Top 11 Clinical Instructor Certifications

Certifications for a clinical instructor are important for the job market because they demonstrate the individual’s qualifications, knowledge and expertise in their field. Employers want to hire qualified professionals who have the skills necessary to teach and mentor other healthcare professionals. Having certifications also shows that the individual is dedicated to staying current with best practices and standards in healthcare education. Certifications can also open doors to increased career opportunities, such as teaching positions at universities or research institutions. In addition, certifications help prove that a clinical instructor has met certain requirements, such as passing examinations or completing continuing education courses. This gives employers confidence that they are hiring a knowledgeable and competent professional.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Clinical Instructors and explains how they can enhance a Clinical Instructor's career.

What are Clinical Instructor Certifications?

Clinical instructor certification is a professional credential awarded to individuals who demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to teach clinical courses in healthcare settings. This certification is widely accepted by employers and other organizations as evidence of an individual’s expertise in teaching clinical courses. Clinical instructors are typically required to have at least two years of experience in the field of healthcare or teaching before they can be certified.

Having a clinical instructor certification can provide many benefits for those looking to teach in a healthcare setting. It provides recognition and validation of their qualifications, making them more attractive to employers and educational institutions. It also allows them to network with other professionals in the field and gain access to resources that can help further their career goals. Additionally, having this credential demonstrates that an individual has a commitment to lifelong learning and staying up-to-date on best practices for teaching clinical courses. Finally, it makes it easier for employers and organizations to assess the qualifications of potential hires when evaluating candidates for teaching positions.

Pro Tip: Clinical instructor certification is an important step for any healthcare professional who wants to teach in a clinical setting. Make sure to do your research and find the appropriate certification program that meets your needs and requirements before signing up for it. Also, look for programs that provide support throughout the process and offer continuing education opportunities to help keep your skills current.

Related: What does a Clinical Instructor do?

Top 11 Clinical Instructor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Clinical Instructors today.

1. Certified Clinical Instructor (CCI)

Certified Clinical Instructor (CCI) is a credential offered by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). The CCI certification recognizes nurses who have achieved excellence in their clinical practice and are committed to providing quality care for their patients.

The CCI certification requires nurses to demonstrate knowledge and skills in areas such as patient assessment, critical thinking, communication, patient safety, and professional development. To become certified, nurses must complete an approved program that includes a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education in topics related to the CCI core competencies.

In addition to completing the program requirements, nurses must also pass a written examination administered by AACN. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as patient assessment, critical thinking, communication, patient safety, and professional development. The exam fee is $200 USD.

Once a nurse has successfully completed the program requirements and passed the written examination, they will receive their CCI certification from AACN. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking additional continuing education courses or retaking the exam.

2. Certified Medical Education Instructor (CMEI)

Certified Medical Education Instructor (CMEI) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in medical education. It is offered by the American Association of Medical Education (AAMED). The certification is designed to provide recognition for those who demonstrate expertise in teaching, curriculum development, and assessment in medical education.

The CMEI program consists of three components: an online self-assessment, a written exam, and an oral examination. The online self-assessment is designed to assess knowledge related to medical education principles and practices. The written exam covers topics such as curriculum development, instruction techniques, assessment strategies, and educational leadership. Finally, the oral examination focuses on the candidate’s ability to communicate effectively with students and colleagues.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the entire CMEI program. To get started, candidates must submit an application form along with transcripts from their undergraduate or graduate degree programs. Once accepted into the program, candidates must complete the online self-assessment component before taking the written exam and oral examination.

The cost of obtaining CMEI certification varies depending on factors such as location and institution offering the program. Generally speaking, however, most programs will cost between $1,000 - $2,000 USD for all three components of the program combined.

3. Certified Nursing Education Instructor (CNIE)

Certified Nursing Education Instructor (CNIE) is a credential offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). It is designed to recognize nurses who have achieved excellence in teaching nursing education. The CNIE credential is intended for those who are currently teaching or have taught in an accredited nursing education program.

The process of obtaining the CNIE credential involves completing an application, providing evidence of current licensure as a registered nurse, and submitting a portfolio that demonstrates knowledge and experience related to teaching nursing education. The portfolio must include documentation of at least two years of experience teaching in an accredited nursing education program, evidence of professional development activities related to teaching, and examples of student evaluations.

It typically takes 6-8 weeks to receive the CNIE credential once all requirements have been met. The cost of obtaining the CNIE credential is $295 for ANCC members and $395 for non-members.

4. Certified Physician Assistant Education Instructor (CPEI)

Certified Physician Assistant Education Instructor (CPEI) is a certification program for physician assistants who are interested in teaching in an academic setting. It is offered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). The certification requires completion of a two-day CPEI course and passing of the CPEI exam.

The CPEI course covers topics such as teaching strategies, curriculum design, assessment methods, and student learning. It also provides guidance on how to effectively teach physician assistant students. The course can be taken either online or in person at an approved training site.

The cost of the CPEI course and exam varies depending on the provider offering it, but typically ranges from $400-$600. There are no prerequisites required to take the CPEI course and exam; however, applicants must have a valid PA license and at least two years of experience working as a PA before they can become certified.

Once an applicant passes the CPEI exam, they will be awarded a certificate that is valid for five years. After five years, PAs must complete additional continuing education credits to maintain their certification status.

5. American Association of Critical Care Nurses Clinical Instructor Certification (AACN-CIC)

The American Association of Critical Care Nurses Clinical Instructor Certification (AACN-CIC) is a certification that recognizes nurses who have demonstrated excellence in the teaching and instruction of critical care nursing. It is designed to recognize those nurses who have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively teach and mentor critical care nurses. The AACN-CIC certification is valid for three years from the date of issue.

To obtain the AACN-CIC certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having a current RN license, a minimum of two years of experience as a critical care nurse, completion of an approved CCRN or PCCN review course within the past five years, and completion of an approved AACN Clinical Instructor Course within the past five years. Applicants must also successfully complete a written examination that covers topics such as clinical teaching principles, educational strategies, evaluation techniques, and professional development.

The cost to obtain the AACN-CIC certification varies depending on whether or not you are an AACN member. For non-members, the cost is $400; for members it is $250. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the required courses or review courses needed to meet eligibility requirements.

6. National League for Nursing Clinical Nurse Educator Certification (NLN-CNE)

The National League for Nursing Clinical Nurse Educator Certification (NLN-CNE) is a certification program designed to recognize nurse educators who demonstrate excellence in their practice. This certification program is administered by the National League for Nursing (NLN), a professional organization that promotes excellence in nursing education.

To be eligible for the NLN-CNE certification, applicants must have a current, unrestricted RN license and two years of experience as an educator in a nursing program or equivalent. They must also hold at least a master’s degree in nursing or an equivalent field of study from an accredited institution.

The process of obtaining the NLN-CNE certification includes completing an online application, submitting required documents such as transcripts and proof of licensure, and taking and passing the NLN-CNE exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as curriculum design, instructional strategies, evaluation methods, and legal/ethical issues related to nursing education. It typically takes between three to five hours to complete the exam.

The cost of obtaining the NLN-CNE certification varies depending on several factors such as whether you are already an NLN member or not. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 for non-members and $300-$400 for members. This fee covers the cost of registration, testing fees, and any additional materials needed to complete the process.

7. American College of Nurse Practitioners Clinical Instructor Certification (ACNP-CI)

The American College of Nurse Practitioners Clinical Instructor Certification (ACNP-CI) is a certification program designed to recognize nurse practitioners who have demonstrated excellence in clinical teaching. It is the only national certification program for nurse practitioner educators. The ACNP-CI certification requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge and skills related to teaching, evaluation, and curriculum development in order to be eligible for certification.

To qualify for the ACNP-CI certification, applicants must hold an active license as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in their state or jurisdiction, have at least two years of full-time NP practice experience, and have completed at least two years of full-time NP teaching experience within the past five years. In addition, applicants must submit evidence of successful completion of an approved course on teaching and learning theory or its equivalent.

The ACNP-CI certification process typically takes four to six months from application submission to receiving your certificate. The cost for the ACNP-CI exam is $350 USD plus applicable taxes and fees.

8. American Academy of Physician Assistants Clinical Educator Certification (AAPA-CE)

The American Academy of Physician Assistants Clinical Educator Certification (AAPA-CE) is a certification program that recognizes the expertise and experience of physician assistants (PAs) in teaching and educating medical students, residents, fellows, and other healthcare professionals. It is designed to ensure that PAs who have achieved this level of expertise are recognized for their contributions to the education of future healthcare providers. The AAPA-CE certification requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities related to educational theory, curriculum design and development, assessment methods, instructional strategies, evaluation techniques, and professionalism in teaching.

In order to obtain the AAPA-CE certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including: having a current National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) certification; having at least three years of clinical practice as a PA; completing at least 20 hours of continuing medical education in the area of clinical education within the last five years; submitting two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s work as an educator; passing a written examination administered by AAPA; and paying an application fee.

The process typically takes 4-6 months from start to finish. The cost for the AAPA-CE certification is $400 for members ($500 for nonmembers).

9. Advanced Cardiac Life Support Clinical Instructor Certification (ACLS-CI)

Advanced Cardiac Life Support Clinical Instructor Certification (ACLS-CI) is a certification program designed to train healthcare professionals in the advanced techniques of resuscitating patients who are experiencing cardiac arrest. It is a comprehensive training program that covers the latest protocols and guidelines for managing cardiac arrest, as well as teaching best practices for providing high quality care to patients. The certification requires successful completion of both a written exam and a skills assessment.

The ACLS-CI certification is valid for two years from the date of issue, and can be renewed by completing an online renewal course. To become certified, individuals must first complete an initial instructor course offered through an approved provider. This course typically takes two days to complete and includes lectures, case studies, practice sessions, and testing. After completing the initial instructor course, individuals must then pass a written exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost of obtaining ACLS-CI certification varies depending on the provider; however it typically ranges between $400-$500 USD.

10. Basic Life Support Clinical Instructor Certification (BLS-CI)

Basic Life Support Clinical Instructor Certification (BLS-CI) is a certification that allows individuals to teach BLS courses and provide instruction in the use of the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) guidelines. This certification is designed for healthcare professionals who are already certified in BLS, such as nurses, paramedics, physicians, and other healthcare providers.

The BLS-CI certification is valid for two years from the date of issue and can be renewed by completing a re-certification course every two years. The certification process typically takes four hours to complete.

To obtain the BLS-CI certification, individuals must first complete an AHA approved BLS Provider Course. After successfully completing the course, they must then attend a separate instructor course where they will learn how to teach BLS courses and become certified as a Clinical Instructor. During this course, instructors will receive training on how to effectively deliver lectures, lead skills practice sessions and evaluate student performance.

The cost of obtaining the BLS-CI certification varies depending on where you take the class and if there are any additional materials or fees associated with it. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 for both the provider course and instructor course combined.

11. Pediatric Advanced Life Support Clinical Instructor Certification (PALS-CI).

Pediatric Advanced Life Support Clinical Instructor Certification (PALS-CI) is a certification program that allows healthcare professionals to teach the American Heart Association’s Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) course. PALS is an advanced resuscitation program designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize and treat critically ill or injured infants, children, and adolescents. The PALS-CI course provides participants with the information needed to effectively teach the PALS course.

The PALS-CI certification is valid for two years from the date of issue. To obtain PALS-CI certification, applicants must complete an AHA approved instructor development course (IDC). The IDC consists of a self-directed online learning module, followed by a hands-on skills session and written exam. After successful completion of the IDC, applicants must submit an application for certification and pay a fee.

The cost of obtaining PALS-CI certification varies depending on the provider offering the IDC. Generally speaking, it costs between $200 - $400 USD to obtain this certification.

Do You Really Need a Clinical Instructor Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your career goals and the requirements of the job you are seeking. If you are looking for a job as a clinical instructor, then it is likely that many employers will require that you have a Clinical Instructor Certificate. This certificate demonstrates that you have been trained in teaching methods, communication skills, and other essential skills necessary for success in a clinical teaching role.

Having a Clinical Instructor Certificate can also help differentiate yourself from other candidates who may be applying for the same position. It shows that you have taken the time to invest in your own education and development and that you are committed to providing quality instruction to your students. Additionally, having this certification can make it easier for potential employers to evaluate your qualifications since they know that you have taken specific courses related to teaching in the medical field.

In conclusion, if you are interested in becoming a clinical instructor or working in any other role where teaching is involved, obtaining a Clinical Instructor Certificate could benefit your career prospects significantly. It indicates that you have put effort into developing your skills as an educator and it may give employers more confidence when considering your application.

Related: Clinical Instructor Resume Examples

FAQs About Clinical Instructor Certifications

Q1: What is a Clinical Instructor Certification?

A1: A Clinical Instructor Certification is a credential that recognizes an individual’s expertise in providing clinical instruction in a particular area of healthcare. This certification demonstrates that the instructor has the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality instruction to students, patients, and other healthcare professionals.

Q2: How do I become certified as a Clinical Instructor?

A2: To become certified as a Clinical Instructor, you must complete an approved program of study. Most programs require completion of coursework related to teaching methodologies, assessment strategies, and patient education. You may also need to pass an examination and demonstrate clinical competency in your area of specialization.

Q3: What types of organizations offer Clinical Instructor Certifications?

A3: Many professional organizations offer Clinical Instructor Certifications, including the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC), American Medical Association (AMA) and National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA). Each organization has its own set of requirements for certification.

Q4: How long does it take to earn a Clinical Instructor Certification?

A4: The time required to earn a Clinical Instructor Certification varies depending on the program you choose and your prior experience. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within 1-2 years if you are studying full-time.

Q5: Are there any renewal requirements for my Clinical Instructor Certification?

A5: Yes, most organizations require that you renew your certification every few years by completing continuing education courses or demonstrating clinical competency through participation in relevant activities such as research or teaching opportunities.