Nurse Educator Schools in Washington

Working as a nurse educator can be an exciting career change for nurses who are ready to take the next step in positively affecting the future of healthcare. As a nurse educator, you'll get the chance to work with the next generation of nurses, teaching them from the point of view of an experienced expert. Here, we'll explore what you need to know about enrolling in an online nurse educator program in the state of Washington.

What Are the Online Nursing Education Prerequisites in Washington?
2025 Best Nurse Educator Programs in Washington
Nurse Educator Licensing and Certification in Washington
Who Hires Nurse Educators in Washington?
List of Nurse Educator Degree Programs in Washington

Angelica Lim, BSN, RN | Updated/Verified: Mar 11, 2025

What Are the Online Nursing Education Prerequisites in Washington?

To become a nurse educator, you’ll either need to be a licensed registered nurse or have your bachelor’s degree in nursing. Some programs also require that you have a certain number of years under your belt working as a nurse before you can enroll in a nurse educator program.

Choosing an online nurse educator program can be a smart move for nurses who want to continue working in the field while also getting the education they need to take the next step in their careers.

MSN Programs Post Master's Certificate Programs DNP Programs PhD Programs EdD Programs

2025 Best Nurse Educator Programs in Washington

Finding the best nurse educator programs in Washington just got easier. At nurseeducator.com, we've done the heavy lifting for you. Our team ranks programs based on key factors like quality, affordability, and student support. We aim to help future nurse educators make informed choices. Our rankings are designed to guide you to programs that stand out. For details on how we rank, visit our rankings methodology page.

University of Washington-Bothell Campus

Bothell, WA - Public 4-Year - uwb.edu

Master's - Nurse Educator

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Washington-Bothell Campus offers a dynamic Master's in Nurse Educator program, designed for nurses aiming to transition into educational roles. This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person sessions, providing flexibility for working professionals. With a 51-credit curriculum, students can choose between a 2-year or 4-year track, accommodating diverse schedules. The program emphasizes curriculum design, educational technology, and evidence-based teaching methods, preparing graduates for leadership in nursing education. A capstone project and 100 hours of fieldwork ensure practical experience. This program meets NLN credentialing requirements, offering a pathway to advanced certification in nurse education.

Hybrid 2 or 4-year program
51 total credit hours
100 hours fieldwork included
In-person and online learning
Advanced nurse educator certification
Cohort-based learning model
Capstone project required
Meets NLN credentialing requirements
Diverse healthcare education focus
Technology-enhanced pedagogy

Washington State University

Pullman, WA - Public 4-Year - wsu.edu

Graduate Certificate - Nurse Educator

Online Learning - Visit Website

Washington State University offers an online Nurse Educator Graduate Certificate tailored for nurses aiming to influence the next generation of healthcare professionals. This 9-credit program is ideal for those with a passion for teaching, providing the tools to excel in both academic and clinical educational roles. Participants will explore cutting-edge teaching methodologies, curriculum development, and evaluation techniques to enhance learning outcomes. Designed with flexibility in mind, the program accommodates working nurses and does not require a GRE for admission. A standout feature is the opportunity for loan repayment, making it an accessible option for many. Requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and an active RN license, with a preference for candidates with at least one year of nursing experience.

9-credit graduate certificate
Standalone or additional program option
Optional practicum experience
No GRE required
Minimum 3.0 GPA
RN license required
1+ year nursing practice preferred
Three core nursing education courses
Multiple campus options
Potential loan repayment programs

Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

This type of program allows you to move from RN to MSN without also needing a BSN. During your coursework, you’ll complete the requirements for a BSN, qualifying you to move straight from your RN to your MSN degree. You’ll need to show proof of your licensure to work as a nurse, and you may need to submit letters of recommendation from your supervisor.

Online BSN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

If you already have your BSN, you’ll want to look for a BSN to MSN nurse educator program. This program will allow you to take advantage of the courses you took in your undergraduate career, fast-tracking you to work as a nurse educator. To gain admission to an online BSN to MSN nurse educator program, you’ll likely need to submit your undergraduate transcripts and may also need to submit letters of recommendation from your supervisor.

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 for research. The EdD is for those students who want to go on to teach, but these degrees are less common.

The University of Washington has a great online DNP in nursing program, as well as a fantastic online PhD 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 Washington

To earn your certification and license to work as a nurse educator in Washington, you’ll need to complete an accredited nurse educator program and pass the Certification for Nurse Educators. After completing your licensing process, you must stay on top of continuing education requirements. Since the continuing education requirements for nurse educators can change, staying on top of your state’s requirements is key in maintaining your license over time.

Who Hires Nurse Educators in Washington?

Many organizations hire nurse educators in Washington. As a nurse educator, you’ll get to choose between many different work environments. Some nurse educators enjoy working at hospitals, while others prefer to work in university settings.

Popular employers of nurse educators in the state of Washington include:

List of Nurse Educator Degree Programs in Washington

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