Are you interested in a nurse education career? Whether you pursue a clinical nurse educator certification (CNEcl) or Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) credential, you will open up a world of exciting and fulfilling nurse education jobs.
But what’s the difference? And which one is right for you? This blog post will outline the main differences between CNE and clinical nurse educator certifications so you can decide which path to pursue.
6 Big Differences Between a Clinical Nurse Educator Certification and CNE Nurse Certification
Is a clinical nurse educator job right for you, or should you pursue your CNE instead? Before you decide, learn about the six primary differences between the certifications and career paths.
Difference #1: Scope of Practice
CNEs have a broader scope of practice, while clinical nurse educators are more specialized in teaching clinical nursing courses. CNEs are certified to teach nursing courses at all levels, from pre-licensure to graduate education. Clinical nurse educators are equipped to teach clinical nursing courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Difference #2: Exam Content
The CNE exam covers the NLN Nurse Educator competencies, while the clinical nurse educator exam covers:
● Clinical teaching and learning strategies
● Assessment and evaluation
● Curriculum development
● Leadership and change management
This difference in exam content reflects the different scopes of practice for CNEs and clinical nurse educators. CNEs must have expertise in all aspects of nurse education, while clinical nurse educators specialize in clinical teaching and learning.
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Difference #3: Job Opportunities
Do you want versatility across various settings? Opt for general CNE certification. On the other hand, clinical nurse educator certification is a better match if your focus leans toward the clinical environment.
CNEs can work in a variety of settings.
● 4-year nursing programs
● Community college nursing programs
● Diploma nursing programs
● Government agencies
● Other nursing academic settings
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Clinical nurse educators typically work in clinical settings.
● Hospitals
● Health care clinics
● Long-term care facilities
● Home health agencies
● Other health care organizations
Difference #4: Salary
While salaries for each role are comparable in many areas, clinical nurse educators have a slight earning potential advantage. In the United States, salaries for certified nurse educators earn just below the national average salary for a clinical nurse educator.
Difference #5: Career Advancement Opportunities
CNEs and clinical CNEs both have plenty of room for advancement. But given the difference in scope of roles, the growth opportunities vary too.
CNEs can advance their careers by becoming the following.
● Nursing program directors
● Curriculum developers
● Educational consultants
● Nurse researchers
● Nursing deans
● University administrator
Clinical nurse educators can advance their careers by becoming the following.
● Clinical nursing education directors
● Clinical simulation specialists
● Clinical research nurses
● Nurse managers
● Patient safety specialists
● Quality improvement specialists
Difference #6: Professional Development Requirements
CNEs and clinical nurse educators must complete continuing education (CE) credits to maintain their certifications. CNEs must complete 50 renewal credits (the new requirement will be 75 credits, beginning in 2026) every five years, while clinical nurse educators must complete 75 renewal credits every five years.
Nursing conferences, workshops, and online courses are great resources for CE credits. CNEs and clinical nurse educators can also earn CE credits when they develop and present educational programs to other nurses. Dr. Sellars Educate offers several continuing education opportunities, which includes the Monthly Bootcamp Series.
Dr. Sellars Educate Is Here to Support the Path You Choose
Which certification is right for you? It depends on your career goals and interests.
No matter which certification you choose, when you work with Dr. Sellars Educate, you'll be well-prepared to succeed with nursing CNE topics, exam prep, and unparalleled support every step of the way.
Are you ready to start your journey to becoming a nurse educator?
Contact us TODAY to learn more about our CNE and clinical nurse educator certification programs.