[2025 Updated] Best Nurse Educator Programs (CNE) – MSN, DNP, PhD

Ohio State University offers a pioneering fully online Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) program specializing in Academic Nursing Education. Targeted at master's-prepared nurses, this two-year full-time or three-year part-time program provides synchronous coursework focused on developing advanced educational leadership skills. As the first nationwide DNE program, it emphasizes evidence-based teaching practices, curriculum design, and innovative educational strategies. The program features interprofessional collaboration opportunities and potential fellowship options. No specific entrance exam is mentioned, and the program is pre-accredited, providing a cutting-edge pathway for nurses seeking to become expert academic nursing educators.

• First DNE program nationwide
• Online synchronous coursework
• Two specialization tracks
• Full-time: 2 years study
• Part-time: 3 years study
• Autumn 2025 application deadline: March 1
• Fellowship opportunities available
• Pre-accredited program

Ohio State University's Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) program with a Nursing Professional Development concentration delivers a comprehensive online educational experience for master's-prepared nurses. This groundbreaking program enables healthcare professionals to advance their careers in nursing education across academic and clinical settings. Offering flexible full-time (2 years) and part-time (3 years) tracks, the curriculum emphasizes leadership, evidence-based teaching strategies, and interprofessional collaboration. The program targets nurses seeking to transform healthcare education through advanced curriculum design and innovative teaching methodologies. With pre-accreditation status and no specified entrance exam requirement, this program provides a strategic pathway for nursing education leadership development.

• First DNE program nationwide
• Online synchronous coursework
• Two specialization tracks
• Full-time: 2 years
• Part-time: 3 years
• Application deadline: March 1
• Targets master's-prepared nurses
• Pre-accreditation status
• Focuses on nursing education leadership
• Interprofessional collaboration emphasis

The University of Massachusetts-Amherst offers a comprehensive online Master of Science in Nursing Education designed for registered nurses seeking advanced professional development. This fully online program provides flexible learning with two in-person practicums, preparing students to become innovative nurse educators. Graduates develop critical curriculum design skills and leadership competencies recognized by top nursing associations. The program meets AACN MS competencies and positions students for Nurse Educator certification. With a fall admission deadline of December 15, students can strategically plan their advanced nursing education journey.

• Fully online master's program
• Two in-person practicums
• Fall admission deadline: Dec 15
• Prepares for Nurse Educator certification
• Advanced nursing education focus
• Develops curriculum design skills
• Meets AACN MS competencies
• Clinical and classroom experience

UMass Amherst's Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education is a targeted online program tailored for registered nurses aspiring to teaching roles. Spanning four courses and 12 credits, this flexible curriculum prepares professionals to excel in academic and clinical educational settings. The program uniquely prepares students for the National League for Nursing Certification and welcomes DNP/PhD students. With a comprehensive capstone teaching practicum, participants gain practical skills to transform healthcare learning. The fully online format accommodates working professionals seeking to advance their nursing education career.

• Online graduate certificate program
• Four-course (12-credit) curriculum
• Flexible learning schedule
• Prepares nurses for teaching roles
• Capstone teaching practicum included
• Open to DNP/PhD students
• NLN Certification preparation
• Courses fully online

Texas Christian University's online Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Education offers a specialized pathway for practicing nurses seeking to transition into educational roles. This comprehensive hybrid program emphasizes the scholarship of teaching through discovery, application, and integration across diverse healthcare settings. Designed for professionals aiming to elevate their career trajectory, the certificate equips participants with advanced pedagogical skills and educational strategies. Graduates emerge prepared to teach in academic and clinical environments, with enhanced capabilities in curriculum development and student mentorship. The program reflects TCU's commitment to nursing excellence, providing a flexible educational experience for nurses passionate about shaping future healthcare professionals.

• Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Education
• Focus on teaching, discovery, application, integration
• Prepares nurses for educational roles
• Ideal for shaping future nursing professionals
• Skills for academic and clinical education

Texas Christian University's online DNP-to-Ph.D. in Nursing with a Nurse Educator concentration is a groundbreaking hybrid program designed to combat nursing faculty shortages. By blending advanced practice expertise with educational leadership, this program prepares nurses to transform healthcare education. Students develop sophisticated skills in curriculum design, policy advocacy, and evidence-based teaching methodologies. The program uniquely positions graduates to mentor future nurses, conduct impactful research, and drive innovative educational strategies. With a focus on cultural competency and systemic change, participants become highly qualified nursing educators ready to address complex healthcare challenges. Admission typically requires professional nursing credentials and may involve entrance exams such as the GRE.

• DNP-to-PhD bridge program
• Addresses nursing faculty shortage
• Develops nursing education leaders
• Focuses on curriculum development
• Emphasizes cultural competency
• Prepares policy change advocates
• Advances evidence-based practice

Wilmington University's online MSN in Nursing Leadership with a Nurse Educator concentration provides a comprehensive 36-credit program designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized teaching skills. Tailored for educators, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based pedagogical strategies, curriculum development, and technological integration in healthcare education. Students explore critical instructional techniques across clinical and academic settings, preparing to transform nursing education. The program requires a 3.0 GPA, undergraduate statistics, and includes three specific education courses. Graduates develop innovative teaching methodologies aligned with AACN Essentials, positioning themselves as forward-thinking nurse educators with leadership expertise.

• 36 total credit hours
• Nursing Education concentration available
• Completed within 5 years
• Requires 3.0 GPA
• Requires undergraduate statistics
• Three specific education courses
• Capstone project required
• Aligned with AACN Essentials
• Online and flexible program
• Leadership and educational focus

Wilmington University's online Post-MSN Nursing Leadership Graduate Certificate provides a flexible pathway for nurses seeking to advance their educational and leadership capabilities. Featuring four concentrations including Nurse Educator, the program offers accelerated 7-week classes with affordable tuition rates. Designed for working professionals, this certificate program blends practical skills with theoretical knowledge, preparing nurses for diverse healthcare settings. Led by experienced nurse leaders, the curriculum emphasizes professional growth and career advancement. The program's straightforward admission process and multiple format options make it an accessible opportunity for nurses looking to expand their professional repertoire.

• Four concentrations available
• Includes Nurse Educator option
• Flexible online and in-person formats
• Accelerated 7-week classes
• Affordable tuition rates
• Led by experienced nurse leaders
• Practical skills and theoretical knowledge
• Prepares for diverse healthcare settings
• Straightforward admission process
• Dual-Credit ADVANTAGE™ Program

Wilmington University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Nurse Educator Certificate offers a comprehensive 48-63 credit advanced nursing pathway for master's-prepared professionals. This post-masters program uniquely combines clinical leadership with educational expertise, providing flexible concentration options in Advanced Practice and Leadership tracks. Students complete 500-1000 practice experience hours while developing critical skills in evidence-based practice and healthcare innovation. The program prepares nurses to address complex healthcare challenges through advanced clinical and educational competencies, offering a dual-focused approach to professional development in nursing education and leadership.

• DNP with Nurse Educator Certificate
• 48-63 total credit hours
• Two concentration options
• Advanced Practice and Leadership tracks
• 500-1000 practice experience hours
• Dual application required
• Post-masters level program
• Multiple nurse educator courses
• Clinically focused doctoral degree
• Evidence-based practice emphasis

University of Connecticut's online Nurse Educator Master's program provides a cutting-edge pathway for advanced practice nurses to transition into transformative educational roles. Spanning 40 comprehensive credits, the program offers flexible, largely asynchronous coursework with an extensive 560-hour practicum experience. Designed for working professionals, students develop specialized pedagogical skills to advance healthcare education. The CCNE-accredited program prepares graduates to design innovative curricula, advocate for effective teaching strategies, and excel in diverse educational settings. With a projected career growth of 14% and potential average salary of $106,620, this program offers substantial professional development opportunities for nurses seeking to influence future healthcare education.

• 40-credit Nursing Education MS
• Largely asynchronous courses
• 560 practicum hours
• CCNE Accredited Program
• Fall 2025 Full-Time Start
• Summer 2025 Part-Time Option
• Application Deadline: December 15
• Career Growth: 14% Projected
• Average Salary: $106,620
• Supportive Faculty Mentorship

The University of Connecticut's Online Nurse Educator Graduate Certificate provides a strategic pathway for registered nurses to specialize in nursing education. Accommodating both post-bachelor's and post-master's candidates, this 40-credit program equips nurses to develop evidence-based curricula for academic and professional training environments. Requiring a minimum of 2,080 RN clinical hours, the program prepares graduates for national certification as Academic Nurse Educators or Nursing Professional Development practitioners. With flexible online format and potential application toward a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, this certificate offers a versatile approach to advancing nursing educational expertise across various healthcare learning contexts.

• 40-credit online program
• Prepares for national certification
• Two entry points available
• Requires 2,080 RN clinical hours
• Courses applicable to DNP degree
• Focuses on evidence-based curricula
• Online format for flexibility
• Prepares for academic and clinical settings
• Accredited by CCNE
• Designed for RNs with B.S. or M.S.

The University of South Carolina's online MSN in Nursing Education offers a comprehensive pathway for aspiring nurse educators seeking transformative academic and clinical roles. With a flexible 5-semester format, students complete 39 credit hours and 500 clinical hours without GRE requirements. The fully online program prepares nurses to excel in diverse learning environments, from traditional classrooms to advanced simulation labs. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum emphasizes educational theory, innovative teaching strategies, and curriculum development. Graduates are positioned for national nurse educator certification, with part-time distance learning options accommodating busy healthcare professionals.

• 39 credit hours, 5 semesters
• Fully online course delivery
• 500 total clinical hours
• No GRE required for admission
• 3.0 minimum GPA
• Fall and spring entry options
• National certification preparation
• Flexible practicum locations
• Varied 7 or 15-week courses

University of South Carolina's online Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education provides an advanced professional development opportunity for experienced MSN graduates. This specialized program equips nurses with sophisticated skills in healthcare education, focusing on transforming learning environments through cutting-edge teaching strategies and educational technologies. Designed for currently licensed RNs, the certificate program prepares educators for impactful roles in academic and clinical settings. Participants become eligible for the National League of Nursing CNE Exam, with a curriculum that emphasizes curriculum development, pedagogical techniques, and innovative educational approaches.

• Online Post-Master's Certificate Program
• Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
• Currently Unencumbered RN License
• 3 Professional References Needed
• National League of Nursing CNE Exam Eligibility
• Focused on Healthcare Education Skills
• Designed for Experienced MSN Graduates

Villanova University's online MSN in Nursing Education delivers a comprehensive 46-credit program designed for experienced nurses seeking to transition into educational leadership roles. The hybrid program combines asynchronous coursework with clinical practicums, enabling students to develop advanced teaching strategies and curriculum design skills. Graduates are prepared to excel in both academic and clinical settings, with population-focused tracks that enhance teaching expertise. The program provides a strategic pathway to doctoral studies and emphasizes innovative educational approaches in healthcare professional development. No specific entrance exam requirements are highlighted for this program.

• 46-credit MSN concentration
• Asynchronous and hybrid courses
• Multiple clinical practicum options
• Leadership in nursing education
• Population-focused clinical tracks
• Theoretical and practical coursework
• Pathway to PhD program
• Advanced teaching strategies
• Clinical and academic settings

Villanova University's Post-Master's Nurse Educator Certificate offers a flexible online and hybrid program tailored for master's and doctoral-level nurses aiming to expand their teaching capabilities. Spanning 12 credit hours, the certificate can be completed within one to five years, accommodating working professionals. The curriculum focuses intensively on curriculum development, instructional design, and advanced pedagogical strategies. Participants will gain comprehensive skills to pursue academic and clinical teaching roles, with synchronous online formats and elective courses that support professional teaching preparation. The program does not specify mandatory entrance exam requirements for admission.

• Post-Master's Certificate Program
• 12 total credit hours
• Online and hybrid options
• One-year minimum completion
• Five-year maximum completion
• Core courses in curriculum development
• Elective courses in teaching strategies
• For master's/doctoral nurses
• Synchronous online format
• Professional teaching preparation

Purdue University Northwest offers an accelerated online Master of Science in Nursing in Nurse Educator concentration, crafted for ambitious nurses seeking advanced educational leadership roles. This fully digital program enables rapid degree completion within 12 months, featuring comprehensive coursework and practical practicum experiences. With 35 total credits and 135 practicum clock hours, students develop critical curriculum design skills and pedagogical expertise. The program boasts ACEN accreditation, Quality Matters™ certified curriculum, and affordable tuition at $512.16 per credit. Notably, students can transfer up to 9 credits and potentially access a $1,000 scholarship, making advanced nursing education more accessible.

• 100% Online MSN Program
• Complete in 12-24 months
• $512.16 per credit tuition
• 35 total program credits
• 135 practicum clock hours
• ACEN Accredited Program
• Quality Matters™ Certified Curriculum
• Transfer up to 9 credits
• $1,000 scholarship available
• Prepare for nurse educator roles

Purdue University Northwest's online Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education provides a strategic pathway for experienced RNs to transition into educational leadership roles. Designed exclusively for master's-prepared nurses, this specialized program encompasses four targeted education courses, including three online modules and one intensive practicum. Participants develop advanced teaching methodologies, evidence-based instructional strategies, and leadership competencies essential for academic and clinical teaching environments. The program prepares graduates for the NLN Certification exam and offers diverse career opportunities across healthcare educational settings, with expert faculty holding Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) credentials.

• Online post-master's certificate program
• Four education specialty courses
• Three online courses, one practicum
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• Current U.S. RN licensure required
• Prepares for diverse educator roles
• Expert faculty with CNE credentials
• ACEN and HLC accredited program
• Prepare for NLN Certification exam
• Career paths in multiple settings

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte's online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with Nurse Educator concentration provides a comprehensive pathway for registered nurses seeking to become healthcare educators. The 39-credit hour program offers flexible learning designed for working professionals, enabling students to develop advanced teaching strategies and curriculum development skills. With 180 hours of clinical experience and National League for Nursing (NLN) certification eligibility, graduates can teach at entry-level and RN-to-BSN programs. The program requires a 3.0 GPA and one year of nursing practice, ensuring students possess practical experience before entering educational roles.

• 100% online program
• 39 total credit hours
• Admits spring/summer/fall
• Resident tuition $288.82/credit
• Requires 1 year nursing practice
• NLN certification eligible
• Clinical practicum included
• 3.0 GPA preferred
• Teaches nursing education skills
• 180 hours clinical experience

UNC Charlotte's online Graduate Certificate in Nurse Education delivers a targeted 12-credit hour program for BSN and MSN graduates aspiring to become nursing education leaders. This concise curriculum can be completed in one year, offering part-time study options and specialized courses in instructional technology and curriculum development. Students gain 15 hours of teaching experience, preparing them to effectively transition into educational roles within healthcare institutions. With flexible admission in spring, summer, and fall, and competitive resident tuition rates, this certificate provides a strategic professional development opportunity for nurses seeking educational career advancement.

• 100% Online Program
• 12 Credit Hours Total
• Completion in 1 Year
• For BSN/MSN Graduates
• Resident Tuition $288.82/Credit
• Part-Time Study Option
• Four Specialized Courses
• 15 Hours Teaching Experience
• Spring/Summer/Fall Admission

Arkansas State University's fully online Graduate Certificate in Nurse Education delivers a targeted 12-credit curriculum for MSN-prepared nurses seeking educational advancement. Completed within six months and priced at $4,080, this certificate empowers nurses to develop sophisticated teaching skills and integrate cutting-edge educational technologies. The program focuses on advanced pedagogical techniques, curriculum development, and clinical skills integration. Designed for experienced healthcare professionals transitioning into educational roles, the certificate provides comprehensive training in evidence-based teaching practices. Participants will explore innovative instructional approaches across diverse learning environments, enhancing their professional credentials without traditional entrance exam barriers.

• 100% online format
• 12 total credit hours
• Completed in 6 months
• Total tuition $4,080
• Supports curriculum development skills
• Advanced teaching pedagogy focus
• Designed for MSN-prepared nurses
• Incorporates clinical experiences
• Prepares nurse educators

Arkansas State University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Education Concentration provides a transformative pathway for advanced nurse educators. This comprehensive 36-credit program prepares professionals to revolutionize healthcare education through sophisticated curriculum design and innovative teaching strategies. Designed for post-master's nurses, the program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and encompasses 540 clinical clock hours. Graduates gain specialized expertise in educational methodologies, positioning themselves as leaders in academic and clinical training environments. While entrance exam requirements are not explicitly stated, the program offers CCNE and ACEN accreditation, ensuring high-quality educational standards for aspiring nurse educators.

• Post-master's DNP degree
• Concentration in Nursing Education
• 36-39 total credit hours
• 540 clinical clock hours
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• National specialty certification
• 3 specialized education courses
• Full-time study program
• CCNE and ACEN accredited

The University of North Carolina Wilmington's online Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Educator program offers a comprehensive 36-credit pathway for experienced nurses seeking advanced educational roles. Designed with working professionals in mind, this flexible program enables completion in just 12 months. Students develop critical skills in curriculum development, educational leadership, and student mentorship across diverse healthcare settings. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, an active nursing license, and includes a faculty-guided practicum. Applicants benefit from multiple start dates and no specific standardized test requirement, making it an accessible option for nurses aiming to transition into educational leadership positions.

• Fully online program
• 36 credit hours total
• Can complete in 12 months
• Prepare for nurse educator roles
• Multiple start dates in 2025
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Statistics course prerequisite
• Active nursing license needed
• Faculty-guided practicum
• Evidence-based education project

UNCW's online Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate provides a targeted 12-credit program for baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses with existing graduate degrees. This asynchronous certificate equips healthcare professionals with advanced pedagogical skills, focusing on curriculum design, teaching strategies, and educational leadership. Tailored to meet North Carolina Board of Nursing requirements, the program prepares nurses for specialty certification examinations. With no standardized test scores required, multiple admission pathways, and a practicum experience, the certificate offers a streamlined route for nurses seeking to specialize in healthcare education. Completion typically spans 3-4 semesters.

• Fully online asynchronous program
• 12 credit hours total
• 3-4 semesters to complete
• No standardized test scores required
• Multiple admission pathways
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
• Practicum experience included
• Prepares for nurse educator roles
• Evidence-based curriculum design focus
• No recommendation letters needed

The University of Hawaii at Manoa's online Master of Science in Nursing Education & Leadership offers a dynamic hybrid program tailored for practicing registered nurses. Designed for professionals with a BSN or ADN plus a bachelor's degree, this program provides flexible full- and part-time enrollment options. Students gain advanced expertise in nursing leadership, population health, and educational strategies across diverse healthcare environments. The curriculum emphasizes organizational leadership, research skills, and preparing nurses for advanced practice roles in hospitals, universities, and healthcare systems. Military-friendly and strategically structured, the program launches in Fall (August) and prepares nurses for multifaceted career opportunities in nursing education and leadership.

• Hybrid learning format
• Full or part-time options
• For RNs with BSN/ADN
• Fall (August) admission
• Prepares advanced nursing roles
• Leadership and education focus
• Multiple healthcare career paths

University of Hawaii at Manoa's hybrid Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education is a strategic 15-credit program designed for BSN-prepared registered nurses seeking to transition into academic teaching roles. Completed within two years, this part-time certificate enables nurses to obtain national nursing educator certification while developing innovative teaching strategies and leadership skills. Perfectly aligned with the Master of Science in Nursing Education and Leadership, the program offers a comprehensive curriculum focusing on curriculum development and educational methodologies. Ideal for professionals aiming to expand their career trajectory, this certificate provides a targeted pathway for nurses interested in educational and instructional roles within healthcare and academic settings.

• 15-credit part-time program
• Fall admission only
• For RNs with BSN/graduate nursing students
• Two-year completion timeline
• National nursing educator certification

Appalachian State University's fully online Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education provides registered nurses an accelerated pathway to expand their professional capabilities. Designed as a concise 12-credit hour program completed in two semesters, this certificate meets North Carolina Board of Nursing requirements and offers seamless integration toward a future Master of Science in Nursing degree. Ideal for nurses seeking to transition into educational roles, the program equips students with advanced instructional skills for clinical training, staff development, and patient education environments. The flexible part-time format allows working professionals to enhance their educational competencies without disrupting current employment.

• Online Graduate Certificate program
• 12 credit hours total
• Completed in 2 semesters
• Meets NC Board of Nursing requirements
• Applicable to MSN degree
• Prepares nurses for educational roles
• Part-time study option

Appalachian State University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a Nursing Education concentration offers a transformative four-year hybrid learning experience. Targeting future nurse educators, the program uniquely blends digital coursework with intensive on-campus clinical training. Students will develop advanced pedagogical skills while addressing critical healthcare workforce shortages. The program requires a BSN and active nursing license, and provides comprehensive preparation for teaching and leadership roles in academic and clinical settings. With a projected growth to 77 students by 2030, this innovative DNP pathway emphasizes practical training and rural healthcare improvement strategies.

• Hybrid DNP program launching Fall 2026
• Three specialization concentrations available
• Part-time, four-year program structure
• Online coursework with on-campus sessions
• Focuses on rural healthcare needs
• Initial cohort of seven students
• Projected 77 students by 2030
• Requires BSN and nursing license
• One year clinical experience required
• Training at Hickory campus location

The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a comprehensive online MSN Nurse Educator program designed for ambitious healthcare professionals seeking to transform nursing education. This hybrid program spans 2-3 years, requiring a minimum 3.2 GPA and two years of RN experience. Students explore advanced curriculum development, innovative teaching strategies, and healthcare policy. With 41 total credit hours and CCNE accreditation, graduates are prepared for faculty positions in nursing schools and healthcare institutions. The program uniquely blends online coursework with occasional campus visits, providing flexibility while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Competitive in-state tuition and promising career prospects, including a median salary of $74,000, make this an attractive educational opportunity.

• 100% Online Master's Program
• 41 total credit hours
• 2-3 years to complete
• Estimated cost: $36,106.65
• Minimum 3.2 GPA required
• Two years RN experience preferred
• Requires campus visit
• Fall application deadline: March 7
• Spring application deadline: Oct. 18
• Accredited by CCNE

UMKC's Post-Master's Nurse Educator Certificate provides a specialized pathway for MSN-prepared nurses to become exceptional educators. This targeted 12-credit online program prepares professionals for the National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam. Participants develop advanced skills in objective writing, clinical instruction, and student management through four comprehensive courses. Designed for current RN license holders with an MSN, the certificate can be completed within three years. The program includes a clinical preceptorship, ensuring practical experience in diverse healthcare educational settings. Graduates gain the expertise to lead and innovate in nursing education, bridging clinical knowledge with effective teaching methodologies.

• 12 total credit hours
• Four required courses
• MSN prerequisite required
• CNE certification preparation
• Clinical preceptorship included
• Completion within three years
• Current RN licensure required

Ball State University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator concentration provides a comprehensive pathway for nursing professionals aiming to excel in healthcare education. This fully digital program spans 40 credits and prepares students through a seven-semester track with a 180-hour practicum. Designed for working nurses, the curriculum emphasizes advanced teaching methodologies, curriculum design, and clinical knowledge. Notably CCNE accredited, the program offers flexible part-time options and focuses on professional role development. Students gain expertise in nursing theory, research evaluation, and pedagogical strategies, positioning graduates to become influential educators in academic and medical settings.

• 100% Online Program
• 40 Total Credits Required
• Seven Semester Completion
• 180-Hour Clinical Practicum
• CCNE Accredited Program
• Flexible Part-Time Options
• Advanced Nursing Theory Courses
• Research and Evaluation Focus
• Professional Role Development

Ball State University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Nurse Educator cognate offers an advanced educational pathway for nursing professionals seeking transformative leadership roles. This comprehensive program requires 76-78 credits and provides flexible part-time and full-time options. Uniquely structured with no dissertation requirement, students complete a scholarly project and can integrate clinical hours from their current workplace. The program features three cognate options, with the Nurse Educator track specifically preparing students for advanced educational roles. Graduates develop sophisticated skills in healthcare policy, clinical practice, and educational leadership, ensuring readiness to impact nursing education and healthcare delivery.

• 100% Online Delivery
• 76-78 Total Credits Required
• Part-time and Full-time Options
• Three Cognate Options Available
• Nurse Educator Cognate Offered
• No Dissertation Required
• 750-1000 Clinical Hours
• Next Start Date: August 18, 2025
• Clinicals at Current Workplace
• Scholarly Project Required

The University of Utah's online Master of Science in Nursing Education delivers a dynamic 36-credit program designed for working healthcare professionals seeking advanced teaching expertise. Accredited by CCNE, this flexible curriculum enables students to complete their degree in just 16 months through asynchronous online coursework. Featuring a comprehensive 240-hour practicum, the program prepares nurses for diverse educational roles in academic and clinical environments. Requiring a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and active RN licensure, students gain leadership skills tailored to nursing education. With competitive tuition at $931.50 per credit and full/part-time options, graduates are well-positioned to pursue Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) certification. No specific entrance exam is mentioned, offering accessibility to qualified nursing professionals.

• 36 total credit hours
• Online and asynchronous format
• 16-month completion possible
• 240-hour practicum experience
• $931.50 per credit tuition
• Fall semester start
• 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
• RN licensure required
• CCNE accredited program
• Full and part-time options

The University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers a comprehensive online Master of Science in Nursing with a specialized Nursing Education concentration. This hybrid program provides flexible learning opportunities for nurses aiming to become educators, featuring mandatory campus intensives and interactive coursework. Designed to meet AACN Master's Education Essentials, the program prepares professionals for advanced teaching roles through evidence-based practice and leadership training. Military-friendly and offering part-time and full-time options, students gain comprehensive skills to excel in academic and clinical educational settings. No specific entrance exam requirements are noted for admission.

• Online MSN with Nursing Education track
• Part-time and full-time options
• Mandatory campus orientation sessions
• Multiple specialization tracks available
• Meets AACN Master's Education Essentials

UNLV's Advanced Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education is a specialized online program tailored for master's-prepared nurses seeking to transition into educational roles. This hybrid certificate requires an existing master's degree and provides comprehensive training in curriculum design, teaching strategies, and educational technologies. With three required campus orientation sessions, the program emphasizes leadership, scholarly practice, and diverse workplace opportunities. Designed to meet AACN educational standards, it offers part-time and full-time pathways for nurses wanting to expand their career potential in nursing education. No specific entrance exam requirements are mentioned.

• Online graduate certificate program
• Requires existing master's degree
• Prepares nurse educators
• Part-time or full-time options
• Campus orientation sessions required
• Meets AACN educational essentials
• Three campus visits required
• Leadership and research focused
• Diverse workplace opportunities

The University of Delaware's online MSN in Nursing Education program offers a comprehensive pathway for nurses aspiring to become influential educators. Spanning three years in a part-time format, the program uniquely balances flexibility with rigorous academic preparation. Students engage in advanced teaching strategies, curriculum design, and evidence-based educational practices. With 500 practicum hours integrated into the curriculum, participants develop practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. The program's CCNE accreditation ensures high-quality educational standards, while the competitive $848 per credit tuition makes advanced nursing education accessible. Graduates are equipped to transform healthcare education, implement innovative teaching methodologies, and drive professional development across diverse healthcare settings.

• 100% Online Program
• 30 Total Credit Hours
• 500 Practicum Hours
• 3-Year Part-Time Format
• Dean's Scholarship Applied
• $848 per Credit
• CCNE Accredited Program
• Advanced Teaching Courses
• Curriculum Design Focus
• Evidence-Based Education

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's hybrid MSN in Nursing Education offers a comprehensive pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced educational training. With a rigorous curriculum requiring a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and an unencumbered nursing license, the program develops critical teaching competencies. Students explore professional development and innovative educational strategies across academic and clinical environments. Unique program features include mandatory undergraduate statistics, criminal background checks, and application essays. Available at Brownsville and Edinburg campuses, this program prepares nurses to become transformative educators in healthcare settings.

• BSN required for admission
• 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
• Unencumbered RN license needed
• Requires undergraduate statistics course
• Criminal background check mandatory
• Immunization compliance required
• Short essay part of application
• Available at Brownsville/Edinburg campuses

UTRGV's fully online Master of Science in Nursing Education provides a cutting-edge learning experience for BSN-prepared nurses aspiring to leadership roles. This program strategically develops advanced instructional skills through evidence-based educational design and comprehensive learning theories. Focused on preparing patient and clinical educators, the curriculum emphasizes diverse learning environments and teaching methodologies. Designed for flexible professional development, the program currently has applications on hold. Graduates emerge equipped to mentor, teach, and lead in complex healthcare and academic settings, positioning themselves as innovative nursing education professionals.

• 100% Online Program
• Designed for BSN-prepared RNs
• Leadership in Teaching Focus
• Diverse Learning Environments
• Patient and Clinical Educator Preparation
• Evidence-Based Educational Design
• Currently Applications on Hold

Kennesaw State University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Education Leadership track provides a comprehensive two-year program preparing nursing professionals for advanced educational roles. Combining hybrid learning with cutting-edge technologies, students develop critical leadership skills across academic and clinical environments. The program offers flexible scheduling, emphasizing collaborative learning through small classes and practical practicum experiences. With expert doctoral faculty guidance, nurses can enhance professional networks and explore innovative teaching methodologies in healthcare education. The 40-credit hour program requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and offers a Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate option.

• Two-year MSN program
• Hybrid learning format
• Online and campus courses
• 40 total credit hours
• Fall entry term
• Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• Two letters of recommendation
• Application fee: $60
• Priority deadline: December 15

Kennesaw State University's Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate is a targeted 12-credit hybrid program designed for master's-prepared nurses seeking to transition into nursing education. This comprehensive certificate transforms experienced clinical professionals into dynamic nursing instructors, equipping them with advanced pedagogical skills and educational technologies. The program provides flexible learning pathways, including full-time and part-time options across fall and spring entry terms. Participants develop critical teaching strategies and leadership competencies, preparing them to shape the future of nursing education. Current RN licensure and a minimum 3.0 GPA are required for admission.

• 12 total credit hours
• Hybrid online/face-to-face format
• Two semesters full-time option
• Four semesters part-time option
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Current RN licensure needed
• Fall and Spring entry terms
• Targets master's prepared nurses