10 Best MSN in Nurse Education Programs | 2024

As the demand for skilled nurses continues to grow, so does the need for qualified educators to shape their professional journey.

Whether you're a nursing professional looking to transition into an educational role or a student seeking the best program to kickstart your career as a nurse educator, you've come to the right place.

Discover the best nurse educator programs below, their unique features, curriculums, and accreditation. We also provide insights into the role, salary expectations after graduation, and address frequently asked questions about the profession.

Best MSN in Nurse Education

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Duke University

Duke University's Nursing Education MSN program 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, leveraging technology to bridge educational gaps. The faculty members at Duke University School of Nursing are leaders in their respective fields, bringing real-world clinical experience to the classroom.

The program is structured to be completed in 2 years, consisting of core MSN courses, a clinical component, and specialized nursing education courses. The university also offers specialized services through its Student Success Center, which provides 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 BSN to MSN program tailored for busy nurses, designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge 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 the application of nursing knowledge in teaching, with courses 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 NAHQ (National Association for Healthcare Quality) HQ Principles certificate alongside their degree.

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

The nursing programs at WGU are accredited by the CCNE.

3. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University's Master of Science in Nursing-Nursing Education track is designed to prepare graduates to function as educators in various patient care settings and in higher education institutions. The program comprises a 36-semester credit hour curriculum, with the majority of the course instruction delivered online. However, students are required to visit the Bryan-College Station campus for a limited number of class activities. Specifically, on-campus clinical hours are mandated 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 offered by the National League for Nursing.

4. University of Rochester

The University of Rochester offers a Master's in Nursing Education program that combines both the art and science of nursing and teaching. This program is tailored for experienced nurses aiming to transition into teaching roles in academic or clinical settings.

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

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

5. Villanova University

Villanova University's Nursing Education track is tailored for nurses who wish to merge their clinical expertise with a preparation for teaching nursing practice. The program consists of a 46-credit curriculum, designed to prepare nurses for leadership roles as educators in various settings, including baccalaureate and associate degree programs, staff development, continuing education, and community education programs.

The curriculum encompasses theoretical courses, advanced clinical, and education practica. The nursing education theoretical courses 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 opt for 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, tailored to equip graduates with the expertise to utilize 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 be currently licensed as RNs in Connecticut, and the program is accredited by the CCNE.

7. Texas Christian University

Texas Christian University's MSN Nurse Educator program emphasizes the three pivotal roles of a nurse educator: teacher, scholar, and collaborator. The program allows nurse educators to practice in various settings, including academic institutions, staff development programs, and community initiatives. Students are required to choose 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

A nurse educator is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the nursing profession. Combining their extensive clinical experience with a passion for teaching, they mentor and instruct the next generation of RNs, both in academic and clinical settings.

Beyond teaching, they engage in research, contribute to academic literature, and ensure they remain updated with the latest in nursing practice and healthcare trends. Their influence is profound, as they mold the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of upcoming nurses, ensuring they are well-equipped to provide high-quality patient care.

Nurse Educator Responsibilities

Although the responsibilities of nurse educators may vary based on the institution they're employed at, the level of education being provided, and various other factors, here are their general responsibilities:

• Curriculum Development: Design, implement, and evaluate nursing curricula to ensure it meets the current standards and requirements of the nursing profession.
• Teaching: Instruct nursing students using a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, labs, simulations, and clinical rotations.
• Mentoring: Provide guidance and support to nursing students, helping them navigate their academic and early professional careers.
• Clinical Supervision: Oversee students during their clinical rotations, ensuring they apply theoretical knowledge effectively in real-world settings.
• Research: Engage in scholarly activities, which may include conducting research, publishing findings, and presenting at conferences.
• Professional Development: Stay updated with the latest advancements in nursing education, practice, and research. This often involves attending workshops, conferences, and courses.
• Evaluation: Assess students' performance, both in theoretical knowledge and clinical skills, and provide constructive feedback.
• Advising: Guide students on academic issues, career opportunities, and professional pathways in nursing.
• Collaboration: Work with other faculty members, healthcare professionals, and administrators to ensure the nursing program's success and continuous improvement.
• Community Engagement: Participate in community health initiatives, offering expertise and promoting the nursing profession.
• Resource Management: Ensure that teaching materials, labs, and other resources are up-to-date and available for student use.
• Accreditation and Compliance: Ensure that the nursing program meets the standards set by accreditation bodies and regulatory agencies.
• Advocacy: Advocate for the nursing profession, nursing education, and healthcare policies that benefit both nurses and patients.

Nurse Educator Work Settings

Nurse educators can work in a variety of settings, depending on their expertise, interests, and the needs of the nursing profession. Here are some common places:

• Academic Institutions:
  • Nursing Schools: Many nurse educators work in dedicated nursing schools, teaching students who are pursuing various levels of nursing degrees.
  • Colleges and Universities: They can be found in larger universities that offer undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in nursing.
  • Community Colleges: Some nurse educators teach in community colleges, especially those offering associate degree programs in nursing.
• Clinical Settings:
  • Hospitals: Nurse educators may work in hospital settings to provide ongoing education and training to the nursing staff. This can include new procedure training, refreshers on existing protocols, or orientation for new hires.
  • Long-Term Care Facilities: They can also work in facilities like nursing homes to train and educate staff about geriatric care and other relevant topics.
  • Clinics and Outpatient Centers: Educators might provide training on specific procedures, patient education techniques, or other relevant topics.
• Professional Organizations and Associations: Nurse educators can work for national or regional nursing associations, providing training, developing educational materials, or conducting workshops for members.
• Government and Public Health Agencies: They might be employed by government entities to develop public health campaigns, provide community education, or train other healthcare professionals.
• Research Institutions: Some nurse educators focus on research and might work in research facilities, contributing to studies, clinical trials, and the development of best practices in nursing.

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

Nurse Educator Salary Expectations

The latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides the occupational employment and wages for nursing instructors and teachers in postsecondary institutions, including those who do research.

According to the BLS, nurse educators earn a mean annual wage of $84,180, however, this number varies by industry.

Top-Paying Nurse Educator Industries

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

Top-Paying States for Nurse Educators

• Massachusetts: $106,690
• Nevada: $105,610
• California: $104,150
• District of Columbia: $101,680
• New York: $100,200

How to Become a Nurse Educator

Here are five steps to becoming a nurse educator.

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

• Enrollment: Begin by enrolling in a BSN program, which is typically a four-year, full-time course. Some institutions might offer part-time options for those who need more flexibility.
• Coursework: The BSN curriculum will cover foundational nursing competencies, evidence-based practice, and other essential nursing topics.
• Licensure: Upon completion of the BSN program, you'll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your nursing licensure, allowing you to practice as a registered nurse.

2. Gain Clinical Experience

• After obtaining your licensure, work as a registered nurse to gain hands-on clinical experience. This will deepen your understanding of nursing practice and prepare you for advanced roles.

3. Pursue an MSN

• Admission Requirements: Most MSN programs require a BSN degree, a specific GPA (often above a 3.0), and some years of clinical experience. Check the specific requirements of the institutions you're interested in.
• Online Masters: Many universities offer online MSN programs, providing flexibility for working professionals. These online programs often have the same rigorous standards as their on-campus counterparts.
• Coursework: MSN programs will delve deeper into specialized areas of nursing, including advanced competencies and evidence-based practices tailored for nurse educators.
• Credit Hours: Typically, an MSN program requires between 30 to 50 credit hours, which can be completed in 1-3 years, depending on whether you're studying full-time or part-time.
• Practicum: Most MSN programs, whether online or on-campus, include a practicum component where students gain hands-on experience in a supervised setting.

4. Obtain Certification and Accreditation:

• After completing your MSN, consider obtaining certification as a nurse educator. While not always mandatory, it can enhance your credentials and job prospects.
• Ensure that your MSN program is accredited by recognized bodies, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), as this can be crucial for certain employment opportunities and further educational pursuits.

5. Stay Updated and Continue Professional Development

• As healthcare and nursing education evolve, it's vital to stay updated with the latest practices, research, and methodologies.
• Engage in continuous learning, attend workshops, and consider pursuing further studies or specializations if needed.
• It's important to note that an individual's pathway to becoming a nurse educator may vary based on factors including their current level of education, location, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What's the difference between an MSN Nurse Educator and a Nurse Practitioner?

An MSN Nurse Educator focuses on training and educating future nurses, curriculum design, and staff development, while a Nurse Practitioner is trained to provide direct patient care, including health assessment and treatment.

Q: Is financial aid available for aspiring nurse educators?

Many schools of nursing offer financial aid for students pursuing an MSN or higher degrees. Additionally, there are scholarships and grants specifically aimed at those looking to enter nursing faculty roles.

Q: Can I complete my nurse educator training through online courses?

Many institutions offer online courses for aspiring nurse educators. These programs are designed to cater to online students, providing flexibility while maintaining rigorous academic standards.

Q: Do online students still get practicum experience?

Even if you're taking online courses, practicum experience is often a crucial component of the program. This in-person experience allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world clinical practice settings.

Q: How important is clinical practice experience before becoming a nursing faculty member?

Clinical practice experience is vital. It provides a foundation of real-world insights and expertise that can be shared with students. This experience enhances curriculum design and ensures relevancy in teaching.

Q: With the rise of informatics in healthcare, is it a topic covered in the nurse educator curriculum?

Informatics is becoming increasingly important in healthcare and nursing education. Aspiring nurse educators will often find courses or modules on informatics to prepare them for the technological advancements in the field.

Q: Is there a difference between in-person and online courses in terms of content and quality?

The content of in-person and online courses is typically consistent in terms of quality and rigor. The main difference lies in the delivery method, with online courses offering more flexibility for students who might be balancing work and study.