Mercy College

What you'll study

This programme combines theory and practice to prepare nurses for roles as educators in hospitals, community settings and higher education. Core themes include adult learning theory, curriculum development, assessment and evaluation, educational technologies and simulation-based teaching. Students also study research methods and evidence-based practice to inform teaching strategies and programme evaluation.

• Adult Learning and Teaching Strategies — principles of adult education, learning styles, facilitation techniques and inclusive teaching practices.
• Curriculum Design and Evaluation — course and programme design, learning outcomes, competency-based education and outcome measurement.
• Assessment and Measurement — formative and summative assessment, clinical competence assessment, test construction and feedback methods.
• Simulation and Educational Technologies — use of simulation, virtual learning environments, multimedia and instructional design for health professions education.
• Research Methods for Nursing Education — quantitative and qualitative approaches, programme evaluation, measurement and use of evidence to improve teaching.
• Leadership and Policy in Nursing Education — education leadership, faculty development, accreditation issues and regulatory considerations affecting nurse educators.
• Practicum/Clinical Teaching Experience — supervised practicum in an academic or clinical education setting where students design, deliver and evaluate teaching activities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically required to hold an accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or equivalent and possess an active registered nurse (RN) licence. The programme expects applicants to have recent clinical experience and to demonstrate readiness for graduate study.

• Completed application form and academic transcripts from previous institutions.
• Current RN licence in the relevant jurisdiction.
• Personal statement outlining educational goals and teaching interests.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé showing clinical experience and relevant professional activity.
• References from academic or professional referees who can speak to clinical competence and suitability for graduate education.
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview or to submit a teaching portfolio; additional prerequisites such as undergraduate research or statistics may be advised for those without quantitative experience.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Nursing Education master's programme commonly move into roles that combine clinical expertise with teaching and leadership. Typical career paths include:

• Academic nurse educator or faculty member in pre-licensure and post-licensure nursing programmes.
• Clinical educator or staff development specialist within hospitals, clinics and community health organisations.
• Simulation centre coordinator or instructional designer for health professions education.
• Curriculum developer, continuing professional development (CPD) coordinator, or education programme manager.
• Consultant in nursing education, professional training, or workforce development, and preparation for doctoral study (PhD/EdD) for those pursuing research and higher-level academic careers.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a supportive learning environment with experienced faculty who combine academic and clinical expertise. The programme emphasises practical teaching experience through supervised practicums and benefits from partnerships with regional healthcare providers, providing opportunities to teach in real clinical settings.

Students can expect access to contemporary simulation facilities and educational technology resources, as well as flexible delivery options to accommodate working nurses. The college’s focus on community engagement and professional development helps graduates transition into educator roles across a variety of practice settings.