Graduate Degree in Nursing Education
Professionals with an online master's in nursing education can pursue lucrative careers teaching others in the healthcare field. In addition to preparing students for doctoral degrees and management positions in nursing, master's degrees can qualify healthcare professionals for more specialized roles. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), nurse practitioners (NPs), midwives, and nurse anesthetists require master's degrees in nursing at minimum.
Consequently, nursing students pursue graduate degrees in large numbers; according to the National Center for Education Statistics, 15% of all graduate degrees conferred in 2016-17 were in health professions. Demand certainly helps drive interest as well, with the BLS projecting the nursing field to grow 26% between 2018-2028.
A specialization in nursing education provides skills in curriculum design and delivery, mentorship, and the pursuit of academic research. Learners can acquire skills in communication, assessment, and evaluation. Continue reading for more information about this advanced degree, the promising careers it can lead to, and the financial aid available.
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What Can I Learn in an Online Master's in Nursing Education Program?
The skills students acquire through an online master's in nursing education can vary by school, program, and student choices. In general, enrollees can expect to learn how to design educational programs and training courses for current and aspiring nurses. Students also explore how to provide specialized care and improve the delivery of care in healthcare organizations. Additionally, degree-seekers may undergo leadership training and learn how to integrate and connect the various departments and facets within the healthcare system.
These programs often use clinical work to explore the practical application of research, and online students can often complete clinicals at locations near their home or workplace.
What Common Courses Are Offered in a Master's in Nursing Education Program?
While every school and program features a unique curriculum, the following list highlights some of the more common courses students can expect to find in a master's in nursing online. Readers should note that course titles and descriptions may vary by program.
Foundational Skills for Nurse Educators in Academic and Healthcare Environments
This course gives students an introduction to education in the nursing profession, including the best way to teach current and aspiring nurses about best practices, new technologies, and healthcare concepts. Topics include adult learning theories, outcome measurement, and clinical activities for nursing students.Healthcare Policy
Students in healthcare policy courses analyze and assess current laws and procedures in healthcare. Learners may explore how these approaches are created, along with their ethical and financial implications. This class prepares aspiring managers to apply best practices and ensure compliance with the law.Healthcare System Organization
In this course, students can learn about the American healthcare system, including its different roles, departments, and responsibilities. These courses also tend to cover healthcare finance information and system challenges. This training helps nurses to acquire management positions and better provide improved delivery of care.Healthcare Informatics
Healthcare informatics courses teach learners to collect, store, and use data to improve care delivery and healthcare solutions. Students complete training on the technology used in healthcare informatics. This knowledge and training can help prepare graduates for careers in healthcare technology, administration, and management. This course also prepares students to train other nurses on such technologies.Current Issues in Nursing
In this course, learners can explore the different issues facing the nursing profession and professionals, including social, legal, political, and organizational challenges. Students analyze ethical issues in treatment and delivery of care to examine the possible future of the industry.Nursing Leadership
Students in these courses explore positive training programs and performance evaluation techniques. Learners discuss how to demonstrate leadership and work as part of a team.
What Exams or Projects Should I Expect?
At the end of an online master's in nursing, students may encounter several types of final projects. In addition to the extensive projects required in thesis programs, non-thesis programs may include in-depth research projects or lengthy clinicals or practicums. Some programs may feature final exams.
For many students, a master of nursing education serves as a preparatory program for specialty nursing examinations and certifications. These graduate degrees often help qualify students to take exams for certification as a nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, or nurse practitioner.
What Can I Do with a Master's in Nursing Education Degree?
An online master's in nursing education can provide learners with advanced and specialized training, along with a diverse skill set that many healthcare settings and organizations desire. While these programs train students to work in healthcare education, graduates may shift focus and work in a number of other positions, as well.
- These professionals work in colleges, clinics, and universities, training the next generation of nursing students. To provide advanced training and skills to students, these teachers typically need skills in both healthcare and teaching.
- NPs work in hospitals and clinics, acting as primary and specialty caregivers. They often prescribe medication and design treatment plans. For certification as an NP, candidates need a nursing license, a master's degree in nursing, and a completed NP certification examination.
- Nurse anesthetists provide anesthesia and pain management treatments to patients during medical procedures. These professionals typically work in hospitals and clinics, equipped with the knowledge of how to administer treatments safely. Aspiring anesthetists needs nursing licensure, a master's degree, and passing scores on the certification exam.
- Nurse midwives work with female patients before, during, and after they give birth. Midwives assist with delivery and prenatal care, and also provide primary care to newborns. For certification as a nurse midwife, professionals need a valid nursing license, a master's degree, and passing scores on the certification exam.
- Physician assistants can work in all areas of healthcare as part of a larger team of professionals. They may assist in surgery, help provide nursing care in a physician's office, or even perform primary care services. For employment, physician assistants need a master's degree and must pass the certification examination.
How Much Can I Make with a Career in Nursing Education?
Earning an online master's in nursing can provide each learner with access to desirable and promising careers. While the following table outlines some of the most common career paths that a nursing graduate with master's degrees can take, the attached median annual wages are not guaranteed and only serve as an example of what professionals might earn in the field.
Online Master's in Nursing Education Program Accreditation
Accreditation is one of the most important considerations for any degree, but nursing students' future careers might depend on it. At the institutional level, accreditation can come from one of the six accrediting agencies recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Regional accreditation ensures that the school and program meet rigorous standards. Nursing students should always attend a regionally accredited school in order to meet licensing requirements.
At the program level, students should look out for accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.(CCNE). While this national accreditation may not be mandatory for all types of employment, many employers and most certification agencies require candidates to come from CCNE-accredited programs. Like regional accreditation, programmatic accreditation assures students that the program meets the national industry standards.
How to Pay for a Master's in Nursing Education Degree
Paying for a degree can add a great deal of stress for aspiring students, but there are a few options available to help finance an education. The following section outlines some of the main avenues students can take when financing their degrees.
Techniques for Financing a Master's in Nursing Education
Fellowships
Due to the advanced training nursing students can receive at the graduate level, they often make strong candidates for fellowships. These opportunities typically involve taking on positions within healthcare organization agencies, providing professional services in return for funding.Research and Assistantships
Many schools offer research opportunities and assistantships to deserving students within nursing departments. These opportunities usually require learners to provide teaching or research assistance in return for financial support.Student Loans
Financial aid loans can come from a variety of sources, but students should prioritize low-interest loans from federal sources. Students can see which loans they qualify for by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students can also consider other loans for financial support, including Sallie Mae or their own banks.
Scholarships for Master's in Nursing Education Students
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
AfterCollege/AACN Scholarship Fund |
$10,000 |
This scholarship rewards applicants in nursing programs at various levels, though special consideration is given to those pursuing nurse education degrees at AACN member institutions. |
Oncology Nursing Foundation Master's Scholarships |
$5,000 |
To promote the field of oncology nursing and encourage students to enter the profession, the Oncology Nursing Foundation offers scholarships to deserving master's applicants. |
Nurses Educational Funds Scholarships |
Varies |
The Nurses Educational Funds organization supports the pursuits of nursing students at the graduate level. For eligibility, each applicant must be enrolled in a graduate nursing program, possess a minimum GPA of 3.6, and hold a valid nursing license. |
Nursing Economics Foundation Scholarship |
$5,000 |
The Nursing Economics Foundation Scholarship assists nursing students in a graduate program with an emphasis in administration or management. Eligible candidates must possess an RN license. |
A Nurse I Am Scholarship |
$2,000 |
Presented by Cherokee Uniforms, this award provides financial support to the applicants who best answer the question, "Why do you want to be a nurse?" in a short essay. Applicants must be current nursing students. |
Professional Organizations and Resources
Nursing students should explore the different available resources that can help them along their educational and professional journey. The list below highlights some of the best organizations and websites that can help nursing professionals take the next step in their careers.
ANA seeks to advance the profession of nurses through engaging in advocacy, developing a code of ethics, and improving industry leadership. Members can browse resources for certification, continuing education, and nursing excellence.
AACN acts as a unified voice for the academic world of nursing. The association strives to improve the educational standards of nursing schools and programs.
This organization supports the professionals who make up the critical care profession. The association offers its members access to industry events, educational opportunities, and professional certification.
AANA strives to improve industry standards and policies through advocacy and professional development. Members can receive access to continuing education, industry publications, certification, and networking conferences.
AAPA unites and advocates for physician assistants across the country in an attempt to better the standards of the profession. The association supports its members through educational and professional development opportunities.
Through AANP, members and visitors can pursue industry news and information, a large professional network, and professional development support. The association offers certifications, educational opportunities, and access to various events.
By representing certified nurse midwives across the country, ACNM helps strengthen the profession and industry through unification, professional development, and advocacy. Members can explore certification and educational opportunities.
The NHC is the unified voice of patient-care advocates, patients with chronic diseases, and caregivers. The council works to improve care delivery across the country and provides visitors with access to health policies, conferences, and publications.
Dedicated to improving the health of Americans, ODPHP is a valuable resource for visitors looking for information on health programs across the country, various health-related services, and educational programs.
HHS is the federal department in charge of protecting the health of Americans. Visitors can access information on federal decisions and policies regarding medicine, social services, and public health.
Online Master's Programs in Nursing Education 2022
#1 Online Master’s Programs In Nursing Education
University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue the University of West Florida's programs online or in person. The school delivers online graduate programs across fields. Students at the institution can pursue an online MSN in nursing education.
In addition to rigorous coursework, the master's program prepares enrollees for nurse education careers through academic and career advising. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from the online nurse education program's scheduling flexibility. Master's degree-seekers usually earn their degree in nurse education after 1-2 years of full-time study.
Students at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. To fund their education, 64% of the school's enrollees take out loans, which they must repay after graduation. In addition, 90% of learners receive financial aid.
University of West Florida Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 93
Number of Online Programs: 26
Online Master's Programs: 31
Number of Online Students: 8,296
Per-Credit Fee: $390
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: Yes
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Master’s Programs In Nursing Education
Appalachian State University
- Boone, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Boone, North Carolina, Appalachian State University delivers academic programs online and on campus. The public institution's master's programs include an online MSN program for distance learners. The affordable, accessible program prepares working professionals to pursue leadership positions.
While completing their master's program, graduate students work with experienced faculty advisors. The advanced curriculum builds a graduate-level understanding of challenges in the field. Master's students develop industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Degree-seekers can consult with financial aid counselors to explore funding options, such as scholarships and grants. Graduate learners can also qualify for federal student loan programs.
Appalachian State University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 39
Total Online Programs: 26
Number of Online Students: 4,490
Graduate Tuition In-State: $4,839
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $18,271
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Master’s Programs In Nursing Education
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With a main campus in Orlando, the University of Central Florida delivers graduate programs in various fields. The public institution's offerings include an online master's in nursing, which distance learners can pursue from any location. Ideal for working professionals, the affordable, accessible MSN program qualifies graduates for high-level roles.
Master's students and faculty advisors discuss and analyze complex issues related to the field and students' professional futures. While pursuing the master's degree, enrollees complete a rigorous curriculum that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. Along with building core knowledge, master's coursework helps students hone crucial analytical and leadership skills.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Financial aid counseling can help degree-seekers reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Online learners at the school can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree.
University of Central Florida Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 75
Total Online Programs: 47
Number of Online Students: 41,097
Graduate Tuition In-State: $6,916
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $25,759
Permits Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Master’s Programs In Nursing Education
University of North Alabama
- Florence, AL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Alabama offers a respected master's-level nursing program. In addition to on-campus students, 5,068 learners enroll in the public institution's online programs. Working professionals who pursue online programs can complete academic requirements around their schedule.
Degree-seekers complete a rigorous curriculum and gain field-specific training while fulfilling requirements for the master of science in nursing. The master's program features electives, allowing students to tailor the curriculum to their professional goals. While pursuing the master's degree, online learners develop field-specific skills and knowledge. Learners currently employed in the nursing field often qualify for career advancement after graduation. Students and alumni can access career services from the institution.
The school delivers support services including career advising and financial aid counseling for graduate learners. The school supports online learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. Learners often apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree.
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Master’s Programs In Nursing Education
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida Atlantic University educates graduate degree-seekers online in person and at its Boca Raton campus. The public institution delivers online master's programs. The flexible MSN program prepares students for a variety of opportunities in nursing.
Master's students begin the online nursing program by completing core courses that explore important principles. Degree-seekers take advanced courses in the field and select electives to customize the program to their interests. Faculty members provide mentorship, and graduate students can pursue internships to prepare for careers in the nursing field.
After completing the program, master's degree-holders can apply to leadership roles, which often pay higher salaries. For assistance locating job placements, graduate students and alumni can consult with the institution's career counselors.
Degree-seekers with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs can help distance learners fund their master's studies. The school reports that 82% of students receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online Master’s Programs In Nursing Education
McNeese State University
- Lake Charles, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
McNeese State University, a public institution located in Lake Charles, Louisiana, offers online undergraduate and graduate programs. Learners who want to maintain full-time employment while earning their degree can enroll in one of the school's online master's programs.
Distance degree-seekers can pursue an online MSN from the institution to prepare for careers in nursing. After earning the master's degree in nursing, graduates can apply for new positions in the field or advance their current nursing career. The school offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for graduate students.
Online enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Students with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Private scholarships and institutional fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies.
McNeese State University Fast Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 99%
Students Receiving Loans: 36%
Total Master's Programs: 17
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Master’s Programs In Nursing Education
Eastern New Mexico University
- Portales, NM
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue Eastern New Mexico University's programs online or in person. The school offers a variety of master's programs for online learners.
The institution delivers an online MSN program for busy students who want to earn their nursing degree while maintaining employment. Learners currently employed in the field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree. Support services including faculty mentorship and career counseling prepare learners to succeed academically and professionally.
The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible. Students with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Learners may also qualify for fellowships.
Eastern New Mexico University Numbers:
Students Receiving Aid: 97%
Students Receiving Loans: 26%
Total Master's Programs: 13
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Grants Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Online Master’s Programs In Nursing Education
Western Carolina University
- Cullowhee, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Western Carolina University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs from its Cullowhee campus. In addition to in-person options, the school offers multiple online graduate programs. The institution's MSN in nurse educator program prepares online students to succeed in nursing education careers.
The master's program combines rigorous, graduate-level courses with strong faculty and career advising. Designed with working professionals in mind, the program offers flexible enrollment options. Full-time master's students can typically complete their degree in 1-2 years.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. To pay for school, 55% of the enrollees take out loans. In addition, 85% of the institution's learners qualify for financial aid.
Western Carolina University Numbers:
Total Programs: 107
Number of Online Programs: 19
Online Master's Programs: 28
Number of Online Students: 5,000
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Online Master’s Programs In Nursing Education
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- Lafayette, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette enrolls students in an online nursing program. The school educates 4,299 students through its online courses. The university offers an online MSN program. The accredited curriculum blends theoretical and practical nursing knowledge. The program's advanced training prepares graduates for the workforce. The institution reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 20-to-1, giving students one-on-one time with faculty.
The institution's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. The school offers affordable tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. This makes the MSN program an affordable option for learners pursuing a master's degree on a budget. The institution has a graduation rate of 51% for its programs.
University of Louisiana at Lafayette Numbers:
Total Online Enrollment: 6,584
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 6
Average Cost Per Credit: $388
Graduate Tuition: $5,511/year in-state; $19,239/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,519
Average Net Price: $12,184
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Online Master’s Programs In Nursing Education
East Tennessee State University
- Johnson City, TN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Johnson City-based East Tennessee State University provides academic programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers.
The institution's MSN program prepares online degree-seekers to succeed in nursing careers. Graduates of the program can apply for new positions in the field or advance their current nursing career. The school offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for graduate students.
The school charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates. Students with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Learners pursuing a master's degree can research additional financial aid options, including private scholarships and fellowships.
East Tennessee State University Fast Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 95%
Students Receiving Loans: 45%
Total Master's Programs: 43
Total Online Master's Programs: 43
Grants Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
