Course Descriptions for 2006 - 2008 Catalog:
Core Courses
Nursing 507 Information Management and Scholarly Activities (3 cr.)
This course provides a foundation for utilizing information technology, conducting scholarly activities, and developing writing skills essential for advanced nursing roles. The learner develops literacy in the professional use of the Internet and on-line access to library and other resources. Clarity, precision, depth, and logical development of thought are emphasized for the purposes of summarizing and synthesizing information in writing. The course serves as a springboard for the integration of essential MSN level concepts by assisting students to be professional and life long learners.
Nursing 504 Health Promotion and Community (2 cr.)
Prerequisite: N507 or concurrent or consent.
This course is an overview of health promotion and community/public health/population health concepts relevant to nurses preparing for advanced roles. Theories and models of health promotion are reviewed. Selected environmental, cultural, and social factors influencing health and healthcare are appraised. Community intervention strategies, social advocacy skills, and professional activities are introduced as methods to influence health outcomes and policy. Curricular concepts of caring, health, quality of life, diversity, and vulnerability are analyzed and integrated.
Nursing 510 Theoretical Foundations (2 cr.)
Prerequisite: N507 or concurrent or consent.
This course is an introduction to the nature and purpose of meta theoretical, theoretical, and critical thinking in advanced nursing. Philosophical views and issues in development of theory and the evolution of nursing as a science are explored through review of classical and current literature. Selected theories and frameworks from nursing, as well as those from other disciplines, are examined and evaluated. The interrelatedness of knowledge development, theoretical foundations, evolving research methodologies, and professional nursing practice is discussed.
Nursing 515 Health Care Ethics (2 cr.)
Prerequisite: N507 or consent.
This course examines the theoretical basis of ethical principles and ethical decision making models. Contemporary ethical issues and complex dilemmas faced by nurses in advanced roles are critically analyzed. Personal, professional, and organizational values are explored as they relate to vulnerable groups such as at risk families, certain adult and aging populations, the medically underserved, and culturally diverse populations.
Nursing 530 Nursing Research (3 cr.)
Prerequisite: An undergraduate research course or equivalent, an undergraduate level statistics course; N507 or consent.
This course examines various qualitative and quantitative research methodologies useful to answer researchable questions relevant to nurses in advanced roles. The systematic research appropriate to each methodology is investigated. Selected research is critically examined. Selected skills of research-based inquiry are introduced and the role of the master’s prepared nurse in utilizing research to promote quality care, initiate change, and improve practice is examined.
Nursing 675 Leadership in Health Care (2cr.)
Prerequisite: N507 or consent; N510 and N504 recommended
This course examines the role of the advanced professional nurse who, as a leader, influences health care delivery and policy decision-making related to families, adults and aging populations, and selected vulnerable groups. Issues relevant to health care organization and economics are discussed. Theories, models, and issues affecting leadership, management, human resources development, and organizational processes are addressed. Health care planning and advocacy skills are integrated.
Nursing 600 Master’s Project (Variable, minimum total 3)
Prerequisite: N507, N510, N504, N515, N530; N675 recommended
A scholarly, research-based project is developed in an interest area that has significance to nursing. An integrative review of the literature (Plan A) or comparable alternative project (Plan B) is conducted, which contributes to nursing knowledge/practice. The outcome of the project is a bound paper and a poster presentation.
Nursing 660 NP Master’s Project (Variable, minimum total 2)
Prerequisite: N507, N510, N504, N515, N530; N675 recommended.
A scholarly, research-based project is developed related to a health care problem that has significance for advanced nursing practice. An in-depth review of the literature is conducted, and synthesis and analysis of the findings will result in a written paper and an oral or poster presentation
Adult Nurse Practitioner: Adult and Aging Focus In Primary Care Settings
Nursing 520 Advanced Nursing Roles (1 cr.)
Prerequisite: N535, N605
This course investigates the professional development necessary to practice and provide leadership within the evolving role of the nurse practitioner. Knowledge and competencies important to this expanded role of practice are analyzed and synthesized. The sociopolitical and healthcare environment as an influence on advanced nursing roles is evaluated. Discussion of practice issues, barriers, challenges, and opportunities facilitate transition into advanced nursing roles, functions and activities.
Nursing 525 Management of Psychosocial Issues: Adult & Aging (1 cr.)
Prerequisite: N507, N535, N605; N520 or consent.
Relevant theories and issues affecting successful adult development and aging are addressed, including developmental and health transitions, social support networks, and stress and coping patterns. Human diversity and other sociocultural factors influencing psychosocial status are analyzed. Strategies and resources for nurses in advanced roles to promote caring, optimize psychosocial health, and positive quality of life are examined.
Nursing 535 Advanced Pathophysiology: Adult & Aging (2 cr.)
Prerequisite: Previous coursework in pathophysiology at the undergraduate level; N507 or consent.
This course addresses the concepts and mechanisms underlying pathophysiological problems common in adult and aging populations. Normal physiological changes and those related to diseases are contrasted. The clinical manifestations and consequences of altered health states are examined in the context of current research-based findings. Knowledge of pathophysiology as a foundation for advanced assessment, decision-making, and the management of care is stressed.
Nursing 540 Advanced Health Assessment: Adult & Aging (2-3 cr.)
Prerequisite: A basic course in physical assessment at the undergraduate level or equivalent; N507 or consent; N535, N520, N605 recommended.
This course addresses the components of history taking, physical examination, and health assessment of persons from adolescence through older adulthood within a holistic framework including physical, functional, psychosocial, developmental, and cultural aspects. Differentiation of normal from abnormal/dysfunctional findings is stressed. The role of the advanced practice nurse with regard to health promotion/protection/prevention is integrated. (NP students take for 3 cr. including 30 hours of clinical; others may take for 2 credits of lab and didactic only on a space available basis).
Nursing 602 Clinical Seminar I (2 cr.)
Prerequisites: N610 or concurrent; concurrent with N615
This seminar serves as a clinical conference companion course to the clinical practicum experience. Special topics and assignments focus on issues and learning needs presenting themselves on the clinical area. Procedural skills necessary for NP practice are introduced.
Nursing 603 Clinical Seminar II (1 cr.)
Prerequisites: N612 or concurrent; concurrent with N616
This seminar serves as a clinical conference companion course to the clinical practicum experience. Special topics and assignments focus on issues and learning needs presenting themselves on the clinical area.
Nursing 605 Pharmacotherapeutics: Adult and Aging (3 cr.)
Prerequisite: Previous coursework in undergraduate pathophysiology and pharmacology; N535 concurrent or consent; N507 or consent
The pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacotherapeutics of various drug categories are examined. Administration and teaching issues in the use of pharmacologic agents for adult and aging populations are emphasized. Principles of drug selection and monitoring in the treatment of common problems are integrated. Issues and practices regarding the use of over the counter medications and herbal therapies are included. The role of the advanced practice nurse in practicing legally, safely, and ethically with prescriptive authority is addressed.
Nursing 610 Management of Health Problems I: Adult & Aging (3 cr.)
Prerequisite N535, N605, N540, N525, N520 or consent
The focus of this course is on the assessment, differential diagnosis, and management of acute and chronic health problems that are common to persons from adolescence through older adulthood. Planning for nursing and collaborative medical management is stressed. Disease prevention and health promotion strategies are integrated. The critique of practice-related research studies is incorporated and the significance of basing practice on evidence is emphasized.
Nursing 612 Management of Health Problems II: Adult & Aging (3 cr)
Prerequisite: N610, N615, N602
The focus of this course is on the continuation of advanced assessment, differential diagnosis, and management of increasingly complex acute and chronic health problems common to persons from adolescence through older adulthood. Development of increasing independence with the synthesis and application of previously learned knowledge and skills is emphasized. Planning for nursing and collaborative medical management is stressed. Disease prevention and health promotion strategies are integrated. Continuing critique of practice-based research studies is incorporated, and the significance of basing practice or evidence is emphasized.
Nursing 615 Clinical Practicum I: Adult (1-2 cr., total of 2 cr.)
Prerequisite: N605, N535, N540, N525; N610 or concurrent; N602 concurrent
This course offers clinical experience in advanced practice related to Adult Nurse Practitioner role development and focuses on developing clinical decision making skills in the management of acute and chronic health problems experienced by persons from adolescence through older adulthood. Synthesis and application of selected theories, concepts, and prior learning are required. Emphasis is on providing care for those who are vulnerable, underserved and/or have complex needs in a variety of settings. (150 clinical hours)
Nursing 616 Clinical Practicum II: Adult ( 1-3 cr., total of 3 cr.)
Prerequisite: N610, N615, N602, N612 or concurrent; N603 concurrent
This course offers continuing clinical experience related to Adult Nurse Practitioner role development and focuses on expanding upon and refining clinical decision making skills in the management of acute and chronic health problems experienced by persons from adolescence through older adulthood.. Synthesis and application of selected theories, concepts, and prior learning are required. Emphasis is on providing care for those who are vulnerable, underserved and/or have complex needs in a variety of settings. (225 clinical hours)
Nursing 617 Clinical Practicum III: Residency (1-3 cr, total of 3 cr.)
Prerequisite: N616 and N612
This course serves as a capstone clinical experience allowing the NP student to assume increased responsibility, independence, and accountability for advanced clinical decision making skills in the management of acute and chronic health problems experienced by persons from adolescence through older adulthood, in preparation for beginning practice. Synthesis and application of selected theories, concepts and prior learning are required. Emphasis is on providing care for those who are vulnerable, underserved and/or have complex needs in a variety of settings. (225 clinical hours)
Nurse Educator Track: Clinical, Professional, or Academic Settings
Nursing 580 Educational Theories and Methods (2 cr.)
Prerequisites: N507 or consent.
This course examines theories, teaching/learning strategies, and instructional design principles relating to the development of effective educational experiences. Factors affecting the learning environment are explored in relation to staff development, patient education, and nursing education.
Nursing 640 Curriculum & Evaluation (3 cr)
Prerequisites: N580 or consent
This course addresses knowledge, theory, practice, and technology as it relates to the development of curriculum. It focuses on the role of the nurse educator in formal settings, applying strategies of knowledge acquisition, critical thinking, and integrating the concepts of diversity and caring.
Nursing 650 Clinical Education (3 cr)
Prerequisites: N640 or consent
This course addresses the professional development of the nurse educator to provide clinical instruction in patient education, staff development, and nursing education. Concepts of caring, coaching, diversity, models of clinical instruction, implementation strategies, and evaluation methods are emphasized. Legal and ethical issues also are examined.
Nursing 665 Leadership in Nursing Education (3 cr)
Prerequisites: N650
This course explores the advancement of scholarship in nursing education by examining leadership skills, reflective practice, program evaluation, and mentorship. Contemporary issues are addressed in relation to staff development, patient education, and nursing education.
Nursing 679 Practicum I: Nurse Educator (Variable 1-2; total minimum 2)
Prerequisites: N650 or concurrent
This course emphasizes the application of educational theory and concepts relevant to the nurse educator role. The clinical practicum prepares advanced nursing students as providers of education in direct patient care, staff and continuing education, and/or nursing education programs. (150 clinical hours)
Nursing 680 Practicum II: Nurse Educator (Variable 1-2; total minimum 2)
Prerequisites: N679 or concurrent
This course emphasizes continued application of educational theory and concepts relevant to the nurse educator role. The clinical practicum prepares advanced nursing students as providers of education in direct patient care, staff and continuing education, and/or nursing education programs. (150 clinical hours)
Nursing 681 Seminar I: Educator (1 cr)
Prerequisites: N679 concurrent or consent
This seminar serves as a clinical conference companion course to the concurrent practicum experience. Special topics and assignments focus on teaching and learning issues encountered in practicum. Students are required to integrate prior coursework knowledge and nursing education research when participating in on-line discussions. Concepts of counseling and coaching are applied to facilitate role development of the educator in clinical, professional, and/or academic settings.
Nursing 682 Seminar II: Educator (1 cr)
Prerequisites: N680 concurrent or consent
This seminar serves as a clinical conference companion course to the concurrent practicum experience. Special topics and assignments focus on teaching and learning issues encountered in practicum. Students are required to integrate prior coursework knowledge and nursing education research when participating in on-line discussions. Concepts of counseling and coaching are applied to facilitate role development of the educator in clinical, professional, and/or academic settings.
Nursing 666 Experiences in Education (2 cr Portfolio/Practicum/Seminar)
(A post-MSN certificate course only)
Individualized practicum experiences in patient, staff and/or nursing program settings are arranged to provide an opportunity for the application of educational principles and processes. Up to 90 hours of clinical practicum (or equivalent demonstrated by portfolio) are required. Twelve hours of online seminar promote inquiry and reflection of the practicum experiences. (NOTE: The portfolio option is used to validate experience congruent with course expectations and student learning outcomes).
Electives (total of 4 cr.)
To be chosen from nursing or related fields with advisor’s approval. May be transferred from other approved curricula.
Nursing Leadership in Health Care Track: Acute Care, LTC, Ambulatory, or Community Settings
Nursing 590 Healthcare Program Planning (3)
Prerequisites; N507, N504, N675 or consent
This course focuses on the process of needs assessment, design, implementation and evaluation of programs as a framework to meet the needs of a diverse and changing healthcare environment. The content is applicable to nurses in a variety of settings and advanced roles. Concepts of vulnerability, quality of life, and health are integrated.
Nursing 594 Systems Management (3)
Prerequisites: N507, N590 or consent
Multiple theories related to systems are utilized to understand organizational change within a healthcare environment. Issues related to organizational structure, culture, behavior, learning, and resources are explored. Concepts of caring, leadership, ethics, and diversity are integrated throughout the course.
Nursing 596 Financial Management (3)
Prerequisites: N507, N590 or consent
Concepts and principles of finance and economics provide an understanding of the budgetary process and provide skills to develop and manage a budget for various nurse leadership roles. Issues related to financing, reimbursement, cost analysis and their impact on healthcare services are examined.
Nursing 598 Human Resource Development (2)
Prerequisites: N507, N590
Human, legal, and ethical issues related to the management, supervision, and development of personnel are examined. The course explores the influence of various factors on staff motivation, productivity, and satisfaction. The content examines the various roles nurse leaders have in this area.
Nursing 634 Leadership Practicum (Variable 1-2, total of 2 required)
Prerequisites: N590
This course is an application of the theoretical and conceptual knowledge in a structured administration/leadership experience with a preceptor for the purpose of expanding leadership knowledge and skills relevant to a nurse leadership role. (This course can be divided over 2 semesters and includes 150 total clinical hours.)
Nursing 636 Issues in Leadership Development I (2)
Prerequisites: N596, N594 or consent
Applications of management and organization theories related to clinical and organizational leadership roles are explored. Leadership assessment of current behaviors will direct an individual’s personal leadership development plan.
Nursing 638 Issues in Leadership Development II (2)
Prerequisites: N636 or consent
This course is a continuation of leadership development with an in depth examination of the nurse leader's role in promoting, evidence-based practice, fostering professionalism, and participating in healthcare decision-making. Selected leadership issues found in the changing healthcare environment are addressed.
Nursing 635 Experiences in Leadership (2 cr. Portfolio/Practicum/Seminar)
(A post-MSN certificate course only)
This course offers an individualized leadership practicum including the reflective examination of selected leadership issues to demonstrate application of leadership theories, behaviors, and professional development. Portfolio development combined with online didactic and/or independent study/practicum experiences are utilized.
(NOTE: A portfolio validating acquisition of knowledge and skills congruent with course outcomes may be submitted for up to 100 practicum hours; 10 didactic hours are required.)
Electives (total of 4 cr.)
To be chosen from nursing or related fields with advisor’s approval. May be transferred from other approved curricula.
Miscellaneous Electives
Nursing 560 Multicultural Perspectives in Nursing (2-3 credits)
Prerequisite N507 or consent.
This online, self-paced course focuses on multicultural perspectives to increase nurses’ awareness, sensitivity and effectiveness in their practice with diverse populations. It examines the origins of cultural perspectives and their impact on intercultural behaviors. It explores cultural values, beliefs and practices related to health, spirituality, communication, and family. Discussions integrate nursing theory, practice, and research. (offered occasionally)
Nursing 545 Advanced Concepts of Pharmacology
Prerequisite N507 or consent; N535 recommended.
This online, self-paced course is designed for the individual seeking advanced knowledge and understanding of drug therapy. Principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are discussed and applied to selected drug categories. Issues regarding drug therapy, including economics, herbal agents, and over-the-counter drugs are explored. Application of teaching principles to the content of pharmacology is emphasized the setting of staff, student, and patient education. (offered occasionally)
Nursing 588 Independent Study (1, 2 cr. as needed)
This course may be utilized for a specialized and focused study with a faculty member's approval and mentorship.
Nursing 535 Advanced Pathophysiology: Adult and aging (2 cr.)
See Listing in Adult Nurse Practitioner Track. (offered yearly in fall)
Nursing 690 Readings and Reflections on Nursing Leadership (2 or 3 cr.)
This totally online course focuses on the analysis of selected contemporary written works related to leadership. Integrative personal and shared reflections will be used to guide discussion and enhance knowledge and meaning for nurses in advanced roles. (offered occasionally)
Nursing 580 Educational Theories and Methods (2 cr.)
See previous listing in Nurse Educator track.
(offered yearly in fall)
Note: All course descriptions are subject to minor modifications as future program development occurs in all tracks.
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