Wilson College Online Blog

Registered nurses (RNs) are an essential part of patient care, but many nurses are ready to leave the profession. In 2024, nearly 40% of RNs reported they planned to retire or leave the profession within the following five years, according to a survey published in the Journal of Nursing Regulation. Without a significant number of trained professionals to replace the outgoing workforce, these projected retirements could intensify the existing nursing shortage.

Clinical instructors play a pivotal role in helping prepare the next generation of nurses, training them in the practical aspects of clinical work. However, to prepare for the role, clinical instructors must meet certain requirements, including earning an advanced degree . 

What Is a Clinical Instructor?

Clinical instructors are licensed healthcare professionals responsible for educating and mentoring student nurses. These professionals provide practical knowledge in clinical settings rather than focusing on theoretical approaches to healthcare practice. For example, they may teach students how to properly provide direct patient care. However, they also teach soft skills, such as time management skills and how to communicate with patients and their families.

Clinical instructors work in various settings, including medical and surgical centers, intensive care units (ICUs), classrooms, mental health facilities, and community health centers. Clinical instructors may specialize in a specific field or can branch out into specialties that aren’t limited to a single area of expertise, making this a flexible career option.

How to Become a Clinical Instructor

Professionals interested in becoming clinical instructors must complete the necessary education and licensure to become RNs. Afterward, they’ll need to pursue advanced education to qualify for the role.

Introductory Education and Licensure

Prospective clinical instructors must first complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or a nursing diploma program. Some employers may require a BSN, which is also required for advanced education. Those who become RNs without bachelor’s degrees can seek out RN-to-BSN programs that allow working nurses to graduate on a condensed schedule.

After completing the necessary education, prospective instructors must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This exam tests nurses’ foundational understanding of the role and its duties. Depending on state laws, nurses may also need to earn specific state licensure to qualify as RNs.

Advanced Education and Experience

After becoming licensed RNs, aspiring clinical instructors must pursue an advanced degree such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) , ideally with a concentration in education. These programs focus on the foundations of nursing education, how to evaluate nursing programs, and the best teaching practices.

In addition to educational requirements, prospective clinical instructors may need three to five years of experience in a clinical setting. They may also need hands-on experience teaching in a clinical environment. Employers may have different requirements; some may prefer more experience depending on the seniority of the role and the size of the organization.

Optional certifications such as the National League for Nursing’s Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) may also help professionals stand out to employers. Other certifications, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Nursing Professional Development–Board Certified (NPD-BC), can showcase a strong foundation in clinical knowledge that can be passed on to future students.

Clinical Instructor Salary and Job Growth

The median annual salary for postsecondary nursing instructors and teachers, including clinical instructors, was $80,780 in 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Salaries can vary by employer, depending on an applicant’s level of experience.

The job outlook for clinical instructors is strong, with the BLS projecting positions for postsecondary nursing instructors to increase by 18% between 2023 and 2033 — significantly higher than the 4% growth projected for the labor market as a whole. The BLS suggests that a high number of retiring nurses will prompt growth in the medical industry, as organizations move to hire instructors to train the next generation of nurses and other medical staff.

Prepare for a Future as a Clinical Instructor

Understanding the role of an advanced education in how to become a clinical instructor is key to embarking on a rewarding, impactful career. Prospective instructors should consider the benefits of Wilson College Online’s MSN program , which offers an Education track for future educators. The curriculum covers topics such as interpersonal dynamics, ethics and healthcare regulations, and advanced pharmacology, alongside courses on best teaching practices and developing nursing education curricula. The program also offers a Leadership and Management track for those interested in administrative or managerial careers. 

Working nurses can take advantage of the 100% online format to learn wherever and whenever works best for them. Wilson College Online’s unique program doesn’t require clinical hours, meaning that students have the freedom to advance their education while balancing work and family obligations.

Find out how you can have an impact on the future of nursing with a degree from Wilson College Online.

Recommended Readings

Can Nurses Increase Their Salary With an MSN?

MSN in Education: Curriculum and Career Opportunities

Why Earn an Advanced Degree in Nursing?

Sources:

American Nursing Association, Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC)

Earn, A Day in the Life of a Clinical Nurse Instructor or Nurse Educator

Indeed, How to Become a Clinical Instructor in Nursing in 7 Steps

Indeed, How to Become a Registered Nurse: A Complete Guide

Journal of Nursing Regulation, “The 2024 National Nursing Workforce Survey”

National League for Nursing, Certified Nurse Educator (CNE)

Together SC, Clinical Instructor Job Description

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses