Guide to Top Schools for Online Nursing Education MSN Programs

Do you want to earn your Master in Nursing Education online? EduMed’s guide covers top programs that blend flexibility with hands-on training, ensuring you’re ready to lead in nursing education. We’ll break it all down from accreditation and clinical requirements to costs and curriculum details. If you’re looking to get your degree without putting your life on hold, these top MSN programs online might fit your goals.

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Author: Timon Kaple

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Exploring Online Master’s in Nursing Education Programs

Earning a nursing degree online can be more convenient for people juggling jobs, families, or other responsibilities. While lectures, assignments, and discussions do happen online, completing a remote nursing program typically still requires in-person clinicals. Each school handles placement differently, so it’s important to make sure you can fit these into your schedule when finding the school that’s right for you.

Picking the right program isn’t just about flexibility, it’s about making sure it leads to licensure in your state. Accreditation, clinical requirements, and on-campus labs are all important considerations to make. When deciding on a degree program, it pays to dig into the details now rather than be surprised later. Stick around—we’ll break it all down so you can find the right fit.

Midway University

Midway University’s MSN program is fully online, offering tracks in Nursing Administration and Nursing Education. Courses dive into leadership, health policy, and informatics—perfect for those looking to move beyond bedside care. As with all nursing programs on this list, this program is accredited (in Midway’s case, by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing).

If you’re aiming for a BSN, Midway’s pre-licensure program combines classroom learning with hands-on clinicals to get you ready for the NCLEX-RN. Already an RN? The RN-to-BSN program lets you earn your degree online, though you’ll need to complete two in-person practicums.

Midway could be a good fit for someone looking for a flexible program that accommodates its students. To this end, they keep class sizes small, offer multiple start dates, and help with clinical placements.

Duration: 36 credit hours (18 months of full-time study)

Mode: Online

Cost: $485/credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ASN) from an accredited program and institution.
  • Official transcripts from each college or university attended.
  • A minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA in nursing.
  • Professional resume or curriculum vitae.
  • Completion of an online application form.
  • Unencumbered license to practice as an RN.

Curriculum:

  • Professional Role Transition
  • Evidence-Based Nursing
  • Quality Improvement and Safety
  • Ethics and Health Policy
  • Informatics and Healthcare Technology
  • Translational Research
  • Leadership and Effective Decision-Making
  • Role of the Nurse Administrator
  • Nursing Leadership of Healthcare Delivery Systems
  • Advanced Healthcare Financial Management
  • Nursing Administrator Practicum
  • Healthcare Administration Project

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

SUNY College of Technology at Delhi

SUNY College of Technology at Delhi offers a great MSN program in Nursing Education, all online for flexibility. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, this program helps you build the skills needed to lead in nursing education.

For this program, you’ll complete two clinical practicums. These can be done locally, so it’s easy to fit them into your schedule.

For registered nurses, the RN-to-BSN program is also online. It’s flexible and designed to work around your life, plus it’s accredited by CCNE and preps you for the NCLEX-RN exam.

The faculty really stands out—they have tons of real-world experience and bring that knowledge into the classroom. This program lets you balance work, life, and school, with plenty of flexibility. It’s a solid option for anyone looking to advance their nursing career without throwing everything else off track.

Duration: 36 credit hours (18 months of full-time study)

Mode: Online

Cost: $471/credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program and institution.
  • A minimum undergraduate 3.0 GPA, cumulative.
  • Complete a descriptive statistics course with at least a grade of ‘C’. If not completed, you can take ALHT 202 Research Methods during your first session.
  • Unencumbered license to practice as an RN.
  • Official transcripts from each college or university attended.
  • Copy of your current RN License.

Curriculum:

  • Health Policy and Technology in Healthcare
  • Leadership and Quality Improvement in Healthcare Systems
  • Foundations of Global Health
  • Advanced Nursing Research
  • Development of the Nurse Educator
  • Curriculum Development and Instructional Design
  • Measurement and Evaluation in Nursing Education
  • Graduate Practicum I & II

Baker University

Baker University’s MSN in Nursing Education gives nurses the skills to teach, lead, and shape the future of healthcare. It’s CCNE and HLE-accredited and fully online, so there’s no need to put life on hold.

Courses cover curriculum design, instructional strategies, and leadership, all taught by seasoned nurse educators. Then there’s the Accelerated BSN, a fast-track option that gets students into the field in just 14.5 months.

Online coursework keeps things flexible, while in-person clinicals provide real-world training at top hospitals. Multiple start dates make scheduling easier, especially for those balancing work or family.

For nurses looking to move into education or leadership, this program brings the right mix of flexibility, structure, and quality.

Duration: 32-34 credit hours; two years full-time study

Mode: Online

Cost: $495/credit hour

Admissions Requirements:

  • Must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing from a CCNE, ACEN, or CNEA accredited program.
  • Must hold a current, unencumbered RN license in the U.S.
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA in nursing and overall. Conditional admission is available for those below this level.
  • Maintain a 3.0 GPA in the first 6 hours of the MSN program.
  • Completed undergraduate courses in health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. Testing out may be an option.
  • Undergraduate course in research.
  • Completed graduate-level statistics course (3 credits) in the last 10 years, pending approval for transfer.

Curriculum:

  • Statistics & Analysis
  • Applied Theories for Advancing Quality Care
  • Role Development for Advanced Leadership
  • Quality Improvement & Informatics Applications
  • Health Care Policy
  • Research, Foundations for Evidence-Based Practice
  • Advanced Health Assessment, Pathophysiology & Pharmacology
  • Graduate Tools for Success
  • Graduate Scholarly Synthesis Project
  • Theories, Principles & Methods of Education
  • Program Assessment & Outcomes Measurement
  • Education Practicum

Answering Your FAQs About Online Master’s Degrees in Nursing Education

Many students have similar questions when exploring the Nursing Education MSN degree. From clinical opportunities to career expectations, it’s important to understand what the program offers. We’ll provide detailed answers to some of the most common questions in this section to help you make an informed decision.

How do the programs support students in balancing academic demands with professional and personal commitments?

Many MSN programs are designed to fit into the working professionals’ schedules. RN to MSN bridge programs are largely online or hybrid, allowing you to learn at your own time. This lets students balance work, studies, and family responsibilities without compromising academic rigor.

These courses have part-time enrollment, evening or weekend class work, and distance education to allow students to study coursework independently.

Some schools also provide students with support services, including advising, time management workshops, and the use of online libraries. With this, the students can keep their work life and domestic life while undertaking their courses.

What kind of resources are offered to help students keep up with the latest teaching tools and methods?

Online Nursing Education MSN programs typically provide resources to stay updated on the latest teaching tools. Many programs are flexible and allow students to access virtual libraries, interactive platforms, and clinical simulations at any time they want them. This enables one to work and attend school with relative ease.

Instructors are also very involved, giving support through regular communication to help you remain on track. You will also get practical training with clinical practice to prepare you for actual teaching jobs.

For those who would like to finish it earlier, accelerated MSN programs are available. These programs make it possible for you to complete the course quicker so that you can start working sooner.

Can I get involved in research or publish work while in the program?

Yes, you can dive into research and get your work published. There’s a real emphasis on evidence-based practice, so students get hands-on experience developing research projects that can make an impact.

Faculty works closely with students, offering guidance on research ideas, data analysis, and even opportunities to present or publish their work. It’s a great way to build credibility in the field and stand out in the job market.

Research takes time, and financial support makes a difference. With MSN specific scholarships options available, students can focus more on their work and less on tuition stress. Whether the goal is teaching, leadership, or advancing nursing education, research experience adds real value to an MSN degree.

How do these programs make sure it creates a diverse and inclusive learning environment for students?

Nursing Education MSN programs strive to ensure that all students are made to feel comfortable and prepared to work with various communities.

They provide cultural awareness training, so students can understand and provide care for individuals from all backgrounds. The courses also include lessons that reflect these different views and needs.

Most programs make it easier for everyone to join by offering flexible schedules and financial help. Students get to work with patients from all walks of life during clinicals, preparing them for the real world.

How do MSN programs keep up with current healthcare rules and practices to stay relevant?

These programs make sure you’re ready for today’s healthcare landscape by weaving in the latest policies and practices into their curriculum. They touch on topics like healthcare systems, policy, and leadership, which keeps you in the know about what is changing in the field.

Instead of just reading about these changes, you’ll have the opportunity to dip into actual issues. Many programs offer projects in which you can directly apply what you’re learning to actual healthcare situations, giving you valuable experience that prepares you for the work ahead.

Career Spotlight: What Should You Expect in Your Career With an MSN in Education?

With a Master’s in Nursing Education you’ll get to shape the future of nursing. As a nurse educator you’d be teaching and training new nurses in colleges, universities or healthcare settings. Your role entails creating curriculums, leading classes, and mentoring students as they learn the ins and outs of nursing.

Unlike nurse practitioners or registered nurses, who are concerned with the care of patients, nurse educators teach others to care for patients.

While RNs and NPs are at the bedside with patients, nurse educators are in classrooms or clinical training environments preparing the next generation of nurses. You may develop educational materials, design training programs or even supervise clinical experiences.

What really sets nurse educators apart is their ability to combine practical nursing knowledge with teaching skills. It takes great communication, leadership, and a genuine passion for helping others grow. You’ll be a vital part of shaping the profession and helping nurses develop the skills they need to succeed.

Ranking the Best Online Nursing Education Master’s Degrees

1

Midway University

Midway, Kentucky

Midway University’s online MSN program offers specializations in Nursing Administration and Nursing Education. The program is designed for working professionals and can be completed in two years. It includes courses on advanced practice, leadership, and educational methodologies, preparing graduates for leadership roles in healthcare settings.

Why We Selected Midway University:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in Nursing Administration and Nursing Education.
  • Midway University provides a supportive learning environment with dedicated faculty expertise.
  • The MSN-MBA dual degree option accelerates career advancement in healthcare management.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$7,314
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course100%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
SUNY Delhi offers an online Master of Science in Nursing Education, designed for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers in academic or clinical education settings. The 42-credit program includes courses in teaching strategies, curriculum development, and assessment and evaluation, culminating in a practicum experience. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals.

Why We Selected SUNY College of Technology at Delhi:

  • The program offers flexible start dates and 7-week courses for enhanced scheduling convenience.
  • Faculty with high credentials teach quality web-supported classes, ensuring expert instruction.
  • Practicum experiences are conducted locally, allowing students to gain practical experience near their homes.

Program Details

  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$11,310
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course100%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
3

Baker University

Baldwin City, Kansas

Baker University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with tracks in Nursing Administration and Nursing Education. Designed for working professionals, the program emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and advanced clinical skills. The flexible format allows for part-time or full-time study, enabling students to balance their education with their professional and personal responsibilities.

Why We Selected Baker University:

  • Baker University's MSN program offers flexible online learning tailored to individual pace.
  • The ADN to MSN program eliminates repetitive coursework, accelerating graduation.
  • Faculty expertise spans pediatrics, DEI, and population health, enhancing student learning.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$11,466
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course97%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
4

Olivet Nazarene University

Bourbonnais, Illinois

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at Olivet Nazarene University offers tracks in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Education, and Transformational Leadership. The program is designed for registered nurses seeking advanced roles. It requires completion of specific credits, with transfer credits available for comparable courses taken within five years. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree, an MSN GPA of 3.0 or higher for post-graduate certificates, and a current RN license. Graduates are prepared for roles such as nurse practitioners and educators, with opportunities to take national certification exams. The program emphasizes leadership, ethical decision-making, and evidence-based practice, equipping students for diverse healthcare settings. Financial aid options are available, and students can engage in lifelong learning through Olivet’s curriculum.

Why We Selected Olivet Nazarene University:

  • The Olivet MSN-FNP program offers a flexible transfer credit policy, accepting up to 9 credits.
  • Accelerated 8-week online classes provide a fast-paced learning environment with no exams.
  • Specialized career tracks prepare students for roles like nurse practitioner with national certification eligibility.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$12,190
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course99%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
5

Baker College

Owosso, Michigan

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at Baker University offers two tracks: Nursing Education and Nursing Administration. The program is designed to be completed at a flexible pace, with classes starting in January, June, and August. It typically requires a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a current RN license for admission. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring quality education. Career outcomes include roles such as nurse educator, nurse manager, and director of nursing. Financial aid options are available, and the program is recognized for its affordability. Additionally, students can pursue a dual degree option with an MBA, enhancing their career prospects in healthcare leadership.

Why We Selected Baker College:

  • Baker University offers a dual degree option combining MSN with an MBA, enhancing career prospects in healthcare management.
  • The program provides a 10% alumni tuition discount for those pursuing additional degrees.
  • Baker's MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring quality education.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$12,510
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course89%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio8/1
6

Wilson College

Chambersburg, Pennsylvania

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at Wilson College offers two tracks: Education and Leadership and Management. The program requires 36 credits and can be completed without clinical hours, making it suitable for working professionals. Admission requires an RN license. The Education track prepares students for roles in nursing education and includes coursework for potential nurse practitioner certification. The Leadership and Management track focuses on administrative roles in healthcare. Both tracks can lead to a PhD in nursing. The program is designed to accommodate students’ existing experience, allowing them to advance their careers without disrupting their schedules. Career outcomes include positions as clinical instructors, professors, or leaders in healthcare management. Financial aid details are not specified, but the program’s flexibility and career advancement opportunities are key highlights.

Why We Selected Wilson College:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in Nursing Education and Leadership and Management.
  • Wilson College provides a supportive environment with faculty expertise in nursing education and leadership.
  • The program emphasizes practical skills through clinical experiences and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Program Details

  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$9,270
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course88%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
7

Clarkson College

Omaha, Nebraska

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at Clarkson College is designed to prepare graduates for advanced nursing roles. It typically spans 7-9 semesters for full-time students and 12-14+ semesters for part-time students. The program requires 39 to 47 graduate semester hours, depending on the chosen specialty. Students can select from five concentrations, including healthcare administration and nurse educator tracks. The program emphasizes developing skills in healthcare strategy, leadership, and education. Career outcomes include roles such as nursing executives, managers, and educators. Admissions requirements and financial aid details are available through the college. The program is highly regarded, having been ranked as a top graduate nursing program for multiple years.

Why We Selected Clarkson College:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in five distinct nursing specialties.
  • Faculty expertise is highlighted through the leadership of experienced professionals like Jessica Fitzgerald, DNP, RN, CCRN.
  • Students benefit from a multiple degree option, allowing credits to be applied across multiple programs.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$12,294
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course98%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
8

University of South Carolina-Upstate

Spartanburg, South Carolina

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at USC Upstate offers concentrations in Clinical Nurse Leader, Nursing Education, and Nursing Leadership. The program typically spans four semesters, requiring 38 credit hours. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and courses graded lower than B are not transferable. The program includes foundational courses like Theoretical and Conceptual Foundations for Nursing and Advanced Evidence-based Practice, along with specialized courses depending on the chosen concentration. Prospective students must submit a graduate application. Financial aid options are available, though specifics depend on individual circumstances. Career outcomes include leadership roles in healthcare and education. The program is designed to build on the skills of registered nurses, providing a pathway for advanced professional development.

Why We Selected University of South Carolina-Upstate:

  • The program offers specialized concentrations in Nursing Education, Leadership, and Clinical Nurse Leadership.
  • The GRE requirement is waived, making the application process more accessible for prospective students.
  • All coursework is delivered online, allowing for flexible scheduling and completion of clinical practicum hours in personal settings.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$13,734
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course94%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
9

Angelo State University

San Angelo, Texas

The M.S.N. Nurse Educator program at Angelo State University requires 39 semester credit hours. It includes courses such as Evidenced-Based Practice and Theory for Advanced Nursing, Informatics and Health Care Technology, and Teaching Strategies and Evaluation in Nursing Education. The program prepares students for careers in nursing education by developing expertise in curriculum development and teaching strategies. Admission requires a BSN degree and a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The program is designed to enhance career pathways for those interested in teaching nursing students. While specific cost and financial aid details are not provided, the program offers a comprehensive education in nursing education, preparing graduates for roles in academic and clinical settings.

Why We Selected Angelo State University:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in teaching roles across various educational settings.
  • The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high standards.
  • Graduates are eligible for the National League for Nursing nurse educator certification exam.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,181
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course87%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
10

Winona State University

Winona, Minnesota

The Nurse Educator Master’s program at Winona State University is designed to prepare graduates for advanced nursing roles, particularly in education. The program requires 48 credits and a minimum GPA of 3.0. It includes nursing science core courses and specialized content in teaching, curriculum design, instruction, assessment, and evaluation. Students practice teaching under preceptors in academic and healthcare settings. The program serves as a foundation for further graduate studies, such as a DNP or PhD. Admission typically requires a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Career outcomes include roles as nurse educators in academic or healthcare settings. Financial aid and cost details are not specified in the provided information, but prospective students can explore these options through the university’s financial aid office.

Why We Selected Winona State University:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in health promotion and education.
  • The curriculum includes practicum experiences under the guidance of experienced preceptors.
  • Winona State University provides an online hybrid format for flexibility in completing the program.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$8,000
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course87%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
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A man in a red and black plaid jacket stands in front of a white brick wall, looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression.

Timon Kaple AUTHOR

Timon Kaple, Ph.D., is a full-time writer and researcher. His work focuses on sociolinguistics, small-group folklore, the anthropology of sound, higher education, and student support services. He has experience as an ethnographer and enjoys conducting fieldwork and archival research.

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