Become A Nurse Educator

Become A Nurse Educator

Nurses sitting around big table

Nurse Educators

Nurse educators play a crucial role in developing the nursing workforce so that we can continue to care for our population. Teaching future nurses is an exciting and rewarding career in which educators help students learn nursing concepts and develop skills while ultimately enriching the nursing profession.

Nurse Educators:

  • Are leaders in the profession • Conduct research • Are part of something bigger than themselves
  • Develop curriculum • Are lifelong learners • Make a difference in peoples’ lives
  • Facilitate professional learning • Collaborate with other professionals
  • Enjoy plentiful job opportunities • Shape the future of nursing • Can continue clinical practice• Share their passion for nursing • Are part of the solution to the nursing shortage

Nurse educators have a strong educational background. They value continuing education and are lifelong learners. Nurse educators have qualifications including:

Master’s in Nursing (MSN or MN)

To teach, a nurse educator must be equipped with the education and training needed to provide effective guidance. Nurse educators teaching in programs preparing RNs must hold at least a master’s degree. Those teaching LPNs must hold at least a BSN.

Ph.D. or DNP

Many nurse educators have earned doctoral degrees. Teachers at this level conduct research in the science of nursing and teaching. In addition to research, doctorally prepared faculty teach, advise students and may continue clinical work.

Certified Nurse Educator (CNE)

CNE certification is national recognition of the educator’s competence and achievement in teaching nursing.

Full-time faculty member/instructor

Interacts with nursing students on a daily basis, designs and evaluates curriculum and guides students through their programs. Often conducts research, participates in professional organizations, writes grants and may continue clinical work.

Adjunct faculty member/instructor

Serves as an educator part-time while continuing to serve in the clinical field.

Student mentor

Leads the nursing program and collaborates with faculty.

Dean or Director

While fulfilling instructor roles, nurse educators also often serve as student mentors. They shape the future of nursing by sharing experiences in nursing and helping students to identify their strengths so they can succeed in their nursing program. Educators can fill many roles in a variety of settings, including:

  • Four-year colleges and universities
  • Community and technical colleges
  • Hospitals and healthcare organizations

Nurse educators have diverse opportunities within the field. They can teach at the undergraduate, master, and doctoral levels. Educators have roles like:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Sendinblue as our marketing platform. By Clicking below to submit this form, you acknowledge that the information you provided will be transferred to Sendinblue for processing in accordance with their terms of use