Certificate in Nursing Education

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The online graduate certificate in nursing education (GCNE) prepares registered nurses to work in education roles in colleges, universities, and clinical settings. 

The GCNE consists of a flexible, five-course (15-credit) program of study focused on the knowledge and skills required to teach nursing. All nursing courses are offered online, and the capstone teaching practicum takes place in a classroom, clinical site, skills laboratory, or community education setting.

The curriculum includes: 

  • two required core nursing courses

  • two electives in education

  • a capstone teaching practicum

Eligibility is extended to: 

  • students in UMass Amherst’s clinical nurse leader (MS-CNL), doctor of nursing practice (DNP), or other PhD programs

  • registered nurses and nursing faculty who are not enrolled in another UMass Amherst program but who wish to develop and enhance their teaching skills

Students who complete the GCNE program and have a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing are qualified to take the National League for Nursing (NLN) Certification for Nurse Educators exam.

Application information & deadlines

Please consult the program.

Nursing Education

Advance from registered nurse to educator as you develop your skills to take on teaching roles in colleges, universities, and clinical settings.