School Nurse Services Credential
The School Nurse Services Credential Program provides basic preparation for the professional role in school nursing. The program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing and leads to the Professional Clear School Nurse Services Credential.
The program of study consists of a minimum of 27 units. It is divided into Phase I (9 units) and the Phase II Cohort (18 units). Some of the Phase I courses are offered online or on campus through CSU Fresno, or they may be taken through other universities with the approval of the School Nurse Services Credential Program Coordinator.
The Phase II Cohort, which includes the core school nurse courses, is a 12 month program beginning in the summer session, and continuing through the following spring semester. The Phase II Cohort courses are delivered through Continuing and Global Education. Prior to the start of the Phase II Cohort clinical courses, students will attend a mandatory orientation on the CSU Fresno campus. This orientation is typically held in the middle of August in preparation for the final four classes. The practicum course requirements will be explained at that time. With the exception of the orientation, the final four classes are entirely online. To enroll in this program, students must be computer literate and have access to the Internet. Students are responsible for finding a qualified preceptor for the practicum experience in their geographical area.
School Nurse Services Credential Program of Study
School Nurse Services Credential Program Course Descriptions
APPLICATION and DEADLINES
Complete a hard copy of the School Nurse Services Credential Program application (see below). There is no fee for this application. This application must be completed before taking Phase I course. The deadline is December 1st prior to entering the Phase II Cohort.
School Nurse Services Credential Application
Request official transcripts from all post-baccalaureate schools. The transcripts should reflect a Baccalaureate degree in Nursing (See exception below for a two year RN degree *) from a CCNE or NLN accredited school with a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 in the last 60 units and a 3.0 in nursing.
*A two year associate degree registered nurse with a baccalaureate degree in another field of study may apply as long as the student takes public health nursing content from a an accredited California university. CSU Fresno offers this coursework during the summer online. Students will work with a qualified public health preceptor in their own geographical area.
- Submit three Applicant Recommendation Forms from employers and/or nursing instructors.
- Write a one page double spaced essay describing your reasons for pursuing a School Nurse Services Credential. Please sign and date.
Submit copies of the following documents:
- Current California Registered Nurse License
- California Public Health Nurse Certificate
- School Audiometrist Certificate
- California Preliminary Health Services Credential. This may be obtained through your County Office of Education. It must be in place prior to the Phase II Cohort. Apply at least one semester in advance
Mail or Fax signed application and copies of the above materials to:
Coordinator, School Nurse Services Credential Program
Central California Center for Excellence in Nursing
1625 East Shaw Avenue #146
Fresno, CA 93710
Fax: 228-2168
PROGRAM ACCEPTANCE
Acceptance to Phase I
It is the student’s responsibility to see that all documents are submitted in a timely manner, and to inform the coordinator of current status with regard to Phase I courses and completion dates. If students have questions regarding previous coursework which may be equivalent, they may be asked to send transcripts, catalog descriptions, or syllabi.
Acceptance to Phase II Cohort
At the time students are finishing Phase I of the program, they will be asked to sign a Phase II Cohort Acceptance/Survey Form. The purpose of this acceptance form is as follows:
- Expedite the transition to the Phase II Cohort
- Outline expectations for the Phase II Cohort
- Update current status with regard to Phase I courses
School Nurse Services Coordinators
