Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration
Hours: 9 Online
About
The Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration at Fort Hays State University is designed for students who already hold a graduate degree in nursing. This certificate provides advanced coursework and clinical experiences aimed at strengthening leadership skills and administrative expertise within healthcare environments. Students develop the skills necessary to navigate complex healthcare systems, manage nursing personnel, and implement effective health policies.
Ideal for nurses seeking career advancement without committing to another full degree, the certificate includes 90 clinical hours under the guidance of a nursing administrator. This hands-on experience in real-world settings equips students with the practical knowledge and confidence required to assume leadership roles across diverse healthcare organizations.
Why pursue a Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration at Fort Hays State University?
Pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration offers a strategic combination of flexibility and practical experience. Designed specifically for working professionals, the certificate enables students to advance their careers without disrupting their current job responsibilities. The curriculum reflects the latest industry standards, ensuring that students gain relevant and up-to-date knowledge in nursing administration.
Delivered in a fully online format, the certificate offers the convenience of remote learning, making it accessible to students across the country. Embedded within the coursework are 90 clinical hours, during which students receive hands-on training under the guidance of experienced nursing administrators. This real-world experience equips students with the practical skills and leadership competencies necessary to succeed in advanced administrative roles within diverse healthcare settings.
Who is this program for?
This certificate is designed for nurses who have already earned a graduate degree and wish to advance their careers in healthcare leadership. It is ideal for those seeking to strengthen their administrative and management skills without the commitment of a full degree program. The certificate is suited for:
- Nurses aspiring to leadership roles
- Current nursing managers seeking advanced training
- Healthcare professionals looking to improve their administrative skills
- Individuals aiming to implement effective health policies
- Nurses interested in healthcare organization management
- Graduate-level nurses seeking professional growth
Learning Outcomes
The Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills essential for effective leadership in healthcare settings. These learning outcomes ensure that students are well-prepared to assume advanced roles in nursing administration.
Demonstrate Self-Responsibility for Continued Professional Growth
Integrate Theoretical Models for Improving Healthcare Outcomes for Clients, Families, and Populations
Employ Systematic Inquiry and Quality Improvement Strategies to Enhance Evidence-Based Nursing Practice and Health Care Outcomes
Exhibit Leadership Excellence in Systems to Collaborate and Communicate Practice Problems Through Interdisciplinary Teams
Demonstrate Clinical Competence in Master’s Prepared Nursing Roles
Evaluate Health Care Systems, Policy, and Finance to Improve Client Care Within the Health Care System
Implement Safety and Quality Initiatives in Health Care to Improve Health Outcomes and Promote Culturally Responsive, Timely, and Equitable Patient-Centered Care
Utilize Informatics to Plan, Examine, and Enhance Safety and Quality Processes in Health Care Organizations
Real-World Applications
The certificate prepares students to address the practical challenges of nursing leadership. It covers key topics, including the complexities of healthcare organizations, advanced nursing management, and policy implementation. These courses are designed to reflect real-world scenarios, enabling students to transition smoothly into leadership roles upon certificate completion.
With 90 clinical hours embedded in the curriculum, students gain hands-on experience working alongside experienced nursing administrators. This practical exposure allows them to apply theoretical knowledge in clinical settings, enhancing their problem-solving and decision-making skills. Students become well-prepared to manage nursing staff, oversee healthcare operations, and implement effective policies that enhance patient care and organizational efficiency.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Staying current with advancements in nursing administration is essential for effective leadership. Fort Hays State University ensures the curriculum reflects the latest trends and innovations in the field. This certificate is aligned with the competencies of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), formerly known as the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE), providing students with best practices and strategies used by today’s nursing leaders. Core topics include advanced staff management, policy implementation, and financial oversight within healthcare systems.
In addition, the certificate incorporates emerging trends such as digital health technologies and innovative leadership models. By gaining exposure to these developments, students are better prepared to navigate and adapt to the rapidly changing healthcare environment. This forward-thinking approach ensures that students are equipped with current knowledge and prepared to lead the implementation of new practices within their organizations.
Hands-on Activities
FHSU places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, ensuring that students in the certificate gain meaningful, hands-on experience. As part of the curriculum, students complete 90 clinical hours under the guidance of a nursing administrator, providing the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. This direct exposure to leadership roles enhances their ability to effectively navigate administrative challenges.
The certificate also integrates interactive case studies and leadership projects, allowing students to engage with realistic scenarios and strengthen their critical thinking and decision-making skills. These activities are designed to reflect the complexities of modern healthcare administration, preparing them to lead nursing teams and manage healthcare operations with confidence and efficiency.
What You’ll Learn:
- Healthcare organization complexity
- Advanced nursing management skills
- Policy implementation
- Staff management techniques
- Financial understanding in healthcare
How You’ll Learn:
- Online coursework
- 90 clinical hours with a nursing administrator
- Interactive case studies
- Leadership projects
- Peer collaboration
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,385.45* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate ($265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
FHSU offers a variety of programs designed to support advanced nursing leadership and professional growth. In addition to the Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration, these related programs provide opportunities for further specialization and development across diverse areas of healthcare and nursing:
- Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration)
- Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP)
- Master of Professional Studies (Public Health Administration)
- Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education
Information about the Department of Nursing
FHSU’s Department of Nursing provides programs and courses incorporating the latest technology in a feedback-driven, student-focused environment, where you will interact with highly qualified faculty eager to share their rich clinical and nursing experiences. This supportive environment ensures you are well-prepared for an in-demand degree that leads to a rewarding career.
- Certificate
- Master's
- Online
