What Are the Online Nursing Education Prerequisites in Maine?

To work as a nurse educator in Maine, you will need a nursing undergraduate degree (which can be either an ADN or BSN), an RN license, and a master's degree (MSN) either in nursing education or a regular MSN education concentration option. Doctorates (PhDs, DNPs, and EdDs) are also acceptable.

2025 Best Nurse Educator Programs in Maine

Finding the best nurse educator programs in Maine just got easier. NurseEducator.com has done the homework for you. We ranked top programs to help you make a smart choice. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and how well they prepare students for the real world. Start your journey to becoming a nurse educator with confidence. Check out our rankings to find the program that fits your goals. Learn more about how we rank programs here.

#1

University of Maine

Orono, ME - Public 4-Year - umaine.edu

Master's - MS-Nursing Leadership – Nursing Education Concentration

Concentration: Nursing Education - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Maine offers an MS in Nursing Leadership with a concentration in Nursing Education, designed for nurses aiming to become leaders in nursing education. This hybrid program blends online coursework with practical experiences, focusing on advanced teaching strategies, curriculum development, and the use of technology in education. It prepares graduates for roles in both academic and healthcare settings, emphasizing evidence-based practice and innovative teaching methods. Admission requirements include a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, active RN licensure, and two years of nursing experience. Highlights include flexible study options, preparation for NLN Certification, and a graduate capstone project.

  • Full-time/Part-time study options
  • Online didactic courses
  • Two practicum experiences
  • Advanced teaching methodologies
  • Prepares for NLN Certification
  • Graduate capstone required
  • BSN prerequisite required
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Active RN licensure needed
  • Two years RN experience

Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Maine's Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education is an online program tailored for nurses seeking to enhance their teaching skills. This 11-credit certificate focuses on curriculum design, teaching methodologies, and clinical simulation, preparing nurses for educational roles in various settings. The program includes practicum experiences and coursework aimed at developing leadership and scholarship in nursing education. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, active RN licensure, and preferably two years of RN experience. The program is ideal for those looking to prepare for NLN Certification and advance their careers in nursing education.

  • 11-credit graduate certificate
  • Prepares nurses for teaching roles
  • Online and on-campus courses
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Active RN licensure required
  • Practicum experiences included
  • Two-year RN experience preferred
  • Coursework in teaching methods
  • Leadership and scholarship focus
  • NLN Certification preparation
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#2

University of Southern Maine

Portland, ME - Public 4-Year - usm.maine.edu

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Southern Maine offers an online Master of Science in Nursing Education designed for nurses aiming to advance into educational roles. This 12-month program features a flexible schedule with seven-week courses, aligning with national nursing standards. It's tailored for working professionals, offering six start dates yearly, affordable e-tuition, and no GRE requirement. With a focus on practical skills, students complete a practicum in educational or clinical settings. The program is CCNE accredited, requires a 3.0 GPA and RN licensure, and prepares graduates for the National League for Nursing's Nurse Educator Certificate.

  • Online MSN in Nursing Education
  • Complete in 12 months
  • 6 annual start dates
  • No GRE required
  • 36 total credit hours
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • RN licensure required
  • Practicum in education/clinical settings
  • Affordable e-tuition rates

Graduate Certificate - Nurse Educator Post-Masters Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

For nurses with a master's degree seeking specialization in education, the University of Southern Maine provides a Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education. This six-month online program emphasizes curriculum design, teaching strategies, and evaluation methods. It includes an in-person practicum and prepares participants for the NLN Certified Nurse Educator exam. The program offers flexibility with six annual start dates, does not require the GRE, and is available at competitive e-tuition rates. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA and an unencumbered RN license, with the opportunity to apply credits toward an MSN degree.

  • Accelerated online format
  • 21 total credit hours
  • 6 start dates annually
  • No GRE required
  • In-person practicum included
  • 3.0 minimum GPA
  • Out-of-state e-tuition available
  • Unencumbered RN license needed
  • Credits apply to MSN
  • Prepare for NLN certification
Show 1 More Programs ˅

Online BSN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

Maine has one online BSN to MSN nurse educator option (University of Maine) and one on campus. Students will cover courses in assessment and evaluation, healthcare education and teaching, curriculum design, and teaching strategies, among others.

  • An accredited bachelor's degree in nursing
  • A GPA of 3.0 on the 4.0 scale
  • A stated minimum grade in some specified courses – statistics, biology, and other science-related
  • A current and unencumbered RN license
  • Application form and any required fees

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 Southern Maine.

The second is a Doctor of Nursing Philosophy (PhD). This degree is typically for those working toward a career in nursing research.

Some universities in some states offer online Doctor of Education (EdD) for nurse educators.

Nurse Educator Licensing and Certification in Maine

Maine-based nursing educators are required to follow some mandatory formal steps to work in this career. You will need an RN license and keep up with all the requirements to maintain it, even if you do not intend to practice as a nurse.

There is also nursing education certification available. Though not mandatory, it is advantageous to hold. Three types of certificates:

  • If you will work in academia, you need the CNE type
  • If you will work in professional clinical training, you need the CNEcl type
  • There is also a novice-type certificate available called the CNEn. It's for those with under three years experience of in the other two types

These certificates also have minimum standards to maintain eligibility.

RN licensing in Louisiana costs $75 for the application and $200 to take the exam. Both endorsement and renewal (every two years) cost $75. The CNE cost is the same no matter where you are: $500 for non-members of NLN and $400 for NLN members.

Who Hires Nurse Educators in Maine?

Where might you apply your new skills in terms of your career? Some job areas you might consider:

  • Academic teaching: Educating new nursing undergraduates and postgraduates. May also include other academic responsibilities such as research
  • Professional education: Educating existing professionals from a clinic, hospital, or another health facility
  • Private training provider: Here, you will educate medical and non-medical professionals (admin, sales) outside of a medical setting
  • Charities: Aid workers (medical or otherwise)need education in things like CPR and equipment. You can also work in public awareness or lobbying decision-makers

List of Nurse Educator Degree Programs in Maine

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

Orono, ME

Graduate Certificate Programs
5724 Dunn Hall
Orono, ME 04469-5724
(207) 581-2592

Portland, ME

MSN Programs
PO Box 9300
Portland, ME 04104
(180) 080-0487 x6

Standish, ME

RN to MSN Programs
Department of Nursing
278 Whites Bridge Road
Standish, ME 04084
(207) 893-7957

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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