What Are the Online Nursing Education Prerequisites in Pennsylvania?

Nursing educators in Pennsylvania require three things. First of all, they need a nursing undergraduate degree. This can be either an ADN or BSN. Both will require a registered nursing license. This remains mandatory even for nurses who don't intend to practice. Finally, you need a graduate program which can be either a master's degree (MSN) or a doctorate (PhD, DNP, EdD) focused on nursing education.

2026 Best Nurse Educator Programs in Pennsylvania

Welcome to NurseEducator.com's comprehensive guide to the Best Nurse Educator Programs in Pennsylvania. Our expert team has carefully evaluated and ranked the top nursing education programs across the state, considering factors like academic excellence, clinical training opportunities, faculty credentials, and student success rates. Whether you're an aspiring nurse educator looking to advance your career or a professional seeking advanced academic preparation, our rankings provide invaluable insights into the most distinguished programs Pennsylvania has to offer. These programs represent the gold standard in preparing passionate educators who will shape the next generation of nursing professionals. Our in-depth analysis ensures you have the most current and reliable information to make an informed decision about your educational journey. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Robert Morris University

Moon Township, PA - Private 4-year - rmu.edu

Master's - M.S.N. in Nursing Education

Concentration: Simulation - Online Learning - Visit Website

Robert Morris University's M.S.N. in Nursing Education with a Simulation concentration offers a specialized pathway for nurse educators leveraging advanced technological training. This 37-credit online program uniquely prepares professionals to master simulation-based learning techniques, emphasizing innovative healthcare training methodologies. Students develop expertise in creating immersive educational experiences, utilizing cutting-edge simulation technologies to enhance clinical skill development. The program requires a current RN license and maintains a preferred 2.5 GPA, ensuring high-quality candidate selection. Graduates emerge as skilled educators capable of transforming healthcare training through sophisticated simulation strategies and interdisciplinary curriculum design.

  • Online nursing education program
  • 37 total program credits
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • Simulation concentration available
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA preferred
  • Current RN license required
  • Rolling admission process
  • Two-year program duration
  • Clinical practicum experiences
  • Interdisciplinary curriculum design

Master's - M.S.N. in Nursing Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

Robert Morris University's M.S.N. in Nursing Education delivers a comprehensive online program designed for healthcare professionals seeking advanced educational leadership roles. Spanning 37 credits, the curriculum integrates pedagogical techniques with specialized nursing instruction, preparing nurses to develop innovative educational approaches. The program offers flexible learning options for working professionals, featuring clinical teaching practicums and interdisciplinary curriculum design. With CCNE accreditation and a focus on technological integration, students gain expertise in curriculum development, clinical teaching methods, and educational strategies. A current RN license and minimum 2.5 GPA are preferred for admission.

  • 37 total program credits
  • Online program availability
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA preferred
  • Rolling admission process
  • Simulation concentration option
  • Current RN license required
  • Clinical teaching practicums
  • Interdisciplinary curriculum
  • CCNE accredited program
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Messiah University

Mechanicsburg, PA - Private 4-year - messiah.edu

Master's - MSN - Nurse Educator

Online Learning - Visit Website

Messiah University's MSN Nurse Educator program delivers a comprehensive 39-credit online curriculum designed for working professionals seeking advanced teaching roles in nursing. CCNE-accredited and strategically structured, the program offers accelerated and part-time pathways for nurses aspiring to become impactful educators. Students develop sophisticated pedagogical skills through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical teaching strategies. The flexible online format enables seamless integration of advanced learning with professional responsibilities, preparing graduates to mentor and educate future nursing generations in diverse academic and clinical settings.

  • Online track available
  • $780 per credit
  • 39 total credits
  • 2-year completion time
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Prepares for teaching positions
  • Accelerated study options
  • Part-time plans available
  • Entry-level teaching focus

Graduate Certificate - Post-master’s Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies

Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Visit Website

Messiah University's Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education provides specialized training for advanced nursing professionals seeking targeted career advancement. Meticulously designed for experienced practitioners, this online program bridges critical educational gaps by offering concentrated coursework in pedagogical strategies, curriculum development, and educational leadership. The certificate equips nurses with sophisticated skills to excel in academic and clinical teaching environments, creating powerful pathways for professional growth and meaningful contributions to nursing education.

  • Post-Master's Certificate available
  • Nursing education focus
  • Advanced graduate studies option
  • Designed for experienced nurses
  • Career advancement pathway

Doctorate - DNP - Nurse Educator

Online Learning - Visit Website

Messiah University's DNP Nurse Educator program represents a transformative post-master's online degree targeting experienced nurses seeking advanced leadership opportunities. Spanning 27-35 credits with a three-year completion timeline, this fully accredited program empowers nurses to shape healthcare professional development. The comprehensive curriculum emphasizes cutting-edge educational strategies, leadership principles, and advanced clinical insights. With 100% online coursework and competitive per-credit pricing, the program enables nurses to elevate their expertise while maintaining professional commitments, positioning graduates for significant roles in nursing education and healthcare leadership.

  • 100% online coursework
  • $940 per credit
  • 27-35 total credits
  • 3-year completion time
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Post-master's degree track
  • No additional tuition fees
  • Leadership in nursing education
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Villanova University

Villanova, PA - Private 4-year - villanova.edu

Master's - Nursing Education

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Villanova University's Master of Science in Nursing Education program revolutionizes professional nursing preparation through a comprehensive 46-credit curriculum. Designed for experienced nurses seeking educational leadership roles, the hybrid program offers innovative learning experiences across diverse healthcare populations. Students develop advanced pedagogical skills, mastering curriculum design, instructional strategies, and professional development techniques. The program's unique blend of theoretical coursework and clinical practicums positions graduates to become transformative nurse educators in academic and clinical environments. With asynchronous and hybrid course options, professionals can seamlessly integrate advanced learning while maintaining their current career trajectories.

  • 46-credit MSN concentration
  • Asynchronous and hybrid courses
  • Multiple clinical practicum options
  • Leadership in nursing education
  • Population-focused clinical tracks
  • Theoretical and practical coursework
  • Pathway to PhD program
  • Advanced teaching strategies
  • Clinical and academic settings

Graduate Certificate - Nurse Educator Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Villanova University's Post-Master's Nurse Educator Certificate provides an accelerated pathway for master's and doctoral-level nurses to specialize in educational roles. This concise 12-credit program offers exceptional flexibility through online and hybrid formats, enabling professionals to enhance their teaching competencies strategically. Focused on curriculum development and advanced instructional design, the certificate prepares nurses to excel in academic and clinical teaching environments. With a streamlined one-year minimum completion time and a five-year maximum window, nurses can efficiently expand their professional expertise without disrupting their current career commitments. The program emphasizes practical teaching strategies and theoretical foundations of nursing education.

  • Post-Master's Certificate Program
  • 12 total credit hours
  • Online and hybrid options
  • One-year minimum completion
  • Five-year maximum completion
  • Core courses in curriculum development
  • Elective courses in teaching strategies
  • For master's/doctoral nurses
  • Synchronous online format
  • Professional teaching preparation
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Pennsylvania State University

University Park, PA - Public 4-Year - psu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Visit Website

Penn State's Master of Science in Nursing with Nurse Educator concentration offers a transformative 36-credit online program targeting registered nurses seeking advanced pedagogical skills. This CCNE-accredited curriculum specializes in healthcare education, preparing nurses to become influential educators across clinical and academic settings. With a rigorous 270-hour practicum and flexible part-time/full-time scheduling, students develop comprehensive teaching competencies. The program requires a 3.3 GPA, current nursing license, and bachelor's degree. Strategic coursework emphasizes evidence-based teaching methodologies, curriculum development, and innovative educational strategies tailored specifically for nursing education professionals.

  • 36-credit online MSN program
  • Two specialization options
  • $1,027 per credit
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Part-time and full-time schedules
  • Clinical practicum required
  • Nurse Educator/Administrator tracks
  • Application deadline: March 1
  • Minimum 3.3 GPA required
  • 270 practicum hours for Educator option

Graduate Certificate - Nurse Educator Graduate Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Penn State's Online Graduate Certificate in Nurse Education provides a targeted 9-credit professional development pathway for licensed registered nurses passionate about healthcare education. Designed for BSN-prepared professionals, this flexible program equips nurses with essential curriculum design, assessment creation, and instructional techniques. Participants can enhance their teaching capabilities without campus residency requirements, with an optional 4-credit practicum for practical experience. The certificate program offers a streamlined approach to advancing nursing education skills, requiring a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and providing comprehensive online learning modules.

  • Online graduate certificate program
  • 9 total graduate credits
  • $1,027 per credit
  • Optional 4-credit practicum
  • Requires BSN degree
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • No campus visits required
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA - Public 4-Year - pitt.edu

Graduate Certificate - Post-Professional Certificate in Nursing Education

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Pittsburgh's Post-Professional Certificate in Nursing Education offers a transformative pathway for advanced practice nurses seeking to become innovative educators. This hybrid program strategically prepares registered nurses with master's or doctoral degrees to design cutting-edge nursing curricula and implement sophisticated teaching methodologies. Spanning 15 credit hours, the certificate integrates comprehensive didactic coursework with immersive field-based preceptorships, enabling students to develop expertise in educational technologies and learner assessment techniques. With a competitive 3.0 GPA requirement and NLN Certification eligibility, graduates are equipped to excel in diverse educational environments, from academic institutions to clinical training settings.

  • Post-Professional Certificate
  • 15 total credit hours
  • Combines didactic courses
  • Two field-based preceptorships
  • GPA requirement 3.0
  • Valid RN license needed
  • Fall, Spring, Summer admission
  • NLN Certification eligible
  • Computer technology integration
  • Educational settings diversity
*National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

Pennslyvania has a small number of Nurse Educator programs, and most are available online, such as the one at Pennslyvania College of Health Services. Students will learn diagnostics and treatment, procedure, law and ethics, and assessment.

Entry requirements are:

  • Accredited Associate's Degree
  • Unencumbered RN license which is in date
  • Criminal background check
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Non-native English speakers must demonstrate relevant language proficiency

Online BSN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

Pennsylvania offers several options for fully online nursing education master of science in nursing, such as the program at Bloomberg University. Students learn a range of skills to teach professionals, but also curriculum, assessment, and professional skills development.

  • Regionally accredited BSN
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0. Exceptions may be made in some cases
  • Evidence you have completed a statistics course at the undergraduate level
  • Current unencumbered Registered Nursing license
  • References and/or resume
  • Proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers
  • Minimum number of practice years

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

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).

There are three doctorate programs for nursing education. The first is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), which is a degree reserved for practicing doctors. There are a few DNP programs available online, including at West Chester University.

The second is a Doctor of Nursing Philosophy (PhD). This degree is typically for those working toward a career in nursing research. The University of Pennsylvania offers a great program for this specific degree.

Some universities in some states offer online Doctor of Education (EdD) for nurse educators, however, Pennsylvania does not offer any online options for this degree program at this time.

Nurse Educator Licensing and Certification in Pennsylvania

Nursing educators based in Pennsylvania must keep up the standards for maintaining their licensure throughout the term. Both clinicians and support staff that need an RN license must do this.

Certification is available. It is called CNE (Certified Nurse Educator). It is optional, not mandatory, and you should consider it as it may be advantageous to do so. Three types of CNE currently exist:

  • CNE is for educators in academic settings
  • CNEcl is for educators in professional settings – teaching those who are already qualified clinicians
  • CNEn is for novices for both CNE and CNEcl

All CNE certificate holders are required to maintain minimum standards to remain eligible.

RN licensing in Pennsylvania is $95 for license by examination for in-state and $115 for out-of-state applicants. The endorsement cost is $120, while if you want to apply by endorsement plus exam, it's $145. The exam fee is $200. The CNE certification is $400 for NLN members and $500 for non-members. This is a standard cost across the US.

Who Hires Nurse Educators in Pennsylvania?

Your potential career paths once you've completed all the steps above:

  • Academia: You will educate both undergraduates and postgraduates toward their teaching careers
  • Professional education: You will educate professionals in nursing with upskilling, new procedures, and mandatory education for licensure/certification
  • Private trainer: While you may teach professionals, you're more likely to train support employees such as sales or admin
  • Non-profit: Charities employ both clinical and non-clinical employees who may need nursing knowledge
  • Public health: Nurse educators are also needed in a public-facing role in education on public health issues to interest groups or the general public

List of Nurse Educator Degree Programs in Pennsylvania

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

Bethlehem, PA

MSN Programs
Department of Nursing
1200 Main Street
Bethlehem, PA 18018
(610) 861-1660

Center Valley, PA

Graduate Certificate Programs
Division of Nursing
2755 Station Ave.
Center Valley, PA 18034
(610) 282-1100 x2838

Mechanicsburg, PA

One College Avenue
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
(717) 766-2511

Millersville, PA

MSN Programs
P.O. Box 1002
Millersville, PA 17551
(717) 871-4636

Moon Township, PA

MSN Programs
6001 University Blvd
Moon Township, PA 15108
(800) 762-0097

Philadelphia, PA

MSN Programs
1601 Cherry Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 895-2000

Graduate Certificate Programs
1900 West Olney Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19141
(215) 951-1000

York, PA

MSN Programs
443 Country Club Rd
York, PA 17403
(717) 846-7788

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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