The outlook for finding a high-paying job as a nurse educator is excellent after completing an LPN to RN program. In order to become a nurse educator, a candidate will need to become a registered nurse with an advanced education. The average salary for a teaching position with 6-10 years higher education in this field is about $75,000. Here are more details about this exciting career that can help other nurses.
The path to becoming an RN often begins with completing a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program, which only takes about a year. By getting a more advanced degree, such as a bachelor of science and nursing (BSN) degree, it raises the job candidate's credibility and opens them up to more opportunities. Students who enroll in a LPN to RN program, can earn an associate's degree in nursing (ADN), which should be followed by a separate RN to BSN program. Getting certified in a specialty is recommended to help improve a candidate's chances.
After students have finished their LPN to RN program, they will need to care for patients and gain extensive clinical experience, if they wish to become a nurse educator. Individuals who pursue this career path will need a master's degree in nursing. If they want to teach at the university level, they will need a doctorate degree.
Most nurse educators have spent many years as an RN before switching to a career in nursing education. There is a need for nurse educators in nursing schools and other academic settings for individuals who possess these skills:
Nurse educators may teach specialized or generalized skills. They must stay up-to-date on the fields in which they specialize. These teaching positions can lead to administrative roles, including developing education programs for nurses. Many nurses do teaching jobs on the side to earn additional income. Keep in mind that it's often expected of nurses to join professional organizations.
Some of the best places to check for nursing educator jobs are at community colleges, technical schools and health care organizations. Each organization will have its own set of positions, as some firms may have a need for clinical nurses while others need clinical supervisors. The highest paying opportunities tend to involve multi-task responsibilities, such as wearing administrative and instructive hats, as well as doing clinical work.
A typical work day for a nurse educator takes place in an office or a classroom. It involves the following activities:
The reason nursing educators are high in demand is due to a nursing shortage in the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, one million new and replacement nurses are needed by 2020. Yet, nursing colleges have had to turn away thousands of qualified applicants simply because there aren't enough nurse educators to help students become nurses.
Nursing educators are needed to help expand the nursing industry. There are plenty of opportunities for advancement in this rewarding career field. Whether it takes a few or several years to become a nurse educator, practicing as a registered nurse is part of the career path. It's a job that requires a commitment to endless education. Contact Athena Career Academy to learn more how you can get started in an LPN to RN program.