Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education)
Hours: 36 Online
The Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program at Fort Hays State University is tailored for experienced nurses who wish to transition into academic or clinical education roles. This fully online, 36-credit-hour program offers the flexibility that working professionals need. The curriculum integrates nursing theory, clinical practice, and educational principles to prepare graduates for success as competent nurse educators. The degree map outlines courses within this program.
Students will develop advanced skills in curriculum development, instructional design, and assessment strategies specifically for nursing education. The program also includes hands-on teaching experiences through targeted clinical practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to contribute effectively to nursing education across diverse healthcare settings.
Students may also wish to explore our Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration), which offers a path focused on leadership and management within healthcare organizations.
Who is this program for?
This program serves experienced registered nurses who are passionate about shaping the future of nursing education. Whether they are seasoned professionals pursuing leadership roles or recent BSN graduates seeking to specialize in education, this fully online program offers the flexibility and practical experience necessary to advance their careers. The program is particularly well-suited 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
- Healthcare professionals aiming to become nurse educators in diverse healthcare
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 Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program provides a comprehensive foundation in advanced nursing practice and education strategies. Core courses enhance clinical expertise and teaching proficiency, while a personalized practicum offers hands-on experience in real-world educational settings.
Coursework in research and evidence-based practice supports the development of a capstone project, enabling students to address current challenges in nursing education. This curriculum prepares graduates to become effective and innovative nurse educators, ready to lead in academic and clinical environments.
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 examines technological methods for enhancing patient care, including data mining, patient safety, privacy, and security. It examines point-of-care applications to enhance the quality of care and covers applications for improving student learning and implementing evidence-based practices.
Discover the full Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) 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 will find a wide range of rewarding career opportunities. With a strong foundation in nursing education and advanced clinical skills, they are prepared to shape nursing practice across various settings. Whether teaching, leading staff development, or influencing healthcare education policy, this accredited Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program opens doors to meaningful and impactful careers.
Academic Nurse Educator
Academic nurse educators teach and mentor nursing students in undergraduate and graduate programs. They develop curricula, design assessments, and provide clinical instruction to prepare students for nursing practice. These roles are found in universities, colleges, and community colleges.
Clinical Nurse Educator
Clinical nurse educators lead staff development and training in healthcare settings. They design programs to enhance skills, improve patient outcomes, and enhance care quality, working in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Staff Development Specialist
Staff development specialists organize training and workshops to update nursing staff on the latest healthcare practices, ensuring teams deliver high-quality care.
Nursing Program Director
Nursing program directors manage nursing programs, overseeing curriculum, faculty, budgets, and accreditation to ensure quality education that prepares students for nursing practice.
Fort Hays State University’s Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education) program values the dedication of nursing professionals and aims to streamline the admissions process. The key requirements for prospective students are as follows:
- Complete the Fort Hays State University Graduate Student Application.
- Submit all official academic transcripts.
- Hold a BSN from an accredited program, either CCNE or NLNAC.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 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 Education) program, the clinical practicum is associated with NURS 867 in the Fall semester and NURS 869 in the Spring semester, totaling 135 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 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.
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 range of nursing programs to support students at every stage of their educational journey, from undergraduate degrees to certification and advanced degrees. Students are encouraged to explore these programs to identify the path that best aligns with their professional goals.
- Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration)
- Master of Professional Studies (Public Health Administration)
This program is distinguished by its flexible, fully online format, rigorous accreditation, and customized practicum experiences tailored to individual 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 a seamless experience.
Yes, students take core courses and complete a final evidence-based practice project to address real-world challenges.
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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