To answer the need for nurse educators in an expanding field, Alvernia University created the MSN program. Our Master of Science in Nursing graduate program with a Nursing Education Focus is designed for professional nurses who seek a career in nursing education.
This progressive program teaches nurse educators skills they need for a variety of nursing education roles. Our students learn about instructing pre-license nursing students in classroom and clinical settings, teaching experienced RNs new skills in staff development positions, or planning totally new distance education offerings. Graduates from this program will be able to function as competent nurse educators and have the academic preparation to enter doctoral studies.
With courses running over three semesters across the calendar year, our MSN program lets you earn your degree at a steady pace. We offer a flexible schedule so nurses can continue working in a clinical practice setting while obtaining their MSN degree. Each course combines a hybrid of web-based and live classroom work to meet our students’ needs.
Most students take two classes per semester, enabling completion of the MSN degree within three years. We have a five-year course rotation schedule with at least one “Gateway” course offered every summer. These courses are suitable for students “trying out” graduate study and obtaining advanced-practice content that serves all nursing specialties.
Our engaging, dynamic faculty members are the heart of Alvernia University. The program's faculty is comprised of gifted full-time professors drawn from diverse nursing fields. MSN faculty members continually seek new ideas and resources to keep the program vibrant and relevant.
Professors are available to give personal support, both in and out of the classroom. They are attuned to the real-world experiences of our MSN students, encouraging them to use their clinical expertise and creativity throughout the program. Students receive technical and information literacy support with every course from a team of Information and Educational Technology professionals.
Alvernia University’s Nursing Department is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). For information explaining all of the benefits of earning a degree from a CCNE accredited program, please visit their website.
Gain hands-on cutting-edge strategies.The Courses that make up our graduate program are thoughtfully designed to incorporate a wide variety of educational strategies, modeling techniques that students will use as nurse educators. Our outstanding simulation laboratories and experience with technology integration will prepare you for cutting-edge, evidenced-based, teaching-learning strategies.
We understand that today’s nurse educators are required to manifest a versatile set of skills including understanding diversity, coping with constant scientific advances, and adapting to social and market changes. You will also get a chance to apply what you have learned in an educational setting with a practicum experience, and a scholarly project at the end of your course of study.
For more information about the MSN, view the curriculum required for this degree, read about the MSN program in our Graduate Brochure (PDF), learn more about our admission process, or request more information.
Mary Ellen Symanski, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Nursing
“Today’s nurse educators are required to manifest entirely new domains of knowledge and skills to prepare the next generation of nurses. Our forward-looking MSN program and expert faculty are ready to assist in meeting your goal of becoming a competent nurse educator.”
Student Profile
Heather Endy
MSN 2011, BSN 2007
Nurse Educator, Reading School of Health Sciences/School of Nursing
Robert Rice, Current MSN Student
“What has been most important to me in the MSN program is that the Nursing professors really care about their students. You can tell by their actions and words that they want us to succeed.”