Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate
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.
For the MSN-prepared nurse, the curriculum focuses on cultivating advanced competence and confidence in teaching and learning theories, preparing them for the rigors of the classroom, clinical education roles, or staff development. Additionally, BSN-prepared RNs may utilize these courses to gain value-added expertise in their current practice, serving as a strategic introduction to graduate-level study. 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.
Disclaimer: The Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate is not awarded en route to or concurrently with the MSN Education degree at SWAU. However, a student who has earned the Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate at SWAU may elect to apply those credits toward the requirements for the full MSN Education degree.
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.
Student Support Services
SWAUOnline will provide certificate students with a full range of student services appropriate to support the program, including admissions, academic advising, registration, and course materials.
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 of 80% (B) or higher in each required course.
- 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.
Graduate Nurse Educator Certificate
The curriculum is designed to provide foundational expertise in pedagogical theory and curriculum design. All certificate students complete the following core courses:
Additional Requirement for BSN-Prepared Nurses
BSN-prepared students must first complete the NURS 500 course prior to other courses, as this acquaints student with graduate-level learning processes and requirements.