The United States is grappling with simultaneous shortages of qualified teachers and nursing faculty. In mid‑2025 the Learning Policy Institute estimated that 365,967 classroom positions were filled by under‑qualified teachers and another 45,582 posts were vacant, meaning about one out of every eight teaching positions lacked a fully certified educator. On the nursing side, a National League for Nursing survey found that 74 % of nursing programs struggle to recruit faculty, forcing schools to turn away qualified applicants. These parallel workforce gaps have encouraged many nurses to consider careers in education.
Teaching and nursing share a common mission: both serve the public and empower people to improve their lives. Nurses bring a unique blend of clinical expertise, interpersonal skills and resilience that can enrich classrooms. At the same time, teaching offers a predictable schedule, generous vacation time and opportunities to stay engaged with health science without the physical demands of direct patient care. This article provides a comprehensive roadmap for nurses who want to transition into teaching, covering motivations, step‑by‑step guidance, career paths, salaries, job outlook, essential skills and resources.
Why Nurses Are Transitioning to Teaching
Making a career shift from nursing to teaching is becoming increasingly common as schools face critical staffing shortages. Nurses bring a unique blend of scientific knowledge, communication skills, and compassion that translates seamlessly into the classroom. For those seeking a meaningful second career, teaching offers both opportunity and fulfillment while allowing nurses to continue making a lasting impact on others.
Teacher shortages create opportunities
Nearly every state faces a shortage of qualified teachers, especially in special education, science, math and career and technical education. The Learning Policy Institute notes that in 2025 shortages existed in special education (45 states), science (41 states) and mathematics (40 states). School districts increasingly welcome professionals with subject‑matter expertise and offer alternative certification routes to get them into classrooms quickly. For nurses, this means you can leverage your knowledge of health science, biology or general science to fill high‑need teaching roles.
Nursing experience is highly valued
Nurses develop skills that are directly transferable to teaching. According to a career guide from Indeed, both nurses and teachers rely on patience, clear communication, instructional skills, problem‑solving and a commitment to lifelong learning. Nurses routinely educate patients and families about complex health issues, coordinate care with diverse teams and remain calm during emergencies. These experiences translate well to managing a classroom, designing engaging lessons and supporting students with varied learning needs.
Personal fulfillment and work–life balance
Teaching can provide nurses with a renewed sense of purpose. Educators frequently report high levels of job satisfaction because they witness students’ growth and know they are contributing to the community. Teaching also offers a more predictable schedule than many clinical positions. While starting teachers salaries average around $46,526 nationwide—lower than the $79,940 median salary for nurse educators—teachers enjoy summers off, extended holidays and pension benefits through systems like the Teacher Retirement System.
Flexible pathways make the transition possible
States recognize that career changers bring valuable skills, so many have established alternative routes into teaching. The Teachers of Tomorrow program, for example, offers online coursework, test preparation and mentorship for professionals who already hold a bachelor’s degree. In some jurisdictions, nurses can begin teaching health science courses with a provisional certificate while completing required pedagogy courses and exams. Emergency certification programs may be available in districts facing acute shortages allowing nurses to enter classrooms quickly and complete certification requirements on the job.
Weighing the Benefits and Challenges
Switching from nursing to teaching offers many benefits—foremost among them the chance to shape young minds and share your expertise. You already possess many of the traits that make for an effective educator: patience, communication skills and the ability to work under pressure. Teaching also provides high demand and job security, especially in health science and STEM subjects where shortages are severe. Summers off and a pension can improve your work–life balance and financial stability.
However, the transition is not without challenges. You will need to meet certification requirements, which can involve coursework and examinations. Classroom management differs from clinical supervision and requires practice and mentorship. Finally, salaries for entry‑level teachers may be lower than what experienced nurses earn, though benefits and opportunities for advancement help offset the difference. Understanding these pros and cons will help you make an informed decision about your career path.
Step‑by‑Step Guide: Transitioning from Nurse to Teacher
The process for becoming a teacher varies by state and intended teaching role. Generally, however, nurses follow these stages:
Step 1 – Reflect on your motivations and goals
Before enrolling in a program, clarify why you want to teach. Are you passionate about mentoring the next generation of healthcare providers, or do you want to inspire a love of science in young students? Understanding your motivations will help you select the appropriate teaching area and level. Surveys of career changers indicate that personal fulfillment and desire for impact are key drivers for entering education
Step 2 – Determine what and where you want to teach
Nursing expertise can open doors in a variety of classroom settings. In public schools, registered nurses often teach career and technical education (CTE) health science courses such as medical terminology or anatomy, while those with strong science backgrounds may lead general science, biology or health education classes. Nurses who prefer working with adults can pursue roles as clinical nurse educators, training students and new hires in hospitals or college programs; those with advanced degrees (MSN, DNP or Ph.D.) may teach at the university level and engage in research. Think carefully about the age group and environment that best fit your interests, then check your state’s certification requirements. Public K–12 schools require state licensure, whereas private schools and vocational programs sometimes have more flexible criteria.
Step 3 – Research state licensing requirements
Certification varies by state, but most public schools require a bachelor’s degree, completion of a teacher preparation program, student‑teaching experience, passing scores on content and pedagogy exams, and a background check. Your nursing degree covers the bachelor’s requirement; you must decide whether to enroll in a university‑based program or an alternative certification course. Post‑secondary teaching usually requires an advanced degree and the CNE credential. Consult your state’s education agency and nursing board for exact details.
Step 4 – Earn teaching credentials
You can earn certification through a university‑based program, which blends pedagogy courses with supervised student teaching, or through an alternative certification provider that offers flexible online coursework and grants you a provisional certificate so you can teach while finishing training. Regardless of route, you must still pass state exams and complete fieldwork. Many providers supply test preparation resources to help you succeed.
Step 5 – Pass required exams
To qualify for licensure, you must pass one or more standardized tests assessing subject knowledge and teaching skills. These may include a content exam in health or science and a pedagogy exam that evaluates classroom management and instructional strategies. If you aim to teach in higher education or clinical settings, you may need the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) credential or other specialty exams.
Step 6 – Complete student teaching or clinical practice
As part of your program, you will spend time in a classroom practicing under supervision. During this period you will plan and deliver lessons, manage student behavior and receive feedback from experienced mentors. Alternative certification programs often use your first year of teaching as your practicum, pairing you with a mentor while you hold a provisional certificate.
Step 7 – Apply for licensure and continue professional growth
Once you have finished coursework and passed exams, you can apply for your teaching license by submitting transcripts, test scores and a background check to your state’s education agency. Many districts assign mentors to help you during your first year. To maintain your license and advance your career, you will need to complete continuing education credits; you might also earn an advanced degree or certification to move into leadership roles.
Career Paths for Nurses in Education
Nursing expertise opens doors to a variety of teaching roles, both inside and outside the classroom. Whether you want to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals, guide new nurses in clinical settings, or teach science at the K-12 level, there are multiple educational pathways available. Each career path offers unique requirements, rewards, and opportunities to combine your clinical background with a passion for teaching.
CTE Health Science Teacher
These instructors teach foundational healthcare concepts to middle‑ and high‑school students. You’ll develop lesson plans and oversee lab activities, drawing on your clinical experience. A BSN and active RN license are usually required, and you may teach on a provisional certificate while completing pedagogy courses. Pay aligns with general teacher scales, and some districts offer extra stipends for high‑need subjects.
Clinical Nurse Educator
In clinical settings, nurse educators train students and new staff, develop workshops and supervise patient care. A BSN is required; many employers prefer an MSN and the CNE credential. Salaries are higher than K–12 teachers—median pay is $79,940—and demand is expected to grow rapidly.
Professor of Nursing
Professors in nursing programs teach courses and conduct research. Positions typically require a graduate degree (MSN, DNP or Ph.D.) and experience in clinical practice. Salaries vary widely by institution but can be higher than those of K–12 teachers.
K‑12 Science or Health Teacher
Some nurses choose to teach general science, biology or health in elementary or secondary schools. This path requires completing a teacher preparation program, passing subject exams and obtaining state licensure. Pay follows district scales; experienced teachers can eventually earn six‑figure salaries in some districts.
Teacher Salary and Job Outlook
Teacher pay depends on location and experience. The National Education Association lists average starting salaries around $46,526 for 2023–24. Mid‑career teachers often earn in the mid‑$50,000s, and those in large districts with advanced credentials can exceed $65,000. Though this may be less than nursing salaries, health insurance, pension plans and summer breaks improve overall compensation.
Many states offer defined‑benefit pension programs—such as the Teacher Retirement System (TRS) in Texas—that provide secure, lifetime retirement income. Districts typically subsidize health, dental and vision insurance for teachers and their families. Educators follow the academic calendar, receiving paid holidays and long summer breaks that provide time for rest, professional development or additional work. Some districts also offer loan forgiveness, signing bonuses or housing stipends to recruit teachers in high‑need subjects or underserved areas. When these benefits are considered, teaching becomes a more financially sustainable career choice than salary alone might suggest.
Demand and job outlook
Teacher shortages continue nationwide, and many states are expanding CTE and health science programs. At the same time, nursing schools struggle to find faculty. These gaps mean that nurses who earn teaching credentials can expect strong job prospects and flexibility in choosing settings—from K–12 classrooms to universities.
Essential Skills and Qualities for Nurse-Teachers
Making the transition from nursing to teaching requires more than subject expertise—it takes a blend of interpersonal, instructional, and professional qualities that allow nurses to thrive in educational settings. Many of the skills honed at the bedside translate directly to the classroom, while others become even more critical when guiding learners through complex material. Developing these strengths ensures success not just in teaching, but also in building supportive and inspiring learning environments.
Patience and empathy
Working with learners who are new to complex material requires calm guidance and compassion. Nurses are accustomed to supporting patients under stress, which helps create a positive and reassuring classroom atmosphere. This patience allows them to meet students where they are, helping build confidence as knowledge grows.
Communication and instructional skills
Teaching hinges on clear, structured communication. Nurses already explain medical concepts to patients and families, so they are well-prepared to break down lessons, scaffold learning, and collaborate with colleagues. Strong verbal and written communication also helps them design effective lesson plans and assessments.
Problem-solving and adaptability
Both professions demand quick thinking and flexibility. Nurses adjust when patients’ conditions change; teachers adapt lessons when students struggle or when technology fails. This adaptability allows nurse-teachers to maintain momentum and keep students engaged regardless of challenges.
Lifelong learning mindset
Healthcare and education evolve rapidly. Successful nurse-teachers commit to continuing education, staying current with best practices, and modeling curiosity and growth for students. This mindset not only enriches their teaching but also inspires students to value ongoing learning.
Leadership and mentorship
Nurses often coordinate care teams or train new staff, which translates into leadership in the classroom. The ability to mentor students, foster teamwork, and set high expectations helps them guide learners toward academic and personal success.
Organization and time management
Balancing lesson planning, grading, and classroom management requires exceptional organizational skills. Nurses who are already skilled at managing patient loads and documentation find these abilities critical when structuring curriculum, meeting deadlines, and maintaining work–life balance.
Emotional resilience
Just as nurses face emotionally demanding situations, teachers encounter challenges such as managing classroom behavior or supporting struggling learners. Emotional resilience helps nurse-teachers remain steady, encouraging, and effective in the face of difficulties.
Questions to Consider Before Making the Leap
Before leaving nursing for teaching, it’s important to reflect on what motivates you and whether the realities of education align with your goals. Asking yourself the right questions ensures you enter the classroom prepared and confident about the transition.
Why do I want to teach?
Clarify whether your goal is to mentor future healthcare workers, inspire young scientists, or achieve better work–life balance. Being clear on your “why” will help you stay focused during certification, adapt to the demands of teaching, and remind you of the purpose behind the career change.
Which age group suits me?
Decide if you prefer working with children, adolescents, or adults, and choose your role accordingly. For example, teaching middle or high school requires managing energy and curiosity, while higher education involves mentoring students with established career goals.
What will certification require?
Be realistic about the time, coursework, and fees involved in earning your teaching credentials. Some states offer provisional or alternative certification, but you should plan for testing, professional development, and ongoing requirements throughout your career.
Can I manage a classroom?
Reflect on your comfort level with leading a group, managing behavior, and communicating with parents. While nurses are used to handling stressful clinical situations, classroom dynamics demand consistency, structure, and patience with learners of varying abilities.
Will the salary meet my needs?
Compare teacher pay—including benefits—to your current earnings in nursing. While base salaries may be lower, additional factors like health insurance, pension programs, and summers off may balance the equation depending on your lifestyle and financial goals.
Do I enjoy continuous learning?
Teaching requires ongoing professional development and adapting to new curricula and instructional methods. If you thrive on growth and regularly updating your skills—as you do in healthcare—you’ll likely find the professional development aspect of teaching rewarding.
Am I ready for a new professional identity?
Moving from clinical practice to education will change how you see yourself and how others perceive you. This shift requires embracing the role of a mentor and guide, and finding pride in shaping minds rather than providing direct patient care.
Resources and Support Programs
Transitioning from nursing to teaching is a major career shift, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. A variety of programs and organizations provide guidance, training, and resources tailored to professionals entering education from other fields. These supports can help you meet certification requirements, build teaching skills, and access ready-to-use classroom materials.
Teachers of Tomorrow
Teachers of Tomorrow is one of the most widely recognized alternative certification programs in the U.S., designed specifically for career changers. The program offers flexible online coursework, test preparation, and one-on-one mentorship, making it possible to balance training with your current job. Many nurses use it to earn a provisional teaching certificate—allowing them to begin teaching in health science, biology, or related fields—while they complete required pedagogy courses and state exams. Teachers of Tomorrow also connects participants with hiring school districts, provides interview coaching, and offers ongoing professional support to ensure a smooth transition into the classroom.
iCEV Health Science Curriculum
iCEV provides digital curricula aligned with national and state standards, giving new teachers ready-made lesson plans, instructional videos, and assessment tools. For nurse-teachers, this resource reduces the stress of building lessons from scratch and ensures your content is both engaging and compliant with academic benchmarks.
National League for Nursing (NLN)
The NLN supports nurses moving into education by offering professional development workshops, exam prep, and certification pathways. Their transition toolkits and continuing education courses help bridge the gap between clinical expertise and effective classroom instruction.
State Education and Nursing Boards
Your state’s education and nursing boards are the definitive sources for licensure requirements, approved certification programs, and incentives like tuition assistance or loan forgiveness. Many states also provide step-by-step guidance for professionals entering education through non-traditional routes.
The convergence of teacher shortages and nursing faculty vacancies creates a unique opportunity for nurses to pursue fulfilling careers in education. Teaching enables nurses to harness their clinical knowledge and interpersonal skills to inspire future generations, while enjoying stable schedules and opportunities for personal growth. With multiple pathways—university programs, alternative certification routes and provisional licenses—nurses can transition to the classroom quickly and effectively. Salaries may be lower than advanced nursing roles, but comprehensive benefits, pension plans and summers off make education a sustainable option.
If you are a nurse considering a career change, reflect on your motivations, research state requirements, select an appropriate teaching role and leverage resources like Teachers of Tomorrow, iCEV and the National League for Nursing. By taking deliberate steps and embracing lifelong learning, you can successfully navigate the transition from nurse to teacher and contribute to solving two of our nation’s most pressing workforce shortages.
