Staff development coordinators

I agree with all of llg's comments. I got started many years ago, when I worked as a resource for nursing students in my hospital, beginning when I had only been a nurse for 2 yrs. I found I liked teaching them, and when one of the existing "Inservice educators--" (that's what they were called then) retired, about 2yrs. later, I applied for that position. I don't remember much of an application process--it was much easier to get into a job like that in the 70's. I did have my BSN, and that may have helped. The first project I was given was to revise the entire nursing orientation. I put in what I thought orientees needed, based on my own perceptions & recollections as a new nurse in that hospital, & as a more seasoned staff nurse.

There was only 1 other Inservice Educator. After 4 yrs. in that role, I became the Staff Development Coordinator (title change). After 3 yrs. in that role, I went back & got my Master's degree.

After graduation in 1982, I became actively involved in the Ill. Nurse Assn., where I learned to Chair Committees & other leadership skills. I joined the NNSDO (now ANPD), & as llg said, they are the best resource out there for Staff Development Educators. They are the ONLY organization in this specialty. They have LOTS of resources and experienced educators to assist you. Their annual Convention is in mid-July in Las Vegas. Hopefully you can still get in, if you want.

Good luck!

The main staff development organization is ANPD (Association for Nursing Professional Development). Visit their website and start reading their materials. Alos, you might be interested in knowing that there is a certification in Professional Development.

I got started in the field many years ago by getting a Master's Degree in my clinical specialty and getting a job as a CNS. I morphed into an NPD specialist as graduate education and certification in the field developed.

Most staff educators I know get started in the field by becoming respected as staff nurses and preceptors. They volunteer for projects on their chosen units. etc. As a position for a unit educator become available, they are ready to step in to fill it. Others get MSN's in education at a school where they let you do your practicum in staff development rather than in just teaching in a nursing school.

Curious what you or anyone else may think: what masters degree should one pursue for this? Masters in Nursing Ed.? CNS? NP (so they have the broadest pool of jobs to fish in?)