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

Arizona State University's online Graduate Certificate in Nurse Education is tailored for healthcare professionals aiming to excel in teaching roles within academic and practice settings. This 15-credit program, requiring a minimum master's degree and a 3.00 GPA for admission, focuses on equipping students with the skills to design curricula, develop courses, and assess nursing education programs effectively. Notably, the program does not mandate RN licensure, making it accessible to a broader range of professionals. With options for full or part-time study, the curriculum includes a teaching practicum and is CCNE accredited, ensuring a high-quality educational experience. The program's flexibility, with courses lasting 7.5 to 15 weeks, accommodates working professionals seeking to advance their careers in nursing education.

• 15-credit graduate certificate
• Nondegree professional program
• No RN licensure required
• Full or part-time study
• Teaching practicum included
• Master's or doctorate complement
• 5 total classes
• 7.5-15 weeks per class
• Minimum master's degree needed
• 3.00 GPA requirement

Norwich University's online Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Educator program stands out for its commitment to tackling the nursing faculty shortage. This program is tailored for healthcare professionals eager to transition into educational roles, offering a curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical teaching strategies. Participants will gain the expertise needed to mentor future nurses, contributing to the healthcare system's sustainability. The program's online delivery ensures accessibility for working nurses, with multiple start dates throughout the year facilitating immediate enrollment. Accreditation by the CCNE underscores the program's quality, preparing graduates for advanced roles in nursing education without the need for entrance exams.

• 100% Online Program
• Master of Science in Nursing
• Addresses Nursing Faculty Shortage
• Multiple Session Start Dates
• CCNE Accredited Program
• Summer 2025 Start: May 19
• Fall 2025 Start: August 25
• Winter 2025 Start: November 17
• Graduate of College of Continuing Studies
• Advanced Nursing Roles Preparation

Vermont State University offers an online MSN with a concentration in Nurse Educator, designed for nurses aiming to transition into educational roles. This program stands out for its flexibility, allowing students to complete their degree in 24 months through eight-week modules. It prepares graduates for NLN certification and leadership positions in nursing education, with a curriculum that includes 40 credits and clinical practicum opportunities that can often be completed at the student's current workplace. The program is CCNE accredited, with in-state tuition at $684 per credit, making it an affordable option for advancing your nursing career. Highlights include online coursework with in-person practicum, flexible clinical hours, and preparation for a potential entry-level salary of $80,000+.

• Online with in-person practicum
• 24-month program completion
• Eight-week course modules
• 40 total credits required
• $684 per credit in-state tuition
• Flexible clinical hour options
• NLN certification preparation
• Potential entry-level salary $80,000+
• CCNE accredited program

The University of Wyoming offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nurse Educator, ideal for BSN-prepared nurses aiming to advance their careers in education. This program stands out for its focus on preparing nurse educators to tackle modern healthcare challenges, with a curriculum that includes global health perspectives, effective communication, and specialized knowledge in rural population health. Designed for flexibility, it allows part-time study and does not require the GRE, making it accessible for working professionals. The priority admission deadline is March 15th, encouraging early applications for those eager to start their journey in transforming nursing education and practice.

• Online Master of Science program
• Nurse educator concentration available
• Part-time study option
• No GRE required
• Priority admission deadline March 15th
• Transforms nursing education and practice
• Focuses on global healthcare perspectives
• Designed for BSN-prepared nurses

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire offers a specialized Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in Nursing Education, tailored for nurses aiming to excel in educational roles within the healthcare sector. This 39-40 credit hybrid program blends online and in-person learning, ideal for working professionals seeking flexibility. Focused on Family Health-Education, it equips students with advanced clinical and teaching skills through 525 clinical hours. Graduates emerge prepared for leadership, with a strong foundation in research, policy, and advocacy. Admission requires a 3.00 GPA and Wisconsin RN licensure, offering a thesis or scholarly project option for comprehensive learning.

• 39-40 total graduate credits
• Hybrid learning format
• 525 clinical hours
• Family Health focus
• GPA requirement 3.00+
• Wisconsin RN licensure required
• Thesis or scholarly project option
• Four semester completion
• Leadership and education preparation

The University of Washington-Bothell Campus offers a dynamic Nurse Educator Master's program designed for nurses aiming to transition into educational roles. This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person sessions, providing flexibility for working professionals. With a 51-credit curriculum, students can choose between a 2-year or 4-year track, accommodating diverse schedules. The program emphasizes curriculum design, educational technology, and evidence-based teaching, preparing graduates for certification and leadership in nursing education. A capstone project and 100 hours of fieldwork ensure practical experience, while the cohort model fosters collaborative learning. This program is ideal for those seeking to influence the next generation of nurses through advanced educational strategies.

• Hybrid 2 or 4-year program
• 51 total credit hours
• 100 hours fieldwork included
• In-person and online learning
• Advanced nurse educator certification
• Cohort-based learning model
• Capstone project required
• Meets NLN credentialing requirements
• Diverse healthcare education focus
• Technology-enhanced pedagogy

The University of Utah offers an online Master of Science in Nursing Education designed for healthcare professionals aiming to excel as nurse educators. This program stands out with its 36-credit curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for leadership roles in nursing education. The asynchronous online format provides flexibility, enabling students to balance their studies with professional commitments. A distinctive feature is the 240-hour practicum, offering real-world teaching experience. With a tuition rate of $931.50 per credit and the possibility to complete the program in 16 months, it's an accessible option for RNs holding a bachelor's degree and seeking CNE certification. The program requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and RN licensure, ensuring a qualified cohort of students.

• 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 Mobile's Nurse Educator Certificate program is tailored for master’s or doctoral students aspiring to excel as educators in both healthcare and academic settings. This hybrid program emphasizes essential areas such as pedagogy, curriculum development, and evaluation techniques, equipping students with the skills to mitigate the nursing faculty shortage. Online course delivery ensures flexibility, while mentorship from seasoned educators enriches the learning experience. Graduates are well-prepared to take the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) Examination, paving the way for impactful roles in nursing education. The program's comprehensive approach includes a Role Synthesis course with practical field activities, blending theory with real-world application.

• 12 total credit hours.
• All courses offered online.
• Prepares for CNE Examination.
• Focus on pedagogy, curriculum development.
• Mentorship with expert educators.
• Eligible for master’s or doctoral students.
• Addresses nursing faculty shortage.
• Specialized instruction in testing, evaluation.
• Role Synthesis course with field activities.
• Prepares for healthcare, academic educator roles.

The University of Alabama in Huntsville offers an online Master of Science in Nursing Education, tailored for RNs aiming to transition into educational roles. This program stands out for its focus on equipping students with the pedagogical skills necessary for teaching in various nursing education environments, from academic institutions to healthcare settings. With a curriculum that emphasizes national nursing competencies, students are prepared to meet the challenges of modern nursing education. The program requires a 3.0 GPA and a current RN license for admission, offering both part-time and full-time study options to accommodate working professionals. Highlights include a 21-credit hour requirement, experienced faculty, and preparation for NLN certification.

• Online Master of Science in Nursing Education
• 21 total credit hours required
• Taught by experienced nursing faculty
• Flexible part-time and full-time options
• Prepares for NLN certification
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Current RN license needed
• 12 core course hours
• 21 nursing education course hours
• National competency-based curriculum

Purdue University Northwest's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator concentration is tailored for nurses aiming to excel in healthcare education. This program stands out with its accelerated 12-month completion option, fully online format, and a curriculum certified by Quality Matters™. With tuition at $512.16 per credit and the possibility to transfer up to 9 credits, it's both affordable and flexible. The program requires 135 practicum clock hours and prepares graduates for certification as nurse educators, offering a pathway to influence future healthcare professionals through teaching and curriculum design.

• 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

The Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education at Purdue University Northwest is designed for master's-prepared RNs looking to transition into educational roles. This online program emphasizes innovative teaching methodologies and evidence-based practice, enabling graduates to teach in both academic and clinical settings. With a focus on leadership and advanced teaching skills, the program includes four specialty courses, blending online learning with practical experience. Accredited by ACEN and HLC, it prepares nurses for the NLN Certification exam, opening doors to educator positions across the healthcare spectrum.

• 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

Purdue University Global offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nurse Educator, designed for nurses aiming to transition into educational roles within healthcare. This 60-credit online program focuses on equipping students with the skills to design curricula, implement effective teaching strategies, and evaluate educational programs in both academic and clinical settings. Tailored for working professionals, the program offers flexibility with multiple start dates and an average completion time of 1.9 years. Admission requires a bachelor's degree in nursing and an active U.S. RN license. The ExcelTrack® option allows for a personalized pace, making it ideal for those balancing work and study.

• 60 credit hours total
• Fully online program
• Start dates throughout year
• 1.9 years average completion
• Requires bachelor's nursing degree
• Active U.S. RN license required
• ExcelTrack® option available
• Prepare for nurse educator roles
• Teach patients and families
• Develop staff training programs

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-Shreveport offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nurse Educator, tailored for RNs aiming to lead in healthcare education. This hybrid program merges online coursework with in-person sessions, enabling students to balance studies with professional commitments. Focused on preparing educators for diverse healthcare settings, it emphasizes curriculum development, teaching strategies, and evaluation methods. Ideal for those with a BSN and clinical experience, the program is structured to be completed in four semesters, offering flexibility with fall, spring, and summer admissions. A standout feature includes synchronous distance education, enhancing accessibility for students nationwide.

• Hybrid (online & on-site)
• Four-semester intensive track
• Targets BSN nurses with experience
• Semester applications: Fall/Spring/Summer
• Synchronous distance education option

Auburn University offers a Nursing Education Graduate Certificate for nurses with a Master's degree in nursing, focusing on preparing them for educational roles in healthcare. This hybrid program emphasizes teaching strategies, curriculum development, and includes a nursing education practicum. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA from their Master's program, a current RN license, and must have completed specific advanced courses. The program requires submission of professional references, a goal statement, and official transcripts. Spanning one year, it comprises 11 credit hours and 180 clinical hours, ensuring a comprehensive preparation for nursing educators. Admission is competitive, with potential interviews and strict academic performance requirements.

• Post-Master's certificate program
• Specialization in nursing education
• Requires MSN or MN degree
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Current RN license needed
• Advanced courses completion
• Professional references required
• 500-word goal statement
• Official transcripts submission
• 1-year clinical experience

Kennesaw State University offers an MSN in Nursing Education Leadership in a Digital World, designed for nurses aiming to lead in educational settings. This hybrid program blends online coursework with campus interactions, focusing on digital teaching technologies and healthcare innovations. Over two years, students engage in 40 credit hours of study, including simulation labs, under the guidance of experienced faculty. The program emphasizes leadership in academic and clinical environments, offering a Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate option. Admission requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, two recommendation letters, and a $60 application fee, with deadlines on December 15 and May 1.

• 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

The Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate at Kennesaw State University is tailored for master's-prepared nurses seeking to transition into education roles. This 12-credit hybrid program combines online learning with face-to-face sessions, completed in two to four semesters. It equips nurses with pedagogical skills and educational technology proficiency, preparing them for teaching positions in nursing education. Requirements include a 3.0 GPA, current RN licensure, and admission in Fall or Spring. The program is ideal for those looking to enhance their teaching capabilities and influence the next generation of nurses.

• 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

Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global offers an online MSN in Nursing Education designed for nurses aiming to transition into educational roles. This program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum that blends advanced nursing theory with practical teaching strategies, preparing graduates to lead in academic, clinical, and public health education. The 100% online format, coupled with a faith-integrated approach, provides flexibility for working professionals. With a focus on evidence-based practice and leadership, students are equipped to address contemporary healthcare challenges. The program requires a 3.0 GPA for admission and includes 175 practicum hours, culminating in preparation for the Nurse Educator exam.

• 100% online program
• 36-month completion time
• $455 per credit hour
• 58-60 total credit hours
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement
• Minimum 1 year professional practice
• 175 practicum hours required
• Prepares for Nurse Educator exam
• CCNE accredited program
• Christian worldview integration

The Online Nurse Educator Post-Graduate Certificate at Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global is tailored for graduate-level nurses seeking to specialize in education. This concise, 16-credit program emphasizes curriculum development, teaching methodologies, and leadership in nursing education. Delivered entirely online, it offers the convenience of flexible scheduling without compromising on the depth of learning. Participants engage in a 175-hour supervised practicum, applying evidence-based strategies in real-world settings. Ideal for those looking to quickly advance their careers in nursing education, the program requires a graduate nursing degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA, offering a fast-track to becoming a nurse educator in just over seven months.

• Online Post-Graduate Certificate
• 16 Credit Hours Total
• 6 Total Courses
• $595 per Credit Hour
• Completion in 7+ Months
• Requires Graduate Nursing Degree
• Minimum 3.0 Graduate GPA
• 175 Hours Supervised Practicum
• Evidence-Based Curriculum Design
• Nursing Education Focus

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology's Master of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator concentration is tailored for nurses aiming to transition into educational roles. This CCNE-accredited, 36-semester hour program emphasizes innovative curriculum design and evidence-based teaching strategies, preparing graduates to lead in academic and clinical education settings. The program's unique 14-week executive session format offers flexibility for working professionals, combining rigorous academic standards with practical application in nurse education. Admission requires a BSN degree and a current US RN license, ensuring a cohort of experienced nursing professionals ready to advance their teaching capabilities.

• 36 semester hour program
• 14-week Executive Session format
• CCNE Accredited program
• Focuses on innovative teaching methods
• Requires BSN degree
• Current US RN License required
• Concentration in Nurse Educator
• Evidence-based curriculum approach
• Prepares nurses for educational leadership

Florida Gulf Coast University's MSN Nurse Educator Program is a hybrid program tailored for RNs aiming to excel in nursing education. This 38-credit hour program blends innovative teaching methodologies with clinical practice, focusing on evidence-based learning and curriculum development. Accredited by CCNE, it prepares graduates for leadership roles in academia and healthcare, adhering to NLN core competencies. Applicants need a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, one year of nursing experience, and prerequisite courses. The program offers flexibility with full-time and part-time options, culminating in a capstone project and professional portfolio. Practical experiences are gained in diverse settings, enhancing teaching and leadership skills.

• 38 total credit hours
• CCNE Accredited Program
• Full-time or part-time options
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• One year nursing experience
• Multiple course formats available
• Capstone project required
• Professional portfolio development
• Aligned with NLN core competencies
• Practice hours in diverse environments

Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nurse Educator, designed for nurses aiming to transition into educational roles. This CCNE-accredited online program emphasizes advanced clinical skills, curriculum development, and instructional strategies to prepare graduates for leadership in nursing education. Focusing on evidence-based practices, it equips students to effectively teach and evaluate nursing students in various healthcare settings. Highlights include its accreditation, online flexibility, and a curriculum tailored for aspiring nurse educators.

• CCNE Accredited Program
• Online Program Option
• Advanced Nursing Education Focus
• Prepares Nurse Educators
• Evidence-Based Curriculum Design

Carroll University's Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Educator program is designed for nurses aiming to excel in educational roles within healthcare. This 40-credit hybrid program blends online coursework with in-person sessions, offering flexibility for working professionals. It focuses on equipping students with the skills to develop nursing curricula, utilize educational technology, and apply evidence-based teaching methods. With small class sizes and state-of-the-art simulation facilities, students are well-prepared for the Certified Nurse Educator exam. The program starts in the fall, featuring an eight-week course format and includes a clinical practicum in the student's current workplace, aligning with the 19% projected job growth in this field.

• 40-credit graduate nursing program
• Hybrid online/in-person delivery
• Eight-week course format
• Clinical practicum in current workplace
• Prepare for NLN certification
• Small class sizes
• State-of-the-art simulation facilities
• 19% projected job growth
• Affordable curriculum options
• Courses begin in fall semester

The Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate at Carroll University is tailored for MSN-prepared nurses seeking to specialize in education. This 15-credit hybrid program offers a pathway to becoming a certified nurse educator, with coursework that includes curriculum development and mentorship strategies. Designed for flexibility, it accommodates working professionals through hybrid delivery and small class sizes. Participants benefit from clinical practicum options and access to advanced simulation facilities, preparing them for the CNE certification. This program is an excellent choice for those looking to leverage their clinical experience into educational leadership roles, amidst growing demand for nurse educators.

• 15-credit post-graduate certificate
• Hybrid online and in-person courses
• For MSN degree holders only
• Clinical practicum options
• Prepare for CNE certification
• Small class sizes
• State-of-the-art simulation facilities
• Flexible scheduling for working nurses

California State University-Channel Islands provides a hybrid Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nurse Educator, designed for those aiming to teach in academic or clinical settings. This program blends online coursework with summer on-campus intensives, focusing on advanced nursing theories, evidence-based practice, and leadership. It emphasizes developing educators who can foster cultural competency and effective communication in diverse healthcare environments. While the Nurse Educator track is currently paused, the program remains a robust option for aspiring nurse educators, offering CCNE accreditation and a curriculum that prepares graduates for the challenges of modern healthcare education.

• Hybrid MSN program
• Two concentrations available
• CCNE accredited program
• Summer on-campus intensives
• Advanced nursing core courses
• Nurse Educator track paused
• Academic/clinical preparation
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Leadership skill development
• Cultural competency emphasis