The healthcare industry is a cornerstone of societal well-being. One of its critical components is the nursing profession. While many are familiar with nurses’ roles in patient care, a pressing demand remains lesser-known but equally essential: the need for nurse educators.
The Need for Nurse Educators
Every year, thousands of nursing students are turned away from nursing programs across the United States. This is not due to a lack of capability but because there simply aren’t enough faculty members to accommodate these prospective students’ educational needs.
According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), many qualified applicants are denied entry into nursing programs, often due to the lack of nurse educators. The shortage is so pronounced that enrollment declines have been observed in many nursing schools, raising concerns about the future of the nation’s nursing workforce.
Data from 2022 reveals that 78,191 qualified applications were denied acceptance at nursing schools nationwide. AACN’s findings also showed that faculty and preceptors were among “the primary barriers to accepting all qualified students at nursing schools.” Applications that were not accepted included:
- 66,261 from entry-level baccalaureate programs
- 1,239 from registered nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs
- 5,907 from Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs
- 4,583 from Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs
- 201 from Ph.D. nursing programs
The Solution: RN to MSN – Nurse Educator Programs
Universities, understanding the gravity of the situation, have stepped up. For instance, the online RN to MSN – Nursing Education program from William Paterson University (WP) empowers RNs with the skills and knowledge to step into educator roles. This program, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), provides a platform for experienced nurses to transition into academic or training positions, ensuring the next generation of nurses is well-prepared to meet the demands of the healthcare field.
Career Options for Nurse Educators
Many career opportunities await those with an RN to MSN – Nursing Education degree. While university roles are critical, the scope of a nurse educator extends beyond academic walls. In various medical settings, from large hospitals to community health centers, nurse educators ensure that patient care remains top-notch by training nurses in the latest best practices, including the following roles:
- University-level nursing faculty: These educators teach in undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. They develop curricula, mentor students and contribute to scholarly research.
- Staff development officer: In larger medical facilities or health systems, nurse educators often take on roles to train and develop nursing staff. This may include everything from introducing new technologies to enhancing patient care techniques.
- Nursing consultant: With their deep understanding of both the practice and teaching of nursing, nurse educators can become consultants for healthcare facilities, helping to improve patient care strategies and nursing practices.
- Researcher: Many nurse educators, backed by experience and education, dive deep into research — uncovering best practices, new techniques or patient care methodologies. Their findings often drive the future of nursing.
- Administrator: Advanced roles in nursing education management or leading nursing schools are also well-suited for those with a nursing education degree. These positions often involve overseeing educational programs, managing staff and ensuring the institution’s standards are upheld.
- Clinical nurse educator: Nurse educators in clinical roles work primarily in hospital settings and are responsible for orienting new nursing staff, providing ongoing education for existing nurses and monitoring their clinical competencies. They play a pivotal role in bridging academic learning and practical application. With the rapid evolution of medical technologies and methodologies, the role of a clinical nurse educator and similar positions is more vital than ever.
AACN’s Efforts
Understanding the pivotal role nurse educators play, AACN has actively been at the forefront of addressing the nursing faculty shortage. The organization has advocated for increased funding for nursing education, pushed for policy changes that favor the profession and initiated campaigns to highlight the importance and rewards of being a nurse educator.
We Need a Next Generation of Nurses
Nurse educators play a foundational role in shaping the future of healthcare. Training the next generation of nurses ensures that patient care standards remain high and that the nursing profession continues to evolve. For RNs considering this path, the journey promises a rewarding career and an opportunity to leave a lasting impact on the world of healthcare.
Learn more about William Paterson University’s online RN to MSN – Nursing Education program.
