NFJShane

Online programs are similar in that they are very expensive. You can look into a number of loan repayment programs that HRSA has to see if one might help you bridge the financial gap - Loans & Scholarships

First, congratulations on your new position! Here's a place to start: Excellent resources for Nurse Educators! for free resources.

Hi, It depends upon where you want to teach and whether conducting original research is important to you. A university job will require a doctorate with an active research component, whereas a job with a college will only require the MSN and be focused on teaching, rather than research. In terms of selecting a specialty, you likely can do this. Many educator job announcements will look for specialization in med/surg, OB/Peds, Psych, etc. The key is to not limit yourself too much to one specialty, because they'll also want someone who is strong enough in another area to step in and teach a class if needed. Good luck!