Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration)
Hours: 36 Online
The Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration) program at Fort Hays State University is designed for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers by transitioning into leadership and administrative roles in healthcare settings. This program equips students with essential strategic planning, resource management, and leadership skills necessary for effective nursing administration. The degree map outlines courses within this program.
Grounded in evidence-based practices, the curriculum empowers students to navigate complex healthcare systems, develop essential management competencies, and gain a comprehensive understanding of healthcare policy. Delivered in a flexible online format, the program is designed to accommodate working professionals and prepare them to take on administrative positions, leading initiatives that enhance patient care and improve healthcare outcomes.
Students interested in advancing their expertise in teaching and educational leadership may also wish to explore the Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education).
Who is this program for?
This program is designed for registered nurses aspiring to lead and innovate in healthcare administration. Offered in a flexible online format, it supports working professionals seeking to advance their careers in nursing management and administration. The curriculum develops advanced nursing skills, leadership abilities, and strategic planning expertise to prepare graduates as influential nurse leaders across healthcare settings. It suits those interested in health services management, nursing informatics, and quality improvement. The following prospective students will benefit from the program:
- Nurse managers looking to refine their leadership and strategic management skills
- Nurse administrators aspiring to oversee nursing services and departments
- Healthcare professionals seeking to transition into nursing administration programs
- Recent BSN graduates aiming to gain advanced nursing practice skills
- Healthcare leaders striving for innovative solutions in population health
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 $3,264.57* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($362.73/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.
The program's curriculum blends core nursing courses with specialized topics in nursing administration. Core courses build a solid foundation in critical thinking, healthcare systems, and evidence-based decision-making. Specialized courses emphasize the practical skills required for effective leadership and administration in healthcare environments. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are well-equipped for advanced nursing and healthcare management roles. Below are examples of courses offered in the Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration) program:
NURS 861: Complexity in Health Care Organizations
The course provides a foundation for graduate students choosing nursing administration as an advanced practice role by introducing organizational and leadership theories, as well as nurse leadership development in healthcare settings.
NURS 862: Administrative Management in Health Care Organizations
This course equips professional nurse leaders with the essential knowledge of healthcare finance to drive change and improve outcomes in healthcare organizations, focusing on quality improvement, value-based purchasing, and financial strategies in nursing.
NURS 876: Apprenticeship: Nursing Administration
The apprenticeship offers graduate students practical experience in nursing administration, focusing on organizational, personnel, and budget management. Students will complete 90 hours with an MSN-prepared RN in an approved healthcare facility. Site contracts and clinical clearance are required. For more information, contact the Department of Nursing.
Discover the full Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog. A comprehensive written examination is required for the MSN program during the student’s final semester. Fall and spring semesters consist of 16-week courses; summer courses are delivered in an accelerated 8-week format.
Graduates are well-prepared for a variety of advanced leadership roles within healthcare organizations. With specialized expertise in nursing management, strategic planning, and quality improvement, they are equipped to lead initiatives that enhance healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes. Here are some promising career paths:
Nurse Administrator
Nurse administrators manage nursing staff, care delivery, and implement policies to improve patient outcomes. With training in healthcare management, graduates are prepared for senior administrative roles in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations.
Nurse Manager
Nurse managers oversee departments or units, ensuring effective staff management, quality care, and regulatory compliance. They develop staffing plans, mentor staff, and foster a collaborative environment that prioritizes patient safety and satisfaction.
Nurse Executive
Nurse executives hold senior leadership roles, guiding nursing services, shaping policy, and overseeing strategic planning. They collaborate with other executives to align healthcare delivery with organizational goals.
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare consultants advise organizations on operations, management, and quality improvement. With expertise in nursing administration, graduates help optimize care delivery, reduce costs, and improve outcomes.
Clinical Director
Clinical directors lead clinical programs, lead teams, and ensure compliance with healthcare standards. They manage program development and implement quality initiatives to enhance patient care and outcomes.
The Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration) program at Fort Hays State University welcomes dedicated professionals aiming to advance their careers in healthcare leadership. The program values ambition, commitment, and a strong interest in healthcare management. To ensure readiness for the rigorous curriculum, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Complete the Fort Hays State University Graduate Student Application.
- Submit all official academic transcripts.
- Hold a BSN degree from an accredited program, either CCNE or ACEN.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 0 scale based on the BSN degree, or a minimum GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 credit hours of the BSN coursework.
- Possess a current, active RN license.
- Personal Statement: Provide no more than 500 words outlining an applicant’s motivation for pursuing an 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: Mississippi, Utah, and the District of Columbia
All nursing courses and transcripts from institutions outside the United States require additional evaluation by the Commission of Graduates Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS). A detailed course-by-course assessment is required to verify the degree, course credits, grades, and overall grade point average.
Clinical Clearance Requirements
The MSN programs at FHSU require preceptor-led clinical experiences. For the MSN (Nursing Administration) program, the clinical practicum, associated with NURS 876, takes place during the Spring semester and comprises 90 practicum hours. Clinical clearance requirements include obtaining student liability insurance, completing a background check and drug testing, and submitting immunization records.
Fort Hays State University actively assists students in securing clinical contracts across the United States. However, in rare cases where a contract cannot be arranged due to location, state, or facility restrictions, and no alternative site is available locally, students will be assigned a clinical site in Hays, Kansas. In such cases, students must hold a Kansas nursing license and be able to attend their practicum in Kansas. Students are encouraged to begin the preceptor selection process early in their program. They should contact the Department of Nursing for any questions or guidance regarding clinical placements.
Fort Hays State University has received approval to offer the MSN program from the Kansas State Board of Nursing, the Kansas Board of Regents, and the Higher Learning Commission.
The Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration) 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.
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.
Fort Hays State University Department of Nursing does not accept applications for the nursing program from the following states: Mississippi, Utah, and the District of Columbia.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers a variety of nursing programs designed to support students pursuing advanced careers in healthcare management, nursing education, and clinical practice. Each program focuses on developing specialized skills and expertise, from nursing research fundamentals to curriculum design in nursing education. The following is a list of complementary programs:
- Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education)
- Master of Professional Science (Public Health Administration)
- Master of Business Administration (Healthcare Management)
The program offers a flexible online format designed for working professionals. It emphasizes practical, real-world applications and leadership development, and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
The online format offers both convenience and practical learning opportunities. It includes virtual simulations of healthcare scenarios, interactive discussions, and case studies, supported by extensive online resources and expert faculty guidance.
Yes, the program includes specializations in healthcare financial management, quality improvement, and strategic management. These focus areas equip nurses with practical skills to address the real-world challenges of nursing administration.
Graduates qualify for a range of leadership positions, including nurse administrator, nurse executive, healthcare consultant, clinical director, and other advanced roles in healthcare management.
To be admitted into the Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration) program, you need a BSN degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, an unencumbered RN license, and a personal statement.
Information about the Department of Nursing
The Department of Nursing at FHSU offers programs and courses that integrate the latest technology in a student-centered, feedback-driven learning environment. Students benefit from close interaction with highly qualified faculty who bring extensive clinical and nursing experience to the classroom. This supportive and engaging atmosphere ensures that graduates are well-prepared to earn an in-demand degree and pursue a rewarding career in nursing.
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, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, (202) 887-6791.
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