What Are the Online Nursing Education Prerequisites in California?

To become a nurse educator in California, you will first need to follow the steps to become a registered nurse. The usual path is through a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN) and passing the NCLEX-RN. Nurse educators are required to have an advanced degree such as MSN, PhD, or DNP.

You may also be able to take advantage of an online Doctor of Education in nursing (Ed.D.)too.

2025 Best Nurse Education Program's in California

Looking for the best nurse education programs in California? You're in the right place. NurseEducator.com has done the homework for you. We've ranked the top programs to help you make a smart choice. Our rankings are based on key factors that matter most to students. Want to know how we did it? Check out our rankings methodology for all the details. Start your journey to a rewarding nursing career with confidence. Let's dive into the rankings.

#1

California State University-Channel Islands

Camarillo, CA - Public 4-Year - csuci.edu

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Nurse Educator - Master's - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Channel Islands presents a hybrid Master of Science in Nursing program with a focus on the Nurse Educator concentration. This program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in advanced nursing theories, evidence-based practices, and policy development, alongside specialized training for nurse educator roles in both academic and clinical environments. Emphasizing leadership, communication, and cultural competency, the curriculum prepares graduates to effectively collaborate and lead in diverse healthcare settings. Notably, the program includes summer on-campus intensives and is CCNE accredited, ensuring a high-quality education. However, prospective students should note that the Nurse Educator track is currently paused.

  • Hybrid MSN program
  • Two concentrations available
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Summer on-campus intensives
  • Advanced nursing core courses
  • Nurse Educator track paused
  • Academic/clinical preparation
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Leadership skill development
  • Cultural competency emphasis
#2

California State University-Dominguez Hills

Carson, CA - Public 4-Year - csudh.edu

MSN Nurse Educator

Master's - Online Learning - Visit Website

California State University-Dominguez Hills presents an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Educator program tailored for nurses aiming to transition into educational roles. This program uniquely combines asynchronous online learning with essential on-campus sessions, offering flexibility for working professionals. It emphasizes practical teaching experience through 288 clinical hours, guided by seasoned educators. The curriculum is meticulously designed to blend advanced nursing theories with educational strategies, equipping graduates for a variety of teaching positions in both academic and clinical environments. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and prerequisites in statistics and research, with the program spanning 33 units for a comprehensive educational journey.

  • Online asynchronous coursework
  • Minimum 288 clinical hours
  • Prepares for teaching positions
  • Part-time study plan
  • GPA requirement 3.0
  • RN licensure required
  • Fall and spring admission
  • Prerequisites: statistics, research
  • 33 total program units
  • Advanced nursing role focus
#3

California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA - Public 4-Year - calstatela.edu

Nursing, M.S.

Concentration: Nursing Education - Master's - Campus Based - Visit Website

At California State University-Los Angeles, the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Nursing Education concentration stands out for its comprehensive curriculum and practical approach. This 35-38 unit program is tailored for nurses aiming to transition into educational roles, offering courses in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. It uniquely combines theoretical knowledge with clinical field studies, preparing students to develop effective teaching strategies and contribute to the advancement of nursing education. With CCNE accreditation, flexible learning options, and a focus on advanced practice, graduates are well-equipped to lead and innovate in academic and healthcare settings.

  • 35-38 total program units
  • Nursing Education Option available
  • Advanced practice core courses
  • 12 units advanced practice courses
  • Comprehensive exam option
  • Thesis research possible
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Annual Fall semester admission
  • Clinical field study component
#4

California State University-Northridge

Northridge, CA - Public 4-Year - csun.edu

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Nursing Education - Master's - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Northridge offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nursing Education, designed for those aspiring to become advanced practice nurse educators. This hybrid program blends online coursework with on-campus sessions, providing a flexible yet comprehensive education. Students are equipped with advanced clinical assessment skills, leadership qualities, and a deep understanding of healthcare policy and ethics. The curriculum emphasizes the development of professionals capable of improving healthcare outcomes and advocating for diverse populations. With opportunities for field training, graduates are prepared to lead and teach in various healthcare settings, making a significant impact on patient care and education.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Advanced practice nurse educator focus
  • Comprehensive core and science courses
  • Field training opportunities
  • Leadership and advocacy emphasis
  • Online and campus classes
  • Advanced clinical assessment skills
  • Healthcare policy and ethics training
#5

California State University-Stanislaus

Turlock, CA - Public 4-Year - csustan.edu

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Education - Master's - Campus Based - Visit Website

At California State University-Stanislaus, the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a concentration in Nursing Education stands out for its focus on preparing nurses for leadership and educational roles within healthcare. This campus-based program emphasizes advanced educational pedagogy, curriculum development, and evidence-based teaching strategies. It requires a minimum GPA of 3.0, one year of nursing experience, and an active RN license for admission. Students engage in a 14-unit specialized education track, culminating in a thesis, project, or exam. Elective courses and a practicum in nursing education further enrich the learning experience, equipping graduates to lead and innovate in nursing education.

  • MSN with Nursing Education concentration
  • 14-unit specialized education track
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
  • One-year nursing experience needed
  • Active RN license required
  • Culminating experience options
  • Thesis, project, or exam completion
  • Elective courses available
  • Professional reference needed
  • Practicum in nursing education

Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

There are several RN to MSN online programs available in California. Subjects you will study include practice and education theory, health assessment, management, pharmacology, statistics, and community nursing. Eligibility is as follows:

  • GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale; some will ask for a minimum of 3.0
  • Current unencumbered RN license
  • Submission of your NCLEX-RN score
  • Submission of any required background checks

Online BSN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

For those who already have a BSN, you have several options including both dedicated MSNs and nursing MSNs with CNE-approved nursing educator concentrations. Subjects include both practice and theory, ethics, and education techniques:

  • Regionally accredited BSN
  • Minimum GPA which will vary from 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Send transcripts
  • Current RN license (unencumbered)
  • Submit your NCLEX-RN score
  • Submit details for any required background checks

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

There are three doctorate programs for nursing education–a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), a Doctor of Nursing Philosophy (PhD), and a Doctor of Education (EdD).

The DNP is typically for those who want to become practicing doctors, while the PhD is typically reserved for career researchers of nursing. The EdD is for those students who wish to go on to teach, but these degrees are less common.

For California-based online doctorate programs, there are a few options. For DNP programs, the University of California Davis has a popular online program. For PhD programs, check out UCLA, which has a great online program.

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).

Nurse Educator Licensing and Certification in California

You'll first need to attain your RN license if you don't already have it. For this, you'll need a BSN – any concentration. Then study for a relevant graduate degree as discussed above.

There are three available certificates to practice as a certified nursing educator:

  • The CNE is the certification for academic educators
  • The CNEcl is the certification for clinical educators. Applicants will need two years of practice and three years of education and experience for eligibility
  • The CNEn is for novice education practitioners who have less than three years of experience

You must adhere to all requirements as specified in the RN license eligibility and any required by your CNE. This usually includes continuing education, among other things.

RN licensing in California costs $300 for application by examination and $250 for out-of-state graduate applicants. The annual renewal fee is $190. The CNE cost is $400 for NLN members and $500 for non-members.

Who Hires Nurse Educators in California?

You will find the following careers open to you in California:

  • Colleges and universities: Working as a lecturer and/or researcher, teaching the next generation of nurses and nurse practitioners
  • Medical settings: Clinics and hospitals that employ nurses who need ongoing education. You may also be a practice nurse
  • Private sector services: working for an independent agency, specialist education organization, or any other provider of health services
  • Charities: Public health advocates, public awareness, and policy advisory are all great career choices too

List of Nurse Educator Degree Programs in California

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

Azusa, CA

901 E. Alosta Ave., PO Box 7000
Azusa, CA 91702
(626) 969-3434

Carson, CA

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
1000 E. Victoria Street
Carson, CA 90747
(310) 243-3696

Fullerton, CA

800 N. State College Blvd.
Fullerton, CA 92831
(657) 278-2011

Loma Linda, CA

MSN Programs
11262 Campus St.
Loma Linda, CA 92350
(909) 558-4923

Los Angeles, CA

Graduate Certificate Programs
5151 State University Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90032
(323) 343-3000

MSN Programs
Patricia A. Chin School of Nursing
5151 State University Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90032
(323) 343-3000

MSN Programs
10 Chester Place
Los Angeles, CA 90007
(213) 477-2500

Riverside, CA

MSN Programs
8432 Magnolia Avenue
Riverside, CA 92504
(877) 228-3615

Sacramento, CA

4610 X Street Suite 4202
Sacramento, CA 95817
(916) 734-2145

San Jose, CA

MSN Programs
One Washington Square
San Jose, CA 95192
(408) 924-1000

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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