Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration
Hours: 9 Online
About
The Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration at Fort Hays State University is intended for students with a graduate degree in nursing. This certificate provides advanced coursework and clinical experiences to strengthen leadership skills and administrative expertise within healthcare environments. Students develop the skills 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 job responsibilities. The curriculum reflects the latest industry standards, ensuring 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 nationwide. 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 tailored 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
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 created 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 improve 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 strongly emphasizes 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 navigate administrative challenges effectively.
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 certificate’s core curriculum is designed to be comprehensive and practical, covering key areas such as the complexity of healthcare organizations, advanced nursing management, and health policy and advocacy. Through coursework and 90 clinical hours, students gain the theoretical foundation and hands-on experience necessary for effective leadership in nursing administration.
NURS 861: Complexity in Health Care Organizations
The course provides a foundation for the graduate student choosing nursing administration as an advanced practice role by introducing organizational and leadership theories and nursing leadership development in healthcare settings.
NURS 862: Administrative Management in Health Care Organizations
This course equips professional nurse leaders with essential healthcare finance knowledge 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 details, contact the Department of Nursing.
Discover the full Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Students who complete this certificate are well-prepared for a variety of leadership roles within the healthcare field. The advanced knowledge and administrative skills gained through the certificate enable them to pursue career opportunities across diverse healthcare settings. Below are some of the potential career paths for those who complete the certificate:
Nursing Administrator
Nursing administrators lead nursing departments, manage staff, and ensure high-quality patient care. Their responsibilities include strategic planning, budgeting, and implementing policies to improve healthcare efficiency and outcomes.
Healthcare Manager
Healthcare managers oversee the daily operations of healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care centers. They manage budgets, ensure regulatory compliance, and implement policies to improve care quality and efficiency.
Health Policy Advocate
Health policy advocates collaborate with government agencies, non-profits, and healthcare organizations to develop and promote effective health policies. They analyze issues, propose solutions, and advocate for public health and patient care improvements.
To be eligible for the Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration at Fort Hays State University, applicants must satisfy the following requirements:
- Submit a completed Graduate Student Application to Fort Hays State University.
- Submit official transcripts from all previous institutions attended.
- Hold an MSN or DNP degree from an accredited program recognized by CCNE or ACEN.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 based on the BSN degree.
- Professional Experience: Students are encouraged to possess relevant nursing experience to enhance their understanding of advanced program concepts.
- Submit two letters of reference addressing academic ability, current professional competency, or personal character.
- 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 certificate does not meet the requirements for international students who require on-campus coursework.
The Department of Nursing does not accept MSN applications from the following states: Alabama, Tennessee, and Utah
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 is associated with NURS 876 and takes place during the Spring semester, comprising 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 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
Applicants must hold an MSN or DNP degree. They must also submit a personal statement detailing their career goals and letters of recommendation.
The online certificate is designed to offer maximum flexibility for working professionals, allowing students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. Coursework can be completed at your own pace within the given deadlines, provided assignments are submitted within established deadlines.
The certificate includes 90 clinical hours working alongside a nursing administrator, offering practical, hands-on experience in a real-world healthcare setting. This clinical component is designed to enhance your administrative and leadership skills.
The curriculum integrates the latest advancements in healthcare management, including digital health technologies and innovative leadership strategies, ensuring you acquire current best practices in nursing administration.
Fort Hays State University offers comprehensive career support services, including resume reviews, job placement assistance, and networking opportunities with healthcare professionals and alums.
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.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students (FHANS): The FHANS is a professional organization that provides both pre-nursing and nursing students with opportunities to build connections with classmates, apply leadership skills, and explore various nursing career paths. Members can also attend national conferences and participate in meaningful service projects, such as creating Christmas gifts for nursing home residents.
- Nursing Christian Fellowship (NCF): The NCF is both a professional organization and a ministry dedicated to supporting nurses and nursing students. Fort Hays State University’s NCF chapter aims to provide Christian-based encouragement and community for nursing and pre-nursing students. The group meets biweekly to learn, share, support, and pray together. Members also engage in local service projects, such as collecting and donating items to the Fresenius Dialysis Center.
- Sigma Theta Tau: Sigma Theta Tau is the international honor society of nursing, recognizing students for high academic achievement within their nursing programs. The organization is dedicated to advancing knowledge and excellence in professional nursing practice and actively engages in a variety of service initiatives. Nu Zeta, the local chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, regularly participates in fundraising efforts to support research on Alzheimer’s disease and other health conditions. The chapter also contributes to continuing education by supporting workshops and organizing social events that foster professional growth and community among nursing students.
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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