Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Nursing Leadership

Certificate Level: Graduate
Certificate Type: Post-Baccalaureate
Number of Credits to Completion: 9.0
Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) Code: 51.3801
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 25-1072

About the Program

The Post-Baccalaureate Certificate (PBC) in Nursing Leadership prepares nurses to build foundational leadership competencies needed to influence healthcare delivery and support teams across clinical and administrative settings. Designed for nurses seeking leadership development without committing to a full graduate degree, this certificate provides focused coursework from the MSN: Nursing Leadership curriculum.

Students develop essential skills in communication, change leadership, team development, and systems thinking. Coursework emphasizes ethical leadership, evidence-informed decision-making, and strategies that support quality and safety across care environments. Learners engage in applied leadership experiences and reflection activities that strengthen confidence and professional identity as emerging nurse leaders.

Upon completion, graduates are prepared to contribute to organizational initiatives, lead small-scale improvement efforts, facilitate effective team communication, and support a culture of equity, safety, and collaboration in healthcare settings.

This certificate also offers a seamless pathway to continued graduate study. Students who successfully complete the PBC in Nursing Leadership and are admitted to the MSN: Nursing Leadership program may apply all certificate credits toward the MSN degree, accelerating professional advancement and educational progression.

Admission Requirements

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an institution accredited by CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education), ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing), or NLN CNEA (NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation).

3.0 or above on all previous coursework or the last 60.0 credits completed. Applications from RNs with a GPA less than a 3.0 may be considered on an individual basis.

Official transcripts from all previous educational institutions are required.

Two professional references are required from colleagues or supervisors who can attest to the applicant’s knowledge, skill and potential aptitude for graduate study.

Letters of recommendation are waived for students with a 3.0 GPA or higher.

Personal statement (no more than two pages and no less than one page, double-spaced) that will give the admissions committee a better understanding of the following:
Why you are choosing this particular program of study.
Your plans upon completion of the certificate.
How your current work experience will enhance your experience in this program.

Curriculum vitae or resume.

Copy of current United States RN license is required.

Copies of any Advanced Practice Nursing licensure and certification documents.
While specific experience is not required for applicants to the track, previous related work experience may make an applicant more competitive.

International Students:
International applicants must possess a BSN (or its equivalent) and a current United States RN license.
Additional information can be found here.

Degree Requirements