According to Missouri's Board of Nursing Home Administrators, applicants need a minimum of two years of postsecondary education in a healthcare administration program. (Three years of relevant work experience may substitute.) Applicants must demonstrate the ability to manage a nursing home facility, supervise staff and administer proper care to the residents. Many nursing home administrators pursue degrees in health services administration or other related areas, such as health sciences, public health or business administration. As of 2010, the Commission on Accreditation Healthcare Management Education accredits two programs in Missouri. Both lead to a Master of Health Administration.
Nursing home administrator applicants must pass a national licensing exam administered by the Missouri State board. The exam, called the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards exam (or NAB exam), is computer-based. Applicants who fail the exam three times must complete a board-approved course before reapplying for the exam. Reciprocity may be given to nursing home administrators licensed in other states. However, applicants will need to pass an exam testing knowledge of Missouri regulations and statues related to nursing homes.
Nursing home administrators in Missouri must apply for license renewal every year. Completion of approved continuing education courses is required for license renewal. According to the 2010 Nursing Home Administrator License Renewal form, a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education is required. Ten of those hours must be spent on patient care.