What Are the Online Nursing Education Prerequisites in Georgia?

To enter this exciting new career, you must have a nursing undergraduate degree (BSN or ADN), a registered nursing license, and a relevant graduate program – either an MSN or any choice of a doctorate or BSN. Your graduate degree must be a master's at a minimum – either an MSN with an education track or a dedicated MSN or doctorate in nursing education (PhD, DNP, or EdD).

2026 Best Nurse Educator Programs in Georgia

Discovering the top nurse educator programs in Georgia is crucial for aspiring nursing professionals seeking advanced academic paths. NurseEducator.com has meticulously analyzed and ranked the state's most exceptional nursing education programs, considering factors like curriculum quality, faculty expertise, clinical training opportunities, and student success rates. Our comprehensive research highlights institutions that provide outstanding educational experiences, preparing future nurse educators to excel in academic and clinical settings. These programs not only offer rigorous academic preparation but also equip students with the skills needed to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals. Georgia's nursing education landscape continues to evolve, offering dynamic and innovative learning environments. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, GA - Public 4-Year - kennesaw.edu

Master's - MSN – Nursing Education Leadership in a Digital World

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Kennesaw State University's MSN in Nursing Education Leadership offers a transformative two-year program bridging clinical expertise with educational innovation. Through a dynamic hybrid learning model, students explore advanced teaching technologies and healthcare pedagogical strategies. The curriculum emphasizes leadership development, preparing nurses to excel in academic and clinical educational environments. Doctoral-level faculty guide students through comprehensive coursework and practical experiences, ensuring graduates are equipped with cutting-edge instructional skills. Small collaborative classes and flexible scheduling accommodate working professionals seeking to advance their nursing education careers.

  • Two-year MSN program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Online and campus courses
  • 40 total credit hours
  • Fall entry term
  • Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Application fee: $60
  • Priority deadline: December 15

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Designed for master's-prepared registered nurses, Kennesaw State University's Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate provides a targeted 12-credit pathway to becoming exceptional nursing instructors. This hybrid program strategically transforms clinical professionals into sophisticated educational leaders, offering comprehensive pedagogical training and innovative teaching methodologies. Participants develop advanced instructional competencies, learning to leverage educational technologies and design impactful learning experiences. Flexible part-time and full-time options accommodate diverse professional schedules, enabling nurses to expand their career opportunities in academic and healthcare training environments.

  • 12 total credit hours
  • Hybrid online/face-to-face format
  • Two semesters full-time option
  • Four semesters part-time option
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Current RN licensure needed
  • Fall and Spring entry terms
  • Targets master's prepared nurses
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

University of North Georgia

Dahlonega, GA - Public 4-Year - ung.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Visit Website

University of North Georgia's Doctor of Nursing Practice program specializes in Nursing Education, offering a comprehensive online pathway for experienced registered nurses seeking advanced academic credentials. Strategically designed for healthcare professionals, the program eliminates traditional entrance exam requirements while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Students complete 38 credit hours across five full-time semesters or eight part-time semesters, focusing intensively on nursing education methodologies and leadership development. The program's unique concentration prepares nurses to become exceptional educators, bridging clinical expertise with academic instruction. With a remarkable 100% job placement rate and a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement, the DNP program provides a flexible, cutting-edge approach to advanced nursing education. Applicants must possess a master's degree, two years of RN experience, and an unencumbered nursing license.

  • Online DNP program
  • 38 credit hours total
  • 5 semesters full-time option
  • 8 semesters part-time option
  • Two concentration tracks
  • No entrance exam required
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • Two years RN experience
  • Current healthcare employment
  • Fall application deadline: May 1
#3

Georgia Southwestern State University

Americus, GA - Public 4-Year - gsw.edu

Master's - MSN, Nursing Education

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Georgia Southwestern State University's MSN in Nursing Education delivers a comprehensive online program designed to transform experienced nurses into expert educators. Spanning 22 months, the hybrid curriculum emphasizes advanced instructional strategies, curriculum development, and cutting-edge educational technologies. Students benefit from flexible admission cycles, locally arranged clinical experiences, and a robust framework that prepares graduates for diverse teaching roles in academic and clinical settings. The CCNE-accredited program requires a BSN, active RN license, and minimum 3.0 GPA, ensuring high-quality candidates enter the nursing education field with sophisticated pedagogical skills and professional competence.

  • Fully online MSN program
  • 22-month completion time
  • Fall/Spring admission cycles
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 5 core courses, 7 education courses
  • Requires BSN degree
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Active RN license needed
  • Clinical experiences arranged locally
  • Flexible learning environments
#4

Albany State University

Albany, GA - Public 4-Year - asurams.edu

Master's - Nurse Educator

Online Learning - Visit Website

Albany State University's MSN Nurse Educator program offers a dynamic 35-credit pathway for BSN graduates seeking advanced teaching opportunities. Tailored for aspiring nursing faculty, the program emphasizes comprehensive curriculum development and innovative instructional strategies. Students benefit from flexible full and part-time options, completing coursework across five semesters. The curriculum uniquely prepares nurses for academic and healthcare teaching environments, with a strong focus on educational evaluation techniques. Graduates become eligible for the National League for Nursing (NLN) examination, positioning them as competitive candidates in nursing education. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, professional nursing licensure, and provides an advanced teaching practicum to ensure practical skill development.

  • 35 total credit hours
  • Full and part-time options
  • NLN exam eligibility
  • 5-semester program progression
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Professional nursing licensure needed
  • Advanced teaching practicum included
  • Curriculum development focus
  • Flexible entry points
  • Post-master's certification available

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master’s Certification in Nursing Education

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Albany State University's Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education provides experienced nurses a specialized pathway to advanced educational roles. This hybrid program strategically equips professionals with cutting-edge teaching methodologies and curriculum design skills. Designed for working nurses, the five-semester track offers part-time flexibility and comprehensive preparation for academic and clinical teaching environments. Applicants must possess a Master's in Nursing, maintain an active nursing license, and demonstrate a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program distinguishes itself by blending clinical expertise with sophisticated educational strategies, preparing nurses to become transformative educators in diverse healthcare settings.

  • Post-Master's Nurse Educator Certificate
  • Part-time study options available
  • Prepares nurses for faculty roles
  • 5 semester program length
  • Requires master's degree in nursing
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
  • Focuses on teaching strategies
  • Clinical and academic preparation
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*NCES, IPEDS 2023 survey, U.S. Department of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Online BSN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

There are several opportunities to study a nursing MSN (educator pathway) in Georgia. Students will cover preventive medicine, nursing care, assessment, and curriculum, among other things. Eligibility will typically include these:

  • A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on the 4.0 scale; send transcripts as proof
  • Already completed your BSN
  • Application form and resume
  • Three completed recommendation forms. Clinical recommendations preferred
  • An active and unencumbered RN license
  • Immunization record

Online Doctorate Nurse Educator Programs: DNP, Ph.D., or Ed.D.

There are three doctorate programs for nursing education–a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), a Doctor of Nursing Philosophy (PhD), and a Doctor of Education (EdD).

The DNP is typically for those who want to become practicing doctors, while the PhD is typically for research. The EdD is for those students who want to go on to teach, but these degrees are less common.

For those interested in these doctoral programs in an online setting, there are several to choose from. For DNP programs, check out the University of North Georgia. For PhD programs, there is a great one at the University of West Georgia, where there is also a EdD program as well.

The admission requirements for entering a doctorate program in nursing education are similar to the requirements for other nursing education programs but you will be required to hold a higher degree (MSN).

Nurse Educator Licensing and Certification in Georgia

You must have an RN license even if you do not intend to practice as a nurse. The graduate degree is also a mandatory step while certification is optional but preferred. There are three types – ensure you choose the correct one:

  • The standard CNE is for academic staff
  • The clinical CNEcl is for teachers of working medical professionals. You need three years minimum of nursing experience and two years of teaching experience
  • CNEn certification is for newly qualified practitioners of either of the above. It is for those with less than the stated three years of experience

A current and unencumbered RN license is mandatory for all types and ongoing certification. You are also required to adhere to all other application requirements.

RN licensing in Georgia costs $40 for the application and $200 for the exam. License by endorsement is $75. Each CNE certificate costs the same in whichever state you are living in. $400 for NLN members and $500 for non-members.

Who Hires Nurse Educators in Georgia?

There are multiple career routes you might consider, including but not limited to:

  • Academia: Here you will work in our colleges and universities teaching new nursing undergraduates and graduate students. Research may also form part of your role
  • Professional teaching: Working nurses are expected to adhere to ongoing education requirements. You will train them on both clinical and non-clinical issues
  • Private training providers: Admin and other support workers in the medical field also require upskilling and other training
  • Charity sector: Any of the above roles would apply, but charities have advocacy and lobbying, plus public outreach opportunities

List of Nurse Educator Degree Programs in Georgia

Ready to find an online or campus-based nurse educator degree program in Georgia? Explore our listings to find the perfect program that matches your academic goals and career aspirations.

Americus, GA

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
800 Georgia Southwestern State University Drive
Americus, GA 31709
(877) 871-4594

Columbus, GA

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
4225 University Avenue
Columbus, GA 31907
(706) 507-8800

Dahlonega, GA

DNP Programs
82 College Circle
Dahlonega, GA 30597
(706) 864-1543

155 Sunset Drive
Dahlonega, GA 30597
(706) 864-1930

Kennesaw, GA

1000 Chastain Road
Kennesaw, GA 30144
(470) 578-6000

Milledgeville, GA

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
231 W. Hancock St.
Milledgeville, GA 31061
(800) 342-0471

Statesboro, GA

Graduate Certificate Programs
1332 Southern Drive
Statesboro, GA 30458
(912) 478-4636

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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