Wichita State University and Others Propose Major Curriculum Changes for Nursing Programs

The Kansas Board of Nursing convened on June 11, 2025, to discuss significant curriculum changes proposed by various nursing programs across the state, aiming to enhance educational standards and better prepare students for the healthcare workforce.

One of the key proposals came from Wichita State University, which sought to align its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Associate Degree in Nursing (ADSN) programs with new educational essentials set forth by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The changes will allow for an increase in enrollment capacity from 64 to 80 students per semester, starting in 2026. This adjustment is expected to address the growing demand for nursing professionals in Kansas.

The University of Saint Mary also presented curriculum modifications for its graduate nursing programs. The changes involve separating didactic and clinical courses to enhance learning outcomes and improve grading processes. This restructuring aims to provide clearer pathways for students pursuing family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certifications.

Butler Community College and Manhattan Technical College proposed changes to their nursing programs as well. Butler seeks to offer IV therapy certification to students earlier in their training, while Manhattan aims to shift its clinical courses from a pass/fail system to a graded format, aligning them with didactic courses to better reflect student performance.

The University of Kansas introduced a flexible delivery method for its evidence-based practice course, allowing for in-person, online, or hybrid formats. This change is designed to optimize student learning amid faculty and space constraints.

Fort Scott Community College presented a comprehensive overhaul of its nursing curriculum, addressing high attrition rates and the need for a stronger foundation in medical-surgical nursing. The revised curriculum will distribute medical-surgical content across multiple semesters, enhancing student retention and success rates.

The meeting concluded with unanimous support for the proposed changes, reflecting a collective commitment to improving nursing education in Kansas. These curriculum updates are expected to better equip future nurses with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare sector. As these programs implement their changes, the Board of Nursing will continue to monitor their progress and impact on student outcomes.