What Are the Online Nursing Education Prerequisites in Wisconsin?

When applying to online nurse educator programs, it’s important that you pay close attention to the requirements of the program. Some programs require that you submit letters of recommendation from your supervisors, while others want a letter of intent explaining why you want to become a nurse educator.

Your prior education and experience will help to determine what type of nurse educator program will make the most sense for your needs.

2025 Best Nurse Educator Programs in Wisconsin

Finding the best nurse educator programs in Wisconsin is key for your career. NurseEducator.com has done the work for you. We ranked programs to help you choose. Our list looks at quality, cost, and outcomes. It's designed to guide you to the right program. We focus on what matters most to students. Check out our rankings to find your match. Learn more about how we rank programs here.

#1

Carroll University

Waukesha, WI - Private 4-year - carrollu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Educator

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Carroll University's Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Educator program is designed for nurses aiming to excel in educational roles within healthcare. This 40-credit hybrid program blends online coursework with in-person sessions, offering flexibility for working professionals. It focuses on curriculum development, educational technology, and evidence-based teaching strategies, preparing graduates for certification by the National League for Nursing. With small class sizes, state-of-the-art simulation facilities, and an eight-week course format, students are well-equipped to meet the growing demand for nurse educators.

  • 40-credit graduate nursing program
  • Hybrid online/in-person delivery
  • Eight-week course format
  • Clinical practicum in current workplace
  • Prepare for NLN certification
  • Small class sizes
  • State-of-the-art simulation facilities
  • 19% projected job growth
  • Affordable curriculum options
  • Courses begin in fall semester

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Post-Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate at Carroll University is a 15-credit hybrid program tailored for MSN-prepared nurses seeking to specialize in education. It offers a pathway to becoming a Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) through focused training in curriculum design and clinical instruction. The program's flexible hybrid format and small class sizes facilitate a personalized learning experience, supported by advanced simulation facilities. Ideal for those looking to transition into academic or clinical education roles, this certificate addresses the critical need for qualified nurse educators in the healthcare sector.

  • 15-credit post-graduate certificate
  • Hybrid online and in-person courses
  • For MSN degree holders only
  • Clinical practicum options
  • Prepare for CNE certification
  • Small class sizes
  • State-of-the-art simulation facilities
  • Flexible scheduling for working nurses
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#2

Marquette University

Milwaukee, WI - Private 4-year - marquette.edu

Graduate Certificate - Teaching Certificate for Nurse Educators

Campus Based - Visit Website

Marquette University offers a specialized Post-Master's Teaching Certificate for Nurse Educators, tailored for nurses aiming to transition into educational roles. This fully online, 12-credit program spans four courses, focusing on educational theory, curriculum development, and effective teaching strategies. Ideal for those with a graduate degree in nursing, it equips participants with the necessary skills to teach in both classroom and clinical settings. The program is designed to be completed within three years and prepares graduates for the national certification exam for nurse educators. Note: This certificate program does not qualify for Title IV federal financial aid.

  • Fully online post-graduate certificate
  • Four courses, 12 total credits
  • Designed for nurses with prior graduate degrees
  • Prepares for national certification exam
  • Covers educational theory and pedagogy
  • Targets classroom and clinical educators
  • Completion within three years
  • Not eligible for Title IV federal aid
#3

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Eau Claire, WI - Public 4-Year - uwec.edu

Master's - Nursing, Family Health-Education - Master of Science in Nursing

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

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in Nursing Education, focusing on Family Health-Education. This hybrid program blends online and in-person learning, ideal for working nurses aiming to advance their careers. It requires 39-40 credits, including 525 clinical hours, and emphasizes leadership, research, and educational strategies in nursing. A GPA of 3.00 or higher and Wisconsin RN licensure are prerequisites. Graduates are prepared for roles in healthcare education and leadership, with options for a thesis or scholarly project.

  • 39-40 total graduate credits
  • Hybrid learning format
  • 525 clinical hours
  • Family Health focus
  • GPA requirement 3.00+
  • Wisconsin RN licensure required
  • Thesis or scholarly project option
  • Four semester completion
  • Leadership and education preparation

Graduate Certificate - Post-MSN Nursing Education

Campus Based - Visit Website

For nurses with a master's degree, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire provides a Post-MSN Nursing Education Graduate Certificate. This campus-based program focuses on advanced teaching methods and curriculum design, tailored for those aspiring to educate future nurses. It comprises 13 graduate credits and requires a minimum GPA of 3.0, along with Wisconsin RN licensure. This certificate is perfect for professionals looking to transition into academic or clinical education roles, enhancing their ability to shape the next generation of nurses.

  • Master's degree required
  • Two core nursing education courses
  • Total 13 graduate credits
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Wisconsin RN licensure needed
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#4

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI - Public 4-Year - wisc.edu

Graduate Certificate - Nurse Educator Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Wisconsin-Madison's Nurse Educator Certificate is a compact, 9-credit hybrid program tailored for nurses with a master's degree aiming to transition into educational roles. This program stands out for its focus on equipping doctoral nursing students with the necessary skills for effective teaching, including curriculum design and innovative teaching methodologies. A unique aspect is its eligibility for the NLN Certified Nurse Educator Examination, offering a competitive edge. The program's blend of online and in-person learning, coupled with a practicum, ensures a well-rounded educational experience. Requirements include an RN license and a minimum 3.0 GPA from a master's program.

  • 9 graduate-level credits
  • Online/blended delivery format
  • 1-2 year completion time
  • For DNP/PhD nursing students
  • NLN Certification eligible
  • RN license required
  • Minimum 3.0 MS GPA
  • Three core curriculum courses
  • Practicum component included
#5

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

Oshkosh, WI - Public 4-Year - uwosh.edu

Graduate Certificate - Nurse Educator Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh offers a Nurse Educator Certificate program designed for MSN-prepared nurses aiming to transition into educational roles within healthcare or academia. This hybrid program, blending online coursework with practical clinical experience, spans just two semesters and requires 9 credit hours to complete. It emphasizes the development of leadership and teaching skills necessary for educating the next generation of nurses. Graduates are well-prepared to take the Certified Nurse Educator exam, enhancing their qualifications for specialized roles in nursing education. Admission prerequisites include an MSN degree, a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA, current RN licensure, and professional references.

  • 100% online coursework
  • 9 total credit hours
  • Two-semester program
  • Practicum included
  • MSN degree required
  • 3.0 minimum graduate GPA
  • Current RN licensure needed
  • Professional references required
  • Prepares for certification exam
  • Develops nurse educator skills
*Data source: NCES IPEDS survey, 2023.

Online RN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

If you’re currently working as an RN but don’t have your BSN yet, you’ll want to apply to an online RN to MSN nurse educator program. This type of program allows you to fulfill the requirements of your BSN degree without having actually completed a separate degree program. To gain admission to this type of program, you’ll need to provide proof of your RN licensure, and you may also be required to submit letters of recommendation from your current supervisor.

One of the more popular RN to MSN programs online based in Wisconsin is at the University of Wisconsin.

Online BSN to MSN Nurse Educator Programs

If you already have your BSN, you’ll want to look for a BSN to MSN program. This allows you to make use of your prior education and minimize the number of classes that you’ll need to take to earn your MSN. You may also need to submit letters of recommendation from your supervisor.

There are a few great options for online BSN to MSN nursing programs in Wisconsin, including the University of Wisconsin.

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 Wisconsin.

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 Wisconsin at Madison offers a great program for this specific degree.

Some universities in some states offer online Doctor of Education (EdD) for nurse educators, however, this type of program is not currently offered in Wisconsin.

Nurse Educator Licensing and Certification in Wisconsin

In order to earn your license to work as a nurse educator in the state of Wisconsin, you’ll need to complete an accredited nurse educator program and pass the Certification for Nurse Educators exam. It’s important to choose a program that will fully prepare you for the exam. While you’re researching online nurse educator programs, be sure to check into the pass rates of students who have completed the program.

Who Hires Nurse Educators in Wisconsin?

As a nurse educator, you’ll have many options when it comes to deciding where to work after you finish your education. Some nurse educators enjoy working in hospital settings, while others prefer university environments.

In Wisconsin, popular employers for nurse educators include:

List of Nurse Educator Degree Programs in Wisconsin

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

Fond du Lac, WI

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
45 S National Ave
Fond du Lac, WI 54935
(920) 923-7600

Green Bay, WI

3201 Eaton Rd
Green Bay, WI 54311
(920) 433-6699

Madison, WI

Graduate Certificate Programs
702 West Johnson Street. Suite 1101
Madison, WI 53715
(608) 263-2400

Mequon, WI

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
12800 N Lake Shore Drive
Mequon, WI 53097
(262) 243-5700

Milwaukee, WI

MSN Programs
6801 N Yates Rd
Milwaukee, WI 53217
(414) 410-4000

Oshkosh, WI

Graduate Certificate ProgramsMSN Programs
800 Algoma Blvd
Oshkosh, WI 54901
(920) 424-1234

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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