nursing post-graduate

Nursing

Post-Graduate Certificate

Online Program

Next Start Dates
October 02, 2023
January 02, 2024

6 months estimated time to completion with full-time study1

Under $5,000 estimated total program cost2

Online courses add flexibility for working nurses

Your Path to Post-Graduate Certificate Education

Lead the way for improved patient care and nurse collaboration with a Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate. Nurses are now able to expand their skills without being required to complete an additional degree. That means Master of Science (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree holders can focus on the courses in their desired specialization.

Program Details:
A combination of online courses and local clinicals provide the advanced experience critical in today’s nursing environment. Our online courses are not only flexible, but are also designed with Empowered Learning, allowing you to:

  • Manage your own pace with no weekly deadlines
  • Learn through real-world projects
  • Stay connected with faculty and peers

Springboard from your current MSN or DNP degree to a Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate that fits your goals.

Currently, this program is not eligible for participation in Title IV federal student aid programs. This program is not available in all states.

Request More Information


CHOOSE YOUR SPECIALIZATION

Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates

You can help shape the future of nursing with your choice of specialization. Your clinicals allow you to dive right into your new specialty, often with field experience in your current workplace or community.

  • Nursing Leadership and Administration

    You Bring

    • An interest in leadership and the business side of nursing
    • A passion for clinical excellence, innovative nursing practices and improved patient care
    • Readiness to impact management and policy discussions

    You'll Study

    • Nursing leadership
    • Administration and interdisciplinary collaboration
    • Human resources/performance management
    • Finances

    Career Paths

    • Chief nursing officer
    • Director of nursing
    • Nurse manager
    • Nurse administrator
    • Nurse executive
    • Nurse compliance inspector
    • Case manager
    Specialization Courses
    • Advanced Nursing Leadership // NGR 6801
      • Focus on the abilities, strategies and decision-making skills that guide advanced nursing leadership.
    • Meaningful Communication and Collaboration // NGR 6250
      • Emphasize the importance of effective communication and building relationships to help facilitate leadership.
    • The Business Side of Nursing // NGR 6100
      • Provide the tools to evaluate healthcare economics as an essential part of nursing leadership development.
    • Leadership and Management in Advanced Nursing Practice // NGR 6117
      • Utilize newly-developed leadership knowledge and skills at an advanced nursing practice level in an indirect-care practicum.
  • Nursing Education

    You Bring

    • A passion to train and educate current and future nurses for a role in hospital or academic settings
    • A desire to assist in the career growth of current and future nurses, and help address nursing shortages

    You'll Study

    • Nursing leadership within an educational setting
    • How to build pathways to create transformational learning
    • Effective curriculum design
    • Creative teaching strategies

    Career Paths

    • Director of education
    • Nursing faculty
    • Academic leadership
    • Staff development leader in healthcare organizations
    Specialization Courses
    • The Role of the Nurse Educator // NGR 6701
      • Learn the essential foundations of the nurse educator role and how to foster a positive learning environment.
    • Curriculum Design and Program Evaluation // NGR 6300
      • Analyze how to build a successful curriculum, evaluate programs, and align with evidence-based nursing education strategies and national guidelines.
    • Nursing Education in the Classroom // NGR 6050
      • Implement strategies to improve levels of achievement, with a practicum focusing on the role of the nurse educator and applying creative teaching strategies.
    • Nursing Education in the Clinical Setting // NGR 6150
      • Focus on the role of a clinical nurse educator, with a practicum centered on teaching strategies in a clinical environment.
  • Healthcare Technology, Simulation and Informatics

    You Bring

    • A passion to transform healthcare through innovation
    • A desire to improve quality care via better preparation
    • A belief that data, simulation and technology innovation can grow nursing best practices and patient interactions

    You'll Study

    • The use of simulation in healthcare and nursing education
    • Evolving opportunities in nursing informatics, where data and technology are leveraged to drive desired outcomes
    • The latest and emerging healthcare-advancing technologies

    Career Paths

    • Chief nursing informatics officer
    • Director of clinical Informatics
    • Clinical analyst
    • Nursing/clinical informatics specialist
    • Clinical educator
    • Simulation education specialist
    • Simulation coordinator or technologist
    • Director of innovation
    • Innovation specialist
    Specialization Courses
    • Healthcare Technology // NGR 6820
      • Examine the use of current health technology and consider the direction of future innovation.
    • Simulation in Healthcare // NGR 6716
      • Review best practices for simulation-based education (SBE), with the opportunity to design components of simulation experiences and operations.
    • Informatics in Advanced Nursing Practice // NGR 6870
      • Learn the foundations of nursing informatics, including standards of professional practice and use of evidence and theories specific to informatics.
    • Integrating Technology // NGR 6840
      • Show your skills in an indirect-care practicum experience. Take part in analyzing internal and external evidence, and provide solutions to real problems.
Josh Hamilton

"Pursuing a specialization provides an excellent opportunity for nurses to pause and ask: What is it about the job that I love, and what are the challenges? Would a shift in focus lead to my long-term success and satisfaction?"

Dr. Josh Hamilton, RN/PMH-BC, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, CTMH, CNE, FAANP
Assistant Vice President & Dean, Post-Licensure Nursing Programs

Built for Working Nurses

You can continue working while you earn your Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate. Check in on your smartphone and complete tasks on your tablet or laptop. With four start dates per year, you can start when it works for you.

Learning on Your Schedule

Online Empowered Learning courses allow you to learn by doing and manage your pace. Go faster when you can, and slower when you need to with no weekly deadlines.

Support at Every Turn

From 24/7 tech support, experienced faculty, graduate services advisors and career services to library and learning services with over 400,000 ebooks and electronic reference materials, we’re dedicated to a robust learning community.

Take the Next Step—Talk to Us!

There are some errors in the form. Please correct the errors and submit again.

Request More Information

Talk with an admissions advisor today.

Fill out the form to receive information about:

  • Program Details and Applying for Classes
  • Financial Aid and FAFSA (for those who qualify)
  • Customized Support Services
  • Detailed Program Plans

Step 1 of 3

What's Your Name?

Step 2 of 3

Contact Information

Step 3 of 3

Program Preferences
Do you have potential transfer credits?

By clicking "Submit," I authorize Rasmussen University to contact me by email, phone or text message at the number provided. There is no obligation to enroll.


This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Your Nursing Career Path

With the many Nursing programs at Rasmussen University, you can easily move from one level to the next, saving you time and money. In order to enroll for your Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate, you’ll need your MSN or DNP degree. If you don’t have one yet, let us help you get started.

  • Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate

    Next step if:

    You want to pursue a new area of interest, increase your mobility between specialties and take your next step as a nursing leader.

    Choose the specialization that best aligns with your interests and career goals:

    • Nursing Leadership and Administration
    • Nursing Education
    • Healthcare Technology, Simulation and Informatics

    Finish in as few as:

    6 months1

    Career Path Examples:

    Nursing Instructors and Teachers3

    • $41,930 (10th Percentile)
    • $57,660 (25th Percentile)
    • $75,470 (50th Percentile)

    Other Sample Job Titles:

    • Director of Nursing
    • Director of Education
    • Clinical Nursing Informatics Officer
    • Chief Nursing Officer

Affordable Education

Tuition & Savings

Do the Math:

We are committed to providing affordable tuition. Let’s break down the numbers so that you can see that your goals are achievable. With four start dates per year and a total of four courses, full-time students can finish their Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate in as few as six months1 for as low as $5,000.2

$260 cost per credit
x 16 total credits
_______________________
$4,160 total tuition
+ $820 total fees
_______________________
$4,980 estimated total program cost

Explore Our Tuition Estimator Tool

Other Ways to Save

Higher education should be a manageable investment. Talk to an admissions advisor and learn how our online Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates can be more affordable. Military grants are available for those who quality. Your employer may also provide tuition support or reimbursement to help you fund your education.

Request More Information

Entrance Requirements

Students must hold an MSN or DNP from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university with a cumulative 3.0 GPA or higher, possess a current unencumbered RN license that is valid in the United States and provide two professional letters of reference. This program is not available to residents of all states. Please speak with an admissions advisor to determine your eligibility for enrollment. A cleared background check will be required for participation at practicum sites.

Talk to an Admissions Advisor

What Should I Know Before I Enroll?

Help Paying for College

You’re not alone figuring out how to pay for college. Our admissions advisors can help you find ways to save through scholarships and more.

Support at Every Turn

You’ll find the support you need to grow as a nurse from mentors and faculty in this program. Our library services, academic support and career planning teams are ready to help.

Dedicated Career Services

Job-search strategies, resume building, interview practice and employer networking—online and available anytime.

Where Can I Find a Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate Near Me?

Our Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates are offered to residents in many states, but not all. Request more information to see if this program is available in your state.

  • Online
  • Florida
  • Kansas
  • Minnesota
  • North Dakota
  • Wisconsin

You've Got Questions, We've Got Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is a Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate right for me?

    These Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates, also known as Post-Master’s Nursing Certificates, were made for registered nurses who have their MSN or DNP. You can expand your education, pursue a leadership role or gain skills in critical areas of need. With this program, you complete the courses and practicums for your new specialization without having to enroll in an MSN or DNP program.

  • Do I have to pursue a specialization for my Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate?

    Yes, the program is designed for those who seek another specialization. We offer these Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates:

    • Nursing Leadership and Administration
    • Nursing Education
    • Healthcare Technology, Simulation and Informatics
  • How do practicums work in an online Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate program?

    Your practicum experiences are personalized for you—they’re in your community and possibly at your own organization. Under the supervision of a Master’s or Doctoral degree-prepared nurse preceptor, you’ll apply newly-acquired advanced skills and enhance your nursing network. If needed, we can help you identify your practicum experience locations.

  • My life is super busy. Do I have time to work AND earn a Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate?

    The Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates, also known as Post-Master’s Nursing Certificates, are built for working professionals like you. You're only taking the specialization courses—not the entire degree.

    The Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates, also known as Post-Master’s Nursing Certificates, are built for working professionals like you. You're only taking the specialization courses—not the entire degree.

  • How will an online Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate expand my professional network?

    As you earn your Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate, you can build meaningful relationships through community and peer-to-peer mentorships. Connect with faculty and nursing students not only in your specific field, but also in other specializations. As you practice on site, you’ll work alongside other nurses who can share what it takes to succeed in their roles.

  • Where are the Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates offered?

    Our Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates, also known as Post-Master’s Nursing Certificates, are online with practicum experiences in your own community. This program is not available to residents of all states. Please speak with an admissions advisor to determine your eligibility for enrollment.

Don't See Your Question Here?

Our dedicated team of admissions advisors can help you answer questions related to tuition, financial aid, admissions and more.

Request More Information

Call: 877-308-9946

Accreditation

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Rasmussen University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

The post-graduate APRN certificate program at Rasmussen University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Logo: CCNE accreditationCommission on Collegiate Nursing Education
655 K Street, NW
Suite 750
Washington, DC 20001
202-887-6791

logo-accreditation-acen logo-accreditation-ccne chart-credential-laddering-associates-bachelors-masters 0 Credits 90 Credits 180 Credits 48 Credits Start Here HIGH SCHOOL GRADS Start Here TRANSFER STUDENTS Start Here SECOND DEGREE PURSUERS End Here ASSOCIATE'S DEGREE Start Here MASTER'S DEGREE PURSUERS End Here BACHELOR'S DEGREE End Here MASTER'S DEGREE chart-credential-laddering-associates-bachelors 0 Credits Start Here HIGH SCHOOL GRADS Start Here TRANSFER STUDENTS 90 Credits Start Here SECOND DEGREE PURSUERS End Here ASSOCIATE'S DEGREE 180 Credits End Here BACHELOR'S DEGREE chart-credential-laddering-msn chart-credential-laddering-nursing-programs chart-credential-laddering-post-grad-np chart-credential-laddering-nursing DNP MSN RN to BSN LPN to RN Bridge Accelerated BSN Professional Nursing ADN Practical Nursing Diploma Pre-Licensure Post-Licensure icon-colored-outline-bank icon-colored-outline-certificate icon-colored-outline-circle-dollar-sign icon-colored-outline-folder-search icon-colored-outline-hand-heart icon-colored-outline-head-blocks icon-colored-outline-head-cog icon-colored-outline-head-heart icon-colored-outline-health-plus-leaves icon-colored-outline-hospital icon-colored-outline-lifelong-learning icon-colored-outline-light-bulb-analytics icon-colored-outline-location-pin icon-colored-outline-magnifying-glass icon-colored-outline-monitor-healthcare icon-colored-outline-monitor-paper-search icon-colored-outline-nurse-rays icon-colored-outline-padlock-shield icon-colored-outline-person-presenter-screen icon-colored-outline-scales ras-logo-flame ras-logo-horizontal ras-logo-stacked icon-colored-advance icon-colored-arrows-cross-curve icon-colored-briefcase-star icon-colored-build icon-colored-bulb-analytics icon-colored-certificate icon-colored-continual-development icon-colored-duo-chatbox icon-colored-folder-mortarboard icon-colored-forward-ribbon icon-colored-gears-clock icon-colored-globe-pen icon-colored-growth icon-colored-hand-bubble icon-colored-hand-stars icon-colored-hands-gear icon-colored-head-blocks icon-colored-head-cog icon-colored-health-plus-leaves icon-colored-hospital-building icon-colored-laptop-cbe-skyscraper icon-colored-laptop-checkmark icon-colored-laptop-webpage icon-colored-location-map icon-colored-location-pin icon-colored-monitor-paper-scan icon-colored-mortarboard-dollar icon-colored-national icon-colored-people-chat-bubbles icon-colored-person-cheer-star icon-colored-person-laptop-checkboxes icon-colored-person-screen-instructor icon-colored-person-whiteboard icon-colored-phone-chatbox icon-colored-police-light icon-colored-prep icon-colored-presenter icon-colored-regional icon-colored-save-time icon-colored-shirt-hat icon-colored-skyscraper icon-colored-state icon-colored-student-centered icon-colored-support icon-colored-world-experience icon-triangle-arrow-up-plant icon-triangle-calendar-pencil icon-triangle-clock-rotating-arrows icon-triangle-display-gears icon-triangle-hand-right-speech-bubble icon-triangle-laptop-coding-brackets icon-triangle-mortarboard icon-triangle-paper-ribbon icon-triangle-person-cheer-star icon-triangle-person-juggle icon-triangle-triple-people-chat-bubble icon-modality-campus icon-modality-field icon-modality-online icon-modality-residential icon-arrow icon-bank icon-camera icon-filter icon-general-chart icon-general-connect icon-general-degree icon-general-discuss icon-general-email icon-general-find icon-general-hat icon-general-heart icon-general-laptop-building icon-general-laptop icon-general-leader icon-general-map icon-general-money icon-general-paperwork icon-general-people icon-general-phone icon-general-speak-out icon-head-heart icon-info-circle icon-mail-forward icon-mglass icon-play-solid icon-quote-mark-left icon-quote-mark-right icon-scales icon-share-square-o icon-simple-chat icon-simple-desktop icon-simple-find icon-simple-hamburger icon-simple-phone icon-spinner icon-tag icon-testimonial-quotes icon-util-checkbox-white icon-util-checkbox icon-util-checked-white icon-util-checked icon-util-chevron-down icon-util-chevron-left icon-util-chevron-right icon-util-chevron-up icon-util-circle-arrow-down icon-util-circle-dot icon-util-language-switch icon-util-loading icon-util-open-window-link icon-util-pdf-link icon-util-refresh icon-util-x rebrand-arrows