Program Quick Facts
Convenient Class Schedule
Take classes online or in a hybrid format.
Experienced Faculty
Learn from professor-mentors with real-world expertise.
Strong Spiritual Foundation
Deepen your faith in programs taught from a Christian perspective.
Help Meet the Demand for Passionate Nurse Educators
Enhance your nursing practice, optimize care delivery and improve population outcomes — all while changing the trajectory of your personal and professional future.
The Master of Science in Nursing Nurse Educator is a dual track program for bachelor’s-prepared registered nurses, preparing you for the role of both Nurse Educator and Nurse Leader. Gain the tools and expertise needed to expertly teach patients, families, nurses, and communities regarding health, as well as perform in academic roles. The MSN program will equip you for leadership roles in healthcare management, program development, and quality improvement processes.
The MSN program integrates online courses and blended online class activities. Courses are taken one at a time, making this program ideal for busy working nurses. Our faculty is invested in your professional, personal and spiritual growth. They will fully know you and mentor you throughout your coursework and professional development.
In an effort to make a Vanguard education affordable to all students, nearly 90% of our MSN nursing graduate students receive financial aid, and all MSN program applicants are eligible for a 10% professional discount.
Career Outcomes
Did you know that we are currently experiencing a national shortage of nurse educators? That’s why the job outlook for graduates of Vanguard’s MSN programs in California and beyond is strong. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, almost 800,000 new nurses and healthcare leaders will be needed over the next decade — with 110,000 positions alone in the Golden State.
The MSN at Vanguard prepares you for advanced leadership and management positions throughout healthcare, as well as educator positions in healthcare agencies and academic settings. Our recent graduates hold titles such as:
- Nurse navigators
- Simulation laboratory educators
- Unit coordinators or directors
- University professors/clinical instructors
- Wound care specialists
Our MSN Nursing alumni also go on to advanced studies to gain Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees or pursue advanced education for specialty roles through our post-master’s psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certificate.
I really needed a program that was not only flexible, but really cared about me and my success. Vanguard is exactly that!
– Meghan Reahm, ’22
Charge Nurse Surgical Unit, Children’s Hospital of Orange
Adjunct Pediatric Clinical Instructor, Vanguard University
In the MSN Nurse Educator program, you will complete a quantitative or qualitative research thesis project that addresses the healthcare related needs of a select population or needs related to professional nursing practice. All courses are offered in an online or hybrid format except for practicum courses. .
Upon completion of the MSN program, you will be prepared to:
- Advocate for health policy changes that enhance population health and promote professional nursing practice
- Utilize emerging technologies to provide credible health information to clients, nurses and students
- Perform assessments focusing on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs of culturally diverse individuals
- Develop curriculum/teaching plan
- Support legal and ethical guidelines in all aspects of nursing practice
- Develop a thesis project using research, critical thinking and evidence-based practice principles
- Prepare to assume a senior leadership/management position and/or the role of educator in a healt care agency or college setting
- Integrate faith and lifelong learning in personal and professional life
The MSN program consists of 38-41 units that can be completed in a minimum of six semesters.
| Sample Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| NURS-610 Theoretical Frameworks of Education | 2 Credits |
| NURS-617 Use of Technology in Healthcare and Nursing Education | 2 Credits |
| NURS-621 Strategies of Simulation Learning and Instruction | 2 Credits |
| NURS-630 Curriculum and Program Development | 2 Credits |
At Vanguard University, you will experience personalized instruction paired with a strong spiritual foundation that fosters knowledge, cultivates character and deepens faith. Our Christian professor-mentors will prepare you to make meaningful contributions in your profession and community, equipping you to lead a Spirit-empowered life of Christ-centered leadership and service.
Accreditation
