College Of Nursing

COLLEGE OF NURSING

Dean: Debra C. Davis (251) 434-3410
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs: Rosemary Rhodes (251) 434-3410
Associate Dean for Research and Development: M. Candice Ross (251) 434-3410
Associate Dean Baldwin County: Barbara Broome (251) 929-1746
Professors: Chilton, Davis, Dearman, McGuinness, Rhodes, Ross, Roussel
Associate Professors: Broome, Jacobs, Ryan, Sanford, A. Smith, K. Smith,
Vande Waa
Assistant Professors: Bydalek, Fruh, Godfrey, K. Williams
Clinical Assistant Professors: Azok, Farmer, Fogger, Gilligan, Hall, Hamilton, Hill, Holloway, Lawson, Love, King, Majors, McHaney, T. Meyer, Myers, Peters, Pharez, Raber, C. Robinson, Varner, Wagner, Walls, White
Instructors: Bertolla, Brown, Carlisle, Dearmon, Denmark, Graves, Harlan, Huey, Hyatt, L. Jones, Lollar, McClinton, McMullan, M. Meyer, Nadler, B. Robinson, Rodgers, Shamburger, Tucker, Whitworth, S.G. Williams, S.H. Williams, Wright

Department Chair, Adult Health Nursing: Mike Jacobs
Department Chair, Community/Mental Health Nursing: Barbara Broome
Department Chair, Maternal/Child Health Nursing: Catherine Dearman
Director of Student Services: Mary Meyer
Director of RN-BSN: Bettye Odom
Academic Advisor: Mavis Jarrell

College of Nursing web site
http://www.southalabama.edu/nursing

The College of Nursing is dedicated to the education of professional nurses who provide the highest quality health care to the communities they serve. The practice of nursing is both an art and a science; the focus of nursing is the diagnosis and treatment of human responses to actual or potential health problems.

The College of Nursing has two locations. One is at USA Springhill on the corner of Springhill Avenue and Catherine Street in Mobile. The other is on the USA Baldwin County campus in downtown Fairhope. The resources of the University, the USA Hospitals and clinics, and numerous clinical agencies provide excellent opportunities for students to acquire the knowledge and skills essential for professional nursing.

MISSION

The mission of the College of Nursing is to provide quality innovative education programs to a diverse student body, to participate in research and scholarly activities, and to provide service to the University, the profession, and the public. The College accomplishes this by providing a caring, engaging environment for the empowerment of student learning potential, the professional development of faculty, and the promotion of the nursing profession.

GOALS

1.	Cultivate a caring and engaging environment to facilitate teaching, learning, scholarship, and service.
2.	Deliver innovative quality nursing programs that meet the needs of a diverse student body and other communities of interest.
3.	Promote the discovery, communication, and preservation of knowledge through scholarly activities and leadership.
4.	Provide service to the University, the profession, and the public.
5.	Develop community partnerships to promote nursing and the enhancement of the health care delivery system.

ACCREDITATION

The program is approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, D.C. 20036-1120: Telephone (202)877-6791.

DEGREES OFFERED

The College of Nursing offers the Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.

CERTIFICATES OFFERED

Post-Masters Certificates are awarded to students completing planned programs of study in a nursing specialty area. The following are offered:

Clinical Nurse Leader

Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Health Nursing

Clinical Nurse Specialist in Maternal Child Nursing

Clinical Nurse Specialist in Community/Mental Health Nursing

Family Nurse Practitioner

Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

Gerontologic Nurse Practitioner

Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Administration

Nursing Education

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY

While the University of South Alabama will endeavor to provide timely and accurate advisement, it is the responsibility of the student to know and satisfy the degree requirements of the academic program, to be aware of the University calendar and to understand and comply with University academic policies and procedures.

GRADE STANDARDS

Courses for which the grade of "D" is assigned may not be counted toward a degree program. A maximum of two courses with the grade of "C" may be counted toward the MSN degree. Only one grade of "C" can be counted toward the DNP degree.

GRADES

Excellent 4 grade-points per sem. hour

Good 3 grade-points per sem. hour

Satisfactory (certain designated courses only)

Marginal 2 grade-points per sem. hour

Unsatisfactory 1 grade-point per sem. hour

Unsatisfactory (certain designated courses only)

Failure no grade points

The following symbols are substitutes for grades. They are not grades:

Incomplete

Absent for final exam

Withdrawal in good standing

Course in progress. P grades remain in effect until they are changed to a letter grade, or until the time limits for a graduate degree have expired

Audit

Unsatisfactory audit (did not meet attendance requirement)

No grade or invalid grade

See academic policies and procedures for further explanation of the above grades and symbols.

CHANGE OF GRADE

Grades reported for students by instructors to the Registrar may not be changed except in case of error in records or in evaluation. Grade changes require the approval of the instructor of record, the department chair, the Dean, and in situations involving the Master of Science in Nursing Program, the Dean of the Graduate School. Grades on record for one-calendar year may not be changed for any reason.

PROMOTION/PROGRESSION

Students will progress in nursing courses according to the established sequence. The College will recommend for promotion only those students who, in the judgment of the faculty, satisfy the requirements of health, conduct, scholastic achievement, and aptitude for nursing. Students continually in adjustment difficulties may be dismissed from the nursing program.

Once students are admitted to the professional component of the curriculum the program must be completed within 3 years. If a student’s progression is interrupted for any reason, it is the student’s responsibility to contact the Office of Student Services and apply for readmission. Any alteration in usual progression may lengthen the student’s program. In keeping with dynamic changes in health care and nursing, the curriculum may undergo change. Changes in curricula and/or admission requirements will be published as far in advance as possible. Advisors are available to assist students in adapting to those changes and planning their course of study accordingly.

TRANSIENT COURSE CREDIT

Any courses taken at another institution to meet degree requirements must have prior approval of the College of Nursing Dean. Failure to obtain prior approval may result in loss of transfer credit for the course work.

TRANSFER CREDIT FOR PROFESSIONAL NURISNG COURSES

Nursing course work taken at other institutions prior to admission to the University of South Alabama will be evaluated on an individual basis. Courses determined by the appropriate department chairs and the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs to be equivalent to USA courses will be accepted based on the following data:

Only course work taken at accredited programs will be considered.

For the Baccalaureate program, only courses with grades of "C" or above will transfer.

For the Masters or Doctoral programs, no more than 9 semester hours of grades of "B" or above will transfer.

Only courses that have been completed within five years of the anticipated date of graduation from the USA program will be considered.

EXPENSES

Students enrolled in clinical courses must maintain current CPR certification and must keep all immunizations current. Students are responsible for all personal health care expenses including expenses resulting from injury or accident, etc. while the student is engaged in learning experiences required by the College of Nursing. Therefore, all students are required to have adequate health care insurance. All students are charged once a year for professional liability insurance. Students are responsible for all travel expenses to clinical sites and classes at the University.

Students are responsible for purchase of uniforms and required clinical equipment and supplies. Students may also be responsible for costs related to drug testing and criminal background checks.

DRUG SCREENS AND BACKGROUND CHECKS

Those students accepted into the Professional Component must provide a negative drug test and have an acceptable background check before beginning classes. Random drug screens or testing for reasonable suspicion are conducted. Students must submit to drug testing for controlled substances and background checks as requested. Failure to submit to testing or a positive drug test and/or unsuitable background check will result in the student's dismissal from the program.

ADMISSION OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

International students should contact the Office of International Services, 2200 Meisler Hall, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama 36688-0002; Telephone (251)460-6050. Deadlines for applications and supporting documents for new international students are usually at least one month earlier than the deadlines for U.S. citizens. Refer to the "International Students" section for details. International students are required to complete the internet based TOEFL (minimum acceptable score of 25 on each subsection), or a bachelor's or graduate degree earned at an accredited United States institution of higher learning and are required to demonstrate proficiency on the English Language Proficiency Examination administered by the University.

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING PROGRAM (BSN)

The BSN program prepares graduates for professional nursing practice. Upon completion of the program graduates are eligible to apply for the National Council Licensure Examination to become licensed as a Registered Nurse.

The BSN program is offered in a traditional four year format with nursing courses concentrated in the junior and senior years. The BSN program is also offered in an accelerated format and there is a special track for Associate Degree and diploma prepared nurses.

BSN PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES

Upon completion of the Baccalaureate Program, graduates should be able to:

1.	Deliver professional nursing care that assists individuals, families, and communities with changing needs across the life span for health promotion and maintenance, illness care, and rehabilitation.
2.	Use theoretical and empirical knowledge from nursing and related disciplines to think critically, communicate effectively, and provide professional nursing care in a variety of health care settings with diverse populations.
3.	Assume responsibility and accountability for one’s own nursing practice.
4.	Evaluate research findings for use in nursing practice.
5.	Participate in the improvement of the nursing profession, the health care delivery system, and the formulation of health policy through leadership, management, and teaching skills.
6.	Collaborate with health care providers and consumers in promoting the health of individuals, families, and communities.
7.	Incorporate ethical, moral, legal, and economic values into professional nursing roles designed to meet current and emerging health needs of a changing society.

COLLEGE OF NURISNG EARLY ACCEPTANCE PROGRAM (CONEAP)

The College of Nursing has an early acceptance program for highly qualified high school seniors. Students selected for the early acceptance program and fulfilling all program requirements are guaranteed admission to the upper division professional component of the nursing curriculum. To be considered for the CONEAP, high school seniors must complete all application procedures, have earned a minimum high school grade-point average of 3.5 based on a 4.0 system as computed by USA, submit an ACT score of at least 25 composite (or 1100 SAT), and must have demonstrated leadership qualities and motivation toward the study of nursing. Students are admitted to the College of Nursing and must complete all Pre-Professional Nursing courses at USA; their curriculum includes core requirements and prerequisites for the upper division nursing program. Students participating in the College of Nursing's Early Acceptance Program must maintain an overall GPA of 3.2 on all required prerequisite courses and must be continuously enrolled a minimum of 12 credit hours each semester (does not include summer terms) and making acceptable progress toward completing the pre-professional component of the curriculum to be admitted to the professional component of the program.

All documents must be submitted by February 15 of the senior year in high school to be considered. For questions and applications, contact USA Admissions, 2500 Meisler Hall, Mobile, Alabama 36688-0002 or call (800)872-5247 or (251)460-6141.

NURSING COOPERATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM (Co-op)

The University of South Alabama Nursing Cooperative Education program provides an opportunity for students to alternate time in the classroom with periods of paid, full-time, career-related experience.

An Academic Advisor in the College of Nursing will help students establish a degree plan that allows the smooth integration of classes and work. All students must consult their Academic Advisor to establish a complete degree plan before beginning the first work rotation.

COOPERATIVE EDUCATION ADMISSION CRITERIA

The following are required to be considered for admission to the Co-op program. Prior to the first work experience, students must complete two semesters of study for a total of 29 credit hours toward the nursing degree. All students must be in good academic standing with the University and have at least a 2.5 prerequisite grade-point average. Admission is competitive and limited. Undergraduate students must maintain a minimum of 12 credit hours each semester when not participating in the Co-op program. Although no credit hours are assigned to Co-op courses, a grade of satisfactory (S) or unsatisfactory (U) is assigned at the end of each work term and will appear on the official University transcript. Students must achieve a grade of satisfactory (S) to remain in the Co-op program.

CURRICULUM MODEL FOR BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN NURSING

Prerequisite Pre-Professional Component

FRESHMAN YEAR
1st Semester		2nd Semester
EH 101	3	EH 102	3
BLY 101 & BLY 101L	4	CH 101 & CH 101L	4
CIS 150	3	HY/Soc/Beh Sc Elective	3
History Elective*	3	Humanities Elective	3
Total	13	MA 110 or MA 112	3
		Total	16

SOPHOMORE YEAR
1st Semester		2nd Semester
CLS 114	4	CLS 115	4
BMD 210 or BLY 213	3	ST 210 or BUS 245	3
Literature Elective*	3	PSY 120	3
Economics	3	2nd HY or 2nd LIT	3
Fine Arts	3	HUM or HY Elective depending on sequence	3
Total	16	Total	16

*Must have a 2 semester sequence in either History or Literature.

professional Component

JUNIOR YEAR
1st Semester		2nd Semester
NU 325	4	CMN 350	3
NU 327	3	CMN 351	3
HSC 343	3	AHN 347	3
HSC 342	1	AHN 348	3
NU 300	3	HSC 332	3
NU 301	2	Total	15
Total	16

3rd Semester
NU 304	3
MCN 340	3
MCN 341	3
Total	9


SENIOR YEAR
1st Semester		2nd Semester
MCN 345	3	NU 412	3
MCN 346	3	NU 413	3
AHN 447	3	CMN 411	3
AHN 448	3	NU 460	5
NU 409	3	Total	14
Total	15
Total Credits	130

ACCELERTED B.S.N. TRACK

The College of Nursing has a special Accelerated BSN track for academically qualified and highly motivated individuals. The preprofessional component as listed above must be completed prior to admission to the professional component. The professional component of the curriculum which normally takes 5 semesters to complete can be completed in 12 months of full-time study. The curriculum and contact hours are the same as required for the traditionally taught BSN degree offered by the College, except that the course schedule is accelerated and is not confined by the traditional academic calendar. At the end of the 12-months of study, students are awarded the BSN degree and are prepared for the RN licensure (NCLEX) examination. Students are admitted based on their academic record and prerequisite GPA. Admission is competitive and limited.

Students in the Accelerated BSN follow the same promotion/progression policies as the students in the traditionally taught BSN. Students having difficulty maintaining the pace of the program may request a transfer to the traditional program if they are in good academic standing.

R.N. TO B.S.N. TRACK FOR ASSOCIATE DEGREE AND DIPLOMA NURSES

The College of Nursing has a track designed especially for registered nurses pursuing the baccalaureate in nursing degree. The college also offers a track for diploma and associate degree RNs who want the MSN degree (see MSN section). Once prerequisites are completed (see prerequisite professional component section on the BSN curriculum model) the professional component of nursing curriculum can be completed in one calendar year. Courses are offered online and clinical requirements can be completed in the student's home community if approved by faculty. Each applicant's educational credentials are individually evaluated and a program of study is designed. Upon successful completion of NU 410, 36 hours of nursing credit are awarded.

CURRICULUM MODEL FOR THE REGISTERED NURSE R.N.-B.S.N. TRACK

The following courses comprise the RN-BSN track. Students are admitted to the professional component after completing all prerequisite courses (see courses listed in the Freshman and Sophomore years in the curriculum model for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing listed above).

Completion of Prerequisite Courses

Professional Component for R.N.-B.S.N. Track

1st Semester
NU 410	6
NU 325	4
NU 327	3
Total	13

2nd Semester
NU 409	3
CMN 411	3
NU 304	3
Total	9

3rd Semester
NU 460	5
NU 412	3
NU 413	3
Total	11
Total USA Nursing credits: 33

ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR THE B.S.N.

The College of Nursing Admissions Committee and the Dean of the College reserves the right to select applicants best qualified for and most likely to succeed in the study of nursing.

Enrollment into the pre-professional component as a nursing major does not assure the student admission to the Professional Component. Enrollment in the Professional Component is limited and competitive. Students are admitted without regard to race, color, creed, national origin, sex, or qualified disablement. Students must be in good standing with all academic institutions/nursing programs that they have attended in order to be admitted to the BSN program.

The following are required to be considered for admission to the BSN program.

1.	Submission of a completed application.
2.	Minimum GPA of 2.50 on all prerequisite courses and in good standing within the University.
3.	Minimum University GPA of 2.0.
4.	Minimum grade of “C” in all pre-professional courses.
5.	Submission of health data forms and evidence of health insurance.
6.	Evidence of CPR certification.
7.	Admission will be contingent on a negative drug screen and results of a background check.
8.	Interview - after initial review of applications a limited number of applicants may be invited for a personal interview. Verbal and written communication skills will be assessed during the interview.

In addition to the items listed above registered nurses applying for admission to the RN-BSN track must show evidence of completion of an accredited diploma or associate degree in nursing and a current unencumbered RN license.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Application forms are available on the College of Nursing's web site and in the Office of Student Services. A $50.00 non-refundable application fee must be submitted with the application. Money orders or personal checks ($20.00 fee on returned checks) are acceptable.

For fall semester admission applications should be submitted by April 1.

For spring semester admission applications should be submitted by September 1.

For summer semester admission applications should be submitted by February 1.

Applications received at other times will be considered on a space available basis.

ACADEMIC STANDARDS FOR THE B.S.N. PROGRAM

In accordance with University policy, students may not use the Grade Replacement Policy to replace professional nursing courses. A grade of “C” or higher is required for all professional nursing courses. A student may repeat only one professional nursing course in the curriculum. A second “D”, “F”, or “U” will result in academic dismissal from the nursing program. The number of times a student may withdraw failing is limited to two. A third withdrawal failing will result in academic dismissal from the College of Nursing. A student achieving a grade of less than "C" in a course in combination with two withdrawal failings from the College of Nursing will also be dismissed. Successful completion of a math exam is required each term prior to promotion in clinical courses. All students are required to take a Midcurricular Exam. Students who do not successfully pass this exam are required to complete a 3 hour directed study, prior to progressing in the curriculum. Students are also required to complete an exit exam as part of course requirements. If the student is unsuccessful on the exit exam, a grade of "I" will be given for the course and the student must complete additional remedial requirements the next term. Students failing to complete the remedial work will receive an "U" in the course. Registered nurse students in the RN-BSN and RN-MSN tracks are exempt from the math, midcurricular and exit examinations. A minimum GPA of 2.0 at the University of South Alabama is required to continue in the program and for graduation. Failure to comply with legal, moral, and legislative standards required for licensure to practice as a registered nurse merits immediate dismissal from the program.

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING PROGRAM (MSN)

The College of Nursing is responsive to the unique needs of nurses and has several tracks and specialization options within the MSN program to facilitate students achieving the MSN. In addition to admitting baccalaureate prepared registered nurses, the college offers an accelerated MSN track for non-nurses, a track for associate degree or diploma prepared nurses who have a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing, a special track for highly qualified associate degree and diploma nurses who do not hold a baccalaureate degree, a track for non-MSN prepared certified nurse practitioners, and tracks for MSN prepared nurses who are interested in returning to school for preparation in a new specialty area.

Areas of Specialization

Several concentration areas are offered to meet the career goals of students. Students may prepare for preparation as a clinical nurse leader or for advanced nursing practice in one of eight nurse practitioner specialist roles. Available NP options include Advanced Family Nursing, Advanced Emergency Nursing, Advanced Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing, Advanced Child Health Nursing, Advanced Neonatal Nursing, Advanced Women's Health Nursing, Advanced Geropsychiatric Nursing, and Advanced Adult Acute Care Nursing. Concentrations are also available for students pursuing careers in Executive Nursing Administration, Public Health Nursing Administration, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Maternal Child, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Health, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Community Mental Health, or Nursing Education. The Nursing Education tracks prepares students as clinical specialists in Maternal Child, Adult-Health, or Community Mental Health (see www.southalabama.edu/nursing for more information).

GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS

A limited number of graduate assistantships is available to students of full standing. Additional information and an application can be obtained by contacting the College of Nursing graduate office.

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES

The Master of Science in Nursing program prepares graduates for advanced nursing practice and doctoral study. Graduates of the program are able to synthesize and apply advanced knowledge, theories, and research to a specialized area of nursing practice and function as leaders in practice and to contribute to the advancement of the profession. The program outcomes are:

Integrate advanced knowledge and theories from nursing and related disciplines into a specialized area of advanced nursing practice.

Demonstrate competence in selected advanced nursing roles to meet current and emerging health needs of a changing society.

Use scientific inquiry to identify researchable problems and participate in nursing research.

Apply advanced knowledge of leadership, management, and teaching to improve nursing practice.

Influence the improvement of health care delivery and the formulation of health policy.

Contribute to the focus and direction of the nursing profession.

M.S.N. CURRICULUM FOR B.S.N. PREPARED REGISTERED NURSES

OPTION I Public Health Nursing Administration

Core Courses (9 credits)

NU 506	3	NU 508	3
NU 507	3

Research Courses (4 to 6 credits)

NU 513	3	AHN 514	1
or		or
NU 599	3	CMN 514	1
		or
		MCN 514	1

Support Courses (3 credits)

NU 562

Specialty Courses (19 credits)

HSC 540	2	HSC 541	2
HSC 542	3	CMN 543	3
CMN 544	3	CMN 545	4
CMN 546	2
Total Credits	35

OPTION II Executive Nursing Administration

Core Courses (9 credits)

NU 506	3	NU 508	3
NU 507	3

Research Courses (4 to 6 credits)

NU 513	3	AHN 514	1
or		or
NU 599	3	CMN 514	1
		or
		MCN 514	1

Support Courses (3 credits)

NU 562

Specialty Courses (18 credits)

NU 565	3	NU 566	3
NU 561	3	NU 567	4
NU 568	2	HSC 571	3
Total Credits	34

OPTION III Nursing Education

Core Courses (9 credits)

NU 506	3	NU 508	3
NU 507	3

Research Courses (4 to 6 credits)

NU 513	3	AHN 514	1
or		or
NU 599	3	CMN 514	1
		or
		MCN 514	1

Support Courses (6 credits)

NU 545	3
NU 578	3

Specialty Courses (26 credits)

NU 518	3	NU 519	1
NU 522	3	NU 526	4
NU 524	3	NU 527	3
AHN 525 or	4	NU 528	3
CMN 525 or		NU 529	2
MCN 525 or
Total Credits	45

OPTION IV Clinical Nurse Leader

Core Courses (9 credits)

NU 506	3	NU 508	3
NU 507	3

Research Courses (4 to 6 credits)

NU 513	3	AHN 514	1
NU 599		or
	3	CMN 514	1
		or
		MCN 514	1

Support Courses (6 credits)

NU 545	3
NU 578	3

Specialty Courses (19 credits)

NU 518	3	NU 536	5
NU 519	1	NU 537	3
NU 535	3	NU 538	4
Total Credits	38

OPTION V Clinical Nurse Specialist

Core Courses (9 credits)

NU 506	3	NU 508	3
NU 507	3

Research Courses (4 to 6 credits)

NU 513	3	AHN 514	1
or		or
NU 599	3	CMN 514	1
		or
		MCN 514	1

Support Courses (6 credits)

NU 545	3
NU 578	3

Specialty Courses (17 credits)

NU 520	4	AHN 525	4
NU 521	2	or
NU 524	3	CMN 525	4
NU 518	3	or
NU 519	1	MCN 525	4
Total Credits	36

OPTION VI Nurse Practitioner

Core Courses (9 credits)

NU 506	3	NU 508	3
NU 507	3

Research Courses (4 to 6 credits)

NU 513	3	AHN 514	1
NU 599	3	or
		CMN 514	1
		or
		MCN 514	1

Support Courses (6 credits)

NU 545

NU 578

Specialty Courses - Select One Track

Advanced Geropsychiatric Nursing (28 - 36 credits)
AHN 578	3	CMN 580	1
AHN 581	3	AHN 586	5
AHN 583	3	and
AHN 585	3	AHN 587	3
AHN 579	1	and/or
AHN 582	3	CMN 588	5
AHN 584	3	and
		CMN 589	3

Advanced Adult Acute Care Nursing (26 credits)
AHN 568	3	AHN 569	1
AHN 571	3	AHN 572	3
AHN 573	3	AHN 574	3
AHN 575	3	AHN 576	4
AHN 577	3

Advanced Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing (26 credits)
CMN 548	3	CMN 549	1
CMN 551	3	CMN 552	3
CMN 553	3	CMN 554	3
CMN 555	3	CMN 556	4
CMN 557	3

Advanced Family Nursing (26 credits)
CMN 568	3	CMN 569	1
CMN 571	3	CMN 572	3
CMN 573	3	CMN 574	3
CMN 575	3	CMN 576	4
CMN 577	3

Advanced Women’s Health Nursing (26 credits)
MCN 538	3	MCN 539	1
MCN 541	3	MCN 542	3
MCN 543	3	MCN 544	3
MCN 545	3	MCN 546	4
MCN 547	3

Advanced Child Health Nursing (26 credits)
MCN 548	3	MCN 549	1
MCN 551	3	MCN 552	3
MCN 553	3	MCN 554	3
MCN 555	3	MCN 556	4
MCN 557	3

Advanced Neonatal Nursing (26 credits)
MCN 568	3	MCN 569	1
MCN 571	3	MCN 572	3
MCN 573	3	MCN 574	3
MCN 575	3	MCN 576	4
MCN 577	3

Advanced Emergency Nursing (32 credits)
AHN 536	3	AHN 537	1
AHN 538	3	AHN 539	2
AHN 540	4	AHN 541	3
AHN 542	4	AHN 543	3
AHN 544	4	AHN 545	4
AHN 546	1
Total Credits	45-57

REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO THE M.S.N. TRACK FOR B.S.N. PREPARED R.N.'S

Admission to the MSN program is limited and selective. Students are admitted each semester as space is available in the selected specialty track. Applications are available on the college's web site and should be submitted by April 1 for consideration for fall admission, by September 1 for spring semester admission, and by February 1 for summer semester admission. A $50.00 non-refundable application fee must be submitted with your application. Money orders or personal checks ($20.00 fee on returned checks) are acceptable. Applications received at other times will be considered on a space available basis. Students are admitted to a specialty track and may not change their track without prior permission. Students must be in good standing with all academic institutions/nursing programs that they have attended in order to be admitted to the MSN program. The following criteria supplement the Graduate School admission criteria (see Categories of Admission).

Regular Admission

1.	Graduate of an approved bachelor’s program with major in nursing.
2.	Verification of a course or equivalent in research and health assessment.
3.	Current unencumbered registered nurse licensure.
4.	Submission of Health Data Forms.
5.	A grade-point average of 3.0 on all undergraduate work (A=4.00).
6.	Submission of a resume which documents clinical experience.
	(Note: Prior to enrolling in nurse practitioner clinical course, students are required to have at least 2 years experience in an area appropriate to the Specialty track.)
7.	Negative drug screen.
8.	Acceptable background check.

Note: An earned graduate degree from any accredited institution of higher education may qualify the applicant for regular standing.

Provisional Admission

1.	Graduate of an approved bachelor’s program with a major in nursing.
2.	Verification of a course or equivalent in research and health assessment.
3.	Current unencumbered registered nurse licensure.
4.	Submission of Health Data Forms.
5.	A minimal grade-point average of 2.50 on all undergraduate work (A=4.00).
6.	Submission of a resume which documents clinical experience.
	(Note: Prior to enrolling in nurse practitioner clinical course, students are required to have at least 2 years experience in an area appropriate to the Specialty track.)
7.	Negative drug screen.
8.	Acceptable background check.

Non-Degree Admission

1.	Hold bachelor’s degree from accredited institution.
2.	Current unencumbered registered nurse licensure.
3.	A minimal grade-point of 2.50 on all undergraduate work ("A"=4.00)

Enrollment in selective courses may not be available to non-degree students due to class size or required prerequisite.

PROGRESSION FOR THE M.S.N. TRACK FOR B.S.N. PREPARED R.N.'S

A maximum of two (2) courses with a grade "C" can be counted towards a degree, however, only one (1) "C" is permitted in support or specialization courses. If a second "C" or lower is earned in a support or specialization course, the course in which the second "C" or lower is obtained must be repeated. Any combination of three (3) courses with grades of "C" or less (C, D, U, F) including "C" grades which have been repeated, will result in academic dismissal from the graduate program. Two courses with a grade "D" or "F" will result in academic dismissal from the graduate program. Failure to comply with legal, moral, and legislative standards required for licensure to practice as a registered nurse merits immediate dismissal from the program.

If a student's progression is interrupted for any reason, it is student's responsibility to contact the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. Because of limited spaces in the advanced clinical courses, any alteration in progression may lengthen the student's program.

REQUIREMENTS FOR DEGREE FOR THE M.S.N. TRACK
FOR B.S.N. PREPARED R.N.'S

The MSN program must be completed within 5 years of matriculation. A minimum of 45 semester credits are required for the M.S.N. degree with preparation in a nurse practitioner track. Preparation in Public Health Nursing Administration requires a minimum of 35 semester credits for the M.S.N. degree. Minimum credits for preparation in Executive Nursing Administration requires 34 semester credits; Nursing Education requires 45 semester credits; Clinical Nurse Leader requires 38 semester credits; Clinical Nursing Specialist requires 36 semester credits. Individualized programs of study are developed for baccalaureate prepared nurses with national certification as a nurse practitioner.

The program offers a thesis or non-thesis option. Students selecting the thesis option earn up to six credits for the thesis. Students selecting the non-thesis option earn one credit for a evidence based practice project. Students who do not complete the thesis in the allocated time must register for additional thesis hours until such work is completed. These additional hours will not apply towards the degree.

POST-M.S.N. CERTIFICATE TRACKS

The Post-MSN certificate tracks are designed for registered nurses with a graduate degree in nursing who seek academic preparation in a new specialty area of advanced nursing. Post-MSN students can select any of the specialty options offered by the program. Each certificate track is designed to be in compliance with national certification requirements including required support courses, didactic specialty courses, and clinical hours.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO THE POST M.S.N. CERTIFICATE TRACKS

1.	Graduate of master's or doctoral program with a major in nursing.
2.	Verification of an undergraduate course or equivalent in health assessment.
3.	Current unencumbered registered nurse license.
4.	Submission of health data forms.
5.	Submission of a resume which documents clinical experience. (Note: Prior to enrolling in a nurse practitioner clinical course, students are required to have at least two years experience in an area appropriate to the Specialty track.)
6.	Admission is contingent upon a negative drug screen and results of a background check.

PROGRESSION FOR THE POST M.S.N. TRACK

Students follow the progression policies as for the MSN program for BSN prepared RN's.

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POST M.S.N. CERTIFICATE TRACKS

Students are required to complete all specialty courses and any support courses not previously completed. Post-MSN certificate students are not required to complete graduate core or research courses. (see the previous section on MSN Curriculum for the BSN prepared RN for a listing of courses for each specialty area).

R.N. - M.S.N TRACK FOR RN'S WITH A NON-NURSING BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

This track is available to persons who are registered nurses and have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution in a discipline other than nursing.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO THE R.N. - M.S.N. TRACK FOR RN'S WITH A NON-NURSING BACCALAURREATE DEGREE

Students are admitted to this track as Provisional Admission; the admissions criteria are the same as for Provisional Admission to the M.S.N. track for BSN prepared RN's listed above except for #1 (bachelor’s degree in nursing).

PROGRESSION FOR R.N. - M.S.N. TRACK FOR NURSES WITH NON-NURSING BACCALAURREATE DEGREES

The following nursing courses must be completed with a GPA of at least 2.5 prior to enrolling in graduate nursing specialty courses NU 410, CMN 411, NU 413, NU 325 or NU 530. Students who have earned a GPA of less than 2.5 will be academically dismissed from the Graduate School. Students in the R.N. to M.S.N. track follow the same progression as students in the regular M.S.N. program.

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS FOR R.N. - M.S.N. FOR REGISTERED NURSES WITH NON-NURSING BACCALAUREATE DEGREES

Students in the RN - MSN track follow the same degree requirements and progression policies as students in the MSN track for BSN prepared RN's with the addition of the above listed courses

R.N. - M.S.N. TRACK FOR R.N.'S WHO DO NOT HOLD A BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

The College of Nursing has a special program to facilitate associate and diploma prepared registered nurses attain the Master of Science in Nursing degree.

By completing five graduate level bridge courses, time for completing the MSN degree can be reduced by one semester or 10 credits. Upon completion of the first phase of the program, students will be awarded a BSN degree. Upon completion of the second phase of the program the student will earn the MSN degree.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO THE R.N. - M.S.N. TRACK FOR REGISTERED NURSES WHO DO NOT HOLD A BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

Students admitted to this track will be licensed registered nurses and will have completed all prerequisite course work for the BSN degree (see BSN curriculum section), have at least 96 semester hours of college credits with an overall "B" average and have met all admission criteria.

In the first phase of the program, students will be classified as an undergraduate student and any financial aid is restricted to the types and amounts for which undergraduate students are eligible. During this phase, students will enroll in both undergraduate level and graduate level bridge courses. Students will be charged undergraduate course tuition for undergraduate courses and graduate course tuition for graduate level courses. At the end of this phase the BSN degree will be awarded.

During the second phase of the program, students will complete all necessary paperwork for reclassification as a graduate student. Financial aid is restricted to the types and amounts for which a graduate student is eligible. At the end of this phase the MSN will be awarded.

PROGRESSION FOR THE R.N. - M.S.N. TRACK FOR REGISTERED NURSES WHO DO NOT HOLD A BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

Students must maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 on all work attempted in the program and must complete the degree requirements for the BSN prior to enrolling in the MSN phase of the program. A maximum of two (2) courses with a grade of "C" can be counted toward a degree, however, only one "C" is permitted in the graduate level specialization courses or in the following bridge courses; NU 530 Health Assessment, NU 531 Advanced Pathophysiology, and NU 532 Advanced Pharmacology. If a second "C" is earned in these courses the course in which the second "C" is obtained must be repeated. Any combination of three (3) courses with grades of "C" or less including "C" grades of repeated courses will result in dismissal from the program.

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE R.N. - M.S.N. TRACK FOR REGISTRED NURSES WHO DO NOT HOLD A BACCALAUREATE DEGREE

Students in this track complete the following 33 credit curriculum for the BSN phase of the program. Undergraduate courses - NU 410, CMN 411, NU 412, NU 413, NU 460; Graduate Level Bridge Courses - NU 530, NU 531, NU 533, NU 534.

The Master of Science in Nursing phase of the program consist of a bridge course, core courses and specialty courses for each track. See curriculum below:

OPTION I Clinical Nurse Leader

Bridge Course (4 credits)

NU 532

Graduate Core Courses (6 credits)

NU 506

NU 507

Research Courses (1 credit)

AHN 514	1
or
CMN 514
or
MCN 514

Approved Electives (4 credits)

Specialty Courses (15 credits)

NU 535	3	NU 538	4
NU 537	3	NU 536	5
Total Credits	30

OPTION II Public Health Nursing Administration

Bridge Course (4 credits)

NU 532

Graduate Core Courses (6 credits)

NU 506

NU 507

Research Courses (1 credit)

AHN 514	1
or
CMN 514
or
MCN 514

Support Courses (3 credits)

NU 562

Specialty Courses (19 credits)

HSC 540	2	HSC 541	2
HSC 542	3	CMN 543	3
CMN 544	3	CMN 545	4
CMN 546	2
Total Credits	33

OPTION III Executive Nursing Administration

Bridge Course (4 credits)

NU 532

Graduate Core Courses (6 credits)

NU 506

NU 507

Research Courses (1 credit)

AHN 514	1
or
CMN 514
or
MCN 514

Support Courses (3 credits)

NU 562

Specialty Courses (18 credits)

NU 565	3	NU 566	3
NU 561	3	NU 567	4
NU 568	2	HSC 571	3
Total Credits	32

OPTION IV Nursing Education

Bridge Course (4 credits)

NU 532

Graduate Core Courses (6 credits)

NU 506

NU 507

Research Courses (1 credit)

AHN 514	1
or
CMN 514
or
MCN 514

Specialty Courses (26 credits)

NU 518	3	NU 519	1
NU 522	3	NU 526	4
NU 524	3	NU 527	3
AHN 525	4	NU 528	3
or		NU 529	2
CMN 525
or
MSN 525
Total Credits	37

OPTION V Clinical Nurse Specialist

Bridge Course (4 credits)

NU 532

Graduate Core Courses (6 credits)

NU 506

NU 507

Research Courses (1 credit)

AHN 514	1
or
CMN 514
or
MCN 514

Approved Elective Courses (6 credits)

Specialty Courses (13 credits)

NU 520	2	AHN 525	4
NU 521	4	or
NU 524	3	CMN 525	4
		or
		MSN 525	4
Total Credits	30

OPTION VI Nurse Practitioner

Bridge Course (4 credits)

NU 532

Graduate Core Courses (6 credits)

NU 506

NU 507

Research Courses (1 credit)

AHN 514	1
or
CMN 514
or
MCN 514

Specialty Courses

Advanced Geropsychiatric Nursing (28-36 credits)

AHN 578	3	CMN 580	1
AHN 581	3	AHN 586	5
AHN 583	3	and
AHN 585	3	AHN 587	3
AHN 579	1	and/or
AHN 582	3	CMN 588	5
AHN 584	3	and
		CMN 589	3

Advanced Adult Acute Care Nursing (26 credits)

AHN 568	3	AHN 569	1
AHN 571	3	AHN 572	3
AHN 573	3	AHN 574	3
AHN 575	3	AHN 576	4
AHN 577	3

Advanced Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing (26 credits)

CMN 548	3	CMN 549	1
CMN 551	3	CMN 552	3
CMN 553	3	CMN 554	3
CMN 555	3	CMN 556	4
CMN 557	3

Advanced Family Nursing (26 credits)

CMN 568	3	CMN 569	1
CMN 571	3	CMN 572	3
CMN 573	3	CMN 574	3
CMN 575	3	CMN 576	4
CMN 577	3

Advanced Women's Health Nursing (26 credits)

MCN 538	3	MCN 539	1
MCN 541	3	MCN 542	3
MCN 543	3	MCN 544	3
MCN 545	3	MCN 546	4
MCN 547	3

Advanced Child Health Nursing (26 credits)

MCN 548	3	MCN 549	1
MCN 551	3	MCN 552	3
MCN 553	3	MCN 554	3
MCN 555	3	MCN 556	4
MCN 557	3

Advanced Neonatal Nursing (26 credits)

MCN 568	3	MCN 569	1
MCN 571	3	MCN 572	3
MCN 573	3	MCN 574	3
MCN 575	3	MCN 576	4
MCN 577	3

Advanced Emergency Nursing (32 credits)

AHN 536	3	AHN 537	1
AHN 538	3	AHN 539	2
AHN 540	4	AHN 541	3
AHN 542	4	AHN 543	3
AHN 544	4	AHN 545	4
AHN 546	1
Total Credits	37-47

ACCELERATED M.S.N. TRACK FOR NON-NURSES

The graduation program in the College of Nursing has a special 101 credit accelerated track for advanced undergraduates and for individuals with non-nursing baccalaureate degrees. The curriculum can be completed in 24 months of full-time study and prepares the student for licensure as a registered nurse and for a career as a nurse educator, clinical nurse leader, or nurse administrator. In the first 12 months student complete undergraduate nursing foundation courses and five graduate "bridge" courses. These five graduate courses "bridge" under-graduate and graduate knowledge in pharmacology, pathophysiology, nursing research, health assessment, and nursing roles and leadership. Courses in the nursing foundation component of the curriculum are equivalent to the curriculum and contact hours required for the traditionally taught BSN degree offered by the College, except that the course schedule is accelerated and is not confined by the traditional academic calendar.

At the end of the 12-month foundation component of the curriculum, students are awarded the BSN degree and are prepared for the RN licensure (NCLEX) examination. Students then begin the 3-semester specialty component of the curriculum to prepare for a career in nursing education, nursing administration, or as a clinical nurse leader. Within the nurse educator track students further selected one of the following clinical concentration areas: adult health nursing, maternal-infant nursing, community health nursing, child health nursing, or psychiatric/mental health nursing. Courses for the specialty component of the curriculum are offered online. Clinical requirements are completed in faculty-facilitated preceptorships.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO THE ACCELERATED M.S.N. TRACK

Admission is selective and competitive. The curriculum is intensive and fast paced. The College of Nursing reserve the right to select students determined to be the best qualified and most likely to succeed in this challenging graduate program in nursing.

Graduate of an accredited baccalaureate program with a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. In accordance with graduate school policy provisional admission may be granted to selected students who do not meet this standard.

Completion of all pre-requisite courses for the BSN degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on all college work attempted.

Applicants with a BS/BA degree must have completed all prerequisite course work as listed below with a minimum GPA of 3.0 ("A"=4.0) and no grade less than a "C".

Prerequisite Courses

EH 101

EH 102

Biology with Lab

Anatomy and Physiology I and Lab

Anatomy and Physiology II and Lab

Microbiology or Infectious Disease

Statistics

Precalculus algebra (or higher)

Chemistry and Lab

General Psychology

Submission of completed application by April 1.

Payment of $50.00 non-refundable application fee.

Submission of health data form.

Submission of a negative drug test and results of a background check.

Submission of resume.

Interview - after initial review of applications a limited number of applicants may be invited for a personal interview. Verbal and written communication skills will be assessed during the interview.

PROGRESSION FOR THE ACCELEREATED M.S.N. TRACK

Students must maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 on all work attempted in the program. A maximum of two (2) courses with a grade of "C" can be counted toward a degree, however, only one "C" is permitted in the specialization courses for the nurse educator, clinical nurse leader, or nurse manager or in the following bridge courses; NU 530 Health Assessment, NU 531 Advanced Pathophysiology, and NU 532 Advanced Pharmacology. If a second C is earned in these courses the course in which the second "C" is obtain must be repeated. Any combination of three (3) courses with grades of "C" or less including "C" grades of repeated courses will result in dismissal from the program. During the foundation component of the curriculum, all students are required to pass a midcurricular exam. Students not successful in passing the exam are required to complete a 3 hour directed study course prior to progressing in the curriculum. Students are also required to complete an exit exam as part of NU 460 course requirements. If the student is unsuccessful on the exit exam a grade of "I" will be given for the course and the student must complete additional remedial requirements the next term. Students failing to complete the remedial work will receive an "F" for the NU 460.

A student may withdraw failing from only two courses, the third withdrawal failing results in dismissal. Students are required to apply for registered nurse licensure upon completion of the nursing foundation component of the curriculum and bridge courses. Prior to enrolling in the specialty component of the curriculum, students must possess their RN license or hold a temporary registered nurse license. Any student failing the licensure examination or allowing their temporary permit to expire will be withdrawn from the program.

CURRICULUM FOR ACCELERATED M.S.N.

FOUNDATION COURSES

HSC 342	MCN 341
NU 300	MCN 345
NU 301	MCN 346
HSC 332	AHN 447
CMN 350	AHN 448
CMN 351	CMN 420
AHN 347	NU 412
AHN 348	NU 413
MCN 340	NU 460

BRIDGE AND CORE COURSES

NU 506	NU 534
NU 507	AHN 514
NU 530	or
NU 531	CMN 514
NU 532	or
NU 533	MCN 514

NURSING EDUCATION COURSES

NU 522	MCN 525
NU 527	CMN 525
NU 528	AHN 525
NU 524
NU 526
NU 529

NURSING ADMINISTRATION COURSES

NU 561	NU 567
NU 562	NU 568
NU 565	HSC 571
NU 566

CLINICAL NURSE LEADER

NU 535	NU 537
NU 536	NU 538

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR ACCELERATED MSN

Students are admitted as undergraduates during the foundation component of the curriculum (first 12 months). During the first twelve months of the program, tuition is charged at the undergraduate rate for undergraduate courses and at the graduate rate for the five graduate level bridge courses. Financial aid is restricted to the types of amounts for which an undergraduate student is eligible.

Upon satisfactory completion of the foundation component of the curriculum, the student will compete all necessary paperwork for reclassification as a graduate student and will continue through the remainder of the program. During this phase of the curriculum financial aid is restricted to the types and amounts for which a graduate student is eligible.

DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE DEGREE PROGRAM

The Dean of the College of Nursing oversees the admission, progression, and graduation standards for the Doctor of Nursing Practice program. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a professional degree and prepares graduates to provide the most advanced level of nursing care for individuals and communities. This includes the direct care of individual patients, management of care for individuals and populations, administration of health care and nursing systems, and the development and implementation of health policy. The program is designed to be in compliance with the Essentials for Doctor of Nursing Practice programs as put forth by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

Upon completion of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, graduates should be able to:

Assume organizational and system leadership in the analysis, delivery, and management of nursing care.

Implement the highest level of advanced nursing care to produce high quality, cost-effective outcomes for diverse patient populations.

Use theories, concepts, and analytic methodologies to design, implement, and evaluate practice by applying evidence to transform nursing systems.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Admission to the program is limited and selective. All documents required for admission review must be official. Transcripts must be mailed from the home institution to the College of Nursing. Scores on the GRE must be sent from the testing agency directly to the University. These documents become the property of the University and will not be returned to the applicant. Students applying for admission must pay a non-refundable $85.00 processing fee by the deadline date.

Application forms and other information may be obtained from the College of Nursing's web site http://www.southalabama.edu/nursing or by contacting the college directly at College of Nursing, University of South Alabama, USA Springhill, Mobile, Alabama 36688; Telephone: (251)434-3410. Applications are accepted from January 1 through March 1 for admission to the program in the fall semester.

To be considered for admission the applicant must:

Hold a master of science in nursing degree with preparation in an area of advanced practice nursing (nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nursing administration, community/public health nursing, nursing education, etc.). Individuals not meeting this criteria but who have a baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited institution with at least a 3.0 GPA will be considered on an individual basis. The curriculum for these students will include master's level coursework and therefore will be substantially longer than the curriculum for the post-MSN student.

Hold an unencumbered registered nurse license.

Admission decisions will be based on an evaluation of the following required information:

Graduate Record Examination including the writing component (an TOEFL, if applicable).

Official transcripts of all previous college studies.

Submission of a portfolio which evidences potential for scholarly work:

a. Curriculum vitae/resume.

b. Sample evidence of leadership and scholarship

c. Written statement of career goals.

Structured interview with graduate nursing faculty members.

Also to be considered in the selection process is a match between student goals and the areas of expertise of the graduate faculty. Students from different backgrounds will be encouraged to apply to create a diverse student cohort.

All students are admitted pending the results of a drug screen and background check. Admission will be withdrawn for students who test positive on the drug screen as per the College of Nursing policy or whose background check would prevent the student from completing residency requirements.

PROGRESSION

Students must maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 to remain in the program. Only one grade of "C" can be earned in the program. A student earning a second "C" or lower will be academically dismissed from the program. A student earning a "D" or "F" in the program will be academically dismissed. A student who has been academically dismissed is not eligible for readmission to the DNP program.

Students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program may initiate a grade appeal under procedures set forth by the Final Course Grade Grievance Policy. A copy of this policy is available in the dean's office or on the University's web site.

A student dismissed from the program as the result of an academic misconduct penalty will not be eligible for readmission to the DNP program or the University of South Alabama. Students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program may initiate an appeal of a charge of Academic Misconduct under procedures set forth by the Academic Standards Policy. A copy of this policy is available in the dean's office or on the University's web site.

Students are expected to complete the DNP project requirements while enrolled in the Residency courses. Students who do not complete the DNP project during the Residency II course will receive a grade for the course based on faculty evaluation of the student's work on the project. Students receiving an acceptable grade ("C" or higher except that the grade is not the second "C" received in the curriculum) will be required to enroll in one hour of directed study every semester until the project is completed.

APPLICATION FOR DEGREE

Each candidate for the doctor of nursing practice degree must make application for the degree the semester preceding the semester of graduation at the Registrar's Office. See the University calendar for specific deadlines.

CURRICULUM

The DNP curriculum consists of 37 credits for the student holding a Master's Degree in Nursing with preparation in an area of advanced nursing. The program can be completed in five semesters of full-time study or seven semesters of part-time study. The program must be completed within five years of matriculation. Full- time study is defined as six or more credits per semester. Permission to take more than 12 credits per semester must be obtained from the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs prior to the student enrolling.

Course work is offered online and students are required to come to campus twice each year for intensive classroom and evaluation sessions. Electives can be taken but are not required. The program does not require a thesis or dissertation, however, students are required to complete a major synthesis project that results in system level change and has a substantial effect on health care outcomes. Residency requirements for the synthesis project can be complete in the student's home community with an approved mentor.

Courses in the curriculum are as follows:

Critical Analysis Scientific Underpinnings of Advanced Nursing Practice (3 credits)

Evidence Based Practice and Quality Improvement in Health Care (3 credits)

Biostatistics (3 credits)

Policy, Economics and Financial Aspects of Health Care Systems (3 credits)

Methods of Translational Research (3 credits)

Clinical Prevention and Population Health (3 credits)

Organizational and System Leadership (3 credits)

Project Planning and Development (3 credits)

Program Evaluation and Improvement of Clinical Outcomes (3 credits)

Information Systems/Technology (3 credits)

Residency in Systems Change I (3 credits)

Residency in System Change II (4 credits)

DESCRIPTIONS OF ALL NURSING COURSES:

Nursing (NU)

Adult Health Nursing (AHN)

Community/Mental Health Nursing (CMN)

Maternal/Child Nursing (MCN)

Health Sciences (HSC)