School nurses play a significant role in maintaining student health and supporting academic success. Millersville University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – School Nursing program. This program prepares registered nurses to take on the unique challenges of providing healthcare in educational settings. Graduates of this online program are eligible to pursue the Pennsylvania Department of Education PK-12 School Nurse Certification, positioning them for career advancement in school nursing.
According to an article in The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing (OJIN), school nurses ensure that all children have access to education, regardless of their health status. They provide direct healthcare services, manage chronic conditions and promote overall wellness within the school community.
School Nurse Responsibilities: An Essential Role
School nurses have several crucial responsibilities that contribute to student health and academic success, per the National Association of School Nurses (NASN). They assess and manage student illnesses and injuries, ensuring timely care and appropriate interventions. Administering medications prescribed by healthcare providers is another key duty, helping students with chronic conditions manage their health while attending school.
School nurses also ensure that students have up-to-date vaccinations, complying with state and school health regulations to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. Additionally, they support broader school health initiatives by promoting wellness programs and educating students on healthy behaviors.
Providing mental health support is another essential aspect of their role, as they help identify students struggling with emotional or psychological challenges and connect them with appropriate resources. Lastly, school nurses collect and analyze student health data, which assists schools in making informed decisions about health policies and services to improve student well-being.
How to Become a School Nurse: Education, Experience and Certifications
Becoming a school nurse requires a combination of education, licensure and certification. After earning a nursing degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), students must also successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
The next step is to gain clinical experience in a relevant area, such as pediatrics, public health or community nursing, for valuable preparation. Nurses can then complete a program with a school nursing emphasis, such as Millersville University’s online MSN in School Nursing, which provides specialized education. The final step is obtaining certification. State-specific requirements vary, but Pennsylvania requires the PK-12 School Nurse Certification, which is granted by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Millersville’s program also prepares students for the optional National Certification Exam for School Nurses (NCSN).
How Much Does a School Nurse Make? Salary and Benefits of a Career in School Nursing
According to Indeed, the average annual salary for a school nurse is $68,163 as of May 2025, though earnings vary based on factors such as location, experience and education level. Some school districts offer higher wages in areas with greater demand for healthcare professionals, while others provide additional benefits such as pension plans, paid time off and professional development opportunities. More years of experience or an advanced education, such as an MSN focused on school nursing, can lead to increased salary potential and expanded roles within school health services. For example, SalaryExpert reports that school nurses in senior-level roles earn an average of $91,680 annually as of May 2025.
Beyond salary, a career in school nursing offers many professional and personal rewards. School nurses benefit from regular hours, with summers and holidays off, and often work independently, making critical healthcare decisions within school settings. Their role is deeply impactful, as they help remove health barriers to learning and ensure students receive the care they need. Each day brings new challenges, from managing chronic conditions to responding to medical emergencies, keeping the work engaging. Additionally, school nurses collaborate with educators, parents and healthcare providers to create a healthier school environment, fostering student success in and out of the classroom.
Advancing Skills in School Nursing With an Online MSN Degree From Millersville University
Millersville University’s MSN in School Nursing online program is designed for registered nurses who want to specialize in healthcare within school settings. The flexible online format allows students to complete coursework while balancing professional and personal commitments, making it an accessible option for working nurses. The curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of school nursing, covering advanced nursing practices tailored to educational environments, public health and epidemiology, and strategies for promoting student wellness. Additionally, students learn about legal and ethical considerations that affect school healthcare policies and decision-making.
Graduates of this program are prepared to meet Pennsylvania state certification requirements, enhancing their qualifications for school nursing roles. By gaining specialized knowledge, they can provide needed healthcare services, manage chronic conditions and promote healthy behaviors among students. School nurses are critical in ensuring students remain healthy and ready to learn by addressing physical, mental and emotional health concerns. This program prepares nurses to advance their careers and have a meaningful impact on student well-being, fostering a healthier learning environment and contributing to overall academic success.
Learn more about Millersville University’s online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – School Nursing program.
