School of Nursing Home

Frequently Asked Questions - Nurse Educator

Q. Do nurse educator graduates only teach in schools of nursing?

A. The nurse educator graduate may teach in a school of nursing or may work in an education department of a health care agency.

Q. Do I have to attend full time?

A.  No. The Full-time plan of study is for one year.  It is four semesters that are fall, spring, summer and fall. (It is recommended that full-time students do NOT work full-time due to intensity of study).

Q. Do I have to be techno-savvy to do the on-line program?

A.   Your technology skills should include a working knowledge of word-processing, browsing and the Internet, file upload and download.  The school will provide you with an email account on our campus system.

Q.  Do I have to buy new computer equipment?

A.  You will need a computer that is fairly up to date.  Internet access should be no less than DSL or Cable.  You will need a webcam for your computer.  A printer with scanning capability is highly recommended. You will also be required to purchase a PDA,  A letter detailing the specifications for a computer and PDA will be sent to you when your are accepted into the program.

Q.  How often do classes meet?

A. Classes meet face-to-face three to four times a semester. Dates for class meeting are published well in advance.  Class meetings are accomplished through distant learning technology from the Desoto Campus and Jackson campus of the University of Mississippi. The on-line courses are administered through the Blackboard system.

Q. What if I want to do a post-master’s in another specialty area?

A.  The core courses are the same for Nurse Educators and for Nurse Practitioners, so only courses for the Nurse Practioner specialty would be required for a post-master’s

Q.  What tuition support or monies are available for NEDS?

A.  IHL – 2 scholarships/stipends for full time students – deadlines usually are in March of each year. For more information, visit: http://www.ihl.state.ms.us/financialaid/nels-msn.html

Mississippi Nurses Foundation offers an RN stipend for full time students.  The deadlines for application are in June of each year and you must have a Nursing License Plate on a personal vehicle at the time of application. (Attached WEB link)  foundations@msnurses.org

Q. Where will teaching practice occur?

A.  Schools of nursing, hospitals, and health care agencies are utilized close to student’s home.  Students will be assigned to work one-on- one with a nurse educator preceptor for each of the three practicum’s. These three practicum’s help the student build on teaching and student evaluations and provide a firm foundation for employment.

Q. Will I only meet educator students while in the program?

A. No. There are several core courses such as Scholarly Inquiry I & II that all graduate students take together regardless of track.

Please call 1-866-842-7575 or email nsrecruiter@son.umsmed.edu with any additional questions.