From dealing with the repercussions of a global pandemic to addressing the needs of a changing population, nursing education has shifted in recent years. And the future of nursing education promises even more changes as the profession grapples with staff shortages and digital transformations.

Simulation in nursing education has become an increasingly valuable teaching tool. Not only do simulations allow students to problem-solve and apply clinical knowledge in a safe, low-stress environment, but simulated learning modules also allow students to practice what they’ve learned without needing to worry about making mistakes that could harm patients.

From virtual and online environments to hands-on learning with full-body, computer-controlled mannequins, opportunities for simulation-based training are as vast as they are beneficial.

In recent decades, a severe nursing shortage has swept the U.S. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this ongoing problem, especially in rural areas. A recent survey found that as many as 96% of regional hospitals faced nursing staff shortages. The StatPearls Journal reports that part of the issue is the lack of nurse educators. Currently, the nursing field is on the hunt for qualified nurse educators to help develop a skilled nursing workforce for the future.

With the growing nursing shortage, more clinical preceptors are needed to prepare aspiring nurses. Clinical preceptors are essential to nursing education and rely on the expertise of experienced clinicians like you.

Preceptors are needed for all levels of nursing education. Programs offering bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, doctorate degrees and post-master's certificates all rely on preceptors to provide mentorship to students.

Earning an online MSN degree is the first step to becoming a nurse educator.

Walsh’s MSN-NE program provides quality education that is online, affordable, and 100% online.

Nurse educators (NEs) are combatting the nursing shortage on the front line. NEs are experienced nurses who hold a Master of Science in Nurse Education, and who prepare future nurses to provide compassionate, safe and effective care. Educators also lead their fellow registered nurses in improving their nursing practice by helping to guide their career paths, broaden their knowledge base and keep up with evidence-based best practices. These talented nurses with a passion for teaching are an asset to the nursing profession.

The regulatory changes and fast paced advancements in medical innovation continuously challenge the healthcare system and its providers. One of the healthcare professionals who is affected the most by these whirlwind changes is the clinical nurse educator. There is little room for error when obtaining up-to-date information for staff and healthcare providers.

A Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Educator) degree allows you to channel your passion for education and quality care into a career shaping the next generation of nursing professionals. Nurse educators work in a variety of environments including academic institutions and clinical settings. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, the master’s degree–prepared nurse educator builds on baccalaureate knowledge with graduate-level content in health assessment, physiology/pathophysiology, and pharmacology.