If you have a passion for teaching and a background in nursing, you may find a fulfilling career helping educate the next generation of nurses. Before you become a nurse educator, it may be important to understand some common educational steps to take, the expected salary and job placement outcomes, how to get certified and what the role encompasses.
How to Become a Nurse Educator
The following common steps may be taken to become a nurse educator:
- A nurse educator is a type of advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with specialized training and advanced degrees. Other types of APRNs include nurse midwives, women’s health nurse practitioners, nurse practitioners, and nurse anesthetists.
- After becoming a registered nurse (RN), those interested in teaching nursing should consider pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from an accredited institution. They may also want to find a program with flexible learning options, especially if they are already employed in the health industry. For those who want to teach at a university, a doctoral degree is often required.
- Gain real-world experience as a nurse educator. After becoming an RN and graduating from a master’s program in nurse education, it’s important to pursue real-world experience in the field. This will help build your resume and set you up for future certification eligibility.
- Get certified. The National League of Nurses (NLN) offers two certification designations for nurse educators: Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) and Certified Clinical Academic Nurse Educator (CNEcl). Though neither is required to practice, both offer a competitive edge for nurses.
- Complete continuing education requirements. While the steps above are a general description of a career trajectory, everyone’s individual path may vary.
Nurse Educator Responsibilities
Nurse educators possess the theoretical background in nursing and the hands-on knowledge of how to administer care. They design and implement curriculum for nursing students, oversee research, lab and clinical work, lecture, and supervise internships.
Nurse Educator Certifications
Information on the below certifications for nurse educators was last retrieved in September 2020. Be sure to check with the organizations for the most up-to-date requirements and eligibility.
- A valid license/certificate as an active, practicing nurse in one’s country of residence.
- An advanced degree in nursing (master’s or doctoral) with an emphasis on nursing education -OR- an advanced degree in nursing (master’s or doctoral) with a certificate in nursing education -OR- an advanced degree in nursing (master’s or doctoral) with at least nine credit hours of graduate-level education classes.
FAQs
How long does it take to become a nurse educator?
The amount of time it takes to become a nurse educator depends on your specific track. In general, it takes about two years to become a registered nurse. An MSN degree can take another two years and a DNP can take two to three years on top of that.
What does a nurse educator do?
A nurse educator has the unique role of helping the next generation of nursing students. They design and implement the curriculum to give students theoretical knowledge about nursing. They also oversee hands-on clinical experience.
Where does a nurse educator work?
Nurse educators work in academic, hospital, and other healthcare settings. In an academic setting, nurse educators teach the theory and practice of nursing to both graduate and undergraduate students.
What makes a good nurse educator?
Nurse educators typically have exceptional communication skills because they need to make complex topics accessible to a variety of stakeholders. They also exhibit advising skills and administer practical advice for internships, education pathways, and job opportunities.
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