Nurse Educator Schools in Illinois

What Are the Online Nursing Education Prerequisites in Illinois?

Much like working as a practice nurse, you will need a nursing undergraduate degree (such as an ADN or BSN), and a registered nursing license. You will need a relevant graduate program – either a master's (MSN in nursing with an education focus or a dedicated nursing education program) or a doctorate (PhD, DNP, or EdD).

Online BSN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

Illinois currently offers several choices of BSN to MSN programs, one of which is a hybrid requiring in-person visits to the campus. Students study a wide range of courses covering education of patient care, leadership, and curriculum. Entry requirements include:

• A minimum GPA of 3.0 on the 4.0 scale
• Send transcripts
• Schools may require grades from specific subjects
• You must have already completed an accredited BSN
• Send the application form and fees
• Unencumbered RN license
• English proficiency may be required for applicants from non-native English speakers

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

There are three doctorate programs for nursing education to choose from. A Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) for practicing doctors, a Doctorate of Nursing Philosophy (PhD) for doctors of research, and a Doctorate of Education (EdD) for those who wish to teach in the nursing field.

The admission requirements for applying to a doctorate program in nursing education are similar to the requirements for other nursing education programs, except that you will need to possess a master's degree before you begin.

Illinois State University has a well-known PhD program in nursing worth looking into, as well as the University of Illinois DNP program and EdD program.

Nurse Educator Licensing and Certification in Illinois

RN licensing is mandatory in Illinois to both study and practice as a nursing educator. This applies even if you no longer wish to work as a practice nurse beyond what is stipulated in the requirements of maintaining eligibility. A graduate degree is also mandatory.

Certification for nursing educators is available under three types. Not mandatory, but advisable. They are:

• CNE is the first type. It is for academics
• CNEcl is the second type. It is for educators of professionals
• CNEn is the third type. It is for novices without the required minimum number of years of experience required for the other two

An in-date and unencumbered RN license is mandatory for CNE certification. Other stipulations apply, including a minimum number of hours of ongoing education.

RN licensing in Idaho costs$98 for the application and $200 for the exam. License by endorsement is $50. CNE cost is $400 for NLN members and $500 for non-members. This is the same nationwide.

Who Hires Nurse Educators in Illinois?

What are your career options once you've graduated and gained both license and certification?

• Formal academia: You will teach undergraduate and graduate nursing students. You may also engage in research or other academic responsibilities
• Professional educator: You will work for health providers, in hospitals and clinics, training working professionals
• Private training: This is similar to professional skills education, but you'll work for private providers educating both medical professionals and support staff in technology and procedure too
• Charities: You could work in public health awareness and education, health advocacy and lobbying, or educating charity and disaster relief workers

List of Nurse Educator Degree Programs in Illinois

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

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