The Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate at Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) is a specialized online program designed to bridge the gap between clinical expertise and pedagogical excellence. Developed in response to professional demand, this certificate provides essential tools for registered nurses to transition into formal educator roles within both academic institutions and clinical practice settings. This streamlined, flexible program consists of 3 to 4 eight-week courses and can be completed in as little as 11 months, offering an efficient pathway for nurses to expand their professional influence.
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Admission Process and Program Requirements
Admission to the Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate program follows the standard MSN admission protocol. Prospective students must submit a formal application, a current resume, and a letter of intent, along with two letters of professional recommendation.
Upon application, all students must declare their intended track:
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Cost
The MSN-Prepared RN track tuition and fees total to $4,995.
The BSN-Prepared RN track tuition and fees total to $5,995.
Curriculum & Credits
The curriculum is designed to provide foundational expertise in pedagogical theory and curriculum design. All certificate students complete the following core courses:
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NURS 530 – Teaching-Learning I (Includes 15 Professional Immersion hours)
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NURS 535 – Teaching-Learning II (Includes 15 Professional Immersion hours)
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NURS 600 – Curriculum Development & Management
Additional Requirement for BSN-Prepared Nurses
To acquaint students with the graduate nursing role, BSN-prepared applicants also complete:
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NURS 500 – Professional Identity in Nursing
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Curriculum & Credits
The curriculum is designed to provide foundational expertise in pedagogical theory and curriculum design. All certificate students complete the following core courses:
-
NURS 530 – Teaching-Learning I (Includes 15 Professional Immersion hours)
-
NURS 535 – Teaching-Learning II (Includes 15 Professional Immersion hours)
-
NURS 600 – Curriculum Development & Management
Additional Requirement for BSN-Prepared Nurses
To acquaint students with the graduate nursing role, BSN-prepared applicants also complete:
-
NURS 500 – Professional Identity in Nursing
Program Progression and Completion
Course completion is officially documented on the student’s transcript. A formal Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate is awarded upon the successful completion of all required coursework according to the following standards:
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Minimum Course Grade: 80% (B) or higher in each required course.
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Academic Standing: Maintenance of a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
Students who successfully complete the certificate remain eligible to transition into the full MSN Education degree program.
Program Progression and Completion
Course completion is officially documented on the student’s transcript. A formal Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate is awarded upon the successful completion of all required coursework according to the following standards:
-
Minimum Course Grade: 80% (B) or higher in each required course.
-
Academic Standing: Maintenance of a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
Students who successfully complete the certificate remain eligible to transition into the full MSN Education degree program.
Academic Support Services
Students taking the certificate program will have access to important academic support services including library and learning resources, and information on SWAUOnline Technology.
The SWAUOnline office will provide certificate students with a full range of student services appropriate to support the program, including admissions, academic advising, registration, and course materials.