Why SHU?
Sacred Heart University Nursing program is a leader in the preparation of nurse administrators, family nurse practitioners and clinical nurse leaders in the state. In 2007, we added a new option for students to advance their knowledge and skills in nursing education. In agreement with national thinking we believe that nurses who teach must have advanced expert knowledge in a content area. Thus, we designed a certificate program that will complement clinical expertise with skills in teaching and learning and theory strategies, an understanding of issues in nursing education, application of curriculum design and evaluation theory, and experience in the role of the faculty.

What the degree prepares you for:
This certificate will develop the student’s knowledge and skills in education to apply to practice as a faculty member in schools of nursing or positions in educational departments in hospitals or other healthcare organizations. With some limited exceptions to be employed in a school of nursing in the State of Connecticut, you must hold an MSN in accord with the State Board of Nursing Regulations.

Course work
This Certificate in Nursing Education is a 10 credit course sequence covering educational theory and curriculum design and evaluation, culminating in a role practicum experience. 

Students in the program can be either enrolled SHU students in the RN to BSN or MSN programs or new students enrolled in the certificate program only.  For SHU students, the courses may be taken as electives and will be planned with their faculty advisor within the existing plan of study. Students who are enrolled as non-degree students in the certificate program will be admitted each September and can complete the certificate in 9 months.

This certificate in Nursing Education can be awarded as either an undergraduate certificate for nurses holding a BSN or as a graduate certificate for Post Masters students. Credits will be awarded at either the graduate or undergraduate level depending on the educational background of the student. Credits can be applied to a degree if the student is accepted in and enrolls within 3 years of completing the certificate.

This program is available only online. Some courses are offered exclusively online whereas others are offered both on campus and online.

Admission Criteria

A. Students enrolled at SHU or enrolling for a degree in the following programs:

1. RN-BSN
2. RN-MSN
3. MSN students in any track

*Certificate will be awarded at completion of degree and the 10 credits

B. Registered nurses not enrolling at SHU and completing the certificate program only:

1. BSN
2. MSN
3. Applicants with a BA/BS in another field will be evaluated by the Program chair

The applicant for admission must submit a completed application, an official transcript showing highest degree earned and a current RN license or current license in state of professional practice.