Online School Nurse Certification Information

School nurses serve an important function by contributing to a healthy environment that promotes student and staff success. They also assume a leadership role through involvement in the development and maintenance of school health programs. Fully-online education is available through a certificate program; however, hybrid bachelor's programs are also available.

Online School Nurse Certificate Program

Online certificate programs may be completed either in conjunction with a bachelor-level degree program or independently. Program prerequisites usually include completion or current enrollment in a bachelor degree program in nursing, a nursing license and 3-5 years of clinical experience. Unlike traditional on-campus programs, students interact with facilitators using basic technology, including e-mail, discussion boards and instant messenger. Some online programs include on-campus components but alternative arrangements can be made for out-of-state students.

Sample Curriculum for a School Nurse Certificate Program

The required number of mandatory program credits is dependent upon state requirements. Coursework explores issues associated with providing healthcare in a school environment. Certificate programs may include the following courses:

• School health educational perspectives
• Nursing issues
• Drug abuse
• Evidence-based practice in public health
• Mental health

Hybrid Bachelor's Degree in Health Sciences - School Nurse

Aspiring school nurses who do not possess the mandatory baccalaureate degree may combine bachelor-level coursework with a school nurse certification program. Successful completion of the program and state certification exam, in conjunction with requisite nursing licensure and professional experience qualifies the student to serve preschool, elementary, middle and high school students. This program includes classes found on-campus and online. Online courses utilize online learning systems and communication tools.

Sample Curriculum for a Bachelor's Degree in Health Sciences

This program combines health science courses with those designed to prepare the student to interact with all ages of school children. A clinical practicum, designed to provide additional hands-on experience, may also be included. Common courses found in the program include:

• Education perspectives
• School nursing theories and trends
• Health assessment
• Nursing informatics
• Issues in nursing practice
• Epidemiology
• Cultural aspects of health