

Library Media Specialist

Applicants for a library media specialist endorsement must hold a currently valid professional teaching license, and complete the following graduate courses, with a minimum 3.25 cumulative GPA in graduate coursework.

In order to meet KSDE licensure guidelines, Library Media Specialist candidates must complete a Master’s degree before applying for a conditional school specialist license and a post-graduation internship before applying for a professional school specialist license. After graduation with the MS degree and receiving the conditional library media specialist license, candidates must secure a position in a school library and enroll in two semesters of “Library Internship.” Upon successful completion of a two-hour internship in each of two semesters, candidates will be eligible to apply for a professional Kansas Library Media Specialist license.

Reading Specialist

Applicants for a reading specialist endorsement must hold a currently valid professional teaching license, and complete the following graduate courses, with a minimum 3.25 cumulative GPA in graduate coursework.

In order to meet KSDE licensure guidelines, Reading Specialist candidates must have two years of classroom teaching experience (within six years), complete Master’s degree before applying for a conditional school specialist license and a post-graduation internship before applying for a professional school specialist license. After graduation with the MS degree and receiving the conditional reading specialist license, candidates must secure full-time teaching position and enroll in two semesters of “Reading Specialist Internship.” Upon successful completion of a two-hour internship in each of two semesters, candidates will be eligible to apply for a professional Kansas Reading Specialist license.

The pre-requisite course requirement may be met by completion of TEEL 365 Reading and Language Arts Methods, TEEL 481 Correction of Reading Disabilities I, and TEEL 480 Correction of Reading Disabilities Internship I which are undergraduate courses.

Contact Information

Dr. Tom Newton,  Chair
Department of Teacher Education
Fort Hays State University
600 Park Street
244 Rarick Hall
Hays, KS  67601

Phone:  (785) 628.4204
Email:    tnewton@fhsu.edu
Web:  Teacher Education

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Military Programs

We're there - no matter where you're stationed.

Fort Hays State Virtual College understands the needs and responsibilities of our men and women in uniform. The flexibility of our programs allows you to start or finish a degree program no matter where you're stationed or where you might be transferred. And our affordable tuition ranks us as one of the best investments in higher education. Contact us at vcollege@fhsu.edu or (800) 628-FHSU or explore the links below for programs specific to your service branch.

• Air Force
• Army
• Army National Guard
• Coast Guard
• Marines
• Navy

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FHSU military links.

• Veterans Tuition Information
• Scholarship Information
• Cisco Online Certification - Prep-Program for Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) - Military Option
• Coast Guard SOCCOAST Afloat.

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Schedule of Classes

With over 500 courses to choose from and our affordable tuition, you are sure to find an area of interest for you. Most of the courses offered through the Virtual College operate on a 8-week or 16-week semester schedule. One of the best ways to review the course offerings is to search for classes of interest online.

Check out the 5 steps to starting your course through the Virtual College at Fort Hays State University. For additional information on degrees, taking courses and the Virtual College, check out the Tiger's Guide.

Do you have your TigerTracks account set up?

TigerTracks is FHSU's web portal to your campus e-mail, Blackboard courses, full course schedule and more. Get your account set up today, and start accessing all that TigerTracks has to offer!

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