School Nurse (Certificate)
About Our School Nurse Certificate
Slippery Rock University’s School Nurse Certification program is designed for registered nurses who hold a BS or BA in any field and are seeking certification to work as school nurses. Graduates are eligible to apply for Level I School Nurse Certification through the Pennsylvania Department of Education. In some cases, other states may recognize the PA certificate as a basis for their own licensure. The program includes a 100-hour practicum with a Certified School Nurse, completed during the final course (NURS 623), providing essential hands-on experience in a school setting.
Why Get a School Nurse Certificate?
- Learn on your terms with fully online courses designed to fit your busy schedule.
- Complete the program at your pace — finish in as few as four semesters or spread out your coursework for added flexibility.
- Apply your skills in the field with a 100-hour practicum at a Pennsylvania school district of your choice (guidelines apply).
- Balance work and certification — if you’re currently employed in a school district, special arrangements can be made based on your employment status.
Career Outcomes
This certificate is the direct pathway for registered nurses to become an integral part of the educational system. Upon completion, you'll be eligible to apply for the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Level I School Nurse Certification, the essential credential for practicing in a school setting. School nurses are vital leaders who manage student health, promote wellness, and serve as a crucial link between the health and education of children, making a profound impact on their school community every day. This certification prepares you for roles such as:
- Certified School Nurse in a public, charter, or private school
- Substitute School Nurse
- Summer Camp Nurse
- Nurse at a residential or boarding school
- School Health Services Coordinator
- Public Health Nurse focusing on school-aged populations
Requirements
What are the admission requirements for this program at SRU? Check out the requirements in the dropdowns of this section!
Program Director / Coordinator
Email graduate.admissions@sru.edu or call 724.738.2051 for information regarding this program’s graduate application deadlines.
Applicants must submit the following materials along with a completed online graduate application and non-refundable application fee:
- A completed BS or BA degree, in any field, from a regionally accredited college or university
- A copy of current, unencumbered licensure as a RN in Pennsylvania
- Transcripts from all undergraduate and prior graduate coursework indicating an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher
Please note: For more information, visit www.sru.edu/graduate. Transfer course evaluation information can be found on our graduate website.
Resources from SRU
From application tips to academic information and support, we provide the guidance and tools you need to start strong and stay on track. Our resources are here to help you make the most of your SRU experience.
