Best Online MSN in Nursing Education Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online MSN in nursing education?

A student enrolling in an online MSN in Nursing Education can expect a comprehensive, flexible program designed to prepare them for teaching roles in academic settings, healthcare agencies, or professional development.

The curriculum typically includes advanced nursing theory, curriculum development and evaluation, teaching strategies for both traditional and digital learning environments, measurement and assessment methods, and leadership and communication skills tailored to nurse educators.

This education also covers evidence-based practice and pedagogical theories to equip students with the ability to design and implement effective nursing education programs.

An MSN in nursing education usually involves predominantly online coursework featuring asynchronous classes, allowing students to balance study with work and personal commitments, while including in-person or local clinical/practicum experiences for hands-on teaching practice and capstone projects.

Students can expect rigorous academic demands with support from experienced faculty, opportunities for professional growth, and preparation for national certification exams such as the Certified Nurse Educator. This pathway readies graduates to become competent nurse educators capable of inspiring and shaping future nursing professionals.

Where can I work with an online MSN in nursing education?

A graduate with an online MSN in Nursing Education can work in a variety of academic, clinical, and organizational settings where nursing instruction and staff development are essential. These roles involve educating future nurses, training current staff, and improving the quality of patient care through education.

A graduate's common workplaces include the following:

• Colleges and Universities: Graduates can teach in associate, bachelor's, or graduate-level nursing programs as faculty members, lecturers, or clinical instructors.
• Community Colleges and Vocational Schools: Many nurse educators teach practical nursing (LPN) or associate degree RN programs in community or technical colleges.
• Hospitals and Health Systems: Clinical nurse educators or staff development specialists provide onboarding, continuing education, and skills training to nursing staff and interdisciplinary teams.
• Simulation Labs and Skills Centers: Educators work in simulation environments within schools or hospitals, managing hands-on training using mannequins and virtual tools to enhance clinical instruction.
• Online Nursing Programs: With growing demand for remote learning, MSN-prepared educators often teach or design content for fully online nursing degree or certification programs.
• Public Health Departments and Community Health Centers: Nurse educators may develop and deliver educational programs focused on disease prevention, health promotion, and chronic care management for the public.
• Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation Facilities: Nurse educators provide staff training, ensure regulatory compliance, and lead quality improvement initiatives in extended care environments.
• Healthcare Corporations and Consulting Firms: Some educators design and implement large-scale training programs or consult on curriculum development and staff education strategies.
• Professional Nursing Associations: Nurse educators may work in education or certification departments, helping design continuing education courses or certification prep programs.

How much can I make with an online MSN in nursing education?

Nursing teachers receive decent pay and are in demand given their impact on the nursing sector. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), postsecondary nurse educators receive an average yearly salary of $87,090 and a median yearly salary of $79,940. Both figures are much higher than the collective median annual pay of all jobs in the country ($49,500). 

Postsecondary nursing instructors earn from $47,950 to $130,040 each year in their careers. The pay of entry-level roles and starting job grades falls within the lower end of the salary spectrum as new hires work their way to higher pay and positions. On the other hand, experienced educators working in prestigious private institutions typically earn sums well above the average yearly salary. 

Best Online MSN in Nursing Education Programs for 2025

1. Texas Christian University Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Educator

The Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Educator program at Texas Christian University prepares nurses to become skilled educators and leaders who promote innovation. Offered 100% online with clinical practicums arranged locally, the program features adult-gerontology and pediatric focus areas, with flexible two- or three-year completion tracks. Students gain hands-on teaching experience in both clinical and classroom settings.

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Concentrations:
  • Adult-Gerontology
  • Pediatric
• Required Credits to Graduate: 34
• Cost per Credit: $2,145
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

2. Duke University Nursing Education MSN

Duke University’s MSN in Nursing Education program prepares nurses to become influential educators and leaders in both academic and healthcare settings. The program combines a strong foundation in nursing science with advanced studies in educational technology, curriculum design, and teaching strategies. With a focus on innovation and leadership, graduates are well-equipped for roles in nursing education, staff development, and healthcare training.

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost per Credit: $2,166
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

3. University of Rochester Master's in Nursing Education Program

The University of Rochester’s Master’s in Nursing Education program prepares experienced nurses to transition into teaching roles in academic or clinical settings. This 37-credit hybrid program blends online and in-person evening coursework with hands-on teaching experiences, including a capstone student-teaching immersion. With flexible scheduling and specialty options like pediatrics, oncology, and perioperative care, the program equips nurses to lead in education, patient safety, and workforce development.

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Concentrations:
  • Medical-Surgical Nursing
  • Critical Care Nursing
  • Emergency Nursing
  • OR/Perioperative Services
  • Pediatrics
  • Women's Health
  • Ambulatory Nursing
  • Oncology
• Required Credits to Graduate: 37
• Cost per Credit: $1,740
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

4. Villanova University Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education Track)

Villanova University’s Nursing Education MSN track prepares experienced nurses to become educators and leaders in clinical, academic, and community settings. The 33-credit hybrid program includes online coursework, an on-campus summer simulation intensive, and a practicum guided by expert nurse educators. For their practicum, students choose a clinical focus area such as adult-gerontology, parent-child health, or psychiatric/mental health and gain hands-on experience in curriculum design, teaching strategies, and educational leadership.

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 33
• Cost per Credit: $1,050
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

5. Drexel University Online Master’s in Nursing Education (MSN)

Drexel University’s online MSN in Nursing Education prepares nurses for educator roles in academic, clinical, and professional development settings. The 45-quarter credit program blends advanced clinical concepts with adult learning theories, simulation training, and curriculum design, and it aligns with national competencies to help graduates pass the Certified Nurse Educator Exam.

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 45
• Cost per Credit: $1,134
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

6. Southern Connecticut State University Master of Science Degree in Nursing Education

Southern Connecticut State University’s MSN in Nursing Education prepares registered nurses to become effective classroom and clinical educators across various nursing program levels. The 37-credit program is offered in both an accelerated 16-month format and a part-time 2–3 year track. Coursework integrates nursing theory, education principles, and leadership, while practicum experiences take place in over 150 affiliated clinical settings throughout Connecticut. 

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Concentrations:
  • Accelerated, 16-month program
  • Part-time, 2-3 year program
• Required Credits to Graduate: 37
• Cost per Credit: $945
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

7. The University of Mississippi Medical Center MSN: Nurse Educator Track

The University of Mississippi Medical Center’s MSN Nurse Educator Track is a hybrid program that includes online coursework with occasional in-person sessions and three practicum experiences, totaling 360 clinical hours. Students gain expertise in curriculum development, teaching methods, health policy, leadership, and education technology, with the option to complete clinicals within the university’s healthcare system.

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 38
• Cost per Credit: $545 (in-state); $1,599 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

8. Texas A&M University MSN-Nursing Education

Texas A&M University’s MSN in Nursing Education prepares nurses for educator roles in both clinical settings and higher education. This 36-credit hybrid program is primarily delivered online, but students must attend two required visits to Bryan-College Station to complete 45 on-campus clinical hours. The curriculum includes leadership, teaching theory, curriculum design, and three clinical practicums requiring preceptors. 

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost per Credit: $787.89 (in-state); $1,319.4 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

9. University of South Carolina MSN in Nursing Education

The University of South Carolina’s MSN in Nursing Education is a 39-credit, five-semester hybrid program. Students engage in online coursework combined with clinical practicums, totaling 500 hours, which can be completed in their local area. The curriculum covers educational theory, curriculum development, teaching strategies, and instructional technologies, with select courses requiring on-campus immersion. 

• Program Length: 2 to 3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 39
• Cost per Credit: $770.25 (in-state); $1,438 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

10. William Carey University Master of Science in Nursing Education

William Carey University’s MSN in Nursing Education is a fully online program designed for registered nurses aiming to become faculty educators or staff development leaders in healthcare. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and integration of diverse nursing and scientific disciplines. Graduates are prepared for teaching roles in LPN, ADN, or BSN programs and for staff development positions.

• Program Length: 18 to 24 months
• Required Credits to Graduate: 35
• Cost per Credit: $495
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

How long does it take to complete an online MSN in nursing education?

An online Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Education typically takes 2 to 3 years to complete, similar to an accelerated master's in public administration online. The duration depends on the student’s enrollment status and the program’s structure.

All programs include a combination of core nursing education courses and a teaching practicum, which may affect the overall timeline based on clinical placement availability. Here is a quick breakdown of the completion time:

• Full-time students can usually finish the program in about 18 to 24 months, especially if the curriculum is streamlined and includes year-round courses.
• Part-time students, who may be balancing work and other responsibilities, often take 2.5 to 3 years to complete all coursework and practicum requirements.
• Some programs offer accelerated options, allowing completion in as little as 12 to 18 months, though these require a heavier course load and a high degree of time management.

According to College Board, as shown in the chart below, 52.11% of nurse educators in the United States earned master's or professional degrees, 42.84% have a doctorate or more, and 5.05% hold a bachelor's degree. 

How does an online MSN in nursing education compare to an on-campus program?

Both online and on-campus MSN programs in nursing education help prepare registered nurses for academic and instructional roles by enhancing their skills in curriculum design, teaching methodologies, and leadership. However, these two formats differ in flexibility, interaction, access to instructional tools, and clinical teaching experiences.  For those interested in expanding their expertise in midwifery, exploring the best online MSN in nurse midwifery programs can provide a clear path to advanced practice and leadership opportunities.

Here is how they compare across several key aspects:

Flexibility and Scheduling

• Online: Online MSN programs in nursing education typically offer asynchronous coursework, allowing students to complete assignments and lectures on their own schedule. This format is ideal for working nurses and those managing personal responsibilities.
• On-Campus: On-campus programs operate on fixed schedules with designated class times and in-person attendance, better suited for students who benefit from structured routines and real-time interaction.

Learning Environment

• Online: Students engage through digital platforms that include recorded lectures, virtual classroom discussions, and interactive modules. Success in this setting relies heavily on self-discipline, independent study habits, and technological comfort.
• On-Campus: In-person instruction provides immediate feedback, live discussions, and practical demonstrations. This environment supports hands-on learning and spontaneous collaboration with peers and instructors.

Access to Resources

• Online: Virtual learners can access digital libraries, recorded lectures, online mentoring, and virtual faculty office hours. Some schools offer optional campus visits or intensives for skill development.
• On-Campus: Students benefit from in-person simulation labs, writing centers, and easier access to faculty, mentorship, and peer networking within the campus setting.

Clinical Teaching Experience

• Online: Online students still complete practical teaching experiences, often in academic or healthcare settings near their residence. Schools may assist with placement or allow students to arrange their own under specific guidelines.
• On-Campus: Clinical teaching practicums are typically coordinated by the school in nearby institutions, enabling smoother placement logistics and closer supervision by faculty.

Cost and Accessibility

• Online: These programs can reduce overall costs by eliminating the need for housing, transportation, and campus fees. They are especially accessible to nurses living in remote or underserved areas.
• On-Campus: While generally involving higher living and commuting costs, on-campus programs may offer more immediate use of physical learning spaces and direct faculty engagement.

What is the average cost of an online MSN in nursing education?

The average cost of an online MSN in Nursing Education typically ranges from $25,000 to $60,000, depending on the institution, program structure, and additional fees. Public institutions usually charge lower fees than private schools. Here is a simple breakdown:

• Public Institutions: Graduate tuition at public universities tends to be more affordable, often ranging between $25,000 and $40,000, particularly for in-state or flat-rate online pricing for nonresidents.
• Private Institutions: Tuition at private colleges and universities usually falls between $40,000 and $60,000, with some specialized or highly ranked programs potentially exceeding that range.
• Additional Expenses: Beyond tuition, students may need to budget for textbooks, software, technology requirements, clinical requirements, and nondiscountable fees for administrative services or practicum coordination.

If you’re exploring other advanced nursing specialties, checking out online MSN PMHNP programs can help you compare costs and career opportunities in mental health nursing.  

Finding a lucrative opportunity is a quick way to recover education expenses. The industries that offer the highest average annual salaries to nurse educators, as seen in the chart below, are local government offices ($136,450), physicians' offices ($129,510), and other schools and instruction ($112,800). 

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online MSN in nursing education?

Students enrolling in an online MSN in Nursing Education program have several financial aid options to help manage the cost of their graduate education. These options come from federal, state, institutional, and private sources, and may include the following:

• Federal Student Aid: By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), students can access federal loans such as Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans. These loans offer fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options.
• Nursing-Specific Scholarships: Many nursing organizations, such as the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), Nurse Corps, and Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. (NEF), offer scholarships specifically for graduate nursing students. Schools may also offer merit-based or need-based scholarships for students in MSN programs.
• Loan Repayment and Forgiveness Programs: Programs like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) offer loan repayment assistance to nurses who work in underserved areas, public institutions, or nonprofit organizations.
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer tuition reimbursement or tuition assistance to employees pursuing advanced degrees in nursing, especially if the program supports staff development and retention.
• State and Institutional Grants: Some states and universities offer graduate education grants or workforce development grants for nurses, particularly in regions experiencing nursing faculty shortages.
• Military and Veterans’ Benefits: Eligible students may use GI Bill® benefits or apply for military tuition assistance programs if they or their dependents are affiliated with the military.
• Private Scholarships and Foundations: Students can apply for scholarships from private sources such as healthcare corporations, community foundations, or educational nonprofits that support nursing education.
• Payment Plans: Many schools offer interest-free payment plans, allowing students to spread tuition costs over the semester rather than paying in one lump sum.

Prospective students should contact their school’s financial aid office early in the application process to explore eligibility and deadlines for these opportunities. Combining multiple sources of aid can significantly reduce the financial burden of earning an MSN in Nursing Education.

Meanwhile, aspiring medical assistants have access to plenty of similar avenues for aid. They can explore the best online medical assistant programs that accept financial aid.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online MSN in nursing education?

The admission requirements for an online MSN in Nursing Education program are designed to ensure applicants have the academic background, clinical experience, and professional readiness needed for advanced study. While the prerequisites may vary slightly by institution, most programs expect applicants to meet the following criteria:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Applicants must hold a BSN degree from a regionally accredited and CCNE- or ACEN-accredited nursing program.
• Active Registered Nurse (RN) License: A current, unencumbered RN license is required, often in the state where the applicant will complete any clinical or practicum components.
• Minimum GPA: Most programs require a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Some may offer provisional admission for slightly lower GPAs with additional documentation or experience.
• Professional Nursing Experience: Many programs prefer or require 1 to 2 years of clinical nursing experience, particularly for those entering educator or leadership tracks. If you’re interested in expanding your impact on community health, exploring online MSN public health nursing can help you see how admission requirements differ for programs focused on population health and policy.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically, applicants must submit two to three letters from academic or professional references who can speak to their clinical skills, academic potential, and leadership abilities.
• Statement of Purpose or Personal Essay: This written component allows applicants to outline their career goals, motivation for pursuing nursing education, and how the program aligns with their professional plans.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed resume is required, highlighting education, work history, certifications, leadership roles, and any teaching experience.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended are usually required to verify academic background.
• English Language Proficiency (if applicable): International applicants or non-native English speakers may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate language proficiency.
• Interview (in some programs): Some schools may require a video or phone interview to assess communication skills, program fit, and readiness for graduate-level work.

What courses are typically in an online MSN in nursing education?

An online MSN in Nursing Education program typically includes a blend of advanced nursing theory, teaching methodology, curriculum development, and clinical practice. These courses are designed to prepare nurses to educate future healthcare professionals in academic, clinical, or staff development settings.  If you’re considering other advanced specialties, looking into MSN pediatric nurse practitioner online programs can help you see how coursework differs for those focusing on child and adolescent care.

The common ones include the following:

• Advanced Pathophysiology: This course explores complex physiological processes and how they relate to disease, preparing students to teach clinical content and understand disease progression.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Students learn to perform and teach comprehensive physical and psychosocial assessments across the lifespan, using evidence-based techniques.
• Advanced Pharmacology: This course covers drug classifications, mechanisms of action, and safe medication administration, equipping future educators to teach pharmacological concepts to nursing students.
• Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Education: Students examine educational theories and learning models that form the foundation of effective teaching in nursing.
• Curriculum Design and Development: This course focuses on creating nursing curricula that align with accreditation standards, program outcomes, and clinical competencies.
• Teaching Strategies in Nursing: Students learn to apply various instructional methods for both classroom and clinical teaching, including simulation, case-based learning, and online education.
• Assessment and Evaluation in Nursing Education: This course teaches how to develop tools and strategies for evaluating student learning, clinical performance, and program outcomes.
• Role of the Nurse Educator: Students explore the responsibilities, ethical considerations, and professional expectations of nurse educators in academic and healthcare settings.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research: This course develops skills in appraising research literature and applying evidence to educational practices and curriculum design.
• Practicum or Teaching Internship: A supervised teaching experience allows students to apply theory in real-world academic or clinical education settings, often culminating in a capstone project.

What types of specializations are available in online MSN in nursing education programs?

Online MSN in Nursing Education programs primarily focus on preparing nurses to become educators, but some offer specialized tracks or focus areas that allow students to tailor their studies toward specific settings, populations, or advanced competencies.

The specializations in MSN Nursing Education programs often include the following:

• Academic Nursing Education: This specialization prepares nurses to teach in colleges, universities, and nursing schools. Students focus on curriculum development, classroom instruction, simulation-based learning, and preparing students for licensure exams like the NCLEX.
• Clinical Nurse Educator: Designed for nurses who want to teach in hospital or clinical settings, this track emphasizes bedside teaching, staff development, clinical preceptorship, and continuing education for practicing nurses.
• Simulation and Technology in Nursing Education: This focus area trains students to use simulation tools, virtual reality, and other educational technologies to enhance clinical teaching and student engagement.
• Community or Public Health Education: This specialization centers on educating diverse populations through health promotion, disease prevention, and outreach programs. Graduates may teach in community health centers or public health departments.
• Leadership in Nursing Education: This option combines nursing education with leadership training, preparing students to lead academic programs, manage faculty teams, or shape institutional policies in healthcare education.
• Pediatric or Maternal-Child Health Education: Some programs offer focus areas in pediatric or maternal health, allowing educators to specialize in teaching care strategies for children, newborns, or families.
• Gerontology Nursing Education: This specialization equips nurse educators to focus on aging populations, teaching future nurses how to care for older adults with chronic or complex conditions.

How to choose the best online MSN in nursing education?

When choosing the best online MSN in Nursing Education program, prospective students should evaluate several key factors to ensure the program fits their professional goals, learning preferences, and financial needs. Some of these also apply when looking for the best accelerated online specialist degree in education. 

The most important considerations include the following:

• Accreditation: The program should be accredited by recognized nursing accrediting bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation ensures educational quality and eligibility for licensure or certification.
• Curriculum and Specialization: Students should review the curriculum to confirm it covers essential topics like curriculum design, instructional methods, clinical teaching, and assessment strategies. Programs that offer specializations in academic, clinical, or simulation-based education may better align with specific career goals.
• Clinical or Teaching Practicum: A strong program includes a supervised practicum or teaching experience, often in a clinical or academic setting. It’s important to verify whether the school assists with placement or allows students to coordinate one locally.
• Program Flexibility: Online programs vary in format. Those offering asynchronous learning, part-time options, and multiple start dates are ideal for working nurses seeking flexibility.
• Faculty Qualifications: Students should look for programs led by experienced nurse educators with active involvement in teaching, research, and clinical practice, as faculty expertise directly impacts educational quality.
• Certification Preparation: Graduates should be eligible to sit for the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam offered by the National League for Nursing (NLN). Programs that align with CNE requirements may offer additional exam preparation support.
• Reputation and Outcomes: Prospective students should consider graduation rates, student satisfaction, and post-graduation employment outcomes. High certification pass rates and strong alumni networks are also indicators of a program’s success.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Comparing tuition rates, fees, and total program costs is critical. Students should also explore available scholarships, grants, and employer tuition assistance to determine overall affordability.
• Student Support Services: The best programs offer robust support, including academic advising, library access, technical assistance, career services, and licensure guidance, especially for distance learners.
• State Authorization and Licensure: Students should confirm that the school is authorized to operate in their state and that the degree meets state-specific requirements for advanced nursing practice or faculty positions.

What career paths are available for graduates of online MSN in nursing education programs?

Graduates of online MSN in Nursing Education programs are prepared to take on advanced roles in teaching, curriculum development, and staff training across a variety of healthcare and academic settings. Their expertise is in high demand due to the ongoing nursing faculty shortage and the growing need for clinical education.

The common career paths include the following:

• Nurse Educator: Teaches in academic settings such as nursing schools, colleges, or universities. Responsibilities include delivering lectures, supervising clinical rotations, developing course content, and preparing students for licensure exams. Educators who intend to pursue a higher position later on can explore accelerated online master's in teacher leadership programs.
• Clinical Nurse Educator: Works in hospitals or healthcare systems to train and mentor nursing staff, oversee clinical competencies, and lead continuing education initiatives for practicing nurses.
• Patient Education Coordinator: Designs and implements educational programs for patients and families, helping them understand treatment plans, manage chronic conditions, and navigate the healthcare system.
• Professional Development Specialist: Develops and leads in-service training programs for healthcare personnel to ensure staff stay current with best practices, new technologies, and regulatory standards.
• Simulation Lab Coordinator: Oversees the operation of simulation labs in nursing schools or hospitals, managing high-fidelity manikins and virtual tools used to teach and assess clinical skills.
• Instructional Designer for Nursing Programs: Works with academic institutions or online learning companies to develop engaging, evidence-based nursing curriculum using modern teaching technologies.
• Public Health Educator: Focuses on community-based health promotion, providing education on disease prevention, healthy living, and wellness in public or nonprofit organizations.
• Healthcare Training Consultant: Partners with healthcare organizations to assess staff training needs and deliver customized education programs to improve quality of care and compliance.
• Academic Program Director or Dean (with experience): With additional experience and education, MSN-prepared educators can move into leadership roles overseeing entire nursing departments or academic programs.

Nurse educators who are looking into managing medical facilities in the long run may explore fast-track online MBA programs in healthcare administration. These programs impart knowledge on how to properly run hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

What is the job market for graduates with an online MSN in nursing education?

According to the BLS, the employment of health education specialists, including nurse educators, is poised to climb by 7% from 2023 to 2033, considerably faster than the national average (4%). It may not be as robust as today's medical assistant job growth, but graduates of online nursing education programs will likely find ample opportunities on the market. 

The job portal Indeed indicates that there are currently over 9,000 job openings for nurse educators in the United States. This excludes openings in other countries, as well as those for closely related roles that graduates can pursue, such as instructional designer, training consultant, and professional development specialist. 

The industries that employ the most postsecondary nursing instructors are colleges, universities, and professional schools (47,930); junior colleges (18,860); and general medical and surgical hospitals (2,840).

Meanwhile, the US states with the highest employment levels for postsecondary nurse educators, as displayed by the visual below, are Texas (6,980), California (5,990), and New York (4,760).

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online MSN in Nursing Education Programs

What accreditation and quality standards ensure a program’s credibility?

Accreditation is a critical factor when evaluating online MSN in Nursing Education programs. Prospective students should verify that the program is accredited by recognized bodies, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), to ensure the curriculum meets established academic and industry standards. It is also important to confirm state authorization and institutional licensure, as these factors can directly affect eligibility for federal financial aid and certification upon graduation. Comparing these standards with those found in other reputable formats, like the best accelerated BSN program, can offer additional insight into the program’s overall rigor and outcome potential.

Other Things You Should Know About Online MSN in Nursing Education Programs

What are the top certifications for nurse educators?

The top certifications for nurse educators include the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE), offered by the National League for Nursing, which specifically validates expertise in academic nursing education roles.

Another important credential is the Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC), awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, for those focusing on education and professional development within healthcare organizations. These certifications demonstrate advanced knowledge and commitment to educational excellence, broadening career opportunities and credibility for nurse educators.

What are the skills needed to become successful nurse educators?

Successful nurse educators need strong clinical expertise, combined with the ability to apply educational theory and teaching strategies effectively in both academic and clinical settings. They must also possess excellent communication, leadership, and assessment skills to mentor students, develop curricula, and evaluate learning outcomes.

Adaptability and proficiency with technology and simulation tools are increasingly important for modern nursing education.

How can a graduate find a job as a nurse educator?

A graduate seeking a job as a nurse educator can start by updating their resume to highlight advanced degrees, teaching skills, clinical experience, and relevant certifications such as the CNE or NPD-BC. Networking with faculty during graduate studies, joining professional nursing education associations, and searching for openings at colleges, universities, and healthcare organizations are effective strategies.

Additionally, leveraging job boards, attending industry conferences, and working with career services can increase visibility and connect graduates with roles that match their expertise and educational interests.

Can nurse educators practice as nurse practitioners?

Nurse educators can practice as nurse practitioners if they are licensed and certified in an NP specialty, such as family or acute care. Many professionals choose to earn dual qualifications to both teach and provide advanced clinical care. However, being a nurse educator alone does not automatically qualify one to practice as a nurse practitioner.