MSNUED · Current · 36 CUs
Master of Science, Nursing - Education
Source: WGU Program Guide·v202003·8/4/23
About This Degree
WGU Catalog 2026-03The Master of Science in Nursing, Education degree is a competency-based program that prepares graduates to be academic nurse educators in various educational and practice settings. Graduates are prepared to lead collaborative academic-practice partnerships to strengthen nursing practice by developing nurses who will lead and advance health in diverse populations. As academic nurse educators, graduates demonstrate a professional presence by helping nursing students acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies to work effectively in inter-professional teams across a variety of academic and healthcare settings. The WGU Master of Science in Nursing Education content is based on national standards and evidence-based research related to effective teaching, learning, curriculum design and development and nursing role development. It provides the knowledge and skills that enable educators to teach effectively in clinical and lab, online, hybrid, virtual and classroom learning environments. The content, resources, activities, and assessments in this program are consistent with recommendations from American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), The Essentials of Master's Education in Nursing (2011) and the National League for Nursing (NLN), Scope of Practice for Academic Nurse Educators (2012). The hallmarks of our program include: (a) authentic learning experiences, b) evidence-based course preparation, and c) self-paced learning in an asynchronous online learning environment. Developing context-based curriculum, objectives, and learning materials are an essential aspect of an academic educator role. MSN Education graduates will experience theoretical applications and practical perspectives regarding learning styles, the development and socialization of learners, strategies to facilitate learning, and contemporary design and development of high-quality courses and assessments.
Official catalog text — WGU-authored.
Degree History
First offered2017-01StatusCurrentCUs36
College of Health Professions→Leavitt School of Health
Program Learning Outcomes
WGU Catalog 2026-03Official WGU-authored outcomes from the catalog Program Outcomes section.
- •The graduate will develop advanced clinical judgment and comprehensive health assessment abilities. They will be proficient in assessing the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of patients, using current and innovative techniques to provide holistic care. This includes the ability to critically analyze cultural and lifestyle factors impacting patient health.
- •The graduate will be equipped with leadership skills necessary for influencing positive change in healthcare settings. They will be able to differentiate between leadership and management principles, apply them across various healthcare environments, and engage in continuous professional growth. This includes fostering resilience, self-care, and cultural competence in their practice.
- •The graduate will be able to apply evidence-based practices to improve patient outcomes and healthcare quality. They will demonstrate the ability to conduct research, perform literature reviews, and implement evidence-based standards of practice, differentiating them from conventional methods. This competency also includes understanding the ethics of nursing research and patient-centered care.
Areas of Study
2 groups · 15 coursesCourse groups from the WGU Program Guide. Expand each group to see course descriptions and competencies.
Course Roster (15 courses)
WGU Catalog 2026-03Term 1
Term 2
Term 3
Total: 36 CUs across 15 courses. Degree total per catalog: 36 CUs.