15 Best Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs – 2024


Written By: Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA

Are you an ADN-educated registered nurse who enjoys teaching others? Have you considered a role in more of a non-clinical setting where you can still impact patient health and outcomes? Does earning a master’s degree in nursing sound interesting to you? If so, an RN to MSN nurse educator program could be the perfect option to consider!

If you are interested in becoming a nurse educator but need more flexible scheduling to earn your degree, online programs are available. In fact, you may have wondered, "What are the best online RN to MSN nurse educator programs? As you continue reading, you will find the answer to that question as well as several frequently asked questions about RN to MSN nurse educator online programs. You will learn about program admission criteria, cost, and curriculum and discover possible job opportunities and income potential.



What Exactly Is The Goal Of An Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Program?


The goal of online RN to MSN nurse educator programs is to prepare ADN-educated registered nurses for the role of a nurse educator in academic or professional development settings. The programs combine graduate-level core nursing competencies, advanced clinical concepts, and nursing education content to equip students for various nurse education roles.



Is An Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Program Hard To Complete?


Online RN to MSN nurse educator programs can be challenging. However, it is important to remember that everyone has their own learning style. Something that may be difficult for someone else may come easily to you and vice versa. My experience as a nurse has led me to believe that no matter how hard a program or other endeavor seems if you want it badly enough, you can overcome the challenges and succeed!



Who Accredits RN to MSN Nurse Educator Online Programs?


As a nursing instructor, one of the most crucial factors I urge you to consider when searching for a college program is whether the program is accredited. Although you may find programs that are not accredited, you may not be able to sit for certification examinations or find a job as a nurse educator without a degree from an accredited program. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) are the accrediting agencies that accredit the best RN to MSN nurse educator online programs.

S.NO.Accrediting Agency
1Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
1Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)



When Do RN to MSN Nurse Educator Online Programs Start?


Each school offering RN to MSN nurse educator online programs determines application deadlines and start dates. Some schools offer only one start date each year, while others offer multiple. If you plan to apply to more than one school, be sure to verify each school’s deadlines and apply early to improve your chances of admission.

At Duke University, the online RN to MSN nurse educator program begins in the spring and fall semesters of each academic year.

At the University of Central Florida, you may choose to begin the program in the fall or spring semester.

The program offered at Ball State University offers three start dates yearly in the spring, summer, and fall semesters.

At Drexel University, candidates for the RN to MSN nurse educator online program can choose from four start dates. Classes begin in the fall, winter, spring, and summer semesters.

At the University of Texas in Arlington, candidates can choose from multiple start dates. The school often offers up to seven start dates each academic year.



How Many Credits Are There In RN to MSN Nurse Educator Online Programs?


The number of credits featured in the curriculum of online RN to MSN nurse educator programs varies, with most programs requiring between 35 and 55 credits. Your previous degree level and the number of transferable credits, if any, may impact the actual number of credits you need.

At Union University, students complete 41 credit hours in the online RN to MSN nurse educator program.

Students at Nova Southeastern University complete 36 credits to earn an MSN in nurse education.

The University of Mississippi Medical Center’s RN to MSN nurse educator online program features a 54-credit curriculum.

The program offered at Sacred Heart University requires students to complete 39 credits.

At the University of Central Florida, the RN to MSN nurse educator program requires 35 credit hours.



How Long Are RN to MSN Nurse Educator Online Programs?


The average length of an online RN to MSN nurse educator program is two years. However, if you enroll part-time, your time in the program may be extended by a year more. The following list reflects the time it takes to complete some of the programs featured in this article.

At Queens University of Charlotte, you will complete two bridge courses and then advance to core MSN courses, completing your MSN in nurse education in just two and a half years.

You can complete the RN to MSN nurse educator program at the University of Central Florida in five semesters, including one summer session.

The RN to MSN nurse educator program at Duke University takes most students an average of two years to complete.

Ball State University’s program is designed to be completed in seven semesters, taking two courses at a time.

At Drexel University, the program can be completed in as few as 22 to 25 months.



How Much Do RN to MSN Nurse Educator Online Programs Cost?


The price of RN to MSN nurse educator online programs can vary significantly. The price you pay may be influenced by whether your tuition is based on in-state or out-of-state residency and the number of credits you need to satisfy graduation requirements. Among the 15 best programs featured in this article, tuition ranges from $11,400 to $43,000.

Tuition at Union University costs $685 per credit hour. The RN to MSN nurse educator online program is a 41-credit program, which means you will pay approximately $28,085 in tuition to earn your degree.

Sacred Heart University’s program costs $695 per credit hour. The program includes 39 credits, making tuition come to $27,105.

At the University of Central Florida, tuition for the online RN to MSN nurse educator program is $288.16 per credit, regardless of your residency status. However, students who live out-of-state must pay a non-resident fee of $785.15 per credit. Tuition and other program-relevant fees bring the cost of the program to $327.32 per credit for in-state students and $1,151.72 for out-of-state students. The program requires you to complete 35 credits, making the total program cost $11,456.20 (residents) or $40,310.20 (non-residents).

At Ball State University, state residents pay $573 per credit, and non-residents pay $791. Students complete 36 to 47 credits. Therefore, depending on your state residency status and the number of credits you need, you could pay between $20,628 and $37,177.

The RN to MSN nurse educator program at Queens University of Charlotte includes 37 credits at a rate of $609 per credit, which makes the average cost of the program $22,533.



What Is The Minimum GPA Required To Get Into Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs?


Most online RN to MSN nurse educator programs require candidates to have a minimum college GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. However, the requirement may vary among schools. So, it is important to carefully review the criteria.

For example, at Union University, applicants must have at least a 3.0 GPA for the last 60 credit hours of college coursework and a cumulative science GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Appalachian State University requires candidates to have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.5. The University of Texas at Arlington prefers candidates with a minimum 3.0 grade point average but may accept applicants with a GPA between 2.8 and 2.99 who have approved GRE scores.



What Are The Admission Requirements For Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs?


When researching RN to MSN nurse educator online program, it is crucial that you review the admission criteria for each program individually. Although some criteria are the same among schools, others differ. Most programs require candidates to have an associate or bachelor's degree in nursing, undergraduate statistics, and undergraduate research courses and to submit specific supplemental documentation. Below are examples of the admission requirements for five of the nation's top programs.

To be considered for admission to the online RN to MSN nurse educator program at Queens University of Charlotte, you must meet the following criteria. Candidates must first complete an online application and provide official transcripts from any post-secondary school they attended. You must have an associate or bachelor's degree in nursing earned at an accredited school of nursing, a current, unrestricted RN license, and a minimum college GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, you must provide two letters of reference, a professional resume, and a Statement of Intent.

Candidates for the program at Appalachian State University must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an ACEN- or CCNE- accredited university OR an associate degree in nursing with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, a minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, and a current, unencumbered license to practice as an RN in North Carolina or a Nurse Compact State. Applicants must also complete undergraduate statistics and research courses with a grade of “C” or better in each. In addition to an online graduate application, you must provide a professional resume, official transcripts reflecting any completed coursework from post-secondary institutions you attended within the last five years, a Personal Statement, and three letters of academic or professional reference.

Admission criteria for the Salisbury University online RN to MSN nurse educator program include the following. You must first complete an online application and pay a $65 non-refundable application fee. All candidates must submit official transcripts from each college or university they have ever attended, two letters of recommendation, a Personal Statement, admissions essay, resume or curriculum vitae, and proof of current, unrestricted RN license.

At Union University, applicants must have a minimum Associate of Science degree in nursing from a CCNE- or ACEN-accredited nursing program with or without a non-nursing bachelor's degree, a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 credit hours earned, and a current, unrestricted RN license for the state of Tennessee or an NLC state. When applying, you must submit three letters of recommendation (professional or academic), a Personal Statement, a curriculum vitae, official transcripts from any post-secondary school you attended, and proof of taking and passing an undergraduate statistics course with a minimum grade of “C.”

To apply for the online RN to MSN nurse educator program at the University of Central Florida, you must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and an RN license in the state where you practice. You must maintain current, unrestricted licensure throughout the duration of the program. You must provide a written essay addressing future career plans and how the program/school can help you achieve your goals, a curriculum vitae, three professional recommendations, and complete an undergraduate statistics course.



What Are The Best Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs In The Nation?

(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 15 Best Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)


1. Duke University - Durham, NC


2. University of Central Florida - Orlando, FL


3. Ball State University - Muncie, IN


4. Drexel University - Philadelphia, PA


5. The University of Texas at Arlington - Arlington, TX


6. University of Mississippi Medical Center - Jackson, MI


7. Union University - Jackson, TN


8. Sacred Heart University - Fairfield, CT


9. University of St. Francis - Joliet, IL


10. Nova Southeastern University - Fort Lauderdale, FL


11. Clarkson College - Omaha, NE


12. Ferris State University - Big Rapids, MI


13. Queens University of Charlotte - Charlotte, NC


14. Appalachian State University - Boone, NC


15. Salisbury University - Salisbury, MD



VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY



What Kind Of Courses Will You Take In Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs?


RN to MSN nurse educator online programs typically feature curriculum plans that include core coursework, specialty, education-relevant courses, and clinical courses and practicum. The names of some of the classes vary from one school to another, but the information in the content is quite similar among accredited programs. Some of the courses you will take include the following.

At Nova Southern University, you will complete classes including Nursing Curriculum Development, Educational Concepts: Principles of Evaluation, Evidence & Practice, Advanced Health Assessment, and Advanced Pharmacology.

The online RN to MSN nurse educator program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center features a rich curriculum. In this program, you will take classes such as Health Care Leadership & Collaboration, Portal to Advanced Pathology and Pathophysiology, Foundations of Nurse Educator Role & Teaching Methods, Educational Technology & Health Care Informatics, and Health Care Quality Improvement.

If you pursue your MSN in nursing education at Clarkson College, you will take classes, including Theories of Learning for the Nurse Educator, Curriculum Development for the Nurse Educator, Pharmacology, Pathophysiology, & Health Assessment Overview for Nurse Educators, Evaluation Strategies for the Nurse Educator, and Teaching & Learning Strategies for the Nurse Educator.

The curriculum for the program offered at Ball State University includes classes such as Curricular Designs in Nursing, Pathophysiology & Pharmacology for Clinical Practice, Practicum of Role Expectations, Program Evaluation, and Teaching in Nursing.

At Sacred Heart University, you will complete the RN to MSN nurse educator curriculum with classes, including Curriculum Development & Evaluation in Nursing Education, Application of Comprehensive Health Assessment Methods, Theoretical Basis of Teaching & Learning in Nursing Education, Principles of Patient & Staff Education, and Advanced Pharmacology for the Nurse Leader.



What Kind Of Practical Training Will You Undergo In Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs?


One component of online RN to MSN nurse educator programs is practical training. The curriculum plans for each program may vary, but most require students to complete between 200 and 500 total hours. The following are examples of some of the practical training requirements at five of the schools featured in this article.

At the University of Florida, you will complete 240 hours of practical training. Training hours include 60 hours in a Clinical Specialty Practicum and 180 hours earned through the Internship in Nursing Education. It is your responsibility to find an appropriate preceptor in your local area and to obtain approval to work with that preceptor for your practical training. Preceptors must have a minimum Master of Science in Nursing and be employed in a relevant setting and position.

Practical training for the online RN to MSN nurse educator program at Sacred Heart University includes a Nursing Education Role Practicum and Nursing Education Role Capstone. The practicum is the first course for the role immersion in nursing education. Both components of the practical training involve integrating current issues and trends in healthcare in various areas of nursing education.

In the practicum, you will apply and analyze competencies, theories, and concepts to develop an evidence-based teaching project. You will also participate in seminar discussions and readings designed to help you apply the theory of nurse education. The Nurse Education Capstone is the final course for the role immersion through which you will apply and analyze previous nurse educator courses.

At the University of Texas at Arlington, you will complete 225 hours of practical training. You will earn 45 hours of clinical application with targeted patient populations in the Assessment & Evaluations Strategies course and 45 hours in the Simulation Application in Nursing. Additionally, the program includes a 10-week, 135-hour clinical preceptorship where you will apply the skills, concepts, and knowledge acquired in the program at various health practice sites.

Students enrolled in the online RN to MSN nurse educator program at Drexel University complete two Nursing Education Practicums and an Advanced Integrative Clinical Concepts support course. The practicums are completed back-to-back, allowing you a seamless practical training experience. In the practicums, you will have opportunities to demonstrate the competencies of nursing education under the direct supervision of a qualified preceptor. The Advanced Integrative Clinical Concepts course is a case-study course where you will explore advanced concepts related to pharmacology, physical assessment, and pathophysiology across the lifespan.

At Salisbury University, you will complete an Advanced Nursing Practicum and Nurse Educator Practicum. The Advanced Nursing Practicum is a 400-hour practicum that involves direct patient care focusing on the integration of theory and content relevant to advanced physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. The Nurse Educator Practicum is a 45-hour experience designed to allow you opportunities for engagement in curriculum development, teaching strategies, and learner evaluation. Finally, all students must complete a Thesis, Internship, or Capstone Project.



5 Most Important Skills And Abilities You Will Gain In An Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Program


During your online program, you will take classes and have clinical opportunities that will give you the skillset to become a stellar teacher and mentor to your students. Here is a list of the five most important skills and abilities you will gain by attending the best online RN to MSN nurse educator programs.

1. You will develop advanced ethical decision-making:

As a nurse educator, it is essential that you implement ethical decision-making skills at an advanced level. RN to MSN nurse educator online programs will prepare you with the knowledge and practical experiences to develop this skill.

2. You will learn to design a curriculum for nursing education:

In this program, you will learn to design a curriculum, including developing a learning and teaching philosophy, program goals, learning objectives, and teaching plans.

3. You will learn to measure and evaluate student progress:

It is not enough to present information in the classroom or in a clinical setting. As a nurse educator, you must evaluate your student's progress and determine if their knowledge and skills meet the measures set forth in the expected program outcomes. In online RN to MSN nurse educator programs, you will learn ways to grade a student’s progress as well as measures to provide constructive feedback.

4. You will develop strong mentorship skills:

Not only will you learn from experienced nurse educators and mentors, but you will also develop the skills necessary to mentor your future students. Being an empathetic, strong mentor is instrumental in helping students succeed. Therefore, this is a vital skill to learn while enrolled in your RN to MSN nurse educator program.

5. You will learn to demonstrate cultural competence on a deeper level:

Cultural competence in nursing is essential. As a nurse educator, you will teach and mentor students and staff from various backgrounds. Therefore, it is vital that you practice this nursing characteristic. Cultural competence involves being sensitive to the cultural differences of others and behaving competently in your nursing role.



4 Main Advantages Of Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs


Before enrolling in any college program, compare the advantages and disadvantages to determine what is the best course for you. The following are four advantages of online RN to MSN nurse educator programs.

1. You will influence future generations of nurses!:

One of the greatest advantages of becoming a nurse educator is you can use your knowledge, expertise, and clinical skills to teach future nurses. Your influence can impact nursing for generations to come.

2. You can help reduce the shortage of nurses currently affecting the U.S:

A lack of qualified nurse educators has led to tens of thousands of qualified nursing school applicants being turned away or wait-listed for nursing programs. When you pursue a degree from any of the available RN to MSN nurse educator online programs, you can fill the gap, making it possible for more students to pursue a nursing career.

3. Nurse educators tend to have a good work/life balance:

Most nurse educators work typical office hours, making it possible to have more time with family or to do things they enjoy. Having a healthy work/life balance prevents burnout and is conducive to good mental and physical health.

4. You can transition from the physical demands of clinical nursing while still impacting patient care:

If you want a role that allows you to impact patient care and outcomes but desire a less physically demanding role, becoming a nurse educator could be a great option for you. When you teach students to be ethical, compassionate, and professional, you can have a far-reaching effect on patient health and outcomes.



2 Main Disadvantages Of Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs


While there are a lot of advantages to online RN to MSN nurse educator programs, there are also some disadvantages to consider. The following are what I consider two of the biggest disadvantages. Remember, weighing the pros and cons of being a nurse educator will help you decide if this is the right career path for you.

1. Students can be trying at times:

As a nurse educator, I am not going to sugarcoat it. No matter how much time and effort you put into a class, some students can push you to your limits. Do not give up! The students who are meant to succeed and really want to achieve their goals will hang in there and leave you with a feeling of great fulfillment as you watch them learn and grow. The ones who do not will weed themselves out.

2. The legal ramifications associated with being a nurse educator can be scary!:

If you teach in a nursing program, everything your students do will be scrutinized. Because students are unlicensed, any errors or patient injury could mean legal issues for you. You are responsible for assigning patient care, ensuring each student has a qualified preceptor, and following up to make sure care is provided correctly. It can be a scary thing knowing that someone else’s actions could affect your license and right to practice as a nurse.



Where Do Graduates Of Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs Mostly Work?


When you think of nurse educators, you may immediately think of nursing instructors at a college or university. While this is a common setting/role, graduates of online RN to MSN nurse educator programs work in various settings. The following are the top three settings where graduates may find work.

1. Academia:

The number one setting for nurse educator program graduates is academia. Many graduates work in community colleges, technical schools, or university nursing departments, teaching future nurses.

2. Healthcare Facilities:

When you graduate with an MSN as a nurse educator, you can teach in settings outside of colleges or universities. Many healthcare facilities hire nurse educators to provide continuing education to staff or train new employees when they onboard. Additionally, some healthcare settings have in-house programs. For example, one of the jobs I worked previously was funded by federal grants designed to help employees working in healthcare facilities transition to new roles. For instance, in one class, I taught and trained housekeeping staff in nursing homes to become Certified Nursing Assistants. The same program offered transition programs for CNAs who wanted to become licensed practical nurses.

3. Home Health Agencies:

One of the primary goals of home health services is to educate patients and their caregivers about their illness, disease, and treatment. While all nurses in home health play a role in educating clients, home health agencies often employ nurse educators to ensure staff have the most up-to-date information and data to teach clients effectively. Many nurse educators who work in home health work in a supervisory position.



3 Best Jobs For Graduates Of Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs


After graduating from one of the best RN to MSN nurse educator online programs, you will have options for many jobs. The following are three of the best jobs for graduates.

1. Nursing Faculty:

With an MSN in nurse education, you can become a member of the nursing faculty at a school of nursing. In this role, you will use your knowledge and clinical experience to teach future generations of nursing. Your job may involve lectures, laboratory simulations, and precepting clinical practicums.

2. Hospital Director of Education:

As the Director of Education in a hospital, you will direct education programs designed to promote excellence for all clinical team members. Your job responsibilities will include developing and implementing systems to evaluate and monitor the quality of training and patient and organizational outcomes related to that training.

3. Clinical Services Preceptor:

The Clinical Services Preceptor works in several capacities, including teaching and supporting new and current team members, as they provide essential functions and act as a resource of information for team members. In this role, you may observe patients, assess their conditions, and communicate with staff to ensure clinical needs are met.



What Starting Salary Can New Graduates Of This Program Expect?


According to Indeed, the starting salary for graduates of RN to MSN nurse educator online programs is $39.92 per hour, $1,597 per week, and $6,920 per month. These wages equal $83,040 per year.

Hourly$39.92
Weekly$1,597
Monthly$6,920
Annual$83,040
(Source: Indeed.com)



What Average Salary Can Graduates Of RN to MSN Nurse Educator Online Programs Expect?


Graduates of online RN to MSN nurse educator programs earn an average of $59.30 per hour, $2,372 per week, and $10,280 per month. This payment is equivalent to $123,338 per year.

Hourly$59.30
Weekly$2,372
Monthly$10,280
Annual$123,338
(Source: Indeed.com)



10-Year Job Outlook For Graduates Of RN to MSN Nurse Educator Online Programs


The 10-year job outlook for graduates of RN to MSN nurse educator online programs is extremely positive. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports there will be an increase in jobs by 45.68% over the next ten years.

Issues such as a nationwide shortage of nurses, including nursing faculty, and increasing numbers of nurses reaching retirement age are a few of the factors contributing to the projected growth in job opportunities. In fact, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s report on the 2021-2022 Enrollment and Graduations in Baccalaureate and Degree Programs in Nursing suggests nursing schools turned away nearly 92,000 qualified applicants due to the shortage!

2021-31
+45.68%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



Is The Cost Of An Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Program Worth The Return On Investment (ROI)?


If you are considering earning your degree through any of the available online RN to MSN nurse educator programs, it is natural to wonder if the money spent will be worth it in the end. The best way to decide is to compare the cost of the program you wish to pursue to potential earnings after graduation.

For example, these programs can cost as little as $11,000 to more than $43,000. This price is relatively low compared to some other nursing degree programs. What is important, though, is the comparison of cost to the return you will gain. According to Indeed, the beginning salary for graduates is a little more than $83,000, which is almost twice the cost of the most expensive program featured in this article. After gaining experience, you could earn an average annual salary of $123,338, nearly three times the cost of the highest-priced program! When you compare these numbers, the cost of RN to MSN nurse educator online programs is well worth the return on your investment.



Bonus! 5 Expert Tips To Improve Your Chances Of Getting Accepted Into The Best Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs


Admission to RN to MSN nurse educator online programs can be very competitive. However, with true grit and determination, and by following some expert tips, you can improve your chances of getting into an excellent program. Here are five tips to help get the attention of admissions faculty!

1. Submit strong letters of recommendation.

Most graduate nursing programs require applicants to submit letters of recommendation with their application. To make your application stand out from the crowd, follow these guidelines.

a. Get letters from appropriate sources, such as former nursing instructors, managers, supervisors, or administrators. Avoid asking friends or family to write letters, as these can be perceived as biased.
b. Be sure the letters speak of your character, personality, and work ethic and why the writer feels you will be successful in the program.
c. Verify that all letters have current, correct contact information for the writer and that the writer’s credentials are included with their signature.


2. Strive for an above-average undergraduate grade point average.

If I can give you a bit of advice from an instructor/admissions standpoint, it will be to work for the highest undergraduate/nursing GPA you can get. Competition for a spot in online RN to MSN nurse educator programs is tough. Having a higher GPA will give you an edge over other applicants with mediocre or “average” grades.

3. Become a Preceptor in Your Current Nursing Role.

Another excellent way to show your interest in becoming a nurse educator is to get involved in unpaid teaching opportunities, such as being a preceptor for current nursing students. Depending on where you work, your employer may have a preceptor program you can volunteer for. Also, consider contacting program directors at local technical colleges, community colleges, and universities to see if they need preceptors for their nursing programs and to verify if you meet preceptor qualifications.

4. Write a Statement of Intent that Truly Makes a Statement!

The Statement of Intent is used to express your interest in a school’s program. You will use this statement to share your experiences, qualities, and goals to show that you are a suitable candidate for admission to the program. Make your statement personal. If you were influenced by a nursing instructor or educator in the past whose influence led you to want to pursue this career, your Statement of Intent is an excellent place to share this experience.

5. Make good use of the admissions interview to “seal the deal.”

The last and one of the most important parts of the admission process is the interview. Most interviews are conducted by program faculty after you have met all other admission criteria and have been approved by the admissions team as a viable candidate. Treat your admission interview like a professional job interview. Prepare by reviewing possible questions and answers, dress professionally, and be prompt. Think of a few questions to ask faculty if given the opportunity. Finally, thank the interviewers for their time and tell them you look forward to being part of their program!



My Final Thoughts


If becoming a nurse educator is your dream, it is natural to ask, “What are the best online RN to MSN nurse educator programs?” Throughout this article, I addressed that question and shared valuable information about these specialized programs. You learned about the program curriculum, cost, training, and job outlook.

The 15 best online RN to MSN nurse educator programs featured in this article offer excellent options for earning your degree and starting a career as a nurse educator. With a shortage of nurses and nursing faculty, there is no time like the present to find a program and begin your journey!



Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Our Expert


1. What Is The Best Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Program In The Nation?

Of all the online RN to MSN nurse educator programs in the nation, the best program is offered at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.

Duke University - Durham, NC


2. Are Campus Visits Required For Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs?

Most online RN to MSN nurse educator programs offer classes exclusively online. However, some programs may require your presence on campus for a few days for events such as orientation or simulation experiences.


3. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into RN to MSN Nurse Educator Online Programs?

Although you may find some variation regarding the minimum GPA needed, most RN to MSN nurse educator online programs require candidates to have a minimum 3.0 grade point average.


4. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For RN to MSN Nurse Educator Online Programs?

The average cost-per-credit for online RN to MSN nurse educator programs ranges between $600 and $700.


5. Can I Work Part-Time And Complete This Program?

Many students in RN to MSN nurse educator online programs continue to work part-time while enrolled.


6. Can I Work Full-Time And Complete This Program?

Depending on how many credit hours you take and how long you are looking to spend to complete your online RN to MSN nurse educator degree, you could possibly work full-time. If you are hoping to work full-time, you may want to look for a program that allows you to take as little as two credit hours per semester.


7. How Much Do New Graduates Of This Program Make?

New graduates of online RN to MSN nurse educator programs make approximately $83,040 per year.

$83,040


8. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Make Per Hour?

On average, graduates of RN to MSN nurse educator online programs make $59.30 per hour.

$59.30


9. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Per Month?

The average monthly pay for graduates of online RN to MSN nurse educator programs is $10,280.

$10,280


10. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of RN to MSN Nurse Educator Online Programs Make Per Year?

The average annual salary for graduates of RN to MSN nurse educator online programs is $123,338.

$123,338


Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).