Nurse Educator Schools in Illinois

Olivet Nazarene University's Master of Science in Nursing Education program offers a comprehensive online pathway for registered nurses passionate about becoming educator leaders. Spanning 30 months with 36 total credit hours, the program uniquely prepares students through innovative teaching strategies and learning theories. With two specialized practicum courses totaling 150 hours, students develop critical mentorship skills. The curriculum is designed to support students in preparing for the Certified Nurse Educator exam, emphasizing student-centered learning experiences. Accredited by CCNE, the program requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA and provides flexible start dates, making advanced nursing education accessible.

• 100% Online Program
• 30 months program length
• $12K total tuition
• 8-week accelerated classes
• 36 total credit hours
• $690 per credit hour
• Requires BSN degree
• 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
• Two practicum courses
• 150 total practicum hours

Olivet Nazarene University's Post-Master's Nursing Education Certificate provides a strategic advancement opportunity for experienced nurses seeking specialized educational credentials. Delivered entirely online, this program addresses critical faculty shortages by equipping registered nurses with advanced curriculum development and teaching methodologies. The certificate focuses on comprehensive pedagogical skills, offering accelerated 8-week courses and two practicum experiences. With competitive tuition at $690 per credit hour and potential scholarship opportunities, nurses can efficiently enhance their professional capabilities. The program requires an active RN license and serves as an excellent pathway for those aiming to transition into formal nursing education roles.

• 100% Online Program
• 36 Total Credit Hours
• Tuition $690 per Credit
• 30-Month Program Length
• Two Practicum Experiences
• Prepare for CNE Certification
• Accelerated 8-Week Courses
• BSN Required for Admission
• 3.0 Minimum GPA Needed
• RN License Required

North Central College's MSN: Nurse Educator program delivers a transformative hybrid learning experience targeting aspiring nursing educators. The curriculum emphasizes interprofessional strategies and evidence-based practices, preparing students to become innovative healthcare teaching professionals. Designed for working nurses, the program offers flexible online coursework with periodic campus visits. Students benefit from competitive tuition reduction opportunities up to 25% and a holistic admission approach. Applicants must hold an unencumbered RN license and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0. The program requires three recommendation letters and provides start dates in both spring and fall 2025, ensuring accessibility for diverse nursing professionals seeking advanced educational roles.

• Online MSN: Nurse Educator track
• Tuition reduction up to 25%
• Holistic admission approach
• Cumulative GPA 3.0 required
• Three recommendation letters needed
• Spring/Fall 2025 start dates
• Unencumbered RN license required
• Campus visits 2-3 times
• Interprofessional curriculum
• Evidence-based practice focus

Northern Illinois University's M.S. in Nursing with a Nursing Education concentration delivers a cutting-edge hybrid program tailored for aspiring nurse educators. Spanning 38 credit hours, the curriculum strategically prepares nurses to excel in academic and clinical teaching environments. With a remarkable 95% job placement rate, students gain comprehensive skills through dedicated faculty mentorship and robust clinical partnerships. The program accommodates working professionals with flexible part-time and full-time tracks, requiring 2,000 clinical hours for comprehensive practical experience. While specific entrance exam requirements are not explicitly stated, prospective students should verify admission criteria. Competitive tuition at $509.75 per credit and a six-year completion window enhance the program's accessibility for career-driven nursing professionals.

• Online master's degree format
• Nursing Education specialization available
• 38 total credit hours
• Tuition $509.75 per credit
• 6-year program completion window
• Fall application deadline July 15
• Spring application deadline January 9
• Requires 2,000 clinical hours
• Part-time and full-time options
• Internships at clinical sites

Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville's Master of Science in Nurse Educator program offers a dynamic online pathway for experienced nurses seeking advanced teaching roles. Tailored for baccalaureate-prepared professionals, the curriculum uniquely blends theoretical knowledge with 270 hours of immersive practicum experiences. Students will develop sophisticated pedagogical skills, learning innovative teaching strategies to address critical faculty shortages in nursing education. The program's comprehensive approach emphasizes practical training, enabling graduates to excel in academic and clinical educational settings. With a fully online format, competitive tuition, and a focus on diverse teaching methodologies, this program provides an accessible and strategic route for nurses aspiring to become influential nurse educators.

• Fully online MSN program
• 270 hours face-to-face practicum
• Individualized clinical experiences
• Total program cost: $17,002
• High demand nationally
• Corporate partnership options
• 33 total credit hours
• Clinical courses with $340 fee
• Prepares nursing faculty
• Diverse teaching strategies

Benedictine University's online Master of Science in Nursing program uniquely prepares registered nurses to excel in nurse education through a comprehensive two-year curriculum. Specializing in the Nurse Educator concentration, students develop advanced instructional techniques, curriculum design skills, and assessment methodologies. The CCNE-accredited program offers flexible online learning, enabling nurses to enhance professional competencies while maintaining current employment. Graduates can expect significant career advancement opportunities, with potential salary increases over $40,000. The program emphasizes practical learning through clinical practicums and includes a capstone project, ensuring students are thoroughly prepared for transformative roles in nursing education and healthcare instruction.

• Online MSN program
• Two-year completion time
• CCNE Accredited program
• Nurse Educator concentration available
• Practicum in clinical setting
• Meets AACN master's outcomes
• Two concentration options
• Potential $40k salary increase
• Capstone project requirement
• Post-master's certificate options