Nursing Educator Courses

The MUSC College of Nursing offers courses related to education. These can be taken as electives for those enrolled in one of our graduate programs of study. Courses can also be taken by non-degree students who wish to complete these courses in order to sit for national certification as a nurse educator.

Course Descriptions

703 Instructional Processes in Nursing

Summer Only – 3 credit hours

This course provides the theoretical foundation and practical application of educational concepts for teaching. Students will be introduced to learning theories, evidence-based instructional methods, and evaluation strategies to enhance learning outcomes of diverse learners in the classroom and clinical settings. The unique learning needs of traditional and non-traditional students, learning styles, generational differences, and diversity will be addressed within the context of course design. Students will be introduced to the role of the nurse educator as change agent, leader, and scholar. Expectations of the faculty role, which include teaching, scholarship, and service will also be addressed. Prerequisite: Graduate standing

NURSM 615 Methodologies of Online Teaching

Fall Only – 3 credit hours

This course introduces students to best practices for teaching online from course development and evaluation to application of principles of interface design. Learning theories, cognitive science, and strategies to promote student persistence will be applied to online/blended teaching methods to motivate and support diverse learners. Students will be introduced to a learning management system from the educator perspective and participate in online course management activities. Technology to support various learning styles in the online environment will also be addressed. Prerequisite: NURSM 703

NURSM 713 Curriculum Development & Design

Spring Only – 3 credit hours

This course introduces students to the theoretical foundations, essential components, and accreditation standards for curriculum development at the program level. The role of outcome competencies is addressed as they apply to the development and evaluation of an educational program to meet society's diverse healthcare needs. Models of systematic program evaluation that incorporates accreditation or other outcome standards will be analyzed. Prerequisite: NURSM 703, NURSM 615.

NRPHD 800 Mentored Teaching

All Semesters – 3 credit hours

This elective course will provide students with the opportunity to work with a faculty member in order to explore the role of educator. Students will identify their learning needs and specific activities will be designed with the faculty mentor. Prerequisite courses: NURSM 703 NURSM 615 (to be taken in that order).

Certified Nurse Educator Exam

In addition to holding an active, unencumbered RN license, there are two requirement options to sit for the CNE exam, which are: