In the following article, we profile the top 25 most affordable online Master’s of Nursing Education degrees for 2019. Nurse educators, or nursing instructors, as they are also known, may seek employment in a variety of settings, including healthcare offices, private clinics, hospitals, schools, and universities. While their primary objective is to train others in the field of nursing, they may also assess healthcare, design curricula, and perform research. Most nursing education positions require a master’s degree, and many schools offer nurse educator concentrations within the broader Master of Science in Nursing degree. If you are interested in learning the ins and outs of teaching nursing as well the trends and policies in the healthcare industry, check out our list of the most affordable master’s in nursing education online programs below.
Methodology
In order to compile a list of the top schools offering online master’s degrees in nursing education, we used information from each institution’s website and U.S. News & World Report as well as the National Center for Education Statistics, where we conducted a search for the term “online Master’s of Nursing Education degree.” Our search yielded 50 results, which we then narrowed down into the top 25 schools based on in-state tuition rates, student-to-faculty ratios, and national rankings.
Average Cost of Attendance
As you begin to comb through the available Master’s in Nursing Education online programs, one of the first things you may find yourself comparing is the average cost of tuition. When looking at schools, however, keep in mind that cost is not necessarily indicative of the quality of the program. For the following ranking, we provided both in-state and out-of-state tuition rates for your reference, but we used only in-state costs as a basis for awarding points.
Points:
Under $20,000: 3 points
$20,001 to $30,000: 2 points
$30,001 or more: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Regardless of the degree or program, there are benefits and drawbacks to both large universities and small colleges. While large institutions may be able to offer more concentration areas to choose from and more electives, small schools may be able to offer more opportunities for personalized studies and individual mentoring. Although the size of the school comes down to personal preference, we held schools with lower student-to-faculty ratios in higher regard than those with larger class sizes and awarded points accordingly.
Points:
10:1 or lower: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Higher than 15:1: 1 point
College Ranking
Although the size of the school and the cost of the program certainly play a big part in choosing the right graduate degree, prospective students should also determine how a prospective program stacks up against similar degrees at other institutions. We used U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Online Master’s in Nursing Programs” as a resource to help us determine the quality of the degrees on our list and awarded points based on how the organization ranked each program.
Points:
U.S. News & World Report: Best Online Master’s in Nursing Program Ranking:
Top 25: 5 points
Top 50: 4 points
Top 75: 3 points
Top 100: 2 points
Higher Than 100: 1 point
Ranking Top 25 Online Graduate Degree Programs in Nursing Education
25. Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, Indiana
Points: 4
Program Website
Indiana Wesleyan University’s School of Nursing confers an affordable MSN program that is available entirely online. Courses are taken sequentially, one at a time, until students complete the 41-credit-hour program. Topics covered include pharmacology and pathophysiology, research, biostatistics and epidemiology, ethics and health policy, innovative teaching strategies, program evaluation and assessment, and course design and development. The program culminates in a nursing education capstone that involves 140 practicum hours in which students apply what they have learned in supervised and diverse educational settings. Graduates of this inexpensive online MSN program are prepared to serve in both divisions of nursing and in schools as well as assume educational leadership roles in communities, hospitals, and other facilities.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Education
In-State Tuition: $24,067
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,067
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
N/A
24. Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, New Jersey
Points: 4
Program Website
Thomas Edison State University’s affordable online MS in Nursing is comprised of 36 credits in a combination of courses: specialty, electives, direct care core, core, and practicum. Graduate students must have a bachelor’s in nursing in order to be admitted into the program. Students can choose from three specialty areas in the 36-credit program: nursing administration, nursing informatics, and nurse educator. The latter prepares graduates for teaching roles in academic and healthcare settings, and graduates earn a certificate in addition to their MSN degree. Areas of study in the concentration include testing, assessment, and evaluation as well as instructional strategies and theoretical foundations. Students also delve into curriculum theory and development in nursing education, and they are required to complete a seminar and practicum experiences within this specialty prior to graduating.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing
In-State Tuition: $24,048
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,048
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
N/A
23. University of Mary
Bismarck, North Dakota
Points: 4
Program Website
The affordable online BSN to MSN program at the University of Mary is offered in an accelerated format and enables students with an undergraduate degree in nursing to earn a nurse educator master’s degree. The low cost online MSN program can be completed on a full- or part-time basis, with most students graduating within 20 months. Students can expect to take courses in teaching strategies, curriculum development in higher education, decision-making and information management, pathophysiology, and health assessment for nurse educators. As part of the coursework assignments, students must also complete 500 hours of practical educational and leadership experiences as well as a seminar in nursing education and a final thesis.
Degree Options:
BSN to MSN Online Degree Program: Nurse Educator
In-State Tuition: $17,100
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,100
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
N/A
22. Wheeling Jesuit University
Wheeling, West Virginia
Points: 5
Program Website
The affordable online MS in Nursing at Wheeling Jesuit University provides an opportunity for students to assume advanced practice and professional leadership roles in nursing. The curriculum is offered online, with practicum and clinical requirements completed in the student’s area of residence. Available MSN tracks include nursing administration, family nurse practitioner, and nursing education specialist, which prepares nurses to work as faculty and as educators for nursing programs at all levels of education. The inexpensive online MSN program is divided into nursing core classes, clinical core classes, and education core classes, which cover topics in educational technology, curriculum and instruction, and evaluation. Students are required to complete a 168-hour practicum in nursing education as well as 56 clinical hours in a comprehensive health assessment before graduating.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing
In-State Tuition: $21,450
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,450
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#106 (tie)
21. Mount Carmel College of Nursing
Columbus, Ohio
Points: 5
Program Website
Mount Carmel College of Nursing confers an affordable online MS in Nursing degree with a specialty track in nursing education. The 34-credit program is divided into several areas, including a graduate core, direct care core, and a functional area core in nursing education. Classes within this specialization delve into topics in assessment, measurement, and evaluation as well as the instructional process and both curriculum and program development. Students are required to complete 100 clinical hours in an educator practicum as well as 50 clinical hours in a family health practicum prior to earning their degree. Most students can complete this inexpensive online MSN program within seven semesters or three years of study.
Degree Options:
Nursing Education
In-State Tuition: $19,330
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,300
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
N/A
20. Texas Woman’s University
Denton, Texas
Points: 5
Program Website
The affordable master’s degree in nursing education at Texas Woman’s University is a 100 percent online program that requires the completion of 40 credit hours of study. Students take core nursing classes as well as specialty courses in measurement and assessment, curriculum design and management, communication and technologies, and theoretical bases for nursing education. In addition to completing coursework, students are required to participate as a nurse educator at a local, approved facility as well as design a curriculum or project for an assigned area within nursing education. Graduates of this low cost online MSN program are prepared to teach online programs and work within hospital education departments and both two- and four-year colleges and universities.
Degree Options:
Master’s in Nursing Education
In-State Tuition: $19,300
Out-of-State Tuition: $35,900
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#109 (tie)
19. Oklahoma Baptist University
Shawnee, Oklahoma
Points: 5
Program Website
Students may pursue an affordable online MSN in Nursing Education from Oklahoma Baptist University. The program is comprised of 35 credit hours of coursework and is designed for working professionals looking to become successful nurse educators. In addition to completing 11 classes within the general MSN program, students take three additional classes within the nursing education specialization, allowing them to gain a competitive advantage within the field of nursing. Students and faculty members work together to study current issues and topics in the healthcare industry through an integrated biblical worldview, and the program can be completed in as few as 18 months.
Degree Options:
Nursing Education
In-State Tuition: $19,250
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,250
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
N/A
18. Wilmington University
New Castle, Delaware
Points: 5
Program Website
The College of Health Professions at Wilmington University confers an affordable online MSN in Nursing Leadership that prepares students to broaden their healthcare earnings and mobility, take on advanced roles in nursing in different environments, and influence health policy. Students can choose from three specialized nursing leadership concentrations within the CCNE-accredited program: legal nurse consultant, executive, and educator. All students take 12 credits of core MSN courses and 12 credits in core leadership classes as well as 12 credits in the educator concentration that include topics in curriculum development, clinical teaching and evaluation, and instructional technology for nurse educators. The low cost online MSN program culminates in a nurse leadership portfolio.
Degree Options:
MSN in Nursing Leadership
In-State Tuition: $17,172
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,172
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
N/A
17. University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, Texas
Points: 5
Program Website
The affordable master’s degree in nursing education at the University of Texas at El Paso is a 33-credit-hour online program designed to be completed within two years. Didactic courses are offered in a seven-week format, and graduates are prepared for teaching roles in clinical or academic settings. In addition to taking education-focused specialty courses and graduate-level advanced practice core courses, students are required to complete two 15-week mentored experiences, one with a clinical population focus and one with a nurse educator focus. Students of this ow cost online master’s degree program will have the option to complete an on-campus intensive during at least one of these experiences.
Degree Options:
Nursing Education
In-State Tuition: $14,775
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,877
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#132-#170
16. Central Methodist University
Fayette, Missouri
Points: 5
Program Website
Central Methodist University’s affordable online MS in Nursing program provides advanced knowledge and clinical skills designed to foster social responsibility and ethical leadership. The inexpensive online master’s degree program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and offers two tracks: clinical nurse leader and nurse educator. The 34-credit-hour nurse educator curriculum consists of core MSN coursework in theoretical frameworks, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and health assessment as well as classes in evidence-based practice, issues and trends in post-secondary education, instructional strategies, evaluation methods, and curriculum development. Students are required to complete an adult nurse educator practicum prior to graduating.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing
In-State Tuition: $12,920
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,920
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
N/A
15. Lamar University
Beaumont, Texas
Points: 5
Program Website
Lamar University’s affordable online MSN in Nursing Education deepens graduate students’ clinical practice and knowledge while building teaching skills and leadership abilities. The low cost online MSN program consists of 37 credit hours of study, 22 of which involve the development of curriculum design and teaching skills, experiential credits, and understanding learning and teaching theory. Students take both core MSN classes in healthcare policy and finance, nursing research, and theoretical foundations as well as MSN educator courses that further focus their degree on the field of nursing education. Depending on whether a student enrolls on a part- or full-time basis, he or she may complete the program in as few as 24 months.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Education
In-State Tuition: $12,136
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,136
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#123 (tie)
14. University of Wyoming
Laramie, Wyoming
Points: 5
Program Website
The Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing at the University of Wyoming offers an affordable online MS in Nursing program designed for registered nurses who hold a Bachelor’s in Nursing degree. The school provides both nurse leader and nurse educator concentrations, and students complete coursework on a part-time basis. In addition to taking 15 credits of core MSN courses in population health and health policy, pathophysiology and pharmacology, and evidence-informed decision-making, students also complete 15 credits within the nurse educator concentration that involve teaching methodologies and evaluation, curriculum development, and advancing healthcare through academic-practice partnerships. Students are required to come to campus during their second year for in-person intensive sessions.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing
In-State Tuition: $8,130
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,330
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
N/A
13. Concordia University-Wisconsin
Mequon, Wisconsin
Points: 6
Program Website
Students pursuing the affordable online MS in Nursing at Concordia University-Wisconsin can choose from three concentration areas: primary care adult-gerontology nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, and nurse educator. Those following the nurse educator track must complete 39 credit hours of study, including core courses in healthcare policy, genetics, pathophysiology, and evidence-based nursing practice. Specialization courses are offered in evaluation and testing, instructional design, and role transitioning. The low cost online MSN program culminates in a two-semester nurse educator capstone. Full-time and part-time options are available, and students are required to participate in a two-week residency for the course in advanced health assessment.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing
In-State Tuition: $28,041
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,041
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#97 (tie)
12. Benedictine University
Lisle, Illinois
Points: 6
Program Website
Within the affordable online MS in Nursing at Benedictine University, students may choose to pursue a concentration in nursing education. Online MSN coursework covers instructional design, evaluation strategies, curriculum development, and learning principles as well as advanced nursing content in physiology and pathophysiology, physical health assessment, and pharmacology. In addition to completing the foundation curriculum, graduate students must take 24 semester hours of classes that cover both the clinical and teaching aspects of the practice. Graduates of this low cost online MSN program are prepared to pursue careers as health specialties teachers, health educators, and nursing instructors in outreach programs, community services, and healthcare facilities.
Degree Options:
Nurse Educator MSN Concentration
In-State Tuition: $25,350
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,350
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#78 (tie)
11. Clarkson College
Omaha, Nebraska
Points: 6
Program Website
Known for its proficiency in online education, Clarkson College confers an affordable online MS in Nursing that allows students to specialize in one of four areas: nursing healthcare administration, family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner, and nursing education. Specifically, the MSN in Nursing Education is comprised of 17 semester hours of core courses, four semester hours of evidence-based practice research project courses, and 18 semester hours of major courses. Areas of study include teaching and learning strategies, evaluation strategies, curriculum development, theories of learning, and health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. The program culminates in a nursing education practicum.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing: Nursing Education
In-State Tuition: $23,322
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,322
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#84 (tie)
10. Ferris State University
Big Rapids, Michigan
Points: 6
Program Website
The College of Health Professions at Ferris State University provides an affordable online MS in Nursing that includes three concentrations: nursing administration, nursing informatics, and nursing education. The inexpensive online MSN program is comprised of 37 credits, and graduate students following the nursing education track can expect to complete core nursing requirements as well as classes within the concentration such as teaching theories and methodologies, curriculum design, and advanced physical assessment, pharmacotherapies, and pathophysiology. Students can take anywhere from one to four courses at a time, and all classes are online. The low cost online MSN program culminates in two practicum experiences that allow students to complete both a role immersion and a project in their specialty area.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing
In-State Tuition: $22,570
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,570
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#68 (tie)
9. Wayland Baptist University
Plainview, Texas
Points: 6
Program Website
Wayland Baptist University offers an affordable online MS in Nursing degree that prepares students to teach in nursing education programs and provides an opportunity for students to develop the ability to manage such programs. Through the 36-hour curriculum, students focus on adult learning, evaluation, applied learning theories, role development, legal and ethical issues, research methods, classroom management, leadership, teaching strategies, and curriculum development as well as business. The low cost online MSN program culminates in a three-hour practicum course. Students must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited college or university in order to be admitted into the program.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing
In-State Tuition: $16,740
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,740
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
N/A
8. Indiana State University
Terre Haute, Indiana
Points: 6
Program Website
Students interested in educating practitioners within the health and human services profession may consider pursuing the affordable online MS in Nursing with a concentration in nursing education from Indiana State University. Areas of study include advanced clinical concepts, educational practices in nursing, measurement and assessment, and the curriculum process. All courses are offered online, and the program consists of 37 or 40 credits, depending on the culminating experience course a student chooses at the end of the program. Students may select from a master’s thesis, a culminating project, or an evidence-based practice course. On-campus visits are not required as clinical placements are arranged in the student’s area of residence, and students may earn their degree within two and a half or three years of part-time study.
Degree Options:
Nursing Education (M.S.N.)
In-State Tuition: $15,244
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,933
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#88 (tie)
7. Angelo State University
San Angelo, Texas
Points: 6
Program Website
Angelo State University offers an inexpensive online MS in Nursing with a concentration in nursing education. The 39-credit affordable online MSN program consists of core nursing classes in health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, leadership, and evidence-based practice and theory as well as nurse educator classes in financial management, curriculum development, teaching strategies and evaluation, and advanced nursing clinical practice for nurse educators. Students must pass a comprehensive written examination and complete a nursing education practicum. Clinical requirements are typically completed in the area in which a student lives in Texas, and ASU keeps on-campus attendance requirements to a minimum.
Degree Options:
Nurse Educator Master’s Degree (M.S.N.)
In-State Tuition: $14,863
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,048
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#88 (tie)
6. University of West Georgia
Carrollton, Georgia
Points: 7
Program Website
Ranked among the top graduate nursing programs in the country, the affordable online MS in Nursing at the University of West Georgia is a 36-credit-hour program that can be completed in two years or four semesters of study. Students can choose from role options in either health systems leadership or education, and coursework is available entirely online. Specifically, the nursing education track address innovations in strategies, instructional skills, and curriculum as well as educational evaluation and assessment. Students also investigate the use and development of educational technology in the field of nursing instruction. Graduates of this low cost online MSN degree program develop expertise in college and university teaching, professional development, patient education, and health promotion and education.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing
In-State Tuition: $15,882
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,882
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#53 (tie)
5. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Edwardsville, Illinois
Points: 7
Program Website
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville offers an affordable online master’s degree for nurse educators that involves three face-to-face practicum experiences totaling 270 hours that are individualized according to each student’s academic needs, interests, and professional experience. Students also complete 33 hours of online MSN coursework in areas such as research, health policy, biostatistics and epidemiology as well as pathophysiology and pharmacology. Education-focused courses cover topics in instructional design, assessment, and evaluation as well as curriculum theory, design, and evaluation. After completing the low cost online MSN program and attaining two years of teaching experience, graduate students are eligible to sit for the National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Educator examination.
Degree Options:
Master of Science, Nurse Educator
In-State Tuition: $15,639
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,639
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#53 (tie)
4. University of Missouri
Columbia, Missouri
Points: 8
Program Website
The affordable online MS in Nursing with an emphasis in nursing education from the University of Missouri is a 41-credit-hour program comprised of both online courses and a three-day orientation during the summer prior to the start of the program. Clinical courses also require in-person participation. Offered by the Sinclair School of Nursing, the low cost online MSN program can be completed in three years by taking two courses each semester. Students can expect to delve into role development, sociocultural issues and public health, pathophysiology, healthcare policy, curriculum development and teaching strategies, and nursing research, theory, and evidence-based practice. Graduates of this inexpensive online MSN degree program are prepared to become staff educators, staff development coordinators, patient and family educators, educational research assistants, and academic nurse educators at the postsecondary level.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing With an Emphasis in Nurse Educator
In-State Tuition: $20,703
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,703
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#19 (tie)
3. University of Texas at Tyler
Tyler, Texas
Points: 9
Program Website
Ranked among the top 20 online Master’s in Nursing education programs in the U.S., the affordable MSN in Nursing Education at the University of Texas at Tyler combines online learning and 112.5 practicum hours that give graduate students hands-on experience in nursing education. Students take 36 semester hours of coursework in evaluation in nursing education, curriculum design and development, roles and strategies, health policy and population health, translational science, organizational systems leadership, and pathophysiology, pharmacology, and assessment. Graduates of this affordable online MSN degree program are prepared for doctoral studies or to fill positions in clinical facilities, government agencies, community colleges, and universities.
Degree Options:
Nursing Education MSN Degree
In-State Tuition: $15,997
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,711
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#19 (tie)
2. University of Texas Medical Branch
Galveston, Texas
Points: 10
Program Website
The affordable online MSN in Nurse Educator at the University of Texas Medical Branch is ranked among the top online graduate programs in nursing education in the country. Offered through the School of Nursing, the program is comprised of 14 courses that can be completed within seven semesters, and students investigate program evaluation, curriculum design, nursing and learning theories, and adult learning principles with the goal of developing a productive learning environment. Students also benefit from leadership immersion opportunities in which they apply the theoretical aspects of leadership practice in clinical settings. The inexpensive online MSN degree program culminates in a teaching/practicum experience.
Degree Options:
MSN Nurse Educator
In-State Tuition: $16,714
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,714
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#15 (tie)
1. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Lubbock, Texas
Points: 10
Program Website
Our top affordable online program, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, confers a Master of Science in Nursing with an emphasis on nursing education. The low cost online MSN program is designed for students who hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing, and it is comprised of online classes as well as practicum experiences. Students complete 39 semester hours of coursework, including 21 hours of required core nursing courses and 18 hours of specialty courses in assessment and measurement, curriculum development and program evaluation, and the role of the nurse educator. A course in simulation and clinical teaching requires on-campus participation, and students complete a practicum experience in leadership in nursing education prior to graduating.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Nursing
In-State Tuition: $15,993
Out-of-State Tuition: $32,178
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#35 (tie)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for a Master’s in Nursing Education Degree?
An online master’s degree in nursing education prepares graduates for a number of teaching careers depending on their area of specialization. For instance, graduates may enter careers as nursing professors, clinical research nurses, and clinical educators as detailed below:
- Nursing Professor: These professionals, also known as postsecondary teachers, are responsible for educating students in the field of nursing. They grade exams and papers, oversee research projects, and lead lectures. They may also conduct their own research in a particular area of interest within nursing.
- Clinical Research Nurse: These professionals provide care to patients who are participating in clinical trials. They must possess a strong foundation of traditional methods and practices of nursing as well as exceptional knowledge of clinical procedures, trials, and research.
- Clinical Educator: These professionals provide support, education, and training to those employed in clinical settings, including insurance personnel, public health workers, and nurses.
How Much Can You Earn in This Field?
Postsecondary nursing instructors and teachers teach and demonstrate patient care in clinical units and classrooms to nursing students. They may either focus solely on teaching, or they may engage in a combination of teaching and research. When considering salary expectations for this field, it is important to keep in mind that a number of factors affect earnings, including level of education, number of years of experience, location, and area of specialization, if any.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), postsecondary nursing instructors and teachers earned an average yearly salary of $81,350 in May 2018. The top 10 percent earned $129,070, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,370. Top-paying industries for this occupation include:
- General surgical and medical hospitals: $123,760
- Substance abuse and psychiatric hospitals: $94,380
- State government, excluding hospitals and schools: $80,790
- Professional schools, universities, and colleges: $80,380
- Junior colleges: $74,450
What Should You Know About Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing Education?
In terms of the classes you will take, almost all nursing education students can expect to complete coursework in contemporary pharmacotherapeutics and advanced pathophysiology. In addition, courses in biostatistics, advanced health assessment, and global health trends, politics, and policy prepare students to assume roles in research, analysis, and healthcare assessment. Prospective nurse instructors may also delve into education-related topics, including curriculum design in nursing, program evaluation and assessment, and instructional design and assessment. The combination of education and science classes allows students to delve into the field and translate what they have learned to those just starting out on their way to becoming nurses.
Although each program and school is different, some students may be required to complete 100 or more hours in a teaching immersion. Other requirements for a master’s degree in nurse education may include a field experience or practicum component. These hands-on experiences give students the opportunity to identify and solve a problem currently faced by their employer and, in some cases, culminate in a final paper, master’s thesis or capstone project. Students not currently working a healthcare organization who are pursuing their master’s in nursing education degree may be able to complete these teaching experiences or fieldwork requirements at a healthcare facility or clinic in their area of residence.
Finally, as you think about the program that best meets your academic and career goals, consider the duration of the curriculum. Again, coursework requirements will vary, but most online nursing education master’s degrees are comprised of 36 to 39 credit hours of study, including field experience and capstone requirements. Some schools offer full-time and part-time options, and those who can devote the most amount of time to their studies can graduate within two years. However, depending on field requirements, accelerated course formats, and the course load itself, graduate students may complete the program in as much as three years or as few as one year.
Should You Earn a Master’s in Nursing Education Degree Online?
Students who have family obligations, who are already working in the field, or who want to pursue a graduate degree without having to commit to in-person classes may consider an online or distance learning program. In fact, many professionals consider an online degree the most practical way to continue to work while preparing to advance their careers in their current roles. Some programs are organized into cohorts in which students move through the coursework at the same pace as their classmates, while others allow students to complete classes at their own pace and on their own time.
In addition to requiring minimum grade-point averages, most online master’s degrees in nursing education require graduate students to hold a registered nurse (RN) license and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Those without a BSN may need to take additional coursework in addition to the master’s requirements. Some online programs only accept graduate students on a part-time basis, while others enroll students in full-time classes for the duration of the program.
Regardless of whether you are looking to pursue doctoral studies or you are a working professional seeking career advancement in the field of nursing education, earning an online Master’s in Nursing Education degree provides a convenient, and flexible way to further your education.
AS Staff
April 2019
This concludes our ranking of the top 25 most affordable online Master’s of Nursing Education degrees.
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