What Are the Online Nursing Education Prerequisites in Connecticut?

Nursing education is an exciting career but to get there, you need to follow a series of career steps. You'll need an RN license which you can attain after an ADN or BSN. You will also need an advanced degree, typically an MSN in nursing with an education pathway or a dedicated master's in nursing education. You may also study for a doctorate (PhD or DNP) or a Doctor of Education in nursing (EdD), but these aren't necessary.

Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

Those who have worked with an RN for some years have a handful of opportunities. Nevertheless, most are available online or as hybrids. graduates have several opportunities in Connecticut to study a Nursing Education MSN. Students cover a range of nursing and education-related subjects including both practice and theory, ethics, curriculum development, and evaluation methods. Eligibility requirements for applicants are:

  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8or 3.0 on the 4.0 scale; send transcripts
  • Minimum grades may also apply to specific individual courses (statistics, research, and health assessment are common)
  • Unencumbered RN license
  • Your NCLEX-RN score may be required
  • CPR certification may be required

Online BSN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

BSN graduates have several opportunities in Connecticut to study a Nursing Education MSN. Students cover a range of nursing and education-related subjects including both practice and theory, ethics, curriculum development, and evaluation methods. Eligibility requirements for applicants are:

  • A regionally accredited BSN
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; send transcripts along with scores
  • A current and unencumbered RN license
  • Your NCLEX-RN score may be required
  • CPR certification

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 the University of Connecticut.

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 Connecticut also offers a great program for this specific degree.

Some universities in some states offer online Doctor of Education (EdD) for nurse educators. Western Connecticut State University is one such institution.

Nurse Educator Licensing and Certification in Connecticut

Regardless of your pathway (ADN or RN), an RN license is mandatory. From there, you must have passed a relevant MSN in Nursing Education, or MSN in Nursing offering an education pathway.

The Certificate of Nursing Education (CNE) is not mandatory for educators, however, it is advisable. It's also important you choose the correct one:

  • CNE certification is aimed at academic educators
  • CNEcl certification is aimed at clinical educators. A minimum of two years of practice and three years of education are required
  • CNEn certification is aimed at novices who have less than three years of experience

Your RN license must be kept up to date in line with all eligibility requirements, even if you no longer intend to practice long-term. CNE certification also has requirements for ongoing eligibility.

RN licensing in Connecticutcosts$180 for the application fee and $200 for the exam. There is also a $110 renewal fee. The CNE costs are $400 for NLN members and $500 for non-members.

Who Hires Nurse Educators in Connecticut?

Nursing educators have plenty of career options. The most typical include but are not limited to:

  • Academia: In this role, you'll teach both undergraduate and graduate students in a college or university setting
  • Professional education: Training and upskilling existing frontline health professionals with no skills, technologies, and procedure
  • Private sector providers: Working independently in a range of services, not necessarily related to direct education. Designed training material and delivery techniques
  • Charities: You may work for public outreach and education, advocacy and lobby groups, fundraising, and even health providers in an educational setting

List of Nurse Educator Degree Programs in Connecticut

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

Danbury, CT

EdD Programs
181 White Stree
Danbury, CT 06810
(203) 837-8200

Fairfield, CT

5151 Park Avenue
Fairfield, CT 06825
(203) 371-7999

New Haven, CT

EdD ProgramsGraduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
501 Crescent Street
New Haven, CT 06515
(203) 392-7278

Waterbury, CT

800 Country Club Road
Waterbury, CT 06723
(800) 660-6615

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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