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Master’s in Nursing Education Online MSN Program Track
Program Overview Why get a nursing education master’s?
Combine your clinical expertise and passion for teaching with the online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Nursing Education program at Southern New Hampshire University. This MSN program track can help prepare you to lead and teach future nursing professionals as an academic or clinical nurse educator in major universities, community colleges, hospitals and healthcare organizations.
Already earned your MSN? Check out our online Nursing Education Post-Master's Certificate program.
Skills you'll learn:
- Evidence-based practice and healthcare technology applications
- Leadership and collaboration skills that can improve nursing practice
- Advanced communication and advocacy strategy development
- How to advance equitable health policies and regulations
- Best teaching practices to develop and evaluate high-quality education
Courses & Curriculum Nursing education courses that help you prep the next generation
The online MSN Nursing Education track is aligned to the core competencies defined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the National League for Nursing. The program provides the essential skills required by registered nurses to either transition into – or meet the requirements of – the nurse educator role. Graduates of the MSN Nursing Education track meet the educational requirements for the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam offered by the National League for Nursing (NLN).
The MSN Nursing Education track integrates hands-on learning throughout. You'll be required to complete a practicum experience, helping you apply your skills in an authentic healthcare setting.
Master's in Nursing Education Degree Courses
The online MSN Nursing Education program offers an authentic learning experience that develops resume-building skills and knowledge required to teach the next generation of nurses.
Courses may include:
Role Development and Transformation of the MSN Professional Nurse
Course ID:
NUR 508
In this course, learners will explore the roles of an MSN professional nurse. This includes the differentiation of the APRN role and scope of practice and development of a plan for career-long learning. Learners will evaluate practice experiences and explore the influence of healthcare systems, policy, and trends in shaping MSN professional practice. Learners will continue to form and cultivate their professional nursing identity, through critique, engagement and the development of interprofessional relationships.
Epidemiological and Biostatistical Applications in Healthcare
Course ID:
NUR 520
This course focuses on the principles and foundations in epidemiology and biostatistics for healthcare application. Students will evaluate basic concepts of disease transmission and study designs as they learn to quantify disease progression and assess risk factors of disease. Students will gain skills in the application of data collection, data analysis, and hypothesis testing to health data as a way to support health promotion, disease prevention, and clinical decision-making.
Interprofessional Leadership in Healthcare
Course ID:
NUR 531
Learners will develop key attributes of an MSN professional functioning in complex healthcare systems to promote a culture of safety and quality outcomes. Learners will challenge assumptions, be prepared to proactively take action based on timely and reliable information, and create solutions that anticipate needs across the four spheres of care. They will develop leadership, communication skills and strategies to promote interprofessional team collaboration and strengthen partnerships to improve outcomes across a variety of settings.
Evidence-Based Practice and Scholarly Inquiry
Course ID:
NUR 550
In this course, students will translate evidence-based practice that is essential for continuous improvement in a variety of healthcare settings. Course topics include the use of scholarly inquiry, evaluation of existing clinical practice guidelines, critical analysis and synthesis of the best evidence to inform practice. Students will gain skills in utilizing various databases for retrieving scholarly evidence and best practices to improve healthcare outcomes. Students will apply evidence-based practices to the role of the MSN professional.
Facilitating Learning and Teaching Innovation in Nursing Education
Course ID:
NUR 634
In this course, students explore the use of teaching and learning assessment strategies for nurse educators. Emphasis is placed on application of evidence-based practice to enhance student learning in clinical, didactic, and online learning environments. Students will examine various teaching and learning methods, including using innovative education technologies. Topics in this course include feedback strategies, test construction and item analysis, and developing and using rubrics.
Nursing Education Practicum
Course ID:
NUR 690
In this practicum, students will synthesize prior learning and theoretical foundations of nursing education in the development of an implementable nursing education improvement project or change initiative. Students will demonstrate their knowledge through an assessment of a knowledge gap in nursing education, the development of recommendations, and the dissemination of a nursing education plan to a targeted audience. Students will engage in 135 hours of supervised, direct clinical practice experiences, divided between an academic and advanced nursing practice setting, to demonstrate synthesis and application of knowledge, skills, and behaviors of the nursing education role.
Visit the course catalog to view the full MSN in Nursing Education curriculum.
Students enrolled in the MSN program courses are responsible for ensuring they have the minimum system hardware, software and equipment. In addition to the SNHU technology requirements, MSN students should have the following:
For nursing education and population healthcare tracks:
- 20Mbps (download) and 5Mbps (upload)
- Ability to record (webcam and microphone are often built into laptop or computer)
- Assessment kit (tools specified in course syllabus)
- A laptop is recommended
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
HEaRT challenge
Looking to gain professional healthcare experience, even before you graduate? Do it with HEaRT.
Specially designed for learners in healthcare and nursing, HEaRT (Higher Education and Real World Training) is a powerful experiential learning opportunity at SNHU. These online, asynchronous, voluntary experiences help connect students with employers to help solve real-world business problems – so you can be ready to make an impact in your field.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: Nov. 10, 2025 | Feb. 2, 2026
Next term starts:
August 25, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Preparing You for Success
Dr. Crissy Hunter, RN, CHSE, CNE
Position
Clinical faculty member of graduate nursing programs
Joined
SNHU
2019
Education
- DNP in Educational Leadership from American Sentinel College
- MSN in Nursing Education from the University of Wyoming
- BSN from the University of Phoenix
- ADN from Maric College
"Nurse educators play a vital role in the profession of nursing. Regardless of the setting, our primary role is advancing the profession of nursing through education." - Dr. Crissy Hunter
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 250,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
MSN Admission Requirements:
- Must maintain an active unencumbered registered nurse license. Licensure exam must be equivalent to NCLEX-RN examination. (If a student holds active licenses in more than one state/jurisdiction all licenses must be unencumbered.)
- Must have an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited nursing program (ACEN, CCNE, and CNEA) with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Applicants with a cumulative GPA between 2.0 and 2.99 may be eligible for provisional acceptance into the BSN program.
- Completion of the MSN acknowledgement form.
- Provisional acceptance may be extended to applicants with an undergraduate GPA between 2.67 and 2.99.
No BSN yet? No problem! SNHU offers an accelerated online RN to MSN pathway option that allows eligible registered nurses to achieve their MSN faster and for less money. The RN to MSN accelerated pathway can be applied to all 5 specialty tracks.
SNHU nursing programs are not authorized in the state of Washington or U.S. territories, and we are not accepting students residing in Washington state or U.S. territories into nursing programs at this time. Currently enrolled students who move into the state of Washington or a U.S. territory will not be able to continue in nursing courses until they move out of the state of Washington or the U.S. territory. Prospective students are encouraged to contact an admission counselor, and current students should contact their academic advisor, for more information.
Applicants and students are advised that their success in their chosen program may be dependent on an ability to meet the Nursing Program Health and Technical Requirements (PDF).
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and the master’s degree program in nursing at Southern New Hampshire University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202.887.6791.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online graduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 36-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$659
$1,977
$23,724
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$470
$1,410
$16,920
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$1,977 $3,954 $5,931 $7,908If 3 of your prior learning credits ($659/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $21,747
If 6 of your prior learning credits ($659/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $19,770
If 9 of your prior learning credits ($659/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $17,793
If 12 of your prior learning credits ($659/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,816
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a master's degree. Most master's degrees require 36 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 12 credits, requiring a minimum of 24 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer credits toward your master's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of an online graduate tuition discount for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Take advantage of an online tuition discount through your organization’s partnership with SNHU. Check with your employer to see if your organization partners with us and if you’re eligible for additional tuition savings and partner education benefits.
Career Outlook What can I do with a nursing education master’s degree?
Jobs for postsecondary nursing instructors and teachers are expected to grow in coming years.1 An MSN in Nursing Education can help prepare you to pursue several roles, from preceptor to simulation coordinator.
The evolving state of healthcare fuels a need for nurse educators – those who can help prepare nurses in a rapidly changing field – now more than ever.
Industries
The online MSN Nursing Education program offers an authentic learning experience that develops resume-building skills and knowledge required to teach the next generation of nurses in a variety of settings.
Hospitals
Teach patient care in classroom and clinical units to experienced nurses and nursing students.
Healthcare Organizations
Coordinate and manage the nursing program's simulation and skills lab.
Community Colleges
Instruct and evaluate the clinical training of health sciences students.
Educational Support Services
Evaluate the effectiveness of curriculums established by school boards, states or federal entities.
Universities
Oversee student services, academics and faculty research in a specific education department.
Government
Represent the educational needs of nurses and their impact on healthcare equity.
193k+
Openings projected nationally each year for registered nurses through 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
This degree will change my life because all I have ever wanted to do was give back to students what was so feely given to me by my professor. I will be able to be that person that goes above and beyond for a student to make that difference that may allow or encourage them to continue on with their education.
Tara Donovan '23
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you do with a master's in nursing education?
A master's in nursing education can help position you for a few different career paths.
Primarily, nurse educators can teach in academic or hospital settings. Those who enter the field will educate nurses on the newest processes, standards, technology and safety measures that uphold regulatory requirements and improve patient care.
In the hospital setting, nurse educators are supporting working nurses through on-the-job training. Within academic settings, nurse educators can be found teaching pre-licensure or post-licensure students, helping prepare them for a rewarding career.
The impact of your nursing education MSN, however, will reach far beyond a single job title. As an educator, you'll play a key role in shaping the future of a changing healthcare system.
As the National Academy of Medicine points out, "[Nurse educators] need to be prepared to teach their students about the complex linkages among population health, social determinants of health and health outcomes."3
This, in part, means putting a face to the populations served, becoming more active in local communities and understanding the barriers between individuals and access to healthcare.
How much does a master's in nursing education graduate make?
Salary expectations for those who have earned a master's in nursing education may vary. Several factors, such as experience, setting, geographic location and job role may impact your earning potential.
What types of master's degrees in nursing are there?
There are several different types of online master's in nursing options. Nursing education is just one of many possible career tracks. And as the field evolves, plenty of new opportunities are growing with it.
You could, for example, pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in healthcare quality and safety, population healthcare or nurse executive leadership or a family nurse practitioner (FNP) degree.
Not sure which path is right for you? No problem. All of SNHU's MSN programs contain the same 5 core courses to start, so you have the option to switch tracks without losing credit. This gives you an opportunity to explore and decide later which direction you'd like to take.
How long is an MSN program?
At SNHU, most of our online MSN programs require 36 credits, which is 12 total courses. (The one exception is our MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner track, which requires 51 credits.)
That said, students have the option of taking two courses per term, which is considered full time, or one course per term, which is considered part time. Only you can decide which workload is right for you, but if speed is important to you, the full-time option could be the way to go.
At SNHU, we also understand that your schedule may change term by term, so you can decide as you go what the right balance is for you.
Adding to the flexibility of our programs – our graduate terms are 10 weeks long, with 5 term starts per year. The benefits here are two-fold. On one hand, you can keep going with minimal gaps from one term to the next, to keep the momentum. On the other, you can plan ahead when you have week-long breaks between terms to get ready for the next term, or assess whether one course or two is best for your upcoming term.
Is it worth it to get an MSN in nursing education?
Only you can decide if an MSN in nursing education aligns with your professional goals. That said, if your goal is to enter a role that is personally rewarding, with promising prospects for the future, this program could be an excellent pathway to your goals.
The MSN in Nursing Education at SNHU, for example, reflects "innovative teaching and learning practices, best practices in designing curriculum, individualized assessments and the ins and outs of learning through simulation," said Dr. Crissy Hunter, clinical faculty of graduate nursing programs at SNHU.
The program also "prepares students for the Certified Nurse Educator exam by the National League for Nursing, which is a true mark of a prepared nurse educator," she said.
Nurse educators will be instrumental in shaping the future of healthcare. As the needs of the industry evolve, so do the roles and responsibilities of teachers.
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Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm (viewed May 1, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm (viewed May 1, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.