Educator credentials BSN vs MN

SoxfanRN · Mar 13, 2007

Generally, ADN schools in CT will not hire a BSN educator unless they are enrolled in an MSN program. BSN/Grad programs look for PhD prepared RNs but will hire an MSN in a non-tenure/adjunct faculty position.

I am in a MSN program, and frankly, my new knowledge has made all the difference. BSN programs do not get even close to teaching the role of educator, curriculum design, teaching and learning theory, or evaluation skills. In fact, there is beginning to be a big push for educators with the CNE certification over an APRN due to the advanced education curriculum.

caliotter3 · Mar 13, 2007

To the best of my knowledge there were no instructors in my BSN program many years ago below the level of MSN/MN. I would concur that BSN prepared nurses with appropriate experience could be used as proctors in clinical labs or as assistants in other capacities. There was friction in my program, but it was of the nature of internal "politics". There was a tale about how the head of the department changed. Occasionally talk got down to the student level. To the extent that this happened and when it affected students, I believe it was unprofessional.

There was some bad, unfair treatment of students by particular instructors. I never believed that we were advised as to our rights to redress of grievances in this matter. A specific example: clinical instructor is out of town for entire term, having left instructions to the clinical in-house nurse preceptors about who was to pass and who was to fail. I don't think that any students suffering because of this arrangement could have had a more clear case of unfair treatment. The instructor who does this on a regular basis is a MSN prepared, part time clinical instructor. Based on observable behavior, she has no business teaching.

Tweety, BSN, RN · Mar 13, 2007

Here BSNs are only allowed to teach clinical groups, not in the classroom, in both the ADN and BSN programs. I can't address of any friction between the BSNs and MSNs/PhDs. I think a good BSN nurse with lots of floor experience makes a good clinical group educator.

disclaimer: I'm not an educator, just an observor and one who is looking to become an educator. So I've checked the qualifications.

KatrinaRN · Mar 13, 2007

I have a BSN and currently teach A & P I/II to PN students at a community college which only requires a BSN and I teach Med/Surg clinicals and will be teaching the theory and clinical portion this summer at another community college. This particular school requires that you have a BSN to be a clinical instructor and be working on an MSN to teach theory.

It is my humble opinion that instructors should have an MSN to teach theory and a BSN to teach clinicals. It wasn't long before I realized I was in over my head. Without formal training as an educator, I was at a huge disadvantage and really struggled. Although I'm more comfortable in my role now, I still feel like I'm lacking in many areas. I was working on my MSN to become an NP, but switched my focus to nursing education a couple of weeks ago. I enjoy teaching (most of the time;) and decided to go that route. I'm looking forward to gaining more knowledge and feeling like I'm more qualified to perform in my role.

Katrina

smdahl · Mar 15, 2007

Thanks for your reply. I am in a masters program also. Our program offers a concentration in nursing education. There is an arguement that no other discipline, for example engineering offers a masters in engineering education. My school also offers a CNE program for APRN's

spydercadet · Mar 17, 2007

hey all,

here in