Program Summary
As medical conditions become increasingly complex across our population, nurses will continue to be an integral part of the overall care of patients. However, nurses with the ability to lead and manage people, and who also possess the knowledge of how to improve the business processes in a hospital or health system, will be in high demand.
With the completely online format of the 9-credit graduate certificate, you don't need to put your life on hold to continue your nursing education. This certificate supports the unique needs of working adults, like you, who are juggling full-time jobs, families, and other commitments.
The flexible learning format is combined with a highly relevant, dynamic curriculum taught by respected faculty from Penn State's College of Nursing. The courses will cover important concepts such as health care economics and policy; nurse leadership roles, concepts, and theories; and human resources in health care organizations. As you progress through the courses, you'll gain new skills and knowledge of best practices that you can apply immediately in your current work environment to help improve your health care organization's effectiveness.
And, most importantly, you're never alone as a student in Penn State's online nursing programs. Our online campus connects you with highly regarded faculty from the Penn State College of Nursing, fellow students, caring advisers, and other experts who will support you during every step of your education.
Continue Your Education in Nurse Administration
This certificate is designed as a "stand-alone" certificate or can serve as a "step up" to the Nurse Administrator option in the Master of Science in Nursing degree. When you have successfully completed our nurse administrator certificate program, you may apply the credits toward the master's degree, if granted admission to enter the highly competitive program.
Who Should Apply?
The graduate certificate in nurse administration is ideal for you if you are a currently licensed registered nurse with a bachelor's degree in nursing who wants to obtain advanced administrative skills to prepare for more challenging — and possibly higher-paying — positions. This certificate program can also be beneficial for you if you already have your master's degree, but are looking to specialize in the administration field where your strong background in nursing can make an even bigger difference for a wider range of patients.
Information for Military and Veterans
Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, or application instructions.
Online Education at Penn State
Penn State has a history of 100+ years of distance education and more than a decade of experience in online learning. We create an online learning environment that offers you the same quality education our residential students experience in a face-to-face setting. Learn more about Penn State World Campus.