Western Carolina University’s graduate studies in nursing provide students with academic and field-based experiences that lead to a Master’s of Science Degree in Nursing (MSN).
The online program prepares nurses for the role of nurse educator with competencies in three educational areas:
Location: Online
App Deadline: July 1, December 1
Semester Hours: 38-39
Part Time, 18 months
Practicums completed locally
Post-Graduate Certificate Option Available
Join us at one of our upcoming virtual Graduate School Open House events on Zoom! You'll have the opportunity to learn more about Western Carolina University, understand the Graduate School application process, and meet key program representatives.
The program admits twice per year, the Fall deadline is July 1, the Spring deadline is December 1.
A Post-Graduate Certificate Program in Nursing Education is also available to students who have earned an MSN or master’s degree in a related discipline. All academic courses are taught online. Practicum placements are available in a variety of settings in or near the students' communities.
Degree Requirements: The MS(N) Nurse Educator Program requires 38 to 39 semester hours of coursework, depending on whether the thesis or project option is selected. New students are admitted for the fall or spring semesters. The typical course load is six to nine credit hours per semester (part-time).
Certificate Requirements: The Post-Graduate Certificate Program requires 12 semester hours of study and can be completed in three semesters. The number of nurse educator students admitted is based on available faculty and clinical resources.
In order to be eligible for admission MS(N) Nurse Educator Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Post-Master's Nurse Educator Certificate Program Option
Admission requirements are the same as for the applicants for the MS(N) Program except for the following criteria:
Application to the MS(N) Program requires application to the Graduate School.
Required courses are laid out in six semesters. Nurse Educator Curriculum
Visit the Graduate School’s tuition and fee rates page for current cost information. Admitted students are required to be computer literate and either own or have regular access to a computer with a CD writer and high-speed Internet. Nurse Educator students are required to purchase a microphone and webcam for their computers. Additional expenses include textbooks at approximately $800 per year.
Program Director:
Ramona Whichello, DNP, RN, NEA-BC
Associate Professor
Core Faculty:
Amy Putnam, DNP, MSN, RN, CNE