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).

2026 Best Nurse Educator Programs in Kansas

NurseEducator.com is proud to present the definitive guide to the best nurse educator programs across Kansas. Our comprehensive rankings highlight top-tier institutions that are preparing the next generation of nursing instructors with cutting-edge curriculum and exceptional faculty. These programs stand out for their rigorous academic standards, innovative teaching approaches, and commitment to developing skilled nurse educators who will shape healthcare training. From accelerated master's tracks to doctoral programs, Kansas offers remarkable opportunities for nurses looking to transition into educational roles. Our expert team has meticulously evaluated each program based on factors like student outcomes, faculty credentials, clinical partnerships, and research opportunities to provide aspiring nurse educators with the most reliable and current information available. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

University of Kansas

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

Master's - Nursing Education

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas MSN Nursing Education program offers a dynamic 39-credit pathway for aspiring nurse educators. Meticulously designed to cultivate advanced teaching skills, the curriculum integrates sophisticated instructional methodologies with hands-on preceptorship experiences. Students develop expertise in curriculum design, learning technologies, and pedagogical strategies tailored for academic and clinical environments. Emphasizing comprehensive preparation, the program requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, current RN licensure, and recommends one year of clinical experience. CCNE-accredited and strategically structured, graduates emerge as innovative educators ready to transform nursing education and healthcare training landscapes.

  • 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
#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's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator concentration offers a transformative pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced educational expertise. Tailored for working professionals, this CCNE-accredited program demands a BSN, active RN license, and minimum 3.0 GPA. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum emphasizing evidence-based pedagogical practices, leadership development, and healthcare innovation. The program uniquely integrates 135 clinical practicum hours across two semesters, enabling nurses to cultivate sophisticated teaching strategies and clinical competencies. Prospective students must submit two professional references and a compelling personal statement, positioning themselves as future nursing education leaders.

  • 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's MSN in Nursing Education delivers a comprehensive online program tailored for aspiring nurse educators. Spanning 40 credit hours with flexible 12-24 month completion options, the curriculum emphasizes advanced pedagogical skills including curriculum development and clinical simulation techniques. Designed for licensed RNs seeking faculty roles, the program requires a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA and an unencumbered nursing license. Students benefit from personalized faculty advising and potential financial support through the RISE Opportunity Scholarship. The fully online format accommodates both full-time and part-time students, making advanced nursing education accessible and convenient.

  • 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

MidAmerica Nazarene University's Postgraduate Nursing Education Certificate provides a strategic pathway for MSN-prepared RNs transitioning into educational roles. This concise 12-credit online program enables healthcare professionals to rapidly develop advanced instructional competencies. Focused on evidence-based practices and contemporary teaching methodologies, the certificate prepares nurses to effectively educate future healthcare professionals. Completion occurs within approximately 12 months, with minimal admission barriers including an unencumbered RN license and 3.0 graduate GPA. The program's flexible online format ensures working professionals can enhance their pedagogical expertise without disrupting current employment.

  • 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

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 provides a specialized pathway for advanced nursing professionals seeking to transition into educational roles. Tailored exclusively for nurses with existing master's degrees, this fully online program prepares educators for academic and staff development environments. The comprehensive curriculum integrates sophisticated educational theories, advanced program assessment techniques, and hands-on practicum experiences. Rigorous admission standards include maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA, possessing an unencumbered nursing license, and completing a graduate-level statistics course. Designed for working professionals, the program offers flexibility while ensuring in-depth preparation for innovative nursing education careers across various healthcare settings.

  • 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
#5

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's Master of Science in Nursing offers a specialized Nurse Educator concentration that equips registered nurses with advanced pedagogical skills and comprehensive healthcare knowledge. The program's unique design emphasizes critical thinking, cultural diversity understanding, and leadership development, preparing graduates to excel in academic and clinical teaching environments. Leveraging CCNE accreditation and flexible online learning, students benefit from in-depth health assessment training and national certification exam preparation. The program distinguishes itself by providing two distinct career track options, allowing nurses to customize their educational journey while gaining advanced professional credentials.

  • 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
*Source: IPEDS 2023 postsecondary education data, NCES.

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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