Do distance learning and non-traditional programs qualify for licensure in Kansas?
A. The Kansas State Board of Nursing has received numerous inquiries lately regarding “distance learning” and non-traditional programs that do not include a clinical component in the curriculum. The statutes and regulations establish that: (1) Applicants for licensure must have graduated from an approved school of nursing (KSA 65-1115 [a] [2] and KSA 65-1116 [a] [3]); (2) To be approved, a nursing program must provide clinical experience (KAR 60-2-104 [c] & [d]); (3) Furthermore, the faculty in each nursing program must “direct clinical instruction as an integral part of the program” (KAR 60-2-104 [a] [3]); (4) The clinical component of the program must entail “an active process in which the student participates in nursing activities while being guided by a member of the faculty” (KAR 60-1-104 [e]); and (5) An out-of-state school must maintain standards at least equal to in-state schools approved by the board in order for the board to consider graduates from that school qualified for l
