Nurse Educator

Help shape the next generation of nursing professionals. Our Nurse Educator tracks can help you develop the skills you need to make an impact in the classroom or on the training floor.

Apply Now

8 Weeks

8-week terms allow for start dates throughout the year

24/7 Access

All-hours access to your coursework, online library, and tech support

CCNE-Accredited

This nursing track is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education1 (for the MSN and RN to MSN programs only)

Nurse Educator Track Highlights

Coursework that covers the principles of teaching, curriculum design, and assessments in nursing education

Skills to help prepare you to work in classrooms so you can shape the next generation of nurses

Online classes you can access anytime, anywhere from your mobile device or computer

Your Success

Precepted clinical hours for hands-on practice at a healthcare facility near you

Why Choose the Nurse Educator Track?

Teachers shape the future of the world. As a nurse educator, you can help prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals, either in the classroom or in clinical units.

If you have a passion for teaching and helping others, our specialized Nurse Educator track can help you gain the skills you need to pursue this path. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the principles of teaching and learning, curriculum design, and assessments in nursing education.

Explore the Nurse Educator Track program at WCU!

Overview: Online Nurse Educator Track

Program Details: RN to MSN – Nurse Educator

Accelerated Plus Pace

Distance Education/Online

135 Credits

16 Months

4 Trimesters

Accelerated Pace

Distance Education/Online

135 Credits

20 Months

5 Trimesters

Working Professional Pace

Distance Education/Online

135 Credits

32 Months

8 Trimesters

Curriculum
Course NumberCourse NameTotal Credit Hours
NumberNameHours
ELECT 199Awarded for College-Level General Education Coursework:
Up to 39 credits of transfer coursework:- Effective Spring II 2023(For Spring I 2023 Enrollment use Winter 2023 Catalog for Curriculum Information)

  • Applicants who do not have enough previous credits to complete this requirement will have the following
    options:

    • * College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
    • * Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)
    • * Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)
    • * Advanced Placement (AP)
    • * International Baccalaureate (IB)
    • * American Credit Evaluation (ACE)
    • * National College Credit Recommendation
      Service (NCCRS)
    • * Challenge exams
39.0
BSNR 300Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations3
BSNR 305Pathophysiology3
BSNR 315Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice3
BSNR 400CCommunity & Public Health Nursing I3
BSNR 405CCommunity & Public Health Nursing II3
MSNC 500Nursing Roles in Policy, Ethics, & Finance3
MSNC 505Scholarship for Advanced Nursing Practice3
MSNC 510Advanced Nursing Technologies & Collaborative Care3
MSNC 515Health Promotion and Disease Management3
MSNE 540Advanced Pathophysiology, Physical Assessment, & Pharmacology for Nurse Educators3
MSNE 600Nurse Educator Roles: Scholarship, Service, and Leadership2
MSNE 605Curriculum Design I2
MSNE 610Accreditation & Regulatory Requirements2
MSNE 615Curriculum Design II2
MSNE 620Program Assessment & Evaluation2
MSNE 625Innovative Teaching Strategies & Learning Styles2
MSNE 635CNursing Education Practice Integration Experience3
Total Credit Hours:45.0
Required At WCU45.0
Awarded for College-Level General Education Courses39.0
Awarded for Unencumbered RN Licensure and Lower Level Nursing Courses51.0
Degree Total135.0
Tuition & Financial Aid

How Much Does the RN to MSN – Nurse Educator Track Cost?

We know school is a substantial commitment. At WCU, we want to equip you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your future.

Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of RN to MSN Nurse Educator online tuition costs so you can be well-informed as you navigate the application and enrollment process. To assist you in your decision, we provide a breakdown below of the RN to MSN Nurse Educator track costs at West Coast University.

We offer several financial aid options — including scholarships, grants, and loan access — to help support you through your studies. We also offer reduced tuition rates for military personnel and their spouses. For more information about your financial support options, visit our financial aid page.

RN to Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Educator Track

8 Month Academic Year
with parentsoff campus
Food & Housing$2,384$7,936
Transportation$1,648$1,648
Personal Expenses$5,392$5,392
Total$9,424$14,976

Prior to Spring I 2024

Accelerated Plus*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits1351
Program Length (full time)4 trimesters
Non-Military RateMilitary Rate2
Tuition Cost BSN Level (per credit) $495 $420.75
Total Tuition Cost BSN Level (15 credits) $7,425 $6,311.25
Tuition Cost MSN Level (per credit) $680 $578
Total Tuition Cost MSN Level (30 credits)$20,400$17,340
Total Tuition Cost BSN and MSN $27,825$23,651.25
STRF3$75$65
Technology Fee4$2,000$2,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees5 $525 $525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$30,350$26,176.25
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$30,425$26,241.25

Accelerated*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits1351
Program Length(full time)5 trimesters
Non-Military RateMilitary Rate2
Tuition Cost BSN Level(per credit)$495$420.75
Total Tuition Cost BSN Level (15 credits)$7,425$6,311.25
Tuition Cost MSN Level(per credit)$680$578
Total Tuition Cost MSN Level (30 credits)$20,400$17,340
Total Tuition Cost BSN and MSN$27,825$23,651.25
STRF3$77.50$67.50
Technology Fee4$2,500$2,500
Estimate for Program Supply Fees5$525$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$30,850$26,676.25
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$30,927.50$26,743.75


Working Professional*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits1351
Program Length(full time)8 trimesters
Non-Military RateMilitary Rate2
Tuition Cost BSN Level(per credit)$495$420.75
Total Tuition Cost BSN Level (15 credits)$7,425$6,311.25
Tuition Cost MSN Level(per credit)$680$578
Total Tuition Cost MSN Level (30 credits)$20,400$17,340
Total Tuition Cost BSN and MSN$27,825$23,651.25
STRF3$80$70
Technology Fee4$4,000$4,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees5$525$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$32,350$28,176.25
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$32,430$28,246.25

 

Effective Spring I 2024

Accelerated Plus*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits1351
Program Length(full time)4 trimesters
Tuition Cost BSN Level(per credit)$495
Total Tuition Cost BSN Level (15 credits)$7,425
Tuition Cost MSN Level (per credit)$680
Total Tuition Cost MSN Level (30 credits)$20,400
Total Tuition Cost BSN and MSN$27,825
STRF3$75
Technology Fee4$2,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees5$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$30,350
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$30,425

Accelerated*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits1351
Program Length(full time)5 trimesters
Tuition Cost BSN Level(per credit)$495
Total Tuition Cost BSN Level (15 credits)$7,425
Tuition Cost MSN Level(per credit)$680
Total Tuition Cost MSN Level (30 credits)$20,400
Total Tuition Cost BSN and MSN$27,825
STRF3$77.50
Technology Fee4$2,500
Estimate for Program Supply Fees5$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$30,850
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$30,927.50

Working Professional*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits1351
Program Length(full time)8 trimesters
Tuition Cost BSN Level(per credit)$495
Total Tuition Cost BSN Level (15 credits)$7,425
Tuition Cost MSN Level(per credit)$680
Total Tuition Cost MSN Level (30 credits)$20,400
Total Tuition Cost BSN and MSN$27,825
STRF3$80
Technology Fee4$4,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees5$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$32,350
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$32,430

 

* Upon enrollment, students select Accelerated Plus, Accelerated or Working Professional, which will determine the pace at which students complete their degree. In most cases, students that select Accelerated will attempt two courses per term, and students that select Working Professional will attempt one course a term.

1 Includes 51 credits for unencumbered RN License, assumes 39 transfer credits for non-nursing courses, and the remaining 45 credits are required to be taken at WCU.

2 Rate provided to Active Duty, Active Duty Spouse, Reserve, Reserve Spouse, Veterans, Veteran Spouse, Department of Defense employees, dependents utilizing parent's veteran's education benefits, and Veterans Affairs employees.  The military rate will no longer be offered after Fall II 2024.

3 Effective April 1, 2022, the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) assessment rate will be two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges.

The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.

You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.

It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 N. Market Blvd. Ste 225 Sacramento, CA 95834, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.

To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:

  1. The institution, a location of the institution, or an educational program offered by the institution was closed or discontinued, and you did not choose to participate in a teach-out plan approved by the Bureau or did not complete a chosen teach-out plan approved by the Bureau.
  2. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution within the 120-day period before the closure of the institution or location of the institution or were enrolled in an educational program within the 120-day period before the program was discontinued.
  3. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution more than 120 days before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, in an educational program offered by the institution as to which the Bureau determined there was a significant decline in the quality or value of the program more than 120 days before closure.
  4. The institution has been ordered to pay a refund by the Bureau but has failed to do so.
  5. The institution has failed to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federal student loan program as required by law or has failed to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the institution in excess of tuition and other costs.
  6. You have been awarded restitution, a refund, or other monetary award by an arbitrator or court, based on a violation of this chapter by an institution or representative of an institution, but have been unable to collect the award from the institution.
  7. You sought legal counsel that resulted in the cancellation of one or more of your student loans and have an invoice for services rendered and evidence of the cancellation of the student loan or loans.

To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.

A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of noncollection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.

However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.

4 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.

5 Program supplies include WCU identification card and background check.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the program must meet the following standards (RN-MSN All Track Options):

  1. Completion of the application for admission.
  2. Completion of all university admissions requirements.
  3. Completion of an associate degree or diploma in nursing from an accredited collegiate institution with a 3.0 CGPA or better.
    1. Applicants can be conditionally admitted into the program by providing unofficial transcripts or a copy of the conferred nursing degree. Official transcripts which meet the requirements set forth must be received by the end of the add/drop period to be admitted to the program.
  4. A valid and unencumbered license as a registered nurse in any U.S. state or territory in which the student is licensed, including the state in which the student completes all assignments for the program.
    1. Military, federal, and foreign-educated nurses must meet this state requirement for nursing licensure.
    2. An active and unencumbered RN license(s) must be maintained throughout the program.
    3. A domestic or foreign medical degree is not equivalent to a nursing degree.
  5. Submit official transcripts from one of the programs below approved by the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) (including any prior courses taken to be considered for transfer of credit).
    1. Associate of Science in Nursing
    2. Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
    3. Diploma in Nursing
    4. State-approved nursing with evidence of an earned RN license
    5. Foreign nursing equivalency with evidence of an earned RN license in the United States
    6. Associate of Science with evidence of an earned RN license
    7. Associate of Applied Science with evidence of an earned RN license
    8. Non-nursing bachelor’s degree with evidence of an earned RN license*
    9. Foreign-Foreign equivalency with evidence of an earned RN license in the United States*

* Applicants submitting non-U.S. or non-English transcripts should refer to the International Admissions section of the catalog.

For more information, please visit our catalog.

Program Details: MSN – Nurse Educator

Accelerated Plus Pace

Distance Education/Online

30 Credits

8 Months

2 Trimesters

Accelerated Pace

Distance Education/Online

30 Credits

12 Months

3 Trimesters

Working Professional Pace

Distance Education/Online

30 Credits

24 Months

6 Trimesters

Curriculum
Course NumberCourse NameTotal Credit Hours
ELECT 199Awarded for College-Level General Education Coursework:
Up to 39 credits of transfer coursework:- Effective Spring II 2023(For Spring I 2023 Enrollment use Winter 2023 Catalog for Curriculum Information)

  • Applicants who do not have enough previous credits to complete this requirement will have the following
    options:

    • * College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
    • * Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)
    • * Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)
    • * Advanced Placement (AP)
    • * International Baccalaureate (IB)
    • * American Credit Evaluation (ACE)
    • * National College Credit Recommendation
      Service (NCCRS)
    • * Challenge exams
39.0
BSNR 300Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations3
BSNR 305Pathophysiology3
BSNR 315Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice3
BSNR 400CCommunity & Public Health Nursing I3
BSNR 405CCommunity & Public Health Nursing II3
MSNC 500Nursing Roles in Policy, Ethics, & Finance3
MSNC 505Scholarship for Advanced Nursing Practice3
MSNC 510Advanced Nursing Technologies & Collaborative Care3
MSNC 515Health Promotion and Disease Management3
MSNE 540Advanced Pathophysiology, Physical Assessment, & Pharmacology for Nurse Educators3
MSNE 600Nurse Educator Roles: Scholarship, Service, and Leadership2
MSNE 605Curriculum Design I2
MSNE 610Accreditation & Regulatory Requirements2
MSNE 615Curriculum Design II2
MSNE 620Program Assessment & Evaluation2
MSNE 625Innovative Teaching Strategies & Learning Styles2
MSNE 635CNursing Education Practice Integration Experience3
Total Credit Hours:45.0
Required At WCU45.0
Awarded for College-Level General Education Courses39.0
Awarded for Unencumbered RN Licensure and Lower Level Nursing Courses51.0
Degree Total135.0
Tuition & Financial Aid

How Much Does the MSN – Nurse Educator Program Cost?

We know school is a substantial commitment. At WCU, we want to equip you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your future.

Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of MSN Nurse Educator online tuition costs so you can be well-informed as you navigate the application and enrollment process. To assist you in your decision, we provide a breakdown below of the MSN Nurse Educator track costs at West Coast University.

We offer several financial aid options — including scholarships, grants, and loan access — to help support you through your studies. We also offer reduced tuition rates for military personnel and their spouses. For more information about your financial support options, visit our financial aid page.

Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Educator Track

8 Month Academic Year
with parentsoff campus
Food & Housing$2,384$7,936
Transportation$1,648$1,648
Personal Expenses$5,392$5,392
Total$9,424$14,976

 

Prior to Spring I 2024

Accelerated Plus*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits30
Program Length(full time)2 trimesters
Non-Military RateMilitary Rate1
Tuition Cost(per credit)$680$578
Total Tuition Cost$20,400$17,340
STRF2$55$47.50
Technology Fee3$1,000$1,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees4$525$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$21,925$18,865
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$21,980$18,912.50

Accelerated*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits30
Program Length(full time)3 trimesters
Non-Military RateMilitary Rate1
Tuition Cost (per credit)$680$578
Total Tuition Cost$20,400$17,340
STRF2$55$47.50
Technology Fee3$1,500$1,500
Estimate for Program Supply Fees4$525$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$22,425$19,365
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$22,480$19,412.50

Working Professional*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits30
Program Length(full time)6 trimesters
Non-Military RateMilitary Rate1
Tuition Cost(per credit)$680$578
Total Tuition Cost$20,400$17,340
STRF2$60$52.50
Technology Fee3$3,000$3,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees4$525$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$23,925$20,865
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$23,985$20,917.50

 

Effective Spring I 2024

Accelerated Plus*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits30
Program Length(full time)2 trimesters
Tuition Cost(per credit)$680
Total Tuition Cost$20,400
STRF2$55
Technology Fee3$1,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees4$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$21,925
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$21,980

Accelerated*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits30
Program Length(full time)3 trimesters
Tuition Cost(per credit)$680
Total Tuition Cost$20,400
STRF2$55
Technology Fee3$1,500
Estimate for Program Supply Fees4$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$22,425
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$22,480

Working Professional*

Degree TypeMaster of Science
Total Program Credits30
Program Length(full time)6 trimesters
Tuition Cost(per credit)$680
Total Tuition Cost$20,400
STRF2$60
Technology Fee3$3,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees4$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$23,925
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$23,985

* Upon enrollment, students select Accelerated Plus, Accelerated or Working Professional, which will determine the pace at which students complete their degree. In most cases, students that select Accelerated will attempt two courses per term, and students that select Working Professional will attempt one course a term.

1 Rate provided to Active Duty, Active Duty Spouse, Reserve, Reserve Spouse, Veterans, Veteran Spouse, Department of Defense employees, dependents utilizing parent's veteran's education benefits, and Veterans Affairs employees.  The military rate will no longer be offered after Fall II 2023.

2 Effective April 1, 2022, the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) assessment rate will be two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges.

The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.

You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.

It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 N. Market Blvd. Ste 225 Sacramento, CA 95834, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.

To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:

  1. The institution, a location of the institution, or an educational program offered by the institution was closed or discontinued, and you did not choose to participate in a teach-out plan approved by the Bureau or did not complete a chosen teach-out plan approved by the Bureau.
  2. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution within the 120-day period before the closure of the institution or location of the institution or were enrolled in an educational program within the 120-day period before the program was discontinued.
  3. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution more than 120 days before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, in an educational program offered by the institution as to which the Bureau determined there was a significant decline in the quality or value of the program more than 120 days before closure.
  4. The institution has been ordered to pay a refund by the Bureau but has failed to do so.
  5. The institution has failed to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federal student loan program as required by law or has failed to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the institution in excess of tuition and other costs.
  6. You have been awarded restitution, a refund, or other monetary award by an arbitrator or court, based on a violation of this chapter by an institution or representative of an institution, but have been unable to collect the award from the institution.
  7. You sought legal counsel that resulted in the cancellation of one or more of your student loans and have an invoice for services rendered and evidence of the cancellation of the student loan or loans.

To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.

A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of noncollection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.

However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.

3Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.

4Program supplies include WCU identification card and background check.

Admission Requirements

Applicants for the program must meet the following requirements (MSN All Track Option):  

  1. Completion of the application for admission.
  2. Completion of all university admissions requirements.
  3. Completion of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an ACEN-, CCNE-, or CNEA-accredited program, with a 3.0 GPA or better.
  4. A valid and unencumbered license as a registered nurse in any U.S. state or territory in which the student is licensed, including the state in which the student completes all assignments for the program.
    1. Military, federal, and foreign-educated nurses must meet this state requirement for nursing licensure.
    2. An active and unencumbered RN license(s) must be maintained throughout the program.
    3. A domestic or foreign medical degree is not equivalent to a nursing degree.
  5. Applicants can be conditionally admitted into the first week of the program by providing unofficial transcripts or a copy of the conferred nursing degree. Official transcripts which meet the requirements set forth must be received by the end of the add/drop period to be admitted to the program.

*Applicants submitting non-U.S. or non-English transcripts should refer to the International Admissions section of the catalog

For additional requirements, please visit our catalog.

 

Program Details: Post-Master’s Certificate – Nurse Educator

Accelerated Plus Pace

Distance Education/Online

18 Credits

8 Months

2 Trimesters

Accelerated Pace

Distance Education/Online

18 Credits

16 Months

4 Trimesters

Curriculum
Course NumberCourse NameTotal Credit Hours
ELECT 199Awarded for College-Level General Education Coursework:
Up to 39 credits of transfer coursework:- Effective Spring II 2023(For Spring I 2023 Enrollment use Winter 2023 Catalog for Curriculum Information)

  • Applicants who do not have enough previous credits to complete this requirement will have the following
    options:

    • * College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
    • * Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)
    • * Prometric DSST Exams (DANTES)
    • * Advanced Placement (AP)
    • * International Baccalaureate (IB)
    • * American Credit Evaluation (ACE)
    • * National College Credit Recommendation
      Service (NCCRS)
    • * Challenge exams
39.0
BSNR 300Principles of Leadership for Healthcare Organizations3
BSNR 305Pathophysiology3
BSNR 315Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice3
BSNR 400CCommunity & Public Health Nursing I3
BSNR 405CCommunity & Public Health Nursing II3
MSNC 500Nursing Roles in Policy, Ethics, & Finance3
MSNC 505Scholarship for Advanced Nursing Practice3
MSNC 510Advanced Nursing Technologies & Collaborative Care3
MSNC 515Health Promotion and Disease Management3
MSNE 540Advanced Pathophysiology, Physical Assessment, & Pharmacology for Nurse Educators3
MSNE 600Nurse Educator Roles: Scholarship, Service, and Leadership2
MSNE 605Curriculum Design I2
MSNE 610Accreditation & Regulatory Requirements2
MSNE 615Curriculum Design II2
MSNE 620Program Assessment & Evaluation2
MSNE 625Innovative Teaching Strategies & Learning Styles2
MSNE 635CNursing Education Practice Integration Experience3
Total Credit Hours:45.0
Required At WCU45.0
Awarded for College-Level General Education Courses39.0
Awarded for Unencumbered RN Licensure and Lower Level Nursing Courses51.0
Degree Total135.0
Tuition & Financial Aid

How Much Does the Post-Master’s Nurse Educator Program Cost?

We know school is a substantial commitment. At WCU, we want to equip you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your future.

Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of post-master’s Nurse Educator online tuition costs so you can be well-informed as you navigate the application and enrollment process. To assist you in your decision, we provide a breakdown below of the post-master’s Nurse Educator certificate program costs at West Coast University.

We offer several financial aid options — including scholarships, grants, and loan access — to help support you through your studies. We also offer reduced tuition rates for military personnel and their spouses. For more information about your financial support options, visit our financial aid page.

Post Master's Nurse Educator Certificate

8 Month Academic Year
with parentsoff campus
Food & Housing$2,384$7,936
Transportation$1,648$1,648
Personal Expenses$5,392$5,392
Total$9,424$14,976

 

Prior to Spring I 2024

Accelerated*

Degree TypeCertificate
Total Program Credits 18
Program Length(full time)2 trimesters 
 Non-Military Rate Military Rate1
Tuition Cost (per credit) $680 $578
Total Tuition Cost $12,240$10,404 
STRF2$35  $30
Technology Fee3 $1,000 $1,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees4$525 $525 
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas) $13,765 $11,929
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$13,800$11,959

Working Professional*

Degree TypeCertificate
Total Program Credits18
Program Length(full time)4 trimesters
Non-Military RateMilitary Rate1
Tuition Cost(per credit)$680$578
Total Tuition Cost$12,240$10,404
STRF2$37.50$32.50
Technology Fee3$2,000$2,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees4$525$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$14,765$12,929
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$14,802.50$12,961.50

 

Effective Spring I 2024

Accelerated*

Degree TypeCertificate
Total Program Credits18
Program Length(full time)2 trimesters
Tuition Cost(per credit)$680
Total Tuition Cost$12,240
STRF2$35
Technology Fee3$1,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees4$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$13,765
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)$13,800

Working Professional*

Degree TypeCertificate
Total Program Credits18
Program Length(full time)4 trimesters
Tuition Cost(per credit)$680
Total Tuition Cost$12,240
STRF2$37.50
Technology Fee3$2,000
Estimate for Program Supply Fees4$525
Estimated Total Program Costs (Texas)$14,765
Estimated Total Program Costs (California)
$14,802.50

* Upon enrollment, students select Accelerated or Working Professional, which will determine the pace at which students complete their degree.  

1 Rate provided to Active Duty, Active Duty Spouse, Reserve, Reserve Spouse, Veterans, Veteran Spouse, Department of Defense employees, dependents utilizing parent's veteran's education benefits, and Veterans Affairs employees.  The military rate will no longer be offered after Fall II 2024.

2 Effective April 1, 2022, the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) assessment rate will be two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges.

The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.

You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.

It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 1747 N. Market Blvd. Ste 225 Sacramento, CA 95834, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.

To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:

  1. The institution, a location of the institution, or an educational program offered by the institution was closed or discontinued, and you did not choose to participate in a teach-out plan approved by the Bureau or did not complete a chosen teach-out plan approved by the Bureau.
  2. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution within the 120-day period before the closure of the institution or location of the institution or were enrolled in an educational program within the 120-day period before the program was discontinued.
  3. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution more than 120 days before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, in an educational program offered by the institution as to which the Bureau determined there was a significant decline in the quality or value of the program more than 120 days before closure.
  4. The institution has been ordered to pay a refund by the Bureau but has failed to do so.
  5. The institution has failed to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federal student loan program as required by law or has failed to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the institution in excess of tuition and other costs.
  6. You have been awarded restitution, a refund, or other monetary award by an arbitrator or court, based on a violation of this chapter by an institution or representative of an institution, but have been unable to collect the award from the institution.
  7. You sought legal counsel that resulted in the cancellation of one or more of your student loans and have an invoice for services rendered and evidence of the cancellation of the student loan or loans.

To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.

A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of noncollection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.

However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.

3 Technology Fee includes student technical support, Office 365, blended and online course delivery/learning management system, mobile app, student portal technology and access, and required electronic course materials/software.

4Program supplies include WCU identification card and background check.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the program must meet the following requirements (Post-Master’s Certificates All Track Options):

  1. Completion of the application for admission.
  2. Completion of all university admissions requirements.
  3. Completion of a Master of Science (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from an ACEN-, CCNE-, or CNEA-accredited program, with a 3.0 GPA or better.
    1. Applicants can be conditionally admitted into the program by providing unofficial transcripts or a copy of the conferred nursing degree. Official transcripts which meet the requirements set forth must be received by the end of the add/drop period to be admitted to the program.
  4. A valid and unencumbered license as a registered nurse in any U.S. state or territory in which the student is licensed, including the state in which the student completes all assignments for the program.
    1. Military, federal, and foreign-educated nurses must meet this state requirement for nursing licensure.
    2. An active and unencumbered RN license(s) must be maintained throughout the program.
    3. A domestic or foreign medical degree is not equivalent to a nursing degree.

*Applicants submitting non-U.S. or non-English transcripts should refer to the International Admissions section of the catalog.

For additional requirements, please visit our catalog.

 

Academic Calendar

New academic sessions begin, on average, every eight weeks. The number of trimesters needed depends on the program and pace selected for the Nurse Educator track. For the most updated start-to-completion schedule, view the Academic Calendar.

Clinical Placements

Find a Clinical Facility that Meets Your Needs

Need help getting placed with a preceptor and site for your clinical practicum? Our Clinical Placements team can help.

We have the resources to assist with your preceptor search and through every step in the process of setting up an agreement. You’ll have access to an assigned coordinator of clinical relations who can provide you with coaching calls, so you’re fully prepared for your clinical practice journey. West Coast University has partnerships with healthcare organizations, which is extremely valuable for our clinical placement efforts.

Career Services

Support Through Your Job Search

Once you’ve completed the Nurse Educator track, you’ll need to find a position that helps you utilize your newly developed teaching skills. That’s where our Career Services department comes in.

Providing no-cost resume workshops, interview coaching, and professional development opportunities, Career Services is here to support you for the rest of your career. Our dedicated team can help you find open roles in your field, revise applications, and reach your full potential.2

Featured Faculty

Meet the Dean

Dr. George Byron Peraza-Smith, DNP, RN, AGNP-C, GNP-BC, GS-C, CNE, FAANP

Dean/Director, DNP, RN to BSN, AGPC-NP & Graduate Specialty Programs

Dr. George Peraza-Smith is a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). He obtained his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Case Western Reserve University, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in nursing administration from the University of Texas Medical Branch. He has both a gerontological nurse practitioner post-master’s certificate from the University of South Florida and an adult nurse practitioner post-doctoral certificate from Brandman University.

Dr. Peraza-Smith is board-certified as an adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner (AGPCNP), a gerontological nurse practitioner, an APRN gerontological specialist, and a certified nurse educator. He is the immediate past president of the Florida Nurses Association and the immediate past inaugural president of the Gerontology Nursing Certification Commission (GNCC) for which he remains a trustee on the board. The GNCC offers an APRN gerontological specialist certification to distinguish APRNs who possess expert knowledge, experience, and skill in managing the complex health needs of older adults.

Dr. Peraza-Smith has been teaching in MSN and DNP online and hybrid programs for over 10 years. He has held academic leadership positions such as professor, program director, department chair, and associate dean. Dr. Peraza-Smith resides in Zephyrhills, Florida with his husband and two children.

FAQs

Is the Nurse Educator track right for me?

Our Nurse Educator tracks are designed for students who are interested in teaching nursing in either the classroom or the clinical setting. You will take courses in the principles of teaching and learning, curriculum design, and assessment in nursing education.

Will my previous coursework transfer into the Nurse Educator track programs?

We can evaluate your previous coursework for credit. Your advisor will work with you to determine which credits can transfer into your chosen program.

How long does it take to complete the Nurse Educator tracks?

We offer the Nurse Educator track in three of our programs. Time to completion will vary depending on which program and program pace you choose.

  • MSN:
    • Accelerated Plus pace — 8 months
    • Accelerated pace — 12 months
    • Working Professional pace — 24 months
  • RN to MSN:
    • Accelerated Plus pace — 16 months
    • Accelerated pace — 20 months
    • Working Professional pace — 32 months
  • Post-Master’s Certificate:
    • Accelerated Plus pace – 8 months
    • Accelerated pace – 16 months
Can I get a degree in nurse education online?

With WCU, you can complete your education with the flexibility of online learning! You access your coursework through your virtual classroom and complete all coursework remotely. When it comes to completing your clinical hours, our Clinical Placement team can help you find a facility near you.

Do you need an MSN to be a nurse educator?

To be considered for a certified nurse educator role, you will need to earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. WCU offers three programs with Nurse Educator tracks to help you earn your certification: an MSN, an RN to MSN, and a post-master’s certificate program.

Is financial aid available?

Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify. During the application process, you can talk to a dedicated financial aid advisor to review your options and find the financing solution that’s right for you. Our financial aid office is here to support you every step of the way.

WCU institutional scholarships include the WCU Performance Scholarship, WCU Health Services Partner Grant, and the Alumni Pathway Grant for WCU alumni. For additional information and eligibility requirements, please visit our scholarships and grants page on our online catalog.

How will WCU support me in my online journey?

When you study to become a nurse educator at WCU, you get one-on-one support every step of the way. This includes access to no-cost tutoring and online resources such as LinkedIn Learning. You also have a Student Success advisor you can contact whenever you need support.

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at West Coast University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 655 K Street, Suite 750, Washington DC 20001, (202) 877-6791 (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

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Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.

1 The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at West Coast University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education 655 K Street, Suite 750, Washington DC 20001, (202) 877-6791 (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

2 WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment.