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:
Nurse educators have a strong educational background. They value continuing education and are lifelong learners. Nurse educators have qualifications including:
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.
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.
CNE certification is national recognition of the educator’s competence and achievement in teaching nursing.
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.
Serves as an educator part-time while continuing to serve in the clinical field.
Leads the nursing program and collaborates with faculty.
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:
Nurse educators have diverse opportunities within the field. They can teach at the undergraduate, master, and doctoral levels. Educators have roles like: