MSN Nurse Educator | Online Nursing Master’s Degree

Teach future nurses with our online nursing master’s degree

Prepare to become a highly sought-after nurse educator equipped to teach nursing students in both classroom and clinical settings with Davenport’s master of science in nursing with a nurse educator concentration.

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Davenport’s master of science in nursing program offers you 100% online classes through our Global Campus. With exceptional instruction and mentorship of clinician faculty, you’ll develop the skills and strategies you need to become an effective nurse educator.

Graduate in as little as two years with Davenport’s online nursing master’s degree program and be qualified to sit for the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) exam. Achieving this credential positions you to earn a higher nursing educator salary. You’ll also benefit from a rise in nurse educator jobs, which is being driven by a high number of baby boomer nurses retiring, the increase in the senior citizen population and the increase of chronic disease.

What is a master of science in nursing?

A master of science in nursing is a graduate-level academic degree that deepens the knowledge and skills of students who hold an undergraduate nursing degree and work in the nursing field. Nursing MSN graduates who choose the nurse educator concentration can earn a higher nursing educator salary by qualifying for more in-demand roles that require a graduate degree.

Davenport’s online nursing master’s degree with a nurse educator concentration will prepare you to teach future nurses at academic institutions and in clinical settings.

Explore classes for Davenport’s nursing master’s programs

The nurse educator concentration of Davenport’s online nursing master’s program includes a broad array of classes to help you develop into an exceptional nurse educator. Classes include theoretical foundations of teaching and learning, curriculum development and program evaluation, and role of the educator. You’ll acquire strategic teaching skills while you advance your clinical capabilities, including assessment, pharmacology and pathophysiology.

All Davenport nursing MSN classes align with Quality Matters (QM) and undergo Instructional Design evaluation so you can be assured our nursing master’s program meets the highest standards for quality and real-world relevance.

See Full Course List

Foundations of Advanced Nursing		9 Credits
NURS600	Theoretical Fndn Adv Nurs Prac	3
NURS601	MSN Orientation Seminar This seminar is required in the first semester of acceptance to the College of Health Professions MSN program. The program expectations and the MSN Student Handbook will be reviewed. Students in this course must register and complete the required Criminal Background Check (CBC) and Drug Screen (DS). Note: This course is graded on a Pass/Fail basis. If the CBC/DS portion of the class is not completed in the specified time frame, a failing grade will be given for the course. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	0
NURS640	Nurs Research & Evid-Base Prac Critical discussion and analysis of the research process including the responsible conduct of research, qualitative and quantitative research methods and designs, analysis of data, and reporting of results. Strategies to improve dissemination and application of nursing research findings and integration of evidence-based practice will be discussed.Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3
NURS670	Transform NursingPractice Role This course prepares nurses at the Master’s degree level to investigate and analyze the organization, delivery, and financing of health care through the lens of a leadership role. Leadership theories and concepts are explored as they may be applied to address complex and dynamic health care challenges such as health care access, cost, and quality. Strategic planning, systems thinking, political advocacy, and interprofessional collaboration are discussed and explored as within the context of the nursing leadership role and the advanced nursing practice in affecting quality health outcomes and culturally patient-centered care. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3

Advanced Nursing Core		9 Credits
NURS735	Advanced Pathophysiology Alterations of various physiological systems, etiology and clinical manifestations of commonly occurring health problems across the life span are discussed. In-depth case analysis of risk factors, pathophysiological changes, and associated signs and symptoms, relevant theories, research, and evidence-based findings are discussed as a basis for advanced practice nursing. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3
NURS738	Advanced Pharmacology The course focuses on the use of pharmacotherapeutic agents to manage health problems. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drug categories, as well as evidence-based findings, are discussed as a basis for prescribing and monitoring pharmaceutical and alternative therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of commonly occurring acute and chronic illnesses. Ethical, legal, and risk-management issues are discussed. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3
NURS740	Advanced Health Assessment This course focuses on the development of advanced practice nursing skills in health assessment for clients across the life span. Relevant concepts, theories, research, and evidence-based findings on prevention and early detection of risk factors and disease are emphasized. Critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning and communication skills are developed through case scenarios, simulated experiences, and clinical experiences as appropriate. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS740 and NURS740V Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	2
NURS740V	Advanced Health Assessment Lab This course focuses on the development of advanced practice nursing skills in health assessment for clients across the life span. Relevant concepts, theories, research, and evidence-based findings on prevention and early detection of risk factors and disease are emphasized. Critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning and communication skills are developed through case scenarios, simulated experiences, and clinical experiences as appropriate. Note: The lab portion designated with a ‘V’ will be taught in a virtual format. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS740 and NURS740V Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	1

Nursing Educator Concentration		18 Credits
HINT730	Legal Aspects and Compliance This course will provide an overview of the legal processes and compliance issues related to health data. Students will review HIPAA compliance requirements as well as review risk management strategies and policies. Students will develop a training program related to legal issues and compliance and incorporate project management methodologies. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3
NURS765	Concepts of Adv Nurs Practice This course focuses on examining and analyzing theories, concepts, and research evidence to support the practice of nursing at an advanced level. Students are provided the opportunity to enhance critical thinking and clinical judgment skills in designing, delivering, and evaluating health promotion, clinical prevention, and disease reduction interventions for individuals, groups, or populations. Emphasis is on nursing practice within an interdisciplinary context. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS765 and NURS765C Co-requisite(s): NURS738 Prerequisite(s): NURS735, NURS740 and NURS740V	2
NURS765C	Concepts of Adv Nurs Prac Clin This course focuses on examining and analyzing theories, concepts, and research evidence to support the practice of nursing at an advanced level. Students are provided the opportunity to enhance critical thinking and clinical judgment skills in designing, delivering, and evaluating health promotion, clinical prevention, and disease reduction interventions for individuals, groups, or populations. Emphasis is on nursing practice within an interdisciplinary context. Note: Any unexcused non-attendance or dismissal from an internship, practicum, clinical or fieldwork experience will result in a grade of F. NURS765C requires a clinical practicum component of 90 hours in an identified clinical specialty area. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS765 and NURS765C Co-requisite(s): NURS738 Prerequisite(s): NURS735, NURS740 and NURS740V	2
NURS780	Theoretical Fndns Teach/Learn This course prepares educators to identify and apply appropriate teaching methods and evaluate student learning, teacher, and program effectiveness. Topics include teaching, evaluation, integration of new and emerging technology, and assessment methods. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): NURS765 and NURS765C	3
NURS784	Curriculum Devel/Program Eval This course is designed to introduce curriculum, curriculum development and design, and program evaluation. The course will provide students with the knowledge and skill needed to review, revise, and evaluate nursing curriculum. Student will learn how to complete a needs assessment for developing and reviewing curriculum. The student will examine the components of the curriculum. The course will include how to plan for program and curriculum evaluations. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): NURS780	3
NURS785	Teaching Strat/Assess/Eval This course focuses on current and emerging teaching strategies, methods of assessment, and evaluation methods by nurse educators in a variety of settings (classroom, lab, clinical). Students will learn how to integrate diverse teaching and evaluation methods with diverse learning styles in a variety of settings. Student will discuss, plan and implement classroom assessment techniques (CATs) appropriate to course objectives. Strategies for assessing and evaluating learning outcomes will be discussed. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): NURS784	3
NURS787	Role of the Nurse Educator In this course, students will focus on the multidimensional aspects of the advanced role of the nurse educator. Current literature and research related to the science of nursing education will be examined and analyzed. Dimensions of the advanced role of the nurse educator in teaching patients and families, student nurses and providers across the continuum of care in a variety of direct and indirect care settings will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on the application of advanced pathophysiology, advanced assessment and advanced pharmacology in the assessment of direct care patients’ educational needs and the implementation of educational interventions appropriate to the advanced role of the nurse educator. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS787 and NURS787C Prerequisite(s): NURS765 and NURS765C	1
NURS787C	Role Nurse Educator Clinical In this clinical course, students will focus on the application of the multidimensional aspects of the advanced role of the nurse educator built upon the foundation of current literature and research related to the science of nursing education. Dimensions of the advanced role of the nurse educator in teaching patients and families, student nurses and providers across the continuum of care will be explored in the direct and indirect care setting. Emphasis will be placed on the application of advanced pathophysiology, advanced assessment and advanced pharmacology in the assessment and evaluation of direct care in advanced nursing. The course will also include consideration of patients’ educational needs and the implementation of educational interventions appropriate to the advanced role of the nurse educator. Note: Any unexcused non-attendance or dismissal from an internship, practicum, clinical or fieldwork experience will result in a grade of F. To provide focused and sustained clinica	1

Thesis/Capstone**		1 Credits
NURS795 or NURS799	MSN Special Project or MSN Thesis NURS795 - Offered in Year Two. Student identifies a salient health care topic of interest to investigate using the principles and methodologies inherent in the conduct of evidence-based research and practice to design and implement a special clinical research project. Student will obtain approval of proposed special project from the MSN faculty Research Advisor before initiating research project. After implementing the special project, the student will use evaluation research methodology to assess project outcomes. Student’s special project will entail all components of an evidence-based research project including: determining clinical foreground (PICO) and background research questions; hypotheses (if applicable); research design; implementation of the project; data collection and data analysis procedures; discussion of the results and implications for advanced nursing practice, theory, and education; and recommendations for future research. Student will disseminate research results by presenting research findings at a professional conference and/or other appropriate public venue. Note: This special project is graded as Pass/Fail Prerequisite(s): NURS640 and data collection NURS799 - Offered in Year Two. Student identifies a salient health care topic of interest to investigate using the application of evidence-based systematic, scientific research principles and methodologies to complete a research thesis. Student will obtain approval of proposed research topic from the MSN faculty Research Advisor before initiating research thesis. Student’s research thesis will entail all stages of a scientifically conducted study including: determining research questions; hypotheses (if applicable); research design; data collection and data analysis procedures; discussion of the results and implications for advanced nursing practice, theory, and education; and recommendations for future research. Student will disseminate research results by developing a manuscript suitable to be submitted for publication and/or presentation at professional conferences. Note: The MSN Thesis is graded as Pass/Fail Prerequisite(s): NURS640 and data collection	1

Which class should I take? When should I take it?

See our Recommended Program Sequences:

$100,330

Earn the average nursing educator salary with a nursing MSN

20%

Lower your nursing MSN tuition by 20% as a member of MHA

100%

Fit classes into your busy life with our 100% online nursing master’s

Why pursue an online nursing master’s degree at Davenport?

In addition to expanding theoretical knowledge, Davenport’s nursing MSN program offers you hands-on practical experience in a health care setting, including a clinical practicum and high-fidelity virtual simulations in Davenport’s Health Assessment Lab. You’ll round out your online nursing master’s degree with a mentored thesis project.

Make the most of your online nursing master’s by networking and getting to know your nursing MSN peers and faculty through the Davenport Global Campus, which is designed to foster meaningful connections.

As a Davenport online nursing master’s graduate, you’ll be fully prepared in the art and science of nursing instruction and well positioned to join other Davenport nursing MSN graduates who have passed their nursing certification exams at rates above the national average. In fact, many of our graduates have found nurse educator jobs right here on the Davenport nursing team as faculty members.

If you are a member of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA), you can take advantage of a 20% tuition discount and application fee waiver toward your Davenport nursing MSN degree.

Experience the Davenport difference:

Convenience of an online nursing master’s

Choose a nursing MSN degree program that’s 100% online to better accommodate the busy schedules of working nurses like you.

High certification pass rates

Gain exceptional CNE exam preparation from a nursing MSN program with CNE pass rates that exceed the national average.

Highly credentialed faculty-mentors

Learn skills for nurse educator jobs with nursing MSN faculty that are respected nurse educators in the community.

Hands-on experiences

Prove your online nursing master’s degree skills and knowledge with hands-on nurse educator practice, both clinical and academic.

Get started on your master of science in nursing degree

Explore the admissions requirements and then take the next step toward earning your online nursing master’s degree at Davenport.

Talk to an admissions advisor

Davenport’s admissions team is here to answer your questions. Please call us at 800.686.1600 or email us at info@davenport.edu.

Apply now or request more information

Start on the road to a nursing MSN and a higher nursing educator salary. Request more information or begin your application now.

Programs related to the nursing MSN

Family Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate

Master of Science in Nursing — Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration

Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Master of Science in Nursing — Generalist Concentration

Nurse Educator Postgraduate Certificate

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate

About Davenport University

Davenport is a private, not-for-profit university with more than 150 years of experience preparing students for successful careers.

Offering over 80 degree and certificate programs, we align with top employers to design degree programs that help you gain the skills and real-world experience you need to rise above the rest. With small class sizes and campuses across Michigan or online, you’ll earn a quality education on your schedule at Davenport University.*

Additional resources

Emily (Veneklase) Plachta, Davenport alumna

Nursing educator success story: Emily Plachta, MSN ’15

When it comes to nurse educator jobs, Davenport alumna Emily (Veneklase) Plachta excels in her role as a nurse educator at Metro Health Hospital. “I found my niche,” she says.

Nurse in a white coat standing in a hospital classroom

Master of Science in Nursing earns accreditation through 2027

Davenport’s Master of Science in Nursing program earned 10-year accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) — the commission’s maximum term.

Nursing MSN concentrations

In addition to the Nurse Educator concentration, you can choose from two other concentrations to deepen your master of science in nursing:

Generalist concentration

Family Nurse Practitioner concentration

CCNE accreditation

The master's degree program in nursing at Davenport University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.

Admission requirements

Current, valid, and unrestricted license as a registered nurse (RN) in a U.S. jurisdiction or province of Canada
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
One professional recommendation
Official transcripts from previous nursing program(s)
Resume/CV
Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 out of a 4.0
Professional essay

Out-of-state applicants applying for academic programs leading to professional licensure (ie; FNP), it is highly recommended that students contact the appropriate licensing agency in their state of residence if they are considering an academic program that leads to a professional license. Davenport University offers a state-by-state guide with web links to the appropriate licensing agencies. It is the responsibility of students to contact the appropriate licensing agency and to understand the requirements in their state of residence as applied to their specific situation.

Nursing MSN program philosophy

The multifaceted roles of the practical and professional nurse are taught at Davenport University and include care provision, communication, management, and scope of practice. Theoretical foundations shape the curricula and guide the nursing education. The Davenport University Nursing Program is a dynamic system that provides for the educational growth and development of the nursing student. An adaptation of Fawcett’s metaparadigm is utilized and includes person, environment, health, and nursing.

Person - The concept of a person refers to the individual or individuals as part of culture, family, community or aggregate groups who interact with the nurse in a therapeutic manner.
Environment - The environment is made up of the physical surroundings and the settings in which the person interacts with society as a whole. This integrates the totality of social, cultural, and religious foundations and influences. Individuals are affected by the environment and, in turn, have the ability to effect the environment.
Health - The health continuum from birth to death includes physical, mental, cultural, and spiritual elements. Wellness describes the function of a person at his or her maximum potential.
Nursing - Nursing is a caring profession that is guided by the ANA Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Nursing is not limited to physical care but incorporates the promotion, protection, and optimization of health. Nursing practice is guided by research that contributes to the delivery of evidence-based practice.

Program outcomes

Synthesize concepts and theories from nursing and related disciplines and sciences to deliver advanced nursing care.
Integrate evidence-based knowledge, research, and clinical judgment to design, coordinate, and evaluate the delivery of care.
Integrate current and emerging health and information technologies effectively into one’s practice to enhance health outcomes.
Collaborate effectively within an interprofessional context to improve the delivery of care across the health care continuum.
Apply organizational and systems leadership strategies to promote high quality and safe patient care environments.
Advocate for policies at the local, state, and national levels to improve health and advance the profession of nursing.
Demonstrate beginning competency in an advanced nursing role.

Faculty and staff

Associate Dean: Amy Stahley, PhD, MSN, RN

Department Chair for Nursing: Tracy Alberta, MSN, RN

Nursing Administrative Assistant: TBD

MSN/FNP online faculty

Clinical Coordinator: Marlo Schepers, MSN

Online Graduate Faculty: Jessica Abernathy, DNP, WHNP-BC, CNM, FNP-BC, Annette Mannion, MSN, CRNP, IBLC

Some programs require a student to complete a portion of their degree plan off-campus.
View a full list of those programs and courses

Sources:

U.S. Dept. of Labor Statistics
Davenport University, 2023/2024 Catalog

Master of Science in Nursing — Nurse Educator