FAQ
Nursing Instructor FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a nursing instructor.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a nursing instructor: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about nursing instructors
Do nursing instructors need a doctorate?
Many have a master’s; universities increasingly want doctorates.
Is there a nursing faculty shortage?
Yes, many schools report shortages.
Do instructors work in hospitals?
Yes, supervising clinical rotations.
How much does a nursing instructor make?
The median annual wage for nursing instructors was $80,250 in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $48,800 and the highest 10% earned more than $129,500.
How long does it take to become a nursing instructor?
Most people need about 6–8 years of training. A master’s or doctoral degree in nursing and an RN license are typical; some programs accept experienced BSN nurses for clinical teaching.
Do you need a degree to be a nursing instructor?
Usually. BLS lists a doctoral degree as typical. Most nursing faculty hold a master’s (MSN) or doctorate (DNP or Ph.D.), and all need an RN license.
Is nursing instructor a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +17.1% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 8,500 openings each year. Upsides include much faster-than-average growth; a common challenge is that lower pay than some clinical roles.
What skills does a nursing instructor need?
Key technical skills include nursing expertise, clinical supervision, simulation teaching, and curriculum design. Employers also value patience, mentoring, and communication.
What certifications are available for nursing instructors?
Common credentials include RN license, Certified Nurse Educator (CNE), CNE-cl, and Specialty certification. Nursing instructors must hold an active RN license.
Still deciding?
Try the Nursing Instructor fit quiz, compare with Registered Nurse, or explore Nursing Instructor training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1072 (Nursing instructors and teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Nursing instructors and teachers, postsecondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.