might be stupid question...

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Specializes in orthopedic/trauma, Informatics, diabetes.

I have a Masters in teaching and finishing my RN-BSN program. I am interested in a teaching track MSN. Is a "post-masters certificate" AFTER I do a general MSN or can I take the 12 MSN education hours and have my MSN in nursing education? I was told I can be a clinical instructor with a BSN and the MAT, just trying to make a plan. Did not want to spend anymore money but if I can get my MSN that would be great.

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Specializes in LTC.

Do you have actual nursing experience? Any college that hires you to be a clinical instructor will want you to have a minimum of several years basic nursing experience. Further, if you are teaching a specialty, like peds, you will need specialized experience in that as well. Without experience, how will you answer a student question about time management skills?

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Specializes in orthopedic/trauma, Informatics, diabetes.

I have been a nurse for almost 3 years and by the time I would finish that, it will be over 4. I am an orthopedic nurse at a very large teaching hospital. I will be certified in that this summer. I am also pursuing my CDE. and I worked on a uro/gyn/plastics/surg onc unit as part of my orientation. I also float to a post transplant floor as well as other med/surg floors.

So, yes, I am an actual nurse, not just play one on TV.

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Many of the local nursing schools hire clinical instructors with MSNs in nursing education and significant (15+ years) field experience. Other nursing schools will hire NPs as clinical instructors with much less experience. I think it all depends on the package of experience and education you bring and what that school is looking for. But all the clinical instructors that I run across have either MSNs in education with lots of experience, or advanced practice degrees. I think that some of the diploma for-profit schools are less picky with their instructors. Perhaps you can meet with an administrator at the school and ask them what they recommend.

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Specializes in orthopedic/trauma, Informatics, diabetes.

Have an appointment with Nursing Education Lead faculty person next week. :)

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I've seen programs where you can get an MSN in nursing education specifically. One of my former clinical instructors completed their's at ECU. Duke at one point was offering scholarships for their nursing educator program.

Just from talking to friends at a variety of local schools not all CIs have MSNs.

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Specializes in orthopedic/trauma, Informatics, diabetes.

I am looking at getting the post master cert in nursing education. I don't want another 48 hour masters degree (and the debt that goes with it). Duke is the only on that will consider a masters in another field. The PMC is 12-16 hours.

That is where I am looking. :up: ECU is too unorganized for me. Started my RN-BSN there and they wanted blood work and tests for "clinicals" that would have cost me $1000 out of pocket for an online program. Finishing at UNCW then, hopefully the PMC @ Duke.

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