Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education)
Hours: 36 Online
About
The Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program at Fort Hays State University is designed for experienced nurses who want to transition into academic or clinical education roles. This 36-credit hour program is available online, offering flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum combines nursing theory, clinical practice, and education principles to prepare graduates to become competent nurse educators.
Students will gain advanced knowledge in curriculum development, instructional design, and assessment strategies tailored for nursing education. The program integrates practical teaching experience through focused practice, empowering students to contribute effectively to nursing education in diverse healthcare settings.
Why pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) at Fort Hays State University?
Fort Hays State University's MSN (Nursing Education) program stands out due to its comprehensive curriculum, flexible online format, and strong emphasis on practical teaching experience. The program is designed to focus on leadership and evidence-based teaching, enabling students to integrate the latest advancements in healthcare and education into their practice. With guidance from experienced faculty and training tailored to individual career goals, students are well-prepared for the dynamic field of nursing education.
Who is this program for?
The Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program at Fort Hays State University is designed for experienced registered nurses who aspire to shape the future of nursing education. Whether you're a practicing nurse seeking leadership roles or a recent BSN graduate eager to specialize in education, this online program offers flexibility and practical experience to suit your career goals.
This program is ideal for:
- Registered nurses with a passion for teaching and mentorship
- Nurses aiming to transition into academic roles or clinical education
- BSN graduates seeking specialization in nursing education
- Practicing nurses looking to advance their careers in healthcare quality and leadership
- Family nurse practitioners and pediatric nurse practitioners interested in education
Learning Outcomes
The online Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) (MSN) program at Fort Hays State University is designed to produce highly skilled nurse educators. By integrating advanced nursing concepts with educational strategies, this program provides a solid foundation for graduates to excel in academic and clinical education settings. Our program prepares students for leadership roles in nursing education. It supports professional development through a comprehensive curriculum. Graduates will be ready to lead, innovate, and improve healthcare quality and health outcomes.
Demonstrate Self-Responsibility for Continuous Professional Learning
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 MSN (Nursing Education) program equips graduates with the skills to excel in various educational roles. Students learn to design and deliver effective nursing curricula, implement innovative teaching strategies, and assess student performance. Graduates can apply these skills in academic settings, healthcare organizations, and continuing education programs.
The practicum experience offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on teaching experience in academic or clinical environments. This practical component enables students to develop teaching portfolios and gain valuable feedback from experienced nurse educators. This ensures they are ready to step into educational roles upon graduation.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program integrates the latest advancements in nursing education, including simulation-based learning, online instructional design, and evidence-based assessment strategies. Students explore emerging trends like interprofessional education, technology-enhanced learning, and competency-based assessment to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field.
Faculty members bring a wealth of real-world experience and scholarly expertise, guiding students in conducting research projects that address contemporary challenges in nursing education. This ensures graduates are prepared for current educational roles and equipped to lead innovative changes in healthcare education.
Hands-on Activities
The program emphasizes experiential learning through its practicum and project-based coursework. Students can tailor their practicum to their career goals, working under the supervision of experienced nurse educators in academic or clinical settings. This hands-on experience helps them build a solid foundation in teaching and assessment practices.
Additionally, students engage in simulation-based learning activities, collaborative projects, and interactive seminars that translate theoretical knowledge into practical skills. The evidence-based practice project allows students to develop, implement, and evaluate an education-related intervention, showcasing their expertise in nursing education.
What You’ll Learn:
- Curriculum development for nursing education
- Innovative teaching strategies for nursing students
- Leadership in academic and clinical settings
- Assessment and evaluation in nursing education
- Advanced clinical skills to enhance teaching
How You’ll Learn:
- Flexible online coursework tailored for working nurses
- Practicum experience guided by expert nurse educators
- Instructional design projects for healthcare settings
- Interactive seminars on assessment and evaluation
- Research-based, evidence-based practice project
The Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program offers a comprehensive foundation in advanced nursing concepts and education strategies. Core courses enhance clinical knowledge and instructional skills while students gain real-world teaching experience through a tailored practicum. Coursework in research supports an evidence-based practice project allowing students to address current challenges in nursing education. This curriculum prepares graduates to be effective and innovative nurse educators. Below are a few of the courses in the Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program:
NURS 866: Teaching Strategies in Nursing
This course presents theories and strategies of learning and teaching while exploring appropriate materials and methods for effective education in both classroom and clinical settings.
NURS 868: Curriculum Planning: Nursing Education
This course analyzes and synthesizes curriculum theory and principles of nursing curriculum development to align with diverse educational programs.
NURS 872: Informatics in Healthcare Systems
This course explores technological methods to improve patient care, including data mining, patient safety, privacy, and security. It examines point-of-care applications to enhance quality care and covers applications for improving student learning and implementing evidence-based practice.
Discover the full Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates of the Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program at Fort Hays State University will find various rewarding career opportunities. With a strong foundation in nursing education principles and advanced clinical skills, you will be well-prepared to shape the future of nursing practice in diverse settings. Whether teaching the next generation of nurses, leading staff development programs, or driving policy changes in healthcare education, this accredited MSN (Nursing Education) program will open doors to fulfilling careers.
Academic Nurse Educator
As an academic nurse educator, you'll teach and mentor nursing students in undergraduate or graduate nursing degree programs. You'll develop a curriculum, design assessments, and provide clinical instruction, helping students become competent registered nurses. Positions are available in universities, colleges, and community colleges.
Clinical Nurse Educator
Clinical nurse educators are responsible for staff development and education in healthcare organizations. They design and implement training programs to enhance staff skills, improve patient outcomes, and promote healthcare quality. Clinical nurse educators work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Staff Development Specialist
Staff development specialists focus on continuous learning and professional development for nursing staff. They organize workshops, seminars, and training programs to update staff on the latest healthcare trends and evidence-based practices. These specialists ensure healthcare teams are equipped to deliver high-quality care.
Nursing Program Director
Nursing program directors oversee the administration of nursing degree programs in educational institutions or healthcare organizations. They manage curriculum development, faculty hiring, budgeting, and accreditation compliance. Their leadership ensures that programs meet national standards and prepare students for professional nursing practice.
Fort Hays State University's online Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program values your dedication to professional nursing practice. It aims to make the admission process straightforward. Below are the critical requirements for prospective students:
- Complete a Fort Hays State University Graduate Student Application
- Submit all official transcripts
- Completed a BSN from an accredited program, either CCNE or NLNAC
- Cumulative minimum GPA of 3.0 is required based on a BSN degree
- Have a current RN license
- Submit 2 letters of reference in the areas of academic ability, current professional competency, or personal character
- Personal Statement: This brief statement (no more than 500 words) addresses your motivation for pursuing your MSN. The statement will be evaluated for proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
- Complete an MSN Clinical Acknowledgement Form
- International Students: This program does not meet the requirements for International students who require on-campus courses.
The Department of Nursing does not accept MSN applications from the following states: Alabama, Tennessee, and Utah
All nursing courses/transcripts from outside the United States require additional evaluation by the Commission of Graduates Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS). A course-by-course evaluation is required to confirm a degree, course credit, and grades, including grade point average.
Clinical Clearance Requirements
The MSN programs at FHSU require preceptor-led clinicals. The clinical practicum for the MSN (Nursing Education) program is associated with NURS 867 in the Fall semester and NURS 869 in the Spring semester. It consists of 135 practicum hours. Please note that clinical clearance requirements include obtaining student liability insurance, a background check, drug testing, and immunization records.
Fort Hays State University works diligently with students to secure clinical contracts across the United States. On rare occasions, we are unable to negotiate a contract due to location, state, or facility requirements. In this event, if another site cannot be obtained at the student's location, the student will be provided with a clinical site in Hays, Kansas. If this occurs, students will need a Kansas license and will need to come to Kansas for their practicum experience. We encourage you to start the collaborative process of obtaining a preceptor early in your program. If you have questions about this process, please contact the Department of Nursing at Nurs.Contracts@fhsu.edu.
Fort Hays State University has received approval from the Kansas State Board of Nursing, the Kansas Board of Regents, and the Higher Learning Commission to offer the MSN program.
The Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program at Fort Hays State University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, (202) 887-6791.
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 $3,047.58* (Online)* per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online undergraduate tuition rate ($338.62/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
Fort Hays State University offers a variety of nursing programs to support your educational journey, whether you're seeking an undergraduate degree, certification, or another advanced degree. Explore these related programs to find the path that best aligns with your professional goals.
Our fully online MSN (Nursing Education) program offers flexibility, high accreditation standards, and personalized practicum experiences to suit your career goals.
The online format allows students to study independently with asynchronous courses and interactive discussions. Virtual office hours, a comprehensive online library, and technical support make learning seamless.
Yes, students take core courses and complete a final evidence-based practice project to address real-world challenges.
Department Information
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.
While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.
- Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students (FHANS): The FHANS is a professional organization that gives pre-nursing and nursing students the chance to get to know their classmates, put leadership theory into practice, learn more about nursing careers, and attend national conferences. Members also do service projects like making Christmas gifts for nursing home residents.
- Nursing Christian Fellowship (NCF): The NCF is a professional organization and a ministry of and for nurses and nursing students. Fort Hays NCF’s goal is to provide Christian-based support for nursing and pre-nursing students. The group meets every other week to learn, share, support, and pray with one another. Members have recently participated in a local service activity by collecting items to donate to Fresenius Dialysis Center.
- Sigma Theta Tau: Sigma Theta Tau is the international honor society of nursing. Students are invited to join the organization based on high academic achievement in their nursing program. Sigma Theta Tau supports knowledge generation in professional nursing practice and also engages in numerous service projects. Nu Zeta, the local chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, regularly participates in fundraising for research in Alzheimer’s and other diseases. They also provide support for continuing education workshops and social events.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs at FHSU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
- Certificate
- Masters
- Online
