Best MSN Nurse Educator Programs | Online Options 2025

7 Min Read Published August 5, 2025
Top Nurse Educator Programs in 2024
Top Nurse Educator Programs in 2024

Nurse Educators work with nursing students throughout their education, either as clinical instructors or classroom educators, helping to prepare them for post-education nursing. If you're considering becoming a nurse educator, we've ranked the top MSN nurse educator programs for 2025. 

Popular Online Nurse Educator Programs

Sponsored
Purdue Global

Whether you’re taking the first steps toward a nursing degree, seeking to advance as a nurse or want to hone your craft with specialized study, there’s a path for you at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing. Our programs were designed so that you can easily balance your lives at home and work with school - without sacrificing the rigor and cutting-edge curriculum of a quality nursing education.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.

Walden University

Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

Grand Canyon University

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Western Governors University

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE-accredited, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, with the additional distinction of being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. Join a trusted, accredited online university to accelerate your nursing career on your schedule. Scholarships and financial aid are available. 

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Arizona State University - Online

When you earn an ASU nursing degree, you are gaining skills from a respected and accredited institution. Our online nursing degrees are accredited by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Top MSN Nurse Educator Programs 

Our ranking algorithm uses the latest and most robust U.S. government data sets, specifically the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and College Scorecard. We consider factors such as graduation rate, student-faculty ratio, program focus, and more to help you find the right nursing program.

While all of these programs offer online options, all MSN nursing education programs require in-person clinical at an approved clinical site with a preceptor. 

Program

Tuition

Program Length

Accreditation 

Texas Christian University

$2,210 per credit hour

24 or 36 months

CCNE

Duke University

$2,250 per credit hour

24 to 36 months

CCNE

University of Rochester

$1,740 per credit hour

3 to 5 semesters

CCNE

Villanova University

$1,080  per credit hour

6 semesters

CCNE

Drexel University

$1,169 per credit hour

24 months

CCNE

University of Connecticut

$1,200 per credit hour

5 to 6 semesters

CCNE

Texas A&M University

$787.89 - $1,319.40 per credit hour

24 to 48 months

CCNE

East Carolina University

Resident: $304.84 per credit hour

Non-Resident: $1,071.84 per credit hour

2 years

CCNE

Vanderbilt University

$1,997 per credit hour 

3 to 4 semesters

CCNE

Duquesne University

$1,840 per credit hour

2.5 years

CCNE

Tuition
$2,210 per credit hour
Accreditation

CCNE

Program Length
24 or 36 months 
Online Options
Hybrid

The Nurse Educator program at Texas Christian University (TCU) allows students to choose a population focus: either adult-gerontology or pediatrics. Coursework is completed online, while clinical practicums are conducted in person with qualified preceptors, typically located near the student’s home.

Students also participate in teaching practicums in both hospital and classroom settings. The program offers two completion tracks—either 24 months or 36 months—based on student preference and scheduling needs. Additionally, all students are required to attend an on-campus intensive, designed to enhance key skill development.

  • Contact Information: 
    • Phone Number: (817) 257-6726 
    • Email Address: graduatenursing@tcu.edu
  • Website
Tuition
$2,250 per credit hour
Accreditation

CCNE

Program Length
24 or 36 months 
Online Options
Hybrid

Ranked the number one online MSN in nursing education program by U.S. News & World Report, this program is exceptional for students interested in becoming nurse educators. Considered an NLN Center of Excellence in Nursing Education, Duke’s nurse educator program offers a distance-based learning approach with an individualized practicum.  There is also a post-graduate certificate program in Nursing Education for those already holding an MSN degree.

  • Contact Information: 
    • Phone Number: (919) 684-3786
    • Email: SONAdmissions@dm.duke.edu
  • Website
Tuition
$1,740 per credit hour
Accreditation

CCNE

Program Length
3 to 5 Semesters  
Online Options
Hybrid

The nursing education program from the University of Rochester School of Nursing is designed for experienced working nurses who want to transition to a teaching role, either as a nurse educator or in-patient safety and education. Coursework is offered in-person or online and is offered as a full-time or part-time program. 

Nursing education students may pursue the following areas of clinical interest: medical-surgical nursing, critical care nursing, emergency nursing, pediatrics, women’s health, oncology, ambulatory nursing, and/or OR/perioperative services. 

  • Contact Information: 
    • Phone Number: (585) 275-2375
    • Email Address:  SON_Admissions@urmc.rochester.edu
  • Website

 

Popular Online Nurse Educator Programs

Sponsored
Purdue Global

Whether you’re taking the first steps toward a nursing degree, seeking to advance as a nurse or want to hone your craft with specialized study, there’s a path for you at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing. Our programs were designed so that you can easily balance your lives at home and work with school - without sacrificing the rigor and cutting-edge curriculum of a quality nursing education.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.

Walden University

Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

Grand Canyon University

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Western Governors University

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE-accredited, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, with the additional distinction of being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. Join a trusted, accredited online university to accelerate your nursing career on your schedule. Scholarships and financial aid are available. 

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Arizona State University - Online

When you earn an ASU nursing degree, you are gaining skills from a respected and accredited institution. Our online nursing degrees are accredited by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Tuition
$1,080 per credit hour
Accreditation

CCNE

Program Length
6 semesters
Online Options
Hybrid

The nursing education degree at Villanova University offers theoretical courses, advanced clinical, and education practice. The nursing education theoretical courses are offered asynchronously, synchronously, and in a hybrid format.

Students select a population and area of clinical interest for the clinical practicum: adult gerontology, parent-child health, community health, or psychiatric/mental health. Villanova offers graduate assistantships and other opportunities for students to help cover costs. 

  • Contact Information: 
    • Phone Number: (610) 519-6829
    • Email Address: mary.ann.cantrell@villanova.edu 
  • Website
Tuition
$1,169 per credit
Accreditation

CCNE

Program Length
24 months 
Online Options
Hybrid

Ranked as one of the best MSN nursing education programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, students in Drexel’s program have access to some of the most experienced faculty on the East Coast. Students can access a three-year tuition lock if the program is completed within three years. 

  • Contact Information: 
    • Email Address: CNHPGraduateDivision@drexel.edu
    • Phone Number: (215) 895-2000
  • Website
Tuition
$1,200 per credit hour
Accreditation

CCNE

Program Length
5 to 6 semesters
Online Options
Hybrid

The 40-credit online MSN Nursing Education program has two entry points: Post-Bachelor’s degree and Post-Master’s degree for those who have already earned a Master of Science in a different nursing specialty area. To be eligible for admission, a minimum of 2,080 hours of clinical experience as a Registered Nurse (RN) providing direct patient care is required prior to application.

Contact Information

  • Phone Number: (860) 486-1968
  • Email Address: nursingadmissions@uconn.edu
  • Website
Tuition

Resident: $304.84 per credit hour
Non-Resident: $1,071.84 per credit hour

Accreditation

CCNE

Program Length
2 years
Online Options
Hybrid

ECU is currently designated an NLN Center of Excellence. While students are not required to attend on-campus intensives, ECU does have a 303,000-square-foot health science building that has eight simulation labs that give you access to a fully functioning operating suite and computerized manikins.

Contact Information

  • Phone Number: (252) 744-6433
  • Email Address: ecunursinggradprgms@ecu.edu
  • Website
Tuition
$787.89 - $1,319.40 per credit hour
Accreditation

CCNE

Program Length
24 to 48 months
Online Options
Hybrid

While some classes are offered online in the nurse educator MSN program at Texas A&M, students will be asked to come to Bryan-College Station for a limited number of class activities. 

On-campus clinical hours are required to meet the clinical objectives as set forth by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing for any MSN degree. It’s important to note that students from specific states may not be eligible for this online program.  Students must obtain their preceptors for two courses in the later semesters. 

  • Tuition: 
    • In-state: $787.89 per credit hour
    • Out-of-state: $1,319.40 per credit hour
  • Online Options:  Hybrid
  • Contact Information: 
    • Phone Number: (979) 436-0110 
    • Email Address:  con-admissions@tamu.edu
  • Website
Tuition
$1,997 per credit hour
Accreditation

CCNE

Program Length
3 - 4 semesters
Online Options
Hybrid

Vanderbilt University’s Nursing Education Post-Master’s Certificate is designed specifically for those with an MSN degree. It can be completed in three to four part-time semesters. 

Students can choose either a fall or a spring program start and can also completed in conjunction with other advanced nursing degree programs at Vanderbilt.

Contact Information: 

  • Phone Number: (615) 322-4400
  • Email Address: VUSN-Admissions@vanderbilt.edu
Tuition
$1,840 per credit hour
Accreditation

CCNE

Program Length
2.5 years
Online Options
Yes

Duquesne University’s online MSN Education program is specifically designed for students who are interested in teaching in academia or as a clinical instructor. Students participated in a clinical practicum rotation in an academic setting. 

Contact Information:

  • Phone Number: (412) 396-6000
  • Email Address: admissions@duq.edu
  • Website

Master’s in Nursing Education Program Overview

MSN in nursing education programs are specifically designed for students to gain an understanding of how to properly teach both students and other nurses. Nursing education programs focus on teaching students different philosophies behind teaching and strategies that can be used when delivering information. 

Overall, programs will educate students on how to teach both in the classroom but also in academia. Some programs may focus solely on one or the other so understanding your career goals is important before choosing a program.

Popular Online Nurse Educator Programs

Sponsored
Purdue Global

Whether you’re taking the first steps toward a nursing degree, seeking to advance as a nurse or want to hone your craft with specialized study, there’s a path for you at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing. Our programs were designed so that you can easily balance your lives at home and work with school - without sacrificing the rigor and cutting-edge curriculum of a quality nursing education.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.

Walden University

Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding CT, NY and RI. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

Grand Canyon University

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Western Governors University

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE-accredited, nonprofit university offering bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing, with the additional distinction of being named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. Join a trusted, accredited online university to accelerate your nursing career on your schedule. Scholarships and financial aid are available. 

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

Arizona State University - Online

When you earn an ASU nursing degree, you are gaining skills from a respected and accredited institution. Our online nursing degrees are accredited by the Arizona State Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Accreditation
CCNE
Location
Online
Prerequisite
RN Required

Enrollment: Nationwide

FAQs

  • What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Nurse Educator?

    • To be a nurse educator in academia and the clinical setting, individuals will need to either have a completed MSN or be almost done with their MSN degree. Academia instructors can expect to have a minimum of an MSN degree; however, most will have a DNP or PhD. Clinical instructors generally have an MSN or are working towards an MSN degree. 
  • Is Becoming a Nurse Educator Worth it?

    • Most nurse educators find a career in academia very rewarding. It can be frustrating at times, but shaping the minds and skills of future generations of nurses is a calling that only a select few have. 
  • Can an NP Be a Nurse Educator?

    • An NP can absolutely be a nurse educator. In fact, many NPs also teach in some capacity. Because many NPs have a doctoral degree - they are generally interested in teaching beyond undergraduate students. Most NPs will work as preceptors for other NP students or teach master’s level classes. 
  • What Classes Will You Take in a Nursing Education Program?

    • Though every MSN curriculum is different, accredited nursing programs follow the framework provided by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing in The Essentials of Master’s Education in Nursing. It is important to look at the specific courses required by each program. 

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✔ Evaluated 1,100+ accredited nursing school programs using the latest U.S. government data sets. Learn more about our ranking methodology

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Where to Find Additional Information About Nurse Educators

 

MSN
Kathleen Gaines
MSN, RN, BA, CBC
Kathleen Gaines
News and Education Editor

Kathleen Gaines (nee Colduvell) is a nationally published writer turned Pediatric ICU nurse from Philadelphia with over 13 years of ICU experience. She has an extensive ICU background having formerly worked in the CICU and NICU at several major hospitals in the Philadelphia region. After earning her MSN in Education from Loyola University of New Orleans, she currently also teaches for several prominent Universities making sure the next generation is ready for the bedside. As a certified breastfeeding counselor and trauma certified nurse, she is always ready for the next nursing challenge.

Education:
MSN Nursing Education - Loyola University New Orleans
BSN - Villanova University
BA- University  of Mary Washington

Expertise:
Pediatric Nursing, Neonatal Nursing, Nursing Education, Women’s Health, Intensive Care, Nurse Journalism, Cardiac Nursing 

Read More From Kathleen
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