Online Master's in Nurse Education - MSN Degree Nurse Educator
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For the 2023-2024 academic year, we have 112 schools in our MHAOnline.com database and those that advertise with us are labeled “sponsor”. When you click on a sponsoring school or program, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details.
“Nurse educators must remember that our students have personal lives and responsibilities, and they need our understanding and compassion too as we educate them to treat their patients with respect and humility.”
Tonya Breymier, PhD, Dean of Nursing at the Arizona College of Nursing (Cincinnati)
Our hospitals need good nurses, and an effective nursing system needs nurturing from a good faculty. Nurse educators play an important role in preparing students to deliver the best patient care. An online master’s program in nurse education paves the way for budding nurse educators to take up faculty positions in bachelor’s- and associate-level nursing programs, create a curriculum, and develop new teaching methods.
A number of universities offer online master’s programs in nurse education, generally comprising 30 to 40 credit-hours, which can be completed in two years. The curriculum focuses on the role of nurse educators, how to develop nursing curricula, the engagement of students in the classroom, and advanced nursing practice. At the end of the program, students can pursue roles such as clinical nurse educator or adjunct professor in universities, colleges, and hospital-based nursing schools, among other opportunities.
The following guide covers online master’s programs in nurse education and the perspective of an accomplished nurse educator.
| Featured Nurse Educator Programs | ||
|---|---|---|
| Purdue Global | Online MSN - Nurse Educator | Visit Site |
| Grand Canyon University | DNP - Educational Leadership | Visit Site |
| Grand Canyon University | MSN - Nursing Education (for licensed RNs) | Visit Site |
| Rasmussen University | MSN - Nursing Education | Visit Site |
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For the 2023-2024 academic year, we have 112 schools in our MHAOnline.com database and those that advertise with us are labeled “sponsor”. When you click on a sponsoring school or program, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details. |
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Meet the Expert: Tonya Breymier PhD, RN, CNE, COI
Dr. Tonya Breymier is a distinguished figure in the nursing education community, currently serving as the dean of nursing at Arizona College of Nursing.
With a career spanning over three decades in nursing and 17 years dedicated to higher education, she has amassed extensive experience across various clinical settings, including obstetrics, PACU, telemetry, homecare and community health, and significant leadership roles. Her previous positions include serving as a campus president at Chamberlain University, BSN program director at the University of Dayton, and associate dean at Indiana University East.
Dr. Breymier’s academic credentials are as impressive as her career, holding a BSN from Wright State University, an MSN from Ball State University, and a PhD from Capella University. An accomplished nurse, educator, and leader, she has contributed to the field through national and international presentations and numerous publications, particularly on simulation education.
Dr. Breymier has earned many accolades, grants, fellowships, and awards for her teaching and service throughout her career. Her commitment extends beyond academia into community service, where she actively supports various organizations. As dean of the Arizona College of Nursing in Cincinnati, she is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that supports the holistic well-being and professional growth of nursing students and faculty, promoting a balance between life and work.
MHAOnline.com: What is something most people don’t know about being a nurse educator?
Dr. Breymier: There’s a common saying that “Those who can, do; those who can’t, teach.” The phrase dates back to George Bernard Shaw in the early 1900s, and represents a false, dated idea of what it means to teach. This is especially true in nursing education.
When a nurse enters the education field, it does not mean they are unable to practice competently; it means they choose to bring a wealth of expertise and advanced education to teach and nurture the next generation of nurses. Many assume nurses leave the bedside to have weekends and holidays off, daytime hours, and shorter workdays. This is a misconception. Nurse educators are an advanced nursing specialty with specific advanced degree requirements and certifications. The clock never turns off for nurse educators. It lasts throughout the semester, only to pick right back up when the next cohort begins.
It’s all worth it, though. Nurse educators are motivated by the impact they make on future nurses, and student success is our greatest reward.
MHAOnline.com: What is one piece of advice you would give to a prospective nursing education student?
Dr. Breymier: First, find your passion. Whether it’s for student success or the opportunity to contribute toward our profession’s future, find what drives you as a nurse educator.
Secondly, patience and empathy are key. Nurse educators must remember that our students have personal lives and responsibilities, and they need our understanding and compassion, too, as we educate them to treat their patients with respect and humility. Above all, nursing educators must prepare students to join the workforce. That means teaching them all parts of nursing, both the art and the science.
Featured Online Nurse Educator Programs
Purdue Global offers an online master of science in nursing program with the nurse education track. It comprises 200 clinical hours and no campus visits are required.
Core courses include advanced nursing roles; theoretical foundations of advanced nursing practice; scientific and analytic approaches to advanced evidence-based practice; epidemiology and health promotion; health policy, ethical, and legal perspectives of the healthcare system; and promoting optimal models and systems for healthcare delivery. Nurse education classes include teaching and learning theories and strategies; curriculum design, assessment, and evaluation; advanced health assessment and diagnostic reasoning; the essentials of advanced pathophysiology and pharmacology; applying principles of advanced nursing practice – clinical; and evaluating and disseminating principles of advanced nursing practice – clinical.
Applicants must have a BSN with a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Applications must include an application fee, proof of RN licensure, official transcripts, a criminal background check, health examinations, immunization records, and required tests.
- Location: West Lafayette, Indiana
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Duration: 1.5 years
Benedictine University offers an online master of science in nursing (MSN) with a nurse educator concentration that can be completed in 24 to 26 months. It features courses such as advanced health assessment; advanced pharmacology; advanced pathophysiology; instructional strategies; curriculum development; evaluation strategies and methods; advanced nursing practice: clinical immersion; and advanced nursing practice: capstone project implementation.
To apply to the program, students must have a BSN degree, a minimum GPA of 2.75, and proof of RN licensure where the clinical hours will be completed.
- Location: Lisle, Illinois
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Duration: 24 to 26 months
Queens University of Charlotte offers an online MSN program with four concentrations, including nurse education. The program offers courses such as leadership principles and practices; financial management for nurse leaders; principles of curriculum and evaluation; educational principles and practices; and a nurse educator residency.
To apply to the program, students must have one of the following: a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN), a non-nursing bachelor’s with an RN license, or an associate degree in nursing (ADN) from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
- Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Duration: Two to four years (full-time or part-time)
United States University offers an online MSN with a nurse education specialization. The program comprises 36 credits and includes 225 clinical hours, with core courses such as interprofessional education and collaborative practice; organizational leadership and policy in healthcare; evidence-based practice for healthcare professionals; interprofessional approaches to regional and global population health; theoretical and scientific underpinning for nursing practice; and healthcare informatics and technology management. Nurse education courses include pathophysiology, health assessment, pharmacology for nurse educators; foundational theories and education; program and curricular design for health sciences education; MSN role practicum I-II; and teaching methods in higher education.
To apply to the program, students must have a bachelor of science degree with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher
- Location: Raleigh, North Carolina
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Duration: Two years
Capella University’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences provides an online MSN program with a nurse educator concentration. It offers both BSN- and RN-to-MSN options. The online MSN consists of 13 courses, while the RN-to-MSN has 16 courses.
Core courses include communication, collaboration, and case analysis for master’s learners; economics and decision-making in healthcare; healthcare law and policy; evidence-based practice for patient-centered care and population health; quality improvement of interprofessional care; biopsychosocial concepts for advanced nursing practice I-II; and MSN practicum and capstone. Specialty courses for the nurse educator track include the nurse educator role; teaching and active learning strategies; integrating technology into nursing education; curriculum design, development, and evaluation; and assessment and evaluation in nursing education.
To apply, MSN candidates must have a BSN with a minimum GPA of 2.8. RN-to-MSN applicants must have earned an ADN with a minimum GPA of 2.8. Other application materials include proof of unencumbered RN licensure in the United States, a valid government-issued ID, an application and fee, and official transcripts. No GRE/GMAT scores or work experience are required.
- Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Duration: 18 months to three years
The University of Texas at Arlington, College of Nursing and Health Innovation offers an online master of science in nursing education program. The program prepares students to become nurse educators in bachelor’s and associate nursing degree programs.
To apply to the program, students must have a bachelor of science degree with a major in nursing from an accredited college or university, an unencumbered RN license, a completed undergraduate statistics course with a minimum C grade, two years of clinical experience in registered nursing, and a minimum grade point average of 3.0. GRE scores are not required for students with a 3.0 GPA. International students need to have two years clinical experience in a United States healthcare system and TOEFL scores.
The 39-credit-hour program trains students to put together and analyze nursing education programs. Some of the courses included in the curriculum are as follows: advanced health assessment and diagnostic reasoning, the exploration of science and theories for nursing, the role of the nurse educator, advanced pharmacology for nurse educators, and curriculum development and evaluation. Students learn how to develop a curriculum, implement new teaching strategies in the classroom, promote active learning and student retention, and engage students in meaningful ways. Through the program, students are also prepared for national certification (CNE).
On completion of the program, students can take up a variety of educator roles such as patient education coordinator, clinical nurse educator, and adjunct professor.
- Location: Arlington, Texas
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Duration: 19 to 21 months
Kent State University offers an online master of science in nursing program with a nurse educator concentration. Students learn how to teach students, develop coursework, and mentor budding nurses and nursing students. Additionally, the program offers students the opportunity to learn from nationally certified nurse educators and active researchers.
Admission requirements for the program include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited registered nursing program; a minimum undergraduate or graduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 point scale; a completed undergraduate statistics course with a minimum C grade; an active, unrestricted registered nurse license; and English language proficiency proof for international students.
The program comprises 34 credit-hours and prepares registered nurses to take up roles as educators, advanced practitioners, and healthcare administrators. The coursework explores topics such as the theoretical basis for nursing practice, nursing curriculum and instruction in higher education, roles and evaluation for nursing curricula in higher education, advanced health assessment, health policy and advanced nursing practice, and advanced nursing informatics.
Students become adept at developing a curriculum, instructing in an online and/or traditional classroom, and undertaking staff development. They also receive practical experience in nurse education. Graduates of the program can take the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam. They have a wide range of roles open to them, both in academia and professional settings.
- Location: Kent, Ohio
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Duration: 24 months
Texas Tech University offers an online master of science in nursing (MSN) with a special focus on nursing education. Along with theoretical content, the program also includes practical experiences. Students who have completed a bachelor’s degree in nursing and wish to take up a career in nursing education can opt for this program.
Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited college or university, an unencumbered RN license, undergraduate courses in research and statistics with a grade of C or better, a minimum grade point average of 3.0, and TOEFL scores for international students.
The program consists of 39 credit-hours. Students study topics such as The scientific foundations of advanced practice nursing, leadership for healthcare, advanced health assessment, leadership in nursing education, comprehensive clinical care, simulation, and clinical teaching.
Students learn how to implement a curriculum, use technology to make the learning experience engaging and lively, and use tried-and-tested teaching techniques to prepare nursing graduates. Graduates of the program can work in academia as well as other professional settings.
- Location: Lubbock, Texas
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Expected Time to Completion: 24 to 30 months
Nebraska Methodist College offers an online nurse educator track in the master of science in nursing program. The program prepares students to become qualified nurse educators. The 100 percent online format of the program is ideal for working nurses who wish to teach students and work in education.
Applicants to the program need a bachelor of science degree in nursing (BSN) from a state-approved program of nursing, a minimum grade point average of 3.0, unencumbered licensure as a registered nurse, a current resume, a written statement, and official college transcripts. The GRE is not required for admission.
The curriculum consists of 36 credit-hours. Along with theoretical knowledge, the program also helps students gain real teaching experience through projects and practicum. Some of the courses included in the program are healthcare policy, advanced nursing roles and phenomena, teaching-learning principles for nursing education, instructional methods, and a practicum in nursing education.
The program trains students to examine healthcare policy and factors that influence it, study teaching strategies, participate in online teaching, and implement new methods for changing the classroom. Graduates of the program are also eligible for the NLN-certified nurse educator exam.
At the end of the program, graduates can pursue opportunities in educational settings including colleges, universities, hospital-based nursing schools, and other post-secondary institutions.
- Location: Omaha, Nebraska
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Duration: 21 months
Indiana University offers an online nursing education track in the master of science in nursing degree program. While the program is primarily online, some courses may require students to be live at a given time via videoconferencing. Students who wish to pursue a career as a nurse faculty member in a community college, university, or clinical setting can find the program most beneficial.
Admission requirements include a bachelor of science in nursing degree from a CNEA-, CCNE-, or ACEN-accredited program, a cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or higher, an unencumbered RN license, and skills to use a computer and other technologies. GRE scores are not required for admission.
The program is made up of 42 credit-hours. It includes courses such as leadership for advanced nursing practice, measurement and data analysis, nursing research methods, computer technologies for nurse educators, advancing nursing education, and evaluation in nursing.
The program trains students to develop an evidence-based nursing program, implement innovative teaching strategies in the classroom, create tests and assessments, and make use of best practices in nursing education. Graduates of this program are eligible for national CNE certification.
On completion of the program, graduates can pursue roles such as a nursing faculty member or a nurse educator in various settings.
- Location: Bloomington Indiana
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Duration: 24 to 36 months
The University of Texas at Tyler offers an online master of nursing in nursing education program. The program combines online learning with hands-on practical experience to provide students with a comprehensive learning experience. Notably, the university’s nursing programs have been ranked as the best in Texas and at number five nationwide, as per U.S. News and World Report.
Admission requirements for the program include a baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited institution for domestic applicants, a minimum grade point average of 3.0, an undergraduate statistics course with a grade of “C” or better, a current license to practice professional nursing, and proof of English proficiency for international students.
The 36-credit program prepares students for careers in primary care, service, research, and education. Some of the courses included in the curriculum are translational science, health policy, healthcare informatics, organizational and systems leadership, nursing education curriculum development, and evaluation in nursing education.
Through the coursework, students are trained to provide top-notch nursing care, learn how to promote health and welfare of patients at large, and develop curricula in nursing. Graduates can also sit for the national certification exam. At the end of the program, students can take up faculty roles in universities, government agencies, community colleges, and clinical facilities.
- Location: Tyler, Texas
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Duration: 24 to 36 months
Ball State University offers an online nurse educator concentration in the master of science in nursing degree program. During the last semester, students are required to take a 180-hour practicum in an on-campus nursing program in their geographic area. The program provides students with a strong foundation in teaching, learning, and evaluation in nursing.
In order to apply, students must have a bachelor of science in nursing degree from a CNEA-, CCNE-, or ACEN-accredited program; a minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0; an unencumbered RN license in state of practice; proof of experience as an RN; transcripts from every college attended; and three letters of recommendation.
The program comprises of 36 credit-hours and the curriculum includes the following courses: data analysis in nursing research, nursing theory, nursing information technology, curricular designs in nursing, teaching in nursing, and program evaluation.
Students learn how to develop a curriculum for undergraduate courses, create course materials such as a class syllabus, and lecture on different topics. Students in this program are also expected to oversee lab and clinical work by other students. At the end of the program, graduates are well-equipped to take up teaching roles in a variety of organizations.
- Location: Muncie, Indiana
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Duration: 24 to 30 months
Career & Salary Outlook for Nurse Educators
The career outlook for nurse educators remains robust and promising from 2022 to 2032, with a growing demand driven by an aging population and the subsequent need for more healthcare professionals. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2024), employment of postsecondary nursing instructors and teachers is projected to grow by 38 percent, significantly faster than the average for all occupations (3 percent). This growth underscores the critical role nurse educators play in shaping the future of healthcare.
Here are the salary percentiles for nurse practitioners, a closely related occupational category for nurse educators (BLS May 2023):
- 10th percentile: $94,530
- 25th percentile: $106,960
- 50th percentile (median): $126,260
- 75th percentile: $140,610
- 90th percentile: $168,030
Additionally, data from Payscale.com in June 2024 indicates that the median annual salary for nurse educators is approximately $83,948, though this can vary widely based on experience, education level, and geographic location.
