The Best MSN in Nurse Education Programs

As the demand for skilled nurses continues to rise, there is an increasing need for qualified instructors to shape their professional journey. If you are a nursing expert aspiring to transition into an educational role or a student exploring the best program to start your career as a nurse educator, you have come to the right place. Explore the top nurse educator programs listed below, showcasing their unique features, curricula, and accreditation. Additionally, we offer insights into the role, post-graduation salary expectations, and address frequently asked questions about the profession.

Best MSN in Nurse Education

The following academic institutions have been selected based on a survey of our readers regarding online nursing, understanding their priorities, along with graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, pricing, mode, duration, and admission rates of various prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Duke University

Duke University’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program for Nursing Education is designed to prepare students for roles as nursing faculty, clinical instructors, and staff development positions. The program emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment, using technology to bridge educational gaps. The faculty members at Duke University School of Nursing bring practical clinical experience to the classroom.

The program is structured for completion in two years, encompassing core MSN courses, a clinical segment, and specialized nursing education courses. The university also offers specialized services through its Student Success Center, providing academic support, stress management, and other resources to ensure the well-being and success of its students.

Duke University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

2. Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) offers an online, CCNE-accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to MSN program tailored for busy nurses, aiming to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to become effective nurse educators. The curriculum focuses on training the next generation of nurses, influencing patient outcomes, and shaping the future of healthcare. The program emphasizes applying nursing knowledge in teaching, covering curriculum development, learning styles, assessment, and more. Clinical practice experiences are integrated into the program, allowing students to demonstrate advanced nursing practice competence and curriculum development. Additionally, students have the opportunity to earn the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ) HQ Principles certificate alongside their degree.

The program is designed to be flexible, with 62% of students completing it within 24 months. Tuition is billed per six-month term at $4,795, enabling students to potentially reduce costs by expediting their studies. Transfer credits are accepted, with up to 47% of coursework (equivalent to 17 credits) considered transferable.

The nursing programs at WGU are accredited by the CCNE.

What Is a Health Science Degree?

3. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University’s Master of Science in Nursing-Nursing Education track is designed to prepare graduates to work as educators in various patient care settings and higher education institutions. The program consists of a 36-semester credit hour curriculum, with the majority of course instruction delivered online. However, students must visit the Bryan-College Station campus for a limited number of class activities. Specifically, on-campus clinical hours are required to meet the clinical objectives set by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing for any MSN degree.

Graduates of this CCNE-accredited program are eligible to take the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) Examination provided by the National League for Nursing.

4. University of Rochester

The University of Rochester offers a Master’s in Nursing Education program that integrates both the artistic and scientific aspects of nursing and teaching. This program is tailored for experienced nurses looking to transition into teaching roles in academic or clinical settings.

The curriculum is a combination of 37 credits, allowing students to complete the program part-time in as few as five semesters. The course structure is hybrid, with coursework available both in-person and online during the evenings. An additional advantage is that the program includes classes at the Warner School of Education, providing insights from experts in the education field.

Upon completion, graduates of this CCNE-accredited program are well-prepared to take on roles as nurse educators or in patient safety and education, expanding their career prospects without a significant shift in their profession.

5. Villanova University

Villanova University’s Nursing Education track is designed for nurses wanting to integrate their clinical expertise with preparation for teaching nursing practice. The program includes a 46-credit curriculum, designed to prepare nurses for leadership positions as educators in various settings, including baccalaureate and associate degree programs, staff development, continuing education, and community education programs.

The curriculum comprises theoretical courses, advanced clinical, and education practica. The theoretical courses in nursing education can be taken online or on campus. Students can choose a population and clinical interest area for the clinical practicum, such as adult-gerontology, parent-child health, community health, or psychiatric/mental health. Additionally, students can select an academic or clinical setting for the final student teaching practicum.

Villanova University is accredited by the CCNE.

6. Southern Connecticut State University

Southern Connecticut State University offers a Master of Science Degree in Nursing Education, designed to equip graduates with the expertise to apply nursing theory and specialized knowledge in the functional roles of a nurse educator.

Graduates will be adept at synthesizing concepts from nursing, education, and other disciplines to influence professional practice, provide leadership within nursing and healthcare systems, conduct and/or utilize research for the advancement of nursing and nursing education, and pursue continuous professional growth. The program emphasizes evidence-based clinical and classroom teaching suitable for associate, bachelor’s, and master’s level nursing programs. Two tracks are available:

• Accelerated, 16-month program – 37 credits.
• Part-time, 2-3 year program – 37 credits

All applicants must currently hold an RN license in Connecticut, and the program is accredited by the CCNE.

7. Texas Christian University

Texas Christian University’s MSN Nurse Educator program highlights the three pivotal roles of a nurse educator: teacher, scholar, and collaborator. The program enables nurse educators to practice in various settings, including academic institutions, staff development programs, and community initiatives. Students must select a population focus for their studies, with options at TCU including adult gerontology or pediatrics.

Key features include:

– A preference for candidates with at least one year of full-time experience or its equivalent as a registered nurse.
– Acceptance of students from multiple states, including Texas, Virginia, New Jersey, and others.
– The program is offered in an online format with Summer term admission.
– It comprises 34 hours in total, with 29 hours dedicated to didactic learning, two hours for practicum, and three hours for teaching practicum.
– Both two-year and three-year tracks are available.
– Clinical practicum experiences are facilitated with qualified preceptors, preferably close to the student’s residence.

Texas Christian University is accredited by the CCNE.

8. Union University

Union University offers a 16-month graduate nursing education curriculum tailored for professional nurses, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve as educators in diverse settings, including staff development, patient education, and academic institutions.

Key features of the program include:

– The program is provided as an online educational track.
– Both full-time and part-time options are available.
– Admissions occur once per year, with the Fall Semester starting in August.
– Rolling Admissions with three key deadlines: Priority deadline on Oct. 1, Second priority deadline on Dec. 1, and the Final deadline on June 1. The application cycle

commences on Aug. 12.
– Tuition for the 2023-2024 academic year is set at $685 per credit hour, with general student fees amounting to $34/hr.

Union University is accredited by the CCNE.

9. William Carey University

William Carey University’s Master of Science degree in Nursing Education is designed to prepare graduates for faculty roles in nursing education at pre-licensure program levels or for roles in staff development within healthcare settings.

The curriculum is delivered in a 100% online format, with preceptorship performed in the student’s local area in compliance with regulatory requirements. The program can be completed in 6 terms (18 months) on a full-time plan of study or 8 terms (24 months) on a part-time plan. Additionally, there’s a Post-Master’s Nurse Educator Certificate program for candidates with a Master of Science in another nursing area, which is a 9-credit program.

The baccalaureate and master’s degree programs in nursing at William Carey University are accredited by the CCNE.

10. The University of West Florida

The University of West Florida offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a focus on Nursing Education designed to prepare nurses for roles in academic, community, hospital, or agency environments. Students will learn how to leverage their real-world nursing experience to train other nurses in contemporary healthcare best practices.

The curriculum covers topics such as curriculum development using various learning theories, instructional strategies, technology, programmatic assessment, accreditation of nursing education, and nurse educator scholarship. The program also delves into disordered physiology, health assessment in advanced nursing practice, and the process of symptom and sign production in various disease states.

The program can be completed online in as few as 24 months and is accredited by the CCNE.

Nurse Educator Overview

An instructor specializing in nursing, termed a nurse educator, is a highly skilled registered nurse (RN) with advanced practice credentials (APRN) who plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nursing profession. Leveraging their extensive clinical expertise and a dedication to teaching, they guide and educate the upcoming generation of RNs, operating in both academic and clinical environments.

Beyond the realm of teaching, nurse educators actively participate in research, contribute to academic literature, and ensure their knowledge remains current with the latest developments in nursing practice and healthcare trends. Their impact is profound, influencing the knowledge, abilities, and attitudes of future nurses, ensuring they are well-prepared to deliver high-quality patient care.

The Best Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Programs

Roles and Responsibilities of Nurse Educators

While the specific duties of nurse educators can vary based on the employing institution, the level of education provided, and other contextual factors, their general responsibilities encompass:

1. Curriculum Development: Formulate, implement, and assess nursing curricula to align with prevailing standards and demands of the nursing field.
2. Teaching: Deliver instruction to nursing students utilizing diverse teaching approaches, including lectures, laboratories, simulations, and clinical rotations.
3. Mentoring: Offer guidance and assistance to nursing students, aiding them in navigating their academic and early professional journeys.
4. Clinical Supervision: Supervise students during their clinical rotations, ensuring the effective application of theoretical knowledge in practical settings.
5. Research: Engage in scholarly activities such as research, publication of findings, and presentation at conferences.
6. Professional Development: Stay abreast of the latest advancements in nursing education, practice, and research through participation in workshops, conferences, and courses.
7. Evaluation: Assess students’ performance in both theoretical knowledge and clinical skills, providing constructive feedback.
8. Advising: Guide students on academic matters, career opportunities, and professional pathways in nursing.
9. Collaboration: Collaborate with fellow faculty members, healthcare professionals, and administrators to ensure the success and continual improvement of nursing programs.
10. Community Engagement: Participate in community health initiatives, offering expertise and advocating for the nursing profession.
11. Resource Management: Ensure that teaching materials, labs, and resources are up-to-date and accessible for student use.
12. Accreditation and Compliance: Guarantee that the nursing program complies with the standards set by accreditation bodies and regulatory agencies.
13. Advocacy: Advocate for the nursing profession, nursing education, and healthcare policies that benefit both nurses and patients.

Nurse Educator Work Environments

Nurse educators have the opportunity to work in various settings, contingent on their expertise, interests, and the requirements of the nursing field. Below are some prevalent locations:

Educational Institutions:

1. Nursing Schools: Many educators in nursing work in specialized nursing schools, instructing students pursuing different levels of nursing degrees.
2. Colleges and Universities: They can be located in larger universities that offer nursing programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.
3. Community Colleges: Some educators teach in community colleges, particularly those providing associate degree programs in nursing.

Clinical Environments:

1. Hospitals: Nurse educators might be involved in hospitals, delivering continuous education and training to the nursing staff. This includes training on new procedures, refreshers on existing protocols, or orientation for new hires.
2. Long-Term Care Facilities: They may also work in facilities like nursing homes, training and educating staff on geriatric care and other relevant subjects.
3. Clinics and Outpatient Centers: Educators might offer training on specific procedures, patient education techniques, or other relevant topics.

Professional Organizations and Associations:
Nurse educators can be employed by national or regional nursing associations, providing training, creating educational materials, or conducting workshops for members.

Government and Public Health Agencies:
They might work for government entities to develop public health campaigns, offer community education, or train other healthcare professionals.

Research Institutions:
Some educators concentrate on research and might work in research facilities, contributing to studies, clinical trials, and the development of best practices in nursing.

Additional work settings for nurse educators encompass online and distance education platforms, corporate and industry settings, continuing education providers, consulting environments, and more.

Salary Prospects for Nurse Educators

Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) outlines the occupational employment and wages for nursing instructors and teachers in post-secondary institutions, including those involved in research.

According to the BLS, nurse educators earn an average annual wage of $84,180, with variations by industry.

Highest-Paying Nurse Educator Industries:

1. Local Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OEWS Designation): $132,200
2. Offices of Physicians: $126,570
3. Psychiatric and Substance Abuse Hospitals: $100,020
4. Business Schools and Computer and Management Training: $98,040
5. General Medical and Surgical Hospitals: $95,600

Top-Paying States for Nurse Educators:

1. Massachusetts: $106,690
2. Nevada: $105,610
3. California: $104,150
4. District of Columbia: $101,680
5. New York: $100,200

Steps to Become a Nurse Educator

Here are five steps to pursue a career as a nurse educator:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN):

– Enrollment: Start by enrolling in a BSN program, typically a four-year, full-time course, with some institutions offering part-time options.
– Coursework: The BSN curriculum covers foundational nursing competencies, evidence-based practice, and other essential nursing topics.
– Licensure: After completing the BSN program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain nursing licensure.

2. Gain Clinical Experience:

– After obtaining licensure, work as a registered nurse to gain hands-on clinical experience, enhancing understanding of nursing practice.

3. Pursue an MSN:

– Admission Requirements: Most MSN programs require a BSN degree, a specific GPA (often above 3.0), and some years of clinical experience.
– Online Masters: Many universities offer online MSN programs, providing flexibility for working professionals.
– Coursework: MSN programs delve deeper into specialized areas of nursing, including advanced competencies and evidence-based practices tailored for nurse educators.
– Credit Hours: An MSN program typically requires 30 to 50 credit hours, completed in 1-3 years, depending on full-time or part-time study.
– Practicum: Most MSN programs, online or on-campus, include a practicum for hands-on experience in a supervised setting.

4. Obtain Certification and Accreditation:

– After completing the MSN, consider obtaining certification as a nurse educator to enhance credentials and job prospects.
– Ensure MSN program accreditation by recognized bodies, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).

5. Stay Updated and Continue Professional Development:

– As healthcare and nursing education evolve, staying updated with the latest practices, research, and methodologies is vital.
– Engage in continuous learning, attend workshops, and consider further studies or specializations if necessary.

It’s crucial to acknowledge that an individual’s path to becoming a nurse educator may vary based on factors like current education level, location, and more.

Frequently Posed Queries (FAQ)

1. What distinguishes an MSN Nurse Educator from a Nurse Practitioner?
– An MSN Nurse Educator concentrates on instructing and training prospective nurses, whereas a Nurse Practitioner is trained to deliver direct patient care.

2. Is financial support accessible for aspiring nurse educators?
– Numerous nursing institutions provide financial aid, scholarships, and grants for MSN or advanced degree programs.

3. Can I finalize my nurse educator training through online courses?
– Certainly, numerous establishments provide virtual MSN programs for aspiring nurse educators, offering adaptability for employed professionals.

4. Do online learners still participate in practical training?
– Absolutely, even web-based programs typically incorporate a practicum component for hands-on experience in supervised environments.

5. How crucial is hands-on practice prior to assuming a role as a faculty member in nursing?
– Hands-on practice is indispensable, offering genuine insights and expertise to enhance the structure of the curriculum and the relevance of instruction.

6. Does the nurse educator curriculum cover informatics?
– Yes, informatics is frequently integrated into the curriculum to prepare nurse educators for technological advancements in the field of healthcare.

7. Is there a distinction in content and caliber between traditional and online courses?
– The content and quality of traditional and online courses are generally uniform; the primary contrast lies in the mode of delivery, providing flexibility for virtual students.