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Job outlook for clinical educators in the United States
Clinical educator job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected clinical educator job growth rate is 6% from 2018-2028.
About 195,400 new jobs for clinical educators are projected over the next decade.
Clinical educator salaries have increased 10% for clinical educators in the last 5 years.
There are over 24,682 clinical educators currently employed in the United States.
There are 60,065 active clinical educator job openings in the US.
The average clinical educator salary is $65,929.
Are clinical educator jobs in demand?
Clinical educator job and salary trends over time
Clinical educator jobs over time
Clinical educator job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 24,682 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 24,187 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 24,153 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 23,908 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 23,542 | 0.01% |
Average clinical educator salary over time
Clinical educator salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $65,929 | $31.70 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $64,152 | $30.84 | +2.2% |
| 2023 | $62,778 | $30.18 | +2.5% |
| 2022 | $61,264 | $29.45 | +2.3% |
| 2021 | $59,908 | $28.80 | +1.4% |
Clinical educator jobs by state
Most common states for clinical educators
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 234 | 34% |
| 2 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 128 | 17% |
| 3 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 207 | 15% |
| 4 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 152 | 14% |
| 5 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 120 | 14% |
| 6 | Vermont | 623,657 | 90 | 14% |
| 7 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 143 | 13% |
| 8 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 872 | 12% |
| 9 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 498 | 12% |
| 10 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 1,084 | 11% |
| 11 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 980 | 11% |
| 12 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 640 | 11% |
| 13 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 635 | 11% |
| 14 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 412 | 11% |
| 15 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 145 | 11% |
| 16 | Delaware | 961,939 | 108 | 11% |
| 17 | California | 39,536,653 | 3,977 | 10% |
| 18 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 1,256 | 10% |
| 19 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 674 | 10% |
| 20 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 208 | 10% |
Most common cities for clinical educators
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Burlington | 2 | 8% | $81,182 |
| 2 | Glen Burnie | 4 | 6% | $71,279 |
| 3 | Beverly | 2 | 5% | $81,113 |
| 4 | Canton | 2 | 2% | $75,201 |
| 5 | Carlsbad | 2 | 2% | $85,469 |
| 6 | Clearwater | 2 | 2% | $62,443 |
| 7 | Detroit | 9 | 1% | $75,447 |
| 8 | Baltimore | 4 | 1% | $71,296 |
| 9 | Miami | 3 | 1% | $62,644 |
| 10 | Tucson | 3 | 1% | $61,926 |
| 11 | Little Rock | 2 | 1% | $59,817 |
| 12 | Phoenix | 6 | 0% | $61,889 |
| 13 | San Diego | 5 | 0% | $84,869 |
| 14 | Chicago | 4 | 0% | $65,099 |
| 15 | Boston | 3 | 0% | $81,487 |
| 16 | Los Angeles | 3 | 0% | $88,032 |
| 17 | Denver | 2 | 0% | $63,156 |
| 18 | Oakland | 2 | 0% | $94,307 |
Clinical Educator job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of clinical educator experts
Texas Tech University
Prairie View A & M University
Metropolitan State University of Denver
King's College
Aultman College
Bethel University
Stephen F. Austin State University
Cedar Crest College
San Jose State University
University of Missouri- Kansas City
College of Education and Human Development
University of Missouri
University of Central Missouri
Minnesota State University - Mankato
What Clinical Educator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Valerie Paton Ph.D.: Education is always a great profession to pursue because we have a 'learning society'. Individuals who know how to teach diverse learners are invaluable in all sectors of our society. As more corporations integrate learning goals as essential components to achieve their strategic goals, more opportunities are available for those who are expert educators, trainers, and facilitators. So education programs are transferrable across many types of leadership roles and are generating higher levels of compensation.
What will help Clinical Educators increase their earning potential?
Dr. Valerie Paton Ph.D.: There are many different types of learning leadership roles across the business sectors in the U.S. and globally. Depending upon the nature of the role, different types of skill sets are needed. If the employee is leading the learning enterprise in a global corporation and the students are employees who need specific training and professional development to achieve their goals, then the 'educator' is using teaching, facilitation, and collaboration skills to support the delivery and application of specific skills, knowledge, and attitudes. While we most often think of 'Educators' as serving as K-12 teachers, the learning leadership needs of all economic sectors are creating increased numbers of employment opportunities for education of adult learners.
What general advice would you give to a Clinical Educator?
Allyssa Harris RN, PhD, WHNP-BC: Daily, nurses with the health care team to manage and coordinate patient care which include physical assessments-assessing, observing, and evaluating the patient's response to care, administering medication and treatments, assisting with procedures, and providing health education to patients and their families. Additionally, nurses often supervise other unlicensed health care team members including licensed vocational nurses, patient care technicians (PCTs) and nursing students.
What Clinical Educator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Allyssa Harris RN, PhD, WHNP-BC: The health care system is experiencing a shortage of health care providers including nurses. Between 2020 and 2030 the need for RNs is expected to grow by 9% yearly, making the profession on of the fastest growing in the health care sector. Nurses and the care they provide will always be in demand, whether you are employed in a hospital environment or other health care setting. Furthermore, the skills that you learn as a nurse are transferrable. Nurses not only work in hospitals, but they also work in variety of settings such as health educators in business, health insurance case managers, they work in STEM industries as computer software developers, in law offices, in the travel industries on cruise lines, school settings and are business owners.
What will help Clinical Educators increase their earning potential?
Allyssa Harris RN, PhD, WHNP-BC: I can't speak for everyone but what I like about being a nurse is the ability to connect one on one with the patient and their family. Patients allow us the privilege of providing care and comfort during one of the most vulnerable times in their lives. It is the connection that we share that is the most rewarding. I believe that is this care and education that provides patients with the opportunity to make knowledgeable decisions about their health and well-being. What is most challenging about nursing is the increasing complexity of the patient care provide. Often patients enter the health care system later, having delayed care variety or reasons including lack of access, socio-economic challenges, unawareness, etc. This often increases the complexity of the care needed and nurses are required to have a broad knowledge of many things. I wouldn't say that they dislike the nursing profession, but the work is challenging.
What Clinical Educator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Alison Alaimo MSN, RN: Nurses spend their days or nights assisting clients and their loved ones on their healthcare journeys. They possess a variety of tools and knowledge in which to do this. They assess and monitor patients, which is often a very dynamic process. They are trained to provide emergency response treatment. They administer medications and perform various aspects of patient care. They provide education to patients and loved ones and advocate for patients' rights and needs. Nurses maintained detailed documentation on all information pertaining to patients. They also work closely as a member of an interdisciplinary healthcare team. Finally, they also maintain their own professional development as changes in healthcare are frequent and/or they are interested in pursuing advanced degrees or certifications. Nurses work tirelessly to promote positive patient outcomes
Dr. Theresa Buxton PhD, RN, CNE
Nursing Department ChairMetropolitan State University of Denver
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
What Clinical Educator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Theresa Buxton PhD, RN, CNE: Obtaining a minimum of a baccalaureate degree in nursing is the first step in advancing your salary potential if you decide on a career path of advanced practice or further graduate education.
Dr. Karen Macey-Stewart DNP, A-GNP-C, PMGT-BC
Undergraduate Program Director, Professor of PracticeWhat will help Clinical Educators increase their earning potential?
Dr. Karen Macey-Stewart DNP, A-GNP-C, PMGT-BC: One of the best pieces of advice I can offer is to seize every opportunity that comes your way. Get involved in committee work, volunteer your time, and mentor those who are following in your footsteps. Don't limit your education to just a BSN or MSN degree; strive to obtain the highest degree possible. Lastly, join nursing organizations that align with your passions, and stay up-to-date with policy changes both locally and on a federal level. Remember, every policy impacts healthcare and nursing in many ways. Don't be afraid; we are the most trusted profession for a reason!
What general advice would you give to a Clinical Educator?
Natalie Heywood DNP, RN, CNE: I encourage new graduate nurses to embrace their first role and lean into the opportunity they have to ask questions, ask for more time on certain skills or patients, and make connections with their RN colleagues to develop mentorship relationships. I also recommend that new graduate nurses create a community both within their clinical setting with fellow new grads, experienced nurses/mentors, and other healthcare team members, as well as at home create that same community to support them. The first few years of a new nurses career lays the foundation for the rest of their career, so it's important to give yourself grace as you learn & build your confidence. A final piece of advice is to prioritize your mental health and well-being. You can't take care of others if you neglect yourself so find ways to balance your needs with the demands of your job, family and other responsibilities. This will be so important throughout your entire career, not just at the beginning.
What Clinical Educator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Natalie Heywood DNP, RN, CNE: When you are first starting as a nurse, it will be important to find a role that fits best for you. This could be in terms of the facility, unit, leadership, etc. To increase your salary potential as a nurse, you can focus on earning specialty certification for your area of specialization. An example of this would be an emergency room nurse earning their Certified Emergency Nurse (CNE) or an ICU nurse earning their Critical Care Certified Nurse (CCRN). In order to take these specialty exams, you usually need 2+ years of bedside practice. I recommend taking those first two years of your career to focus on gaining confidence in the RN role. Additionally, nurses can also look at furthering their education, through earning a graduate degree in nursing, which opens up opportunities including education and leadership roles. Many MSN-prepared nurses also work bedside.
Dara Soljaga Ph.D.
Associate Dean of EducationKing's College
Education Department
What skills stand out on Clinical Educator resumes?
Dara Soljaga Ph.D.: I find compassion, communication, collaboration, and accountability stand out the most for me on educator resumes.
What skills stand out on Clinical Educator resumes?
Jo Ann Donnenwirth: When reviewing resumes, it is always important to view clinical experiences, specialty areas, technical skills (including educational platforms), online teaching, and various course content delivery methods.
Jessica Tangen Daniels Ph.D.
Associate Provost - Innovation and Partnerships, Program Director/Professor, Ed.D. Leadership in Higher EducationBethel University
Education Leadership
What experience really stands out on Clinical Educator resumes?
Jessica Tangen Daniels Ph.D.: Resume advice can be challenging because a resume review and hiring committee evaluation can be so subjective. Experience in grant writing is always considered valuable, as is (evidenced) ability to analyze data and research and develop data-driven recommendations critically. However, documenting this experience in a compelling and interpretable way is also necessary, which reiterates the importance of researching the hiring organization, role, stakeholders, and perhaps even the search committee members - so that the applicant is best able to translate their experiences into a relevant context.
Further, stand-out experiences will significantly differ, based on their role and context. For example, Dr. Ayrn Baxter, a professor in our program and also an administrator from the University of Idaho and Arizona State University, reminds us about the importance of understanding the shared challenges and contributions/potential synergies between domestic equity and diversity work in higher education and the creation of international educators facilitating internationalization and global engagement.
Shannon Darst Ph.D.
Program Facilitator & Assistant ProfessorStephen F. Austin State University
Perkins College of Education
How have salaries changed over time for Clinical Educators?
Shannon Darst Ph.D.: The answer to this question depends on area of expertise and location of the hiring university. If one is seeking a Clinical Instructor position in a field like medicine, technology, or business, for example, salaries have continued to increase with the need for more professionals in these areas. If one is seeking a Clinical Instructor in a field like education, on the other hand, salaries have mostly remained steady and plateaued at a median salary when compared to other fields, especially in certain parts of the country. I have been in the field of visual impairment, and one trend I noticed in my state is that many teachers who work in public school districts earn higher salaries than some university clinical instructors. This has made for some very interesting dynamics in the world of higher education, as many qualified Clinical Instructors in the field of education may seek a traditional teaching position rather than teaching at a university solely because universities are tending to offer less in terms in salaries to those in the field of education than other fields.
Wendy Robb Ph.D.
Dean & Professor, School of Nursing, Hazel and Walter May Nursing Endowed Chair for Excellence in NursingCedar Crest College
School of Nursing
What general advice would you give to a Clinical Educator?
Wendy Robb Ph.D.: I encourage all new nurses to embrace learning and be patient with yourself. Moving from the role of expert student nurse to novice graduate nurse and registered nurse is a complex process that will challenge new nurses. Stay curious and open to new learnings. This period of transition requires patience, and grace to allow new nurses to grow and develop expertise. It won't come immediately. Prioritize your health and mental wellness by making yourself a priority. Taking care of others requires you to be at your best. Find activities that refresh and recharge your energy. Nursing is a team sport so seek to build relationships with your colleagues that foster your success and will be an invaluable source of support and knowledge. Seek mentorship from experienced nurses who can guide you as you navigate your career. Remember that every patient and family encounter is an opportunity to learn and grow. Stay humble and acknowledge your willingness to grow. Take pride in the little successes, as well as the big ones!
What Clinical Educator skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Wendy Robb Ph.D.: Over the next 3 to 5 years, nurses will require complex skills related to technology integration in healthcare. This will be in the form of electronic health records and platforms for telehealth. As the landscape of healthcare continues to change at a rapid pace, adaptability and resilience will be essential to nurses' success. The nursing profession must commit to addressing cultural competence, diversity, inclusion, belonging, and social determinants of health to provide equitable care to an increasingly diverse population.
What general advice would you give to a Clinical Educator?
Michelle Hampton Ph.D.: For a reason stated above, students graduating during the pandemic are doing so with less clinical experience than students usually do. Nurse educators have worked to supplement with simulation training, but the fact remains that new graduates in the COVID-19 era will require more on-the-job training and support. They will need mentors and resources in the early months of their new positions - this is required, even outside of the pandemic, to provide safe and effective care and continue the learning process. I would advise students to ask about the availability of resources and mentorship if interviewing for a position.
And, if they accept a job with limited resources, I would encourage them to find informal mentors outside of the clinical setting to support them. One of the biggest challenges for new graduates is figuring out what you don't know - and the potential risks if you don't get help in those circumstances. For that reason, I hope that every new graduate RN will be able to identify a mentor that they feel comfortable enough to ask questions and consult if they are unsure about how to interpret physical assessment findings, lab or diagnostic test results, and what to do when the results are concerning to them.
It sounds simple enough, but finding a resource person like this is not a given. Considering how busy the rest of the staff must be at this point, and lateral and interprofessional incivility, new graduates might feel isolated and uncertain about their skills and practice competency. Supporting them can bolster staffing capacity and save patient lives.
Dr. Erik Olsen Ph.D.
Department Chair, Associate ProfessorUniversity of Missouri- Kansas City
College of Arts and Sciences
What experience really stands out on Clinical Educator resumes?
Dr. Erik Olsen Ph.D.: In my professional experience, outside of academia, employers were interested in good applied skills. Experience analyzing real-world data is precious, so having demonstrated skill in this area is very valuable. This can be gained through internships with companies or on-campus through applied research projects or work-study jobs in research labs, etc. Good writing skills are also essential. Useful analytics is useless unless the results can be conveyed effectively.
Dr. Belinda Flores Ph.D.
Associate Dean of Professional Preparation & Partnerships, Professor, Department of Bicultural-Bilingual Studies, Principal Investigator & Founder, Academy for Teacher Excellence Research CenterCollege of Education and Human Development
Bicultural-Bilingual Studies
What experience really stands out on Clinical Educator resumes?
Dr. Belinda Flores Ph.D.: In addition to completing degree and certification requirements, employers want to see robust communication skills, digital literacy, and community engagement.
Dr. Stephen Graves Ph.D
Director of Undergraduate Studies, Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Missouri
Department of Black Studies
What experience really stands out on Clinical Educator resumes?
Dr. Stephen Graves Ph.D: The experience that stands out on resumes is service and extracurricular activities, like internships and any student's jobs. There will be many students who work while going to college, but those who used that opportunity to find employment or internships that are closely related to their future career go a long way.
Dr. Klaire Brumbaugh
Assistant Professor, Director of Clinical ServicesUniversity of Central Missouri
Department of Communication Disorders
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Clinical Educators to find work opportunities?
Dr. Klaire Brumbaugh: I'm not sure what is available outside of my geographic region, but I would say wherever they end up, make sure there are mentorship opportunities. Make a plan with the clinical fellowship supervisor and stick to it.
Will there be an increase or decrease in demand for Clinical Educators in the next 5 years?
Brigette Cooper: There will be an increase in demand for dental hygiene graduates in the next five years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than average for all occupations. The demand for dental services will increase as the population ages and as research continues to link oral health to overall health.