According to the Kansas State Board of Nursing, about 43,325 RNs are licensed in Kansas, with over 9,000 of them living out of state. This represents a gain of 1600 RNs between 2009 and 2010. A 2011 report by the Kansas Hospital Association suggests that even this rate of growth is not enough. An estimated additional 5,000 nurses are needed in Kansas hospitals by 2016. Taking attrition into account, Kansas will need to increase its RN workforce by 20 percent.
The prestigious Future of Nursing Report issued by the Institute of Medicine and Robert Woods Johnson Foundation recommends that 80 percent of RNs have a BSN degree by 2020. The Kansas State Board of Nursing found that of the 2,344 pre-licensure RN students admitted to nursing programs in Kansas during the academic year 2009-2010, nearly 41 percent were admitted to a BSN program, while 59 percent entered an associate degree program. Kansas offers a variety of options for degree completion for RNs who have earned an ADN.
Schools to Consider
- Pittsburg State University (Pittsburg) The program can be completed in one year of full-time study, although many nurses select the part-time option. Hybrid courses are offered with online and campus study available. A nurse may also elect to attend all classes on campus. The client/family theory and practicum capstone course meets one evening per week on campus.
- Fort Hays State University (Hays). This online program allows students to choose one of three start dates per year and to progress at their own rate. Distance learning includes electronic discussion boards, e-mails, and phone calls. Course offerings include healthcare ethics, healthcare legal aspects, and population-focused care. The program is open to RN students from any state.
- Southwestern College (Wichita). This largely online program also requires individualized practicum projects for community health, culturally competent nursing care, and nursing management. Students may progress at their own speed. An objective of this CCNE accredited program is to educate nurses capable of leadership in an ever-changing healthcare system.
