Master of Nursing (MN) Program Information Booklet

Transcription

1 Master of Nursing (MN) Program Information Booklet School of Nursing Memorial University of Newfoundland

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3 Memorial University of Newfoundland Master of Nursing (MN) Program Information Booklet Contact Information for Graduate Program and Important dates for MN students - University Diary for the Academic Year and MN Program Deadlines INTRODUCTION... 1 INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS... 1 Program Admission... 1 Qualifications for Admission... 2 Deferral of Admission Policy... 3 Transfer Credits... 3 GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE MN PROGRAM... 3 Purpose... 3 Philosophy... 3 Program Objectives... 3 Curriculum Design... 4 Course Descriptions... 4 Programs of Study... 9 Full-Time Versus Part-Time Status... 9 Thesis Option Required Courses Thesis Option - Full-Time Sequencing Thesis Option - Part-Time Sequencing Thesis Specific Information Procedure for Thesis Suggested outline for a Research Proposal for a Thesis Practicum (Non-Thesis) Option Required Courses Practicum Options Practicum Option - Full-Time Sequencing Practicum Option - Part-Time Sequencing i

4 Practicum Specific Information Procedure for Practicum Practicum Courses Practicum proposal Outline Practicum Report Process and Requirements Suggested Format for Final Practicum Report Sample Cover Page Nurse Practitioner Option Purpose Philosophy Goals of the NP Option NP Option Objectives Nurse Practitioner Option Required Courses Post Master s Nurse Practitioner Diploma Required Courses MN Nurse Practitioner Adult or Family/All Ages Full-time MN Nurse Practitioner Adult or Family/All Ages Part-time Intellectual Property Final Copies of Thesis/Practicum Reports Supervisor/Supervisory Committee Guidelines for Appointment of MN Student Supervisors: Thesis Thesis supervision Practicum supervision Conflict of Interest Obtaining Ethical Approval for Research OTHER PROGRAM INFORMATION Program Option, Schedule and Changes Representation on School of Nursing Committees Fellowships and Scholarships ii

5 Course Registration Addresses Distance Education & Learning Technologies (DELT) Web Participation Telephone Costs Evaluation / Promotion / Termination Academic Advising / MN Program Planning Course Requirements Managing Workload Application for Graduation Faculty / Graduate Student Seminars Writing in the Graduate Program MN Student Status Description CONCLUSION APPENDIX SON Form for Agreement for Thesis or Practicum Supervisor / Supervisory Committee SGS Change of Program Form Responsibilities of Supervisors and Graduate Students Policy on Intellectual Property (PHIA) SGS Writing in the Master of Nursing Program Guidelines for Leaves Request for Leave of Absence Form iii

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7 Contact Information for Graduate Program: Ms. Michelle Caines-Puddester Academic Program Assistant Graduate Programs Dr. Donna Moralejo Professor and Associate Dean Graduate Programs Telephone: (709) FAX: (709) Webpage: Mailing Address: Memorial University of Newfoundland School of Nursing St. John s, NL A1B 3V6 Canada

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9 Important dates for MN students - University Diary and MN Program August 5, 2013, Monday September 2, 2013, Monday September 4, 2013, Wednesday September 10, 2013, Tuesday September 11, 2013, Wednesday September 18, 2013, Wednesday Registration begins for graduate students, Fall semester, 2013 Labour Day. No lectures Lectures begin, Fall semester Regular meeting of the Senate Final date for receipt, by the Registrar, of replacement grades for "INCOMPLETE" grades in undergraduate and graduate courses, Spring semester (Intersession, Summer Session and 14-week) ) Deadline for fees payment, including for undergraduate Medical students, Fall semester. 2) End of Regular Registration Period and last day for undergraduate and graduate students to add courses, Fall semester September 25, 2013, Wednesday 1) Final date for graduate students to withdraw from programs without incurring liability for tuition fees, Fall semester. 2) Final date for Departments to submit Recommendation for Award of Degree in order for graduate students to be deregistered from Graduate Registration 9000/Medicine 9900 without incurring any liability for continuance fees, Fall semester October 8, 2013, Tuesday October 14, 2013, Monday October 16, 2013, Wednesday Regular meeting of the Senate Thanksgiving Day. No lectures. Fall semester break begins at St. John s and Grenfell Campuses Lectures resume at St. John s and Grenfell Campuses. Lectures will follow the Monday schedule on this day only vii

10 October 17 to 22, 2013, Thursday to Tuesday October 23, 2013, Wednesday MUNdays: Join in this annual festival of events at both Grenfell and St. John s campuses celebrating creativity, diversity, service and leadership at Memorial University of Newfoundland 1) Last day for undergraduate students and graduate students to drop courses without academic prejudice, Fall semester. 2) Final date for Departments to submit Recommendation for Award of Degree in order for graduate students to receive a 50% refund of continuance fees, Fall semester October 25, 2013, Friday November 8, 2013, Friday November 11, 2013, Monday November 12, 2013, Tuesday November 20, 2013, Wednesday November 29, 2013, Friday December 4, 2013, Wednesday December 9, 2013, Monday December 10, 2013, Tuesday December 18, 2013, Wednesday January 6, 2014, Monday Annual Fall Convocation, St. John s Ceremony of Remembrance, St. John s: Join the University community to commemorate the people of the Province who fought and died in the First and Second World Wars, and for whom this University is a living memorial Remembrance Day holiday. No lectures Regular meeting of the Senate Final date for Departments to submit Recommendation for Award of Degree in order for graduate students to receive a 25% refund of continuance fees, Fall semester Registration begins for graduate students, Winter semester 2014 Lectures end, Fall semester Examinations begin, Fall semester Regular meeting of the Senate Examinations end, Fall semester Lectures begin, Winter semester viii

11 January 13, 2014, Monday 1) Final date for receipt, by the Registrar, of replacement grades for "INCOMPLETE" grades in undergraduate and graduate courses, Fall semester ) Final date for submission of Master's and Doctoral Theses and Reports for examination, by candidates who expect to receive their degree at the Spring Convocation Theses and Reports received after this date will be processed as time and resources permit January 14, 2014, Tuesday January 15, 2014, Wednesday January 20, 2014, Monday Regular Meeting of the Senate Final date for filing, with the Registrar, applications for Degrees and Diplomas for the Spring Convocation Applications received after this date will be processed as time and resources permit 1) Deadline for fees payment, including for undergraduate Medical students, Winter semester. 2) End of Regular Registration Period and last day for undergraduate and graduate students to add courses, Winter semester. January 27, 2014, Monday 1) Final date for graduate students to withdraw from programs without incurring liability for tuition fees, Winter semester. 2) Final date for Departments to submit Recommendation for Award of Degree in order for graduate students to be deregistered from Graduate Registration 9000/Medicine 9900 without incurring any liability for continuance fees, Winter semester February 11, 2014, Tuesday February 17, 2014, Monday February 20, 2014, Thursday February 24, 2014, Monday Regular meeting of the Senate Winter semester break begins at St. John's and Grenfell Campuses Lectures resume at St. John's and Grenfell Campuses 1) Final date for undergraduate and graduate students to drop courses without academic prejudice, Winter semester. ix

12 2) Final date for Departments to submit Recommendation for Award of Degree in order for graduate students to receive a 50% refund of continuance fees, Winter semester March 11, 2014, Tuesday March 24, 2014, Monday April 4, 2014, Friday April 8, 2014, Tuesday April 9, 2014, Wednesday April 11, 2014, Friday April 18, 2014, Friday April 19, 2014, Saturday May 12, 2014, Monday Regular meeting of the Senate Final date for Departments to submit Recommendation for Award of Degree in order for graduate students to receive a 25% refund of continuance fees, Winter semester Lectures end, Winter semester Regular meeting of the Senate Examinations begin, Winter semester Registration begins for graduate students, Spring semester (14-week courses, Intersession and Summer Session) 2014 Good Friday. No classes or examinations Examinations end, Winter semester 1) Lectures begin, Intersession and 14-week Spring semester, including for Engineering academic term students. 2) Deadline for fees payment, Spring semester (14-week courses, Intersession and Summer Session) May 13, 2014, Tuesday May 19, 2014, Monday Regular meeting of the Senate 1) Final date for receipt, by the Registrar, of replacement grades for "INCOMPLETE" grades in undergraduate and graduate courses, Winter semester ) End of Regular Registration Period and last day for undergraduate and graduate students to add courses, Intersession x

13 May 26, 2014, Monday May 27, 28, 29, & 30, 2014 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday June 2, 2014, Monday End of Regular Registration Period and last day for undergraduate and graduate students to add courses, 14- week Spring semester Annual Spring Convocation, St. John s 1) Final date for graduate students to withdraw from programs without incurring any liability for tuition fees, 14-week Spring semester. 2) Final date for Departments to submit Recommendation for Award of Degree in order for graduate students to be deregistered from Graduate Registration 9000/Medicine 9900 without incurring any liability for continuance fees, Spring semester June 5, 2014, Thursday June 20, 2014, Friday June 23, 2014, Monday Final date for undergraduate and graduate students to drop courses without academic prejudice, Intersession Lectures end, Intersession 1) Examinations begin, Intersession. 2) Semester Break begins, 14-week Spring semester June 25, 2014, Wednesday June 26, 2014, Thursday June 27, 2014, Friday Examinations end, Intersession Lectures resume, 14-week Spring semester. Lectures will follow the Tuesday schedule on this only Final date for submission of Master's and Doctoral Theses and Reports for examination, by candidates who expect to receive their degree at the Fall Convocation Theses and Reports received after this date will be processed as time and resources permit June 30, 2014, Monday 1) Lectures begin for Summer session. xi

14 2) Final date for Undergraduate and Graduate Students to drop courses without academic prejudice, 14-week Spring semester. 3) Final date for Departments to submit Recommendation for Award of Degree in order for graduate students to receive a 50% refund of continuance fees, Spring semester July 1, 2014, Tuesday July 7, 2014, Monday Memorial Day holiday. No lectures 1) End of Regular Registration Period and last day for Undergraduate and Graduate Students to add courses, Summer Session. 2) Last day for Undergraduate students to drop course and receive a 100% refund of tuition fees, Summer session July 15, 2014, Tuesday July 24, 2014, Thursday July 28, 2014, Monday August 9, 2014, Saturday August 11, 2014, Monday August 13, 2014, Wednesday August 16, 2014, Saturday Final date for filing, with the Registrar, applications for Degrees and Diplomas for the Fall Convocation Applications received after this date will be processed as time and resources permit Final date for undergraduate and graduate students to drop courses without academic prejudice, Summer session Final date for Departments to submit Recommendation for Award of Degree in order for graduate students to receive a 25% refund of continuance fees, Spring semester Lectures end, Summer session. Lectures will follow the Tuesday schedule on this day only. Examinations begin, 14-week Spring semester and Summer session Examinations end, Summer session Examinations end, 14-week Spring semester xii

15 Master of Nursing Program Memorial University of Newfoundland School of Nursing INTRODUCTION This program information booklet is designed to cover many areas that are important for you to know when applying to the MN program and throughout your program. Keep this information for reference and consult frequently. The booklet supplements information from the School of Graduate Studies so it is critical that you are familiar with the general information and regulations governing all graduate students at Memorial University and that are published in the University Calendar located at INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS Visit for information about graduate studies at Memorial University. This site has links to information that will help you with the admission process as well as progression throughout the program. Policies governing graduate students are posted on this website. Program Admission 1. The responsibility for the administration of all graduate programs shall reside with the Dean of Graduate Studies. 2. Applicants for the program shall be required to apply for admission to the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and shall be expected to follow the regulations, policies and practices required of the School. Deadline for receipt of applications should be no later than February 15. All supporting documents including letters of reference and official transcripts need to be received at the School of Graduate Studies by February 15. Only complete files will be assessed for admission. If space is available, students who apply after the deadline date may be accepted. 3. In addition to the application form for the School of Graduate Studies, students must complete the School of Nursing form. It is available on the School of Graduate Studies web site. 4. Applicants are advised that admission is on a competitive basis. The School of Nursing reserves the right to interview applicants (by conference call) as part of the application process. 1 P a g e

16 5. Applicants are notified of acceptance or non-acceptance, by the School of Graduate Studies not by the School of Nursing, usually by the end of May of the application year. All inquiries should be directed to the School of Graduate Studies. Qualifications for Admission 1. Applicants to the Master of Nursing Program in any of the three options must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing, or an equivalent from an institution recognized by the University and knowledge of nursing satisfactory to the School of Nursing. 2. Admission to the program is limited and competitive. To be considered for admission, the applicant must have maintained at least a grade B standing in the baccalaureate program. 3. Applicants to thesis or practicum options are also required to have a minimum of one year s experience in nursing practice. 4. Applicants must have completed an undergraduate nursing research course, and a statistics course normally within the last 5 years such as Statistics 2500 or Education 2900 or an equivalent. Applicants who have not completed, or who are not in the process of completing the statistics requirement at the time of application will not normally be considered for admission. 5. Applicants must hold a practising licence from the Association of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador or must be currently registered as a practising nurse in another Canadian jurisdiction. Applicants from other countries who do not meet the above criteria will be assessed on an individual basis. However, they must submit proof of registration as a practising nurse (or an equivalency) from their country or jurisdiction. 6. In addition to the above requirements, candidates seeking admission to the MN-Nurse Practitioner degree option must have two years of clinical experience preferably in their chosen specialty area. As well, candidates must have a letter from a health care agency and a clinical preceptor guaranteeing the candidate a preceptored clinical placement for the final semester of their program. 7. In addition to the above requirements, candidates seeking admission to the Post Masters Nurse Practitioner Diploma program must have completed a Masters Degree in Nursing or an equivalent degree with a nursing focus and have two years of clinical experience preferably in their chosen specialty area. As well, candidates must have a letter from a health care agency and clinical preceptor guaranteeing the candidate a preceptored clinical placement for the final semester of their program 8. Applicants are not permitted to be registered in any other graduate/postgraduate program while they are in the MN program. 2 P a g e

17 9. Only in exceptional circumstances and only on the recommendation of the School of Nursing shall the Dean of Graduate Studies consider applicants who do not meet admission requirements listed above Deferral of Admission Policy Students are normally accepted into the Master of Nursing Program for admission in the Fall Semester. Usually students accepted for the Fall semester and unable to begin course work at that time may ask to have their application held for consideration in the next intake of students (Fall of the next year). Transfer Credits Upon a formal request and with approval, students may transfer in from Memorial University or other universities up to 30% of the credits required for their program, i.e., one course for the thesis option and two courses for the practicum option. Check with the Associate Dean for possible transfer of credit for the NP Option. For regulations governing this the transfer of credits please refer to the School of Graduate Studies General Regulations and in particular regulation Transfers of Course Credits. For further information or assistance contact the Associate Dean (Graduate Programs) at the School of Nursing. Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the School of Nursing if they have any questions about the MN program to ensure the program option they select best suits their needs. GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE MN PROGRAM Purpose The purpose of the Master of Nursing (MN) program is to prepare nurses to practice at an advanced level and to provide leadership in nursing. Philosophy The MN program is based on the belief that advanced practice in nursing requires graduate level preparation that provides students with the opportunity to both broaden and deepen their knowledge and competencies in nursing. The advanced practitioner uses critical thinking, has a well-developed knowledge base, and demonstrates advanced skills in an area of nursing. Advanced nursing practice skills are developed through the testing of selected nursing interventions, implementation of research findings, and the analysis and critique of theoretical work. Program Objectives Graduates of the program will be able to: 1) critically appraise existing knowledge in nursing (philosophical, theoretical, research-based, and other). 2) appropriately apply knowledge to improve nursing practice. 3 P a g e

18 3) promote evidence-based practice. 4) conduct a research project or participate in a consolidated practicum experience in a specialty area of nursing. 5) examine and critically analyze issues in nursing and health care. 6) demonstrate advanced knowledge and competency in an area of nursing practice. 7) demonstrate leadership in nursing. Curriculum Design The curriculum is designed to enable students to meet the objectives of the program. The curriculum fosters the interrelatedness of knowledge and practice. The curriculum includes: 1) a theoretical component that enables students to critically examine the development and basis for professional nursing practice. 2) a research component that enables students to critically evaluate research in nursing and other health-related fields as a basis for evidence-based practice and provides students with beginning research skills. 3) a reflective practice component that enables students to develop advanced nursing competencies and provide clinical leadership in nursing. For some students an important part of this component is the consolidated practicum experience. COURSE DESCRIPTIONS N6011. Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing (3 credit hours) This course enables students to expand their understanding of philosophy as it pertains to the development of nursing knowledge and build on their knowledge of nursing theory. The emphasis is on analyzing philosophical and theoretical foundations that shape nursing as a discipline and a professional practice. The Core topics addressed are philosophy of science; nursing science; ontology of the discipline; epistemology of the discipline; nursing theory; relationships among nursing theory, research, and practice; and knowledge utilization in nursing practice. N6100. Research in Nursing II: Qualitative Methods (3 credit hours) This course will focus on developing the ability to critique and conduct qualitative research through an understanding of the philosophical and theoretical basis of qualitative methodologies, the methods used, and the problems confronted in attempting to use these methods in developing nursing knowledge. Qualitative methodologies, such as phenomenology, grounded theory, ethnography, and action research will be explored in some depth. 4 P a g e

19 N6010. Research in Nursing I: Quantitative Methods (4 credit hours) This course is designed to facilitate development of skills in the application of quantitative research methodologies to nursing problems and the use of descriptive/inferential statistical tests for data analysis. The student will be expected to demonstrate competence in critiquing research articles, developing research questions, completing a literature review on a nursing problem, and a beginning competency in using the SPSS program, selecting appropriate statistical tests for analyzing data and interpreting tests results. Prerequisite: An undergraduate or graduate statistics course taken within 5 years of admission to the MN program. N6020. Program Development in Nursing (3 credit hours) This course presents models and methods of program development, focusing on health education and health promotion programs. Major emphasis in the course will be on the development of: 1. health education and health promotion programs using program development model(s); 2. theory-based interventions for programs; and 3. program evaluation based on evaluation model(s). The course will also relate program development in health education and health promotion (health sciences literature) to instructional development (educational literature). Students will develop a program for health education or health promotion in this course, using a program development model. Alternatively, students may elect to develop a program for nursing or client education using an instructional design model. N6200. Nursing Individuals and Families Through Life Transitions (3 credit hours) (course normally offered every second year) The focus of this course is two-fold, an examination of the competencies and roles of advanced practice nurses; and theoretical and research knowledge needed by them in the provision of care to individuals and families. The core concepts addressed are life transitions (developmental, situation and illness-related), and stress and coping. Emphasis is placed on the complex interactional nature of individual and family processes, and factors that impact on health outcomes. This course lays the theoretical and research foundation for the linked course, Nursing 6210: Nursing Therapeutics for Individuals and Families. N6210. Nursing Therapeutics for Individuals and Families (3 credit hours) (course Normally offered every second year) This course involves the exploration and evaluation of innovative therapeutic strategies for individuals and families experiencing transitions. The course will prepare students to fulfill the role of advanced practice nurse through consideration of the evidence base for individual and family interventions, the related ethical and sociocultural issues, and the implications for research and practice. In addition, this course highlights advances in theory, research and skill development for advanced nursing interventions for individual and family life transitions. 5 P a g e

20 N6220. Concepts for Population-Based Nursing (3 credit hours) (course normally offered every second year) The focus of this course is on understanding the epidemiologic basis of Population Health, including risk measures of incidence/prevalence and risk, and determinants of health. Special emphasis is placed on the critical appraisal of epidemiologic studies, sources of data and the statistics used, so that students gain an understanding of current population health problems. N6220 provides the foundation for N6230. The roles of nurses and nursing will be discussed. N6230. Interventions for Population-Based Nursing (3 credit hours) (course normally offered every second year) The focus of this course is on applying concepts and skills learned in N6220, including critical appraisal of epidemiologic studies, to population-based interventions. Topics include outbreaks, screening, influencing personal health practices, reorienting health services, healthy public policy, creating supportive environments, and building community capacity. Interventions for high priority provincial and national population health problems will be emphasized. The roles of nurses and nursing will be discussed. N6040. Nursing Informatics (3 credit hours) The focus of this course is on the theoretical and practical basis of nursing informatics. Content to be covered will include theoretical and technical aspects of system and data base design, legal and ethical issues, and strategies for access, retrieval and evaluation of health-related information for professionals and patients. Local, national, and international nursing and health data bases and systems will be examined and critiqued. Practical application related to information systems and technology will be included in the course. N6031. Education in Nursing (3 credit hours) (course normally offered every third year in the spring term) This course focuses on student-centered teaching and active learning within a constructivist framework. Learners will reflect on their views towards nursing education and compare this to current research. They will explore adult learning principles, active learning principles, and methods of encouraging the development of critical thinking. Discussion related to facilitating learning in online communities, classroom settings, and clinical areas occurs. The legal and ethical issues related to assessment of classroom, online and clinical learning is explored. The concept of a student-centered curriculum is discussed. Learners have an opportunity to apply active learning strategies in a facilitated learning situation. N6050. Leadership in Nursing (3 credit hours) (course normally offered every third year in the spring term) This course emphasizes theories and skills in leadership, management, and human resources that a nurse may apply to improve the quality of patient care, the development of the nursing profession, and the quality of the work environment. The course will include the perspective of nurses in both clinical practice and administrative positions, and how they can influence decision-making, quality services, and change in their place of work. 6 P a g e

21 N6060. Policy and Politics in Advanced Nursing Practice (3 credit hours) (course normally offered every third year in the spring term) In advanced practice roles, nurses are expected to be partners in effecting policy changes at both organization and government levels to improve the health of population groups, to promote the effectiveness of the health care system, and to enhance the nursing profession. In order to take on this leadership role and to be effective advocates for patients, the community, and the profession, nurses need to have a better understanding of policy formation the political process, and strategies that ensure good policy development. This course is designed to explore the role of nursing in health and social policy. Topics include understanding health and social policy in the context of public policy, the policy process, and strategies for policy development. These topics will be examined through the following concepts: communications and the media, power, policymaking, political action strategies, and ethics. Policy and politics as applied to nursing practice, education, research, and administration will be considered. Local, national and international perspectives will be addressed. Specific Practicum Option Courses N6610, 6611: Practicum in Advanced Clinical Practice. (6 credit hours) This consolidated practicum experience will be an application of advanced clinical knowledge and skills with an identified client population. Prerequisites: All required and elective courses including N6020 and N6050 or equivalent. N6620, 6621: Practicum in Nursing Administration. (6 credit hours) This consolidated practicum experience will be an application of leadership and management theories, concepts and principles in areas of nursing administration. Prerequisites: All required and elective courses including N6050 and N6060 or equivalent. N6630, 6631: Practicum in Nursing Research/Research Utilization. (6 credit hours) This consolidated practicum experience will be an application of research skills either: (1) in conjunction with an established nursing research project, or (2) as part of a project to enhance research utilization in an area. Prerequisites: All required and elective courses including N6060 or equivalent. N6640, 6641: Practicum in Health Policy. (6 credit hours) This consolidated practicum experience will be an application of the policy process in areas of health or the nursing profession. Prerequisites: All required and elective courses including N6050 and N6060 or equivalent. N6650, 6651: Practicum in Nursing Education. (6 credit hours) This consolidated practicum experience will be an application of teaching practices in classroom and clinical areas in School of Nursing and/or staff development areas. Prerequisites: All required and elective courses including N6020 and N6031 or equivalent. 7 P a g e

22 Specific Nurse Practitioner and Post Masters Nurse Practitioner Diploma Courses N Advanced Practice Issues and Role Development The focus of this course is on the role of the advanced practice nurse in the context of current and future health care realities. Emphasis will be on the examination and critique of various practice models such as clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner and combined model. Domains of direct clinical practice, teaching and coaching, consultation and collaboration, research, leadership and professional role and ethical decision making will be examined. Issues around implementation of these models in practice will be discussed. (24 hours of lecture) (2 credit hours) N Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Practicum I This course focuses on the role of the advanced practice nurse in performing comprehensive health assessments on clients across the lifespan. Analyses and critique of various frameworks essential to advanced health assessment will be discussed. Emphasis will be on comphrehensive health assessments including history taking, physical examination, synthesis, critical analysis and interpretation of health data. For their clinical component, students will be preceptored in a health care setting by either a nurse practitioner or physician. (39 hours of class (theory) + 24 hours of lab + 96 hours of clinical) (4 credit hours) N Applied Pathophysiology and Clinical Practicum II This course uses an evidence based conceptual approach to critically examine pathophysiological phenomena relevant to advanced nursing practice. The pathophysiology of common diseases and their impact on health in specific populations across the lifespan will be examined. Students will be preceptored in a health care setting by either a nurse practitioner or physician in completing focused health assessments. (39 hours of class (theory) + 12 hours of lab + 96 hours of clinical) (4 credit hours) N Pharmacotherapy and Therapeutics This course will critically appraise and interpret concepts integral to pharmacotherapy across the lifespan. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of selected classes of medications will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on the application of knowledge required to prescribe and monitor medication use within the scope of practice for nurse practitioners. Integration of knowledge from pharmacology will be used in teaching and counseling patients in appropriate use of nutrition and complementary therapies for common disease conditions. (3 credit hours) N Adult Advanced Clinical Decision Making The course will allow the student to further develop and apply the knowledge gained in the previous courses but will focus on the management of client's in the student's specialty area. Students will develop a broader and more in depth knowledge of caring for patients in the acute phases of illness. Dialogue will occur around establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships with the client and health care professionals in a specialty practice. Discussion will also occur concerning health promotion activities and coping strategies used by clients in 8 P a g e

23 managing their disease. Students will be preceptored in a health care setting by either a nurse practitioner or physician in the specialty area for the clinical component. (39 hours of class (theory) + 24 hours of lab + 96 hours of clinical) (4 credit hours) N6802 Family/All Ages Clinical Decision Making The course will focus on the advanced practice nurse's role in the diagnosis and clinical management of health problems in individuals and families across the lifespan. Emphasis will be on the development of diagnostic reasoning and clinical decision making skills within the scope of practice of a primary care nurse practitioner. A systematic approach to patient assessment and management of health problems will be discussed. The course integrates knowledge acquired in previous courses. Content will also revolve around discussion and promotion of healthy lifestyle practices and coping strategies. Dialogue will occur around establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships with the client and health care professionals in practice. Students will be preceptored in a health care setting by a physician for the clinical component. (39 hours of class (theory) + 24 hours of lab + 96 hours of clinical) (4 credit hours) N690X - Advanced Clinical Practicum III This course provides the student with the opportunity to integrate, synthesize and analyze previously learned knowledge and skills in an intensive clinical experience. Students will choose their own client population and will work closely with a clinical preceptor negotiated by the student and professor. The advanced practice role will be developed as students gain expertise in health assessment, diagnostic testing and treatment planning while collaborating with clients, families and other health professionals. (15 credit hours) Program of Study There are three options offered that lead to a Master of Nursing degree: (I) Thesis option, (II) Practicum (non-thesis) option, and (III) Nurse Practitioner (NP) option (either Family/All Ages or Adult Care (speciality). Normally the program options will require two years to complete when taken on a full-time basis or four years on a part-time basis. In addition to the MN degree program, the School of Nursing also offers a Post Master s Nurse Practitioner Diploma. All courses except for selected requirements within some Nurse Practitioner courses are offered by web delivery only. Full-Time Versus Part-Time Status A full time or part-time status does not depend on the number of courses taken in a term or a year. A full-time graduate student is one who registers as such, devotes full time to his or her academic program and may not commit more than 24 hours a week to matters other than the degree program, e.g., working, including teaching assistant or research assistant duties. A parttime graduate student is one who is registered for the duration of a semester and is not classified as full-time. Only full-time students in the thesis option are eligible for University Fellowship funding. 9 P a g e

24 Thesis Option The thesis route consists of six courses and a thesis. A thesis is a research project done under faculty supervision. 1. Candidates must complete an approved program of study consisting of a minimum of 19 credit hours in graduate program courses and a thesis. Required courses: N6010. Research in Nursing 1: Quantitative Methods (4 credit hours) N6011. Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing (3 credit hours) N6100. Research in Nursing II: Qualitative Methods (3 credit hours) Either N6200. Nursing Individuals and Families through Life Transitions (3 credit hours), and N6210. Nursing Therapeutics for Individuals and Families (3 credit hours) Or N6220. Concepts for Population-based Nursing (3 credit hours), and N6230. Interventions for Population-based Nursing (3 credit hours) One nursing elective (3 credit hours). 2. Candidates shall submit a thesis on an approved subject in which systematic research has been conducted under the direction of a supervisor or supervisory committee recommended by the Associate Dean (Graduate Programs, School of Nursing) and approved by the Dean of The School of Graduate Studies. (See Guidelines for Appointment of MN Student Supervisors: Thesis and Practicum p. 34). 3. The program of each candidate shall be approved upon admission by the Dean of The School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Associate Dean (Graduate Programs, School of Nursing) and in consultation with the student. Any changes in the approved program must be made in consultation with the Associate Dean and approved by the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies. A formal Change of Program or Change of Route Form signed by all parties (students, advisor/supervisor, Associate Dean) must be submitted to the School of Graduate Studies for approval. Failure to comply will result in difficulties with registration and could delay your convocation. 4. Students are expected to present and defend their thesis proposal prior to beginning their research (i.e., ethical approval and data collection) and to present their thesis research following successful examination of their thesis. 5. Students are expected to participate, by teleconference, in the School of Nursing s ongoing graduate student/faculty seminar series. These seminars are designed to provide professional research, and teaching developments. They also provide a way for you to know more about faculty interests and expertise and may help in the selection of a supervisor. It is an excellent means of supporting your colleagues in the program and learning more about their work. For provinces where continuing competence programs are in place for Nursing Licensure such as 10 P a g e

25 NL this is an opportunity for you to help fulfill that requirement. See the ARNNL website for more information on the Continuing Competency Program. Thesis Option - Full-Time Sequencing Year I - Fall Semester N Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing N Research I: Quantitative Research *N Nursing Individuals & Families through Life Transitions OR *N Concepts for Population Based Nursing, Year 2 - Fall Semester Thesis Year I - Winter Semester N Research II: Qualitative Research *N Nursing Therapeutics for Individuals & Families OR *N Interventions for Population-based Nursing Nursing Elective * Year 2 - Winter Semester Thesis Year I - Spring Semester Thesis Proposal Development Thesis Proposal Defense Year 2 - Spring Semester Thesis Thesis Presentation * N6200/N6210 is usually offered every second year, alternating with N6220/N6230 However, depending on the numbers of students requiring the courses, they may be offered more frequently. Depending on which option you select from these courses and the scheduling of N6200/N6210 and N6220/N6230 your program may vary somewhat from that outlined above. 11 P a g e

26 Thesis Option - Part-Time Sequencing FALL WINTER SPRING YEAR 1 N Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing N Research in Nursing II Qualitative Methods Elective* YEAR 2 N Research in Nursing I: Quantitative Methods Thesis Proposal Development Thesis Proposal Development YEAR 3 **N Nursing Individuals and Families through Life Transitions OR **N Nursing Therapeutics for Individuals and Families OR Thesis Thesis Proposal Defense ** N Concepts for Population-Based Nursing **N Interventions for Population-Based Nursing YEAR 4 Thesis Thesis Thesis Thesis Presentation * Nursing elective may be done in Spring, Year I or during another term, depending on the elective chosen ** N6200/N6210 is usually offered every second year, alternating with N6220/N6230 However, depending on the numbers of students requiring the courses, they may be offered more frequently. Depending on which option you select from these courses and the scheduling of N6200/N6210 and N6220/N6230 your program may vary somewhat from that outlined above. 12 P a g e

27 THESIS-SPECIFIC INFORMATION PROCEDURE FOR THESIS 1. Decide on a topic and appropriate methodology. The earlier this is done the greater it will facilitate your progress in the program and an earlier completion time. 2. Appointment of a supervisor and either a co-supervisor or supervisory committee member. This is done in consultation with the Associate Dean, Graduate Programs & Research and the appropriate forms will be completed and submitted to the School of Graduate Studies (see Supervisor/Supervisory Committee p. 33). 3. Work with supervisor/supervisory committee to develop a proposal (Suggested outline for a proposal follows). The School of Graduate Studies Policy on Responsibilities of Supervisors and Graduate Students will govern the supervisor relationship. (see p. 48 Appendix for this policy). 4. Schedule, present and defend the proposed research at a faculty-graduate student seminar*. This presentation consists of a minute presentation followed by discussion and questions from those attending. The intent of the presentation is to strengthen the thesis proposal. 5. Submit the proposal together with an ethics application to the appropriate ethics committee and other agencies/organizations as required to obtain ethical approval. 6. Once ethical approval is obtained collect data for thesis. 7. Work with thesis committee to finalize thesis. Students must follow specific format requirements for their thesis. These requirements Guidelines for Thesis and Reports posted on the School of Graduate Studies website This website contains information relating to thesis submission and examination as well. You need to be familiar with these guidelines. 8. Submit thesis for examination** (theses require either two internal examiners, i.e., eligible faculty from Memorial University with at least one examiner from the School of Nursing, or one internal examiner, i.e., a faculty member from the School of Nursing, and an external examiner, i.e., a faculty member in nursing from another university, appointed by the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies on recommendation from the academic unit. Allow approximately six weeks for the examination process. Note the deadlines specified in the University Calendar for submission of your thesis for examination in order to meet the next convocation. Plan realistic timelines with your supervisor so that you meet these deadlines. 13 P a g e

28 9. Make revisions to thesis if required by examiners and in consultation with your supervisor. 10. Submit the final copies of the thesis to the School of Graduate Studies. Consult the Guidelines for Thesis and Reports on the School of Graduate Studies website for requirements on preparing the final copies. 11. Present the thesis work at a faculty-graduate student seminar*. This is a minute presentation with time for discussion and questions. Send a copy of your presentation to your supervisor for feedback and then submit to the Academic Program Assistant in good time for distribution. * Contact the Academic Program Assistant to assist with scheduling of the faculty-graduate student seminar. ** Note deadline dates for submission of thesis for examination as specified in the University Calendar in order to meet a particular convocation deadline. Suggested Outline for a Research Proposal for a Thesis 1 1. TITLE: Capture key words in your study. A title is a shorthand notation of what your study is about it usually has the following elements: that it is a proposal, substantive area, and methodology, e.g., Phenomenological study of the experience of placing a parent in long term care: A proposal or A proposal for a grounded theory study on recovering from a mastectomy or Patterns of pain: A proposed ethnoscience study. 2. ABSTRACT: An approximately 250-word summary of your proposed study. Leave this until you have written your proposal and then briefly capture main points. 3. INTRODUCTION: This provides a brief introduction to your study and lets the reader know early what your study is about and why it is important. It also gives some background information on the research problem you are studying. Sometimes the subheadings Background and Rationale are used. Many proposals have the main objectives of the research and/or the research question in the introductory paragraphs and this can have a separate subheading. Early in the introduction make sure you tell your reviewer exactly what you plan to study. Convince the reviewer that your study is important by telling what it will contribute to knowledge and possibly practice. The principle is the same as any good introduction to any academic paper in that you want to get the interest of the reviewer. If I wanted to do the study of placing a parent in a long term care facility I might begin with One of the most difficult decisions that an adult child may have to make is that of placing a parent in long term care (ref). Yet statistics show that within Canada [number] Canadians are faced with that decision (ref). In this section you would identify the conceptual framework you will use if you are doing a quantitative study, that is, testing or using a particular theoretical or conceptual framework. 1 Note it is important to work with your thesis supervisor as some proposals may vary. 14 P a g e

29 Alternately if theory is informing a qualitative study you could describe it here. Include any definitions that are important to your study. 4. LITERATURE REVIEW: Very briefly include what is known about the research area you are proposing to study. Be selective but let your reviewer know that you have looked at the research that is important to your study. Often in a proposal and in the thesis you will describe your search strategy, i.e., databases searched (e.g., PubMed, CINAHL etc.) and key words used plus what you found and how you might have limited your research (certain dates, language etc.) or maybe even expanded it. This will also help you in arguing why the type of study you propose to do is important, how it builds on previous knowledge, and what it may contribute. If there is no literature that is in the exact area you are studying, try and locate related literature; but do not go too peripheral to your area. The literature ought to be presented in an integrated manner, i.e., do not give an annotated bibliography on each study you are including, rather group like research and have critical comments on those groupings you are looking for flaws or what is missing on your topic of interest. End the literature review with a brief summary of what you have presented, main limitations you identify, and finally demonstrate how your study logically flows from this literature review. Your literature review helps to establish the scientific merit of your study and ethically no research ought to be conducted if there is no scientific merit. Depending on the nature of your study it may have practical merit as well and you can state this. 5. METHODOLOGY/METHODS: Identify the type of research methodology you will use to carry out your particular study and, if you feel necessary, why you have chosen it. Explain how you will use the particular research methodology in your study (do not write about the methodology in the abstract but rather in the particular context of what you plan to do). Describe briefly so your reviewers will know you have an understanding of the research methodology, but do not go into a long discussion telling them everything you know about the methodology. Tell when you anticipate you will begin and end the study (use a time line and put it in your appendices). This section will have a number of subheadings (listed below in bold) and they will vary according to the type of study but all need to be addressed. This section is very important because it is the blueprint for your study. i. Participants: Who they are and any special criteria for selection; how you will select or recruit them to the study; who will contact them and inform them of the study; how many will you require and why? Often you see inclusion criteria and if important to your study some exclusion criteria. If secondary data analysis is proposed describe what you know about how participants were chosen and why for the original data. If a quantitative study is being proposed the number of participants is important for power within statistical analysis. Sample calculation is usually addressed. ii. Recruitment: Describe how you will recruit your participants and include any recruitment material. If you are recruiting through an agency or institution you need to write a letter/send an 15 P a g e