Nursing Education | Accelerated Online

Program Type
Certificate of Graduate Study (Online)
Credential
Certificate of Graduate Study
Mode of Study
Accelerated Online
School
School of Nursing

Earn your post-master’s certificate in as few as 6 months

Our comprehensive online coursework includes educational foundations, instructional methods, program assessment and evaluation, and curriculum development. You’ll also gain real-world experience through a culminating in-person practicum.

Program requirements
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E-tuition & fees

Costs include tuition & fees. All students receive our e-tuition rate. See cost details

Credit hours

21 required credit hours. Each course equals 3 credit hours. Browse course list

Program duration

Finish in as few as 6 months. Explore program requirements

Admissions

6 entry terms per year. No GRE required. View application process & deadlines

Program highlights

  • Balance your schedule while completing your certificate: Complete coursework from wherever you are with our accelerated online program.
  • Begin as soon as you’re ready: Choose from 6 start dates throughout the year.
  • Save money with affordable tuition: Out-of-state students are eligible for reduced e-tuition.
  • Receive personalized support from our easily accessible staff and faculty.
  • Develop skills needed to educate current and future nurses in an academic setting.
  • Benefit from faculty expertise: We offer a diverse range of clinical and educational backgrounds to support your progress.
  • Qualify to sit for the National League of Nursing Certified Nurse Educator exam.
Students walk down the sidewalk by Wishcamper Center on the Portland campus on a sunny day.

Admission information: Nursing Education Certificate of Graduate Study | Online

Application deadlines & program start dates

Choose from 6 start dates per year.

SessionApplication deadlineProgram start date
Spring 2025 term: Session 1January 2, 2025January 21, 2025
Spring 2025 term: Session 2March 5, 2025March 24, 2025
Summer 2025 term: Session 1April 30, 2025May 19, 2025
Summer 2025 term: Session 2June 18, 2025July 1, 2025
Fall 2025 term: Session 1August 13, 2025September 2, 2025
Fall 2025 term: Session 2October 8, 2025October 27, 2025

Each student’s application for admission will be evaluated based on a composite of the following recommended standards:

  • A baccalaureate degree with a major in nursing from a degree program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the National League for Nursing.
  • Minimum undergraduate cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or a B average.
  • RN licensure — unencumbered and current licensure in the state in which practicum will be completed.
  • Undergraduate Statistics course with a grade of C or better.
  • Students with a GPA less than 3.0 may submit GRE or MAT scores to be considered.

Applicants are required to provide the following materials:

General requirements

  • Application: Online application
  • Application fee:
    • In-state, out-of-state, and Canadian applicants: Free to apply
    • International applicants: Submit US $50 fee to apply
  • Transcripts: Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, excluding the seven campuses of the University of Maine System (UMS transcripts are accessible to USM). A transcript is official when sent directly from the institution.
  • Resume: Submit a resume or CV that outlines professional, volunteer, and community experience.
  • Students whose first language is not English may be required to take one of the following: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Pearson Test of English (PTE) or Duolingo. Applicants must submit official scores as part of the application process. See additional information regarding test scores and requirements.

Additional requirements

  • Essay/Personal Statement addressing the following:
    • Demonstrate your understanding of the nurse administrator/educator role and reasons for becoming a nurse leader.
    • Explain your professional goals that will be supported by the Master of Science degree.
    • Outline the experiences, capacity, and abilities brought to a master’s program.
    • Document your reasons for choosing the University of Southern Maine for this program.
  • Evidence (photocopy or PDF) of an unencumbered registered nurse license.

What are the English proficiency test score requirements?

Where do I send my application materials?

Learn more about our online Certificate of Graduate Study in Nursing Education

Future degree planning

The credits you earn through this certificate program can be applied to our Master’s in Nursing Education. Some restrictions may apply.

View program details
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Dedicated faculty

Our Phd and DNP faculty are active in research and policy issues at the state and national level, are board members of state and national nursing associations, and frequently publish in leading nursing journals.

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Next steps

Our graduate admissions counselors are here to answer your questions about the admissions process, our academic programs, and student support services.

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