Nursing Instructor Pay

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear Nurse Beth,

I recently completed my BSN and am now wanting a better career with a better schedule. I am debating whether to return for my MSN in nursing and possibly pursue a career as a nursing instructor at University or clinical instructor. My question is I don't know how the pay rate is for a beginning nurse educator or instructor. Can you give any insight on what this pay scale maybe or if it is worth the time and effort. I am 45 years old have been a nurse for about 7 years, the last 4 years have been in the ER. Thank you for your help.

Dear Is Pay as a Nursing Instructor Good?

That's a great question. Congrats on earning your BSN! Just by virtue of having your BSN, you are eligible to apply for so many other positions.

You are wise to be thinking ahead to the next phase of your career.

As far as working in academia, the pay is usually lower than acute- of course, pay varies from region to region, but this pretty much holds true nationwide. You have to look at the whole

pay package, though, because working for state universities and colleges can include better benefits such as pensions, and time off during school breaks.

Other aspects of the job are not quantifiable with a price tag, such as hours and job satisfaction.

If you are interested in education and training, another option is Staff Development and Training in acute care (called Nursing Professional Development Practitioner). Typically the salary is higher than in academia.

Fyi, I'm a Nursing Professional Development Specialist and love it because I love the hospital setting. The hours are good- Monday through Friday and there's always something new and challenging.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Author, "Your Last Nursing Class: How to Land Your First Nursing Job"...and your next!

[ERnurse71, ADN, BSN]

Thank you for your guidance. I have decided to return to school for my masters in nursing education. I am hoping to land a career change and either academics or at a hospital as a nurse educator as you have described. I am just a little nervous with the pay cut as I now currently work weekends and night shift that in itself is a huge pay cut. But I know sometimes you have to give up to pay for a better schedule better quality of life thank you again for your help I greatly appreciate it

[nurse_flo_marie, MSN, RN]

Hi ERnurse71!

YES! More Nurse Educators!!! I completed my MSN in Teaching & Learning May 2016. Congratulations on your decision! I can tell you I had the exact same thoughts as you did/do. I was actually offered a faculty position at my nursing school alma mater/where I did my practicum, but after weighing the pay and benefits, I chose a Staff Development position at a LTAC facility. Interestingly enough, I was recently hired as a Clinical Instructor for a LPN program.

Good Luck!

[nursegj]

As a nurse educator, I cannot tell you how fulfilling it is. True, the pay does not compare with acute care but if you love teaching, this is the way to go. I love "making nurses"! I love witnessing when concepts become clear and students have that "AHA" moment when it all comes together for them. Most of all, I love hearing from former students how I have influenced their careers and made a difference in their lives. When you teach, part of you goes with every student under your tutelage. That means your teaching influences care and outcomes for patients you will never meet. That's awesome!