What Are the Online Nursing Education Prerequisites in Kansas?

Education nurses that operate in Kansas need both an undergraduate degree (ADN or BSN are both acceptable), a nursing license, and a relevant graduate degree (MSN in nursing education or an MSN with an education option). Doctorate holders are also accepted (PhDs and DNPs are the most common though some states offer EdD which covers nursing).

2025 Best Nurse Education Programs in Kansas

Looking for the best nurse education programs in Kansas? You're in the right place. NurseEducator.com has carefully ranked top programs to help you make an informed decision. Our list highlights schools known for their quality education, experienced faculty, and strong support for students. Whether you're starting your nursing journey or advancing your career, these programs stand out. Trust NurseEducator.com to guide you to the best options in Kansas for your nursing education.

#1

Baker University

Baldwin City, KS - Private 4-year - bakeru.edu

Graduate Certificate - Education Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Baker University's Post-Master's Certificate in Nurse Education is tailored for nurses with a master's degree in nursing, aiming to transition into educational roles within academic or staff development settings. This fully online program emphasizes educational theories, program assessment, and includes a practicum experience to enhance teaching skills. Admission prerequisites include a master's degree in nursing, an unencumbered nursing license, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and completion of a graduate statistics course. The curriculum is designed to prepare nurses for innovative educator roles, focusing on enhancing clinical skills and knowledge. This program is ideal for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in nursing education.

  • Fully online curriculum
  • For master's degree holders
  • Focus on nursing education
  • Includes practicum experience
  • Requires unencumbered nursing license
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 required
  • Graduate statistics course prerequisite
  • Professionally accredited program
  • Curriculum covers educational theories
  • Program assessment course included
  • Designed for academic or staff development
  • Enhances clinical skills and knowledge
  • Prepares for innovative educator roles
  • Admission requires official transcripts
  • International applicants contact associate dean
#2

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Visit Website

Fort Hays State University provides an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in Nursing Education, tailored for RNs aiming to advance their careers as nurse educators. This program stands out for its focus on evidence-based practice, leadership, and healthcare innovation, all delivered through a flexible online format. Admission prerequisites include a BSN degree, an active RN license, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The curriculum is designed to enhance clinical competencies and equip students with the skills necessary to educate the next generation of nursing professionals. Highlights include CCNE accreditation, 135 clinical practicum hours, and a requirement for two letters of reference and a personal statement. Notably, the program is not available in Alabama, Tennessee, and Utah.

  • Online MSN in Nursing Education
  • Fully online program format
  • Requires BSN, RN license
  • Minimum 3.0 BSN GPA
  • 135 clinical practicum hours
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Two clinical semesters
  • Two letters of reference required
  • Personal statement needed
  • Not available in Alabama, Tennessee, Utah
#3

MidAmerica Nazarene University

Olathe, KS - Private 4-year - mnu.edu

Master's - MSN Nursing Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

MidAmerica Nazarene University offers an MSN in Nursing Education, an online program designed for licensed RNs aiming to become healthcare educators or nursing faculty. Spanning 40 credit hours, it can be completed in 12-24 months, offering flexibility for both full-time and part-time students. The program emphasizes curriculum development, learning theories, and clinical simulation techniques. Admission requires a 3.0 graduate GPA and an unencumbered nursing license. Financial aid options like the RISE Opportunity Scholarship are available, making it an accessible choice for advancing in nursing education.

  • Online nursing education program
  • 40 total credit hours
  • 12-24 months completion time
  • Full-time or part-time options
  • Requires 3.0 graduate GPA
  • Unencumbered nursing license needed
  • RISE Opportunity Scholarship available
  • Prepares nurse educators and faculty
  • Personalized faculty advisor assigned

Graduate Certificate - Nursing Education Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Postgraduate Nursing Education Certificate at MidAmerica Nazarene University is tailored for licensed RNs with an MSN, focusing on preparing them for roles as nurse educators in various settings. This online program requires 12 credit hours and can be completed in about 12 months. It covers cutting-edge research and evidence-based practices, equipping students with the skills to mentor future nursing professionals. A 3.0 graduate GPA and an unencumbered RN license are prerequisites. The program is also eligible for the RISE Scholarship, supporting students financially in their educational journey.

  • Postgraduate Nursing Education Certificate
  • Online program format
  • 12 credit hours total
  • Complete in 12 months
  • For licensed RNs with MSN
  • Minimum 3.0 graduate GPA
  • Unencumbered RN license required
  • Eligible for RISE Scholarship
  • Developed for healthcare educators
  • Evidence-based curriculum
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Ottawa University-Ottawa

Ottawa, KS - Private 4-year - ottawa.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Visit Website

Ottawa University-Ottawa offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nurse Educator, designed for RNs aiming to specialize in nursing education. This CCNE-accredited online program provides a flexible learning environment, allowing students to balance their studies with professional commitments. It focuses on advanced health assessment, cultural diversity, and leadership development, preparing graduates for roles in academia and healthcare. The program offers two career tracks and prepares students for national certification exams, enhancing their professional standing. Highlights include a Nurse Educator specialization, flexible on-campus/online learning, and a focus on leadership skills.

  • Nurse Educator specialization available
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Two career track options
  • Flexible on-campus/online learning
  • National certification exam preparation
  • Advanced health assessment focus
  • Cultural diversity exploration
  • Leadership skill development
#5

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu

Master's - Nursing Education

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas's Nursing Education MSN program offers an innovative pathway for nurses aspiring to become influential educators. This meticulously crafted 39-credit specialty empowers students with advanced pedagogical skills, focusing on transformative teaching methodologies in academic and clinical environments. Through comprehensive coursework, learners develop expertise in curriculum design, educational technologies, and instructional strategies. The program uniquely blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on preceptorship experiences, preparing graduates to effectively shape future nursing professionals. Emphasizing practical and scholarly approaches, students gain profound insights into contemporary nursing education challenges and emerging educational trends.

  • Nursing Education specialty
  • 39 total credit hours
  • Prepares academic and clinical educators
  • Application deadlines: April 1, September 1
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • BSN from accredited program
  • Current RN licensure required
  • One year clinical experience recommended
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Multiple teaching-focused courses

Online BSN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

Kansas currently offers two choices of fully online BSN to MSN Nursing with an education pathway. Students will cover teaching strategies, curriculum development, assessment of candidates, apprenticeships, statistics, and treatment and diagnostic skills:

  • A relevant nursing bachelor's degree with a GPA of 3.0
  • Schools may also request to see grades from specific subjects
  • Transcripts as proof
  • Current RN license
  • Application form and fees
  • Two reference letters
  • Complete a personal statement

Online Doctorate Nurse Educator Programs: DNP, Ph.D., or Ed.D.

The admission requirements for entering a doctorate program in nursing education are similar to the requirements for other nursing education programs but you will be required to hold a higher degree (MSN).

There are three doctorate programs for nursing education. The first is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), which is a degree reserved for practicing doctors. There are a few DNP programs available online, including at Washburn University.

The second is a Doctor of Nursing Philosophy (PhD). This degree is typically for those working toward a career in nursing research. The University of Kansas offers a great program for this specific degree.

Some universities in some states offer online Doctor of Education (EdD) for nurse educators. The University of Kansas is one such institution.

Nurse Educator Licensing and Certification in Kansas

To work as a nurse educator in Kansas, you need to prove you have fulfilled a series of formal requirements. This includes a current registered nursing license, even if you do not intend to practice beyond the minimum required number of hours.

Certification is also advised, though not mandatory. There are three types: which you choose depends on your career path:

  • CNE: The first type is for those who work in academic education
  • CNEcl: This second type is for those who work in educating professionals
  • CNEn: This third type is for novices without the prerequisite of three years of experience for the other two types

The certificate has a number of mandatory minimum standards for continued eligibility. This includes but is not limited to practice hours and ongoing personal education like upskilling.

RN licensing in Kansas costs $100 for the application, a $48 background check, and $200 to take the exam. License by endorsement is $75. The CNE cost is always the same no matter which state you're in: it is $400 for NLN members and $500 for non-members.

Who Hires Nurse Educators in Kansas?

Once you've completed your qualifications and licensing, what are your career options?

  • Academia: Research, some practice at university hospitals, and teaching both undergraduate and graduate students
  • Professional development: Working at medical facilities, you will train medical and support professionals with ongoing training or upskilling
  • Private training provider: This will be much the same as professional development, but you'll work for a private provider and train in non-medical issues such as regulation
  • Charities: Any of the above in the charity sector, but also in public outreach and awareness, and lobbying politicians and other decision-makers

List of Nurse Educator Degree Programs in Kansas

Ready to find an online or campus-based nurse educator degree program in Kansas? Explore our listings to find the perfect program that matches your academic goals and career aspirations.

Hays, KS

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
Department of Nursing
600 Park Street
Hays, KS 67601
(785) 628-4256

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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