Doctor of Nursing Practice Program STUDENT HANDBOOK OF COLLEGE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Transcription

1 UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA COLLEGE OF NURSING Doctor of Nursing Practice Program STUDENT HANDBOOK OF COLLEGE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES The announcements, information, policies, rules, regulations and procedures set forth in this Handbook are for information only and are subject to continual review and modification. Refer to the Office of Graduate Studies website for the most complete and up to date information. The University of South Florida is committed to the principles of equal education, equal access and equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, marital status, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, or veteran or disabled veteran status as provided by law and in accordance with the University's respect for personal dignity. These principles are applied in the conduct of University programs and activities and the provision of facilities and services. i Approved on 12/05/2014 and updated on 07/14/2015

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Content Page I. Introduction A. Preface 1 B. Welcome 2 C. Mission 3 D. Vision 3 E. Purpose and Objectives of the Doctor of Nursing 3 Practice Program F. Values 3 II. Program Administration A. Program Description 4 B. DNP Post-Master s Concentration Requirements 4 C. DNP Post-Baccalaureate Concentration Requirements 5 D. DNP Post-Baccalaureate Program Plans 5 E. DNP Post-Baccalaureate Concentrations 5 F. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Ph.D. 6 G. College of Nursing Academic Progression Policy 6 H. College of Nursing Withdrawal Policy 6 I. Residency/ Practicum Requirements and Time Limitation 6 J. Enrollment Requirements 7 K. Degree Requirements 9 L. Graduation Requirements 9 M. Student Immunization, Drug Test and 11 Background Check Requirements N. DNP Program Course Descriptions 11 ii Approved on 12/05/2014 and updated on 07/14/2015

3 O. DNP Student Academic Advising 11 P. Grievance Procedures 11 III. DNP Project and Residency/Practicum A. DNP Project 12 B. DNP Residency/Practicum 16 IV. Appendices Appendix A: MS-DNP Knowledge Building Core Courses 17 Appendix B: BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care 18 Concentration Curriculum Appendix C: BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care 19 Concentration Curriculum Appendix D: BS-DNP Dual Occupational Health/ 20 Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Concentration Curriculum Appendix E: BS-DNP Dual Oncology/Adult-Gerontology 21 Primary Care Concentration Curriculum Appendix F: BS-DNP Family Health Concentration 22 Curriculum Appendix G: BS-DNP Pediatric Health Concentration 23 Curriculum Appendix H: DNP Final Project Proposal Scoring Rubric 24 Appendix I: DNP Final Project Scholarly Report Evaluation Rubric 25 Appendix J: DNP Project Poster Presentation Evaluation Rubric 26 Appendix K: Successful DNP Project Presentation 28 (updated ) Appendix L: DNP Professional Portfolio Scoring Rubric 29 (updated ) Appendix M: College of Nursing Leave of Absence Form 31 Appendix N: Certified Background Information 32 iii Approved on 12/05/2014 and updated on 07/14/2015

4 I. Introduction A. Preface The College of Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program Student Handbook is a written compilation of current USF and College policies, procedures, and requirements. It is updated on an ongoing basis to reflect current policies and procedures. It is the student's responsibility to be cognizant of and to comply with all College and University policies and procedures. College of Nursing policies and standards of academic progress may be determined and implemented in accordance with the policies stated in the University's Graduate Catalog. USF and College of Nursing procedures and requirements are subject to change and apply to all students regardless of their choice of catalog. USF Graduate Catalog is located at: USF Office of Graduate Studies policies are located at: College of Nursing procedures and requirements are located at: 1

5 B. Welcome On behalf of the USF College of Nursing administration, faculty, and staff, it is my distinct pleasure to welcome you as a member of our College of Nursing community. Utilizing the American Association of Colleges of Nursing s (2006) Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (2012) Core Competencies for Nurse Practitioners as the primary frameworks, our academic programs are designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills required for the highest levels of advanced nursing practice. Your doctoral journey with us will provide you with many exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth. Best wishes for a successful and exciting journey! Rita F. D Aoust, PhD, ANP-BC, CNE, FAANP, FNAP Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Director for Interprofessional Initiatives University of South Florida College of Nursing Welcome to the USF College of Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice Program. We are delighted that you have chosen our program to prepare you for the challenging complexities of advanced nursing practice that await you. Our College community is dedicated to scholarship and excellence; as a member of this community, your engagement and contributions are important to our collective continued success. Learn, discover, and grow! Our administration, faculty, and staff are here to support your journey every step of the way. Melanie Michael, DNP, MS, FNP-C, CPHQ, FNAP Assistant Professor Assistant Dean, DNP program University of South Florida College of Nursing 2

6 C. Mission Transforming healthcare, transforming lives. Creating the nursing leaders of tomorrow and the research that improves health. D. Vision The USF College of Nursing will be nationally recognized for cutting-edge educational programs and innovative research in partnership with communities and interprofessional colleagues. E. Purpose and Goals of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program The DNP Program prepares graduates for advanced independent clinical practice. Nursing practice, as defined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN [2004]), refers to any nursing intervention that influences health care outcomes for individuals or populations. Objectives for the program are based upon recommendations for essential curriculum elements as identified by the AACN and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF). DNP Program Goals Prepare graduates: for practice at the most advanced level in a focused area of nursing practice to use information systems and technology to optimize the delivery of health care to apply knowledge of the cultural and socioeconomic dimensions of health to prevent disease and promote health for individuals, families, and populations to lead sustainable organizational and health system level changes to improve health care delivery and health outcomes to direct and develop new and innovative strategies to address current and evolving practice issues in an increasingly complex health care environment to critically appraise, synthesize, apply, and translate the knowledge created by researchers and theoretical scholars to improve health care quality and safety to use practice information systems and databases to support and inform decision making, improvement efforts, and the evaluation of health outcomes for individuals, families and populations F. Values Creativity Innovation Partnerships Integrity Engagement 3

7 II. Program Administration The Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Director for Interprofessional Initiatives, Dr. Rita F. D Aoust, has primary administrative responsibility for the DNP Program. She serves as the principle link between graduate students and the College of Nursing in matters related to the DNP Program. Dr. Melanie Michael is the Assistant Dean for the DNP Program; she is responsible for day-to-day program operations and serves as the principle link between DNP students and College of Nursing administrators. The DNP Admissions, Curriculum, and Academic Affairs Committee aka DNP Committee is composed of graduate faculty with expertise in the Program's curriculum and representatives from the doctoral student body. Committee responsibilities include recommendation of student admissions, student orientation, progression, curriculum, and program evaluation. A. Program Description The DNP degree is a practice-focused doctorate that provides an additional option, in addition to the PhD, for obtaining a terminal degree in the discipline. The program prepares graduates with the knowledge and skills required for advanced independent practice at the highest levels within the profession and for influencing health care outcomes for individuals and populations. As defined by the AACN (2004), advanced practice includes all nursing interventions that influence health care outcomes, including the direct care of patients and management of care for individuals and populations. The USF College of Nursing DNP curriculum is stratified to meet the needs of postbaccalaureate and post-master s students seeking a terminal practice degree in nursing. B. DNP Post-Master s (MS-DNP) Concentration Requirements The post-master s DNP curriculum builds on the master s level competencies for advanced practice nurses. A minimum of 30 credits and one year of study are required. All students are required to complete the didactic, clinical, and practice experiences, including specific requirements associated with the DNP final project and residency/practicum, necessary for achievement of the competencies associated with doctoral education for advanced nursing practice as defined by the AACN (2006). An individualized program of study is developed for each student surrounding his/her admission and orientation to the program. This process involves collaboration between the student and the Assistant Dean for the DNP Program; the final program plan is based on the results of a gap and/or equivalent credits analysis and an evaluation of the student s master s program transcript(s) and course syllabi. A copy of the final program plan is filed in the student s permanent record. Each student is responsible for reviewing his/her program plan each semester and for reviewing his/her progress with the Assistant Dean for the DNP Program and/or the DNP Academic Services Administrator at least annually. Individualized programs of study are also available for nurse practitioners seeking preparation for certification in a new or second population-focused area of advanced practice. The student s transcript will reflect the student s preparation in the new or second area of practice. A list of the required Knowledge Building Core courses required for all MS-DNP students is available online at and is also found in Appendix A. 4

8 C. DNP Post-Baccalaureate (BS-DNP) Concentration Requirements The post-baccalaureate DNP curriculum builds on the baccalaureate level competencies required for professional nursing practice. It provides students who have previously earned a Bachelor s Degree in nursing with the opportunity to acquire the competencies required for entry to advanced nursing practice while also completing the requirements for the DNP Degree. All students are required to complete the didactic, clinical, and practice experiences, including specific requirements associated with the DNP project and residency/practicum, necessary for achievement of the competencies associated with doctoral education for advanced nursing practice as delineated by the AACN (2006). Nurse practitioner concentration students must also meet the Nurse Practitioner Core Competencies as defined by the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (2012) and the populationfocused specific competencies established for their respective future area(s) of practice. All BS-DNP nurse practitioner concentrations lead to eligibility to sit for national certification in a population focused advanced nursing area of practice. The oncology and occupational health sub-specialties prepare to sit for their respective certification exams. D. DNP Post-Baccalaureate Concentration Program Plans Standardized full- and part-time program plans are available for each of the post-baccalaureate concentrations. Each student will receive a copy of his/her program plan, based on the concentration selected and declared status as a full-time or part-time student surrounding admission and orientation to the program. A copy is placed in the student s permanent record and each student is responsible for reviewing his/her program plan each semester. Each student is also responsible for reviewing his/her progress with the Assistant Dean for the DNP Program and/or the DNP Academic Services Administrator at least annually. E. DNP Post-Baccalaureate Concentrations Six BS-DNP nurse practitioner concentrations are available as listed Program length varies depending on the concentration selected. Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Dual Occupational Health/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Dual Oncology/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Family Health Pediatric Health The curriculum/program requirements for all BS-DNP concentrations are accessible online at These are also delineated in Appendices B through G. 5

9 F. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Ph.D. Students graduating from the DNP Program and wishing to enter the Ph.D. Program will apply for admission and have their transfer credits evaluated by the PhD Program. Transfer credit policies are listed in the USF Graduate Catalog. G. College of Nursing Academic Progression Policy 1. Students in the College of Nursing DNP Program must receive a grade of B or better in all courses to progress. 2. Graduate students must also maintain an overall average of 3.0 (B) in order to be considered to be academically "in good standing". Students must also meet any special conditions of their admissions. No grade below B will be accepted toward a graduate degree. All grades will be counted in computing the overall grade point average. Students must have an overall GPA of 3.0 at the completion of their respective programs, or they will not be awarded a degree from the University of South Florida. 3. If a student earns a grade below a B in a required course, she/he must repeat the course. The course must be taken in the next semester that it is offered and the student must earn a B or higher. Any student, who earns below a B in two or more required courses or earns below a B in a required course twice, will be dismissed from the College. The Dean of the College of Nursing, or designee, will notify students who are dismissed, in writing. Students may petition for readmission pending approval of the DNP Admissions, Curriculum, and Academic Affairs Committee. H. College of Nursing Withdrawal Policy 1. Withdrawals are limited to 1 per course, with a limit of 2 per undergraduate or graduate program. Withdrawals are defined as officially withdrawing from any class after the Drop/Add period, and before the final withdrawal date as outlined in the Academic Calendar. Any student withdrawing in excess of stated policy may be dismissed from the College of Nursing unless the College of Nursing has pre-approved a documented medical and/or emergent situation. I. Residency Requirements and Time Limitation 1. Twelve months of residency in Florida prior to enrollment are required to be considered a Florida resident and be eligible for in-state tuition. Beginning Fall 2011, doctoral degrees must be completed within seven (7) years from the student s original date of admission for doctoral study. All courses applied to the doctoral degree must be completed within seven (7) years, including 1) Courses taken prior to admission to the USF doctoral program, 2) Courses taken as a non-degree seeking student 3) Courses transferred from other institutions 6

10 There is no time limitation for courses from a completed master s degree applied toward a doctoral degree. For students who are readmitted, see Office of Graduate Studies Readmission Policy. Time Limit Extensions In the event that a student nears the end of the time limitation as specified above, but the student needs more time to complete the degree, the student may submit a request for an extension using the Time Limit Extension Request Form, available on the Office of Graduate Studies website at Requests must include the following, prior to submission to the Office of Graduate Studies for approval: the reasons for the delay in completion the anticipated time needed for completion endorsements from the graduate faculty advisor, graduate program, and College Dean or designee a detailed plan of study and timeline for the remaining requirements for the degree If approved, the time limit extension also applies to courses applied toward the degree. However, programs may require additional or repeat coursework as part of the condition of the time limit extension. Students who exceed the time limitations may have their registration placed on hold until a request for extension has been approved. Only one time limit request is permitted. Students who are temporarily unable to continue the program should submit a Leave of Absence Request, which extends the time limit for the duration of the approved Leave (see Leave of Absence in the Enrollment Requirements section for information; the Leave of Absence Request Form is available online at: J. Enrollment Requirements Students receiving Veterans Administration benefits should confirm their enrollment requirements with the Office of Veterans Services or Veterans Coordinator. Minimum University Regulations 1. USF Full-Time Student Definition Please note that enrollment definitions used by the Office of Financial Aid vary from the definitions used by the Office of Graduate Studies. a. The following enrollment status definitions are used for Financial Aid: Enrollment statuses are the same for every semester: fall, spring, and summer. Graduate ( level courses) Full-time: 9 or more graduate credit hours. 3/4 time: 7-8 graduate credit hours. 1/2 time: 5-6 graduate credit hours. 7

11 For more information on financial aid enrollment requirements, please visit the following website: b. The following enrollment status definitions are used by the Office of Graduate Studies: Students taking a minimum of nine (9) hours toward their degree in the fall or spring semester, or taking a minimum of six (6) hours in the summer semester, will be classified as Full-Time students for academic purposes. Students may take a maximum of eighteen (18) hours in any given semester; exceeding eighteen (18) hours requires a signed program of study or written approval from the College. 2. Continuous Enrollment All graduate degree-seeking students must be continuously enrolled. Continuous enrollment is defined as completing, with grades assigned, a minimum of 6 hours of graduate credit every three continuous semesters. Individual Colleges and programs may have additional requirements. Students on an approved leave of absence are not subject to the enrollment requirement for the time approved for the leave. In addition to Minimum University Requirements, all nursing graduate students are expected to be continuously enrolled in courses every semester. If a student plans to take one or two semesters off, a College of Nursing Leave of Absence Form (Appendix M) must be submitted to the Doctoral Academic Advisor and/or DNP Academic Services Administrator prior to the semester start. 3. Readmission Following Non-enrollment A graduate student who is not registered and enrolled for a minimum of six (6) credits in a 12 month period is automatically placed in non-degree seeking (i.e. inactive) status. Students must be readmitted to the degree program to continue their studies. Readmission is at the discretion of the program and is not guaranteed. Refer to the Readmission Policy in the Graduate Admissions Section of the Graduate Catalogue for more information. 4. Enrollment during Comprehensive Exams During the term in which students take the comprehensive exams, students must be enrolled for a minimum of two (2) hours of graduate credit. If the exam is taken between semesters, the student must enroll for a minimum of two (2) hours of graduate credit in the semester before or following the exam. 5. Enrollment during Semester of Graduation Students must be enrolled for a minimum of two (2) graduate hours during the semester of graduation. 6. Enrollment for Graduate Teaching and Research Assistants Graduate Teaching and Research Assistants should be full-time students. Exceptions must be approved by the College Dean and the Dean of the Office of Graduate Studies. 7. Leaves of Absence (LOA) Leaves of absence may be granted to students under exceptional and unavoidable 8

12 circumstances. Students requesting a LOA must specify the reasons for the leave, as well as the duration. Requested LOA may be approved for up to two years. Students requiring less than three (3) consecutive terms of absence do not need an approved LOA if they meet the continuous enrollment requirement. Students with an approved LOA must be enrolled in the first semester after the leave expires. To request an LOA, the student must complete the form available from the Office of Graduate Studies website. The LOA must be approved by the Major Professor, the Program, the College, and the Office of Graduate Studies, and is noted in the student s record. If the LOA is granted, the time absent does not count against the student s time limit to obtain the degree. Students returning from an approved LOA must reactivate their status by contacting the Office of Graduate Studies for procedures. Doctoral candidates returning from a LOA must also have their candidacy status reactivated. K. Degree Requirements 1. Degree requirements are specified in the University of South Florida Graduate catalog. All general requirements as stated in that catalog apply to the DNP Degree. The catalog is online at 2. Specific program requirements for students entering the MS-DNP concentration are determined on an individual basis. Specifically, the requirements for each student will be based on the results of a gap and/or equivalent credit analysis and evaluation of the student s master s program transcript(s) and course syllabi. Prospective and admitted students are responsible for providing copies of syllabi from their master s program(s). Additional coursework will be required for students seeking eligibility and certification in a new or second area of practice. Additional course work may also be required depending on the residency option selected. Clinical mentor/faculty approval may also be required for some sub-specialty residencies. L. Graduation Requirements The following requirements for the College of Nursing DNP Program are consistent with the Office of Graduate Studies: 1. Completion of an approved course of study with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. 2. Successful completion of all University of South Florida Office of Graduate Studies requirements for a DNP Degree including residency, time limitation, and recommendation for the degree as stated in the University of South Florida Office of Graduate Studies Catalog. Application to Graduate/Graduation Requirements To graduate, a student must submit the Application for Degree via Oasis. This application must be submitted in the term of expected graduation by the deadline noted in the academic calendar. If a student applies for graduation and is not approved, a new Application for Degree must be submitted by the deadline in a new term. In order for the degree statement to appear on a student s academic 9

13 record, the student must file the aforementioned application whether or not participation in the commencement ceremony is desired. To apply to graduate, students must login to OASIS using their Net ID and self-assigned password, then click on the Student menu and select Apply for Graduation. Information and directions how to apply are posted here: The deadline for submission is usually within the first four weeks of classes and is firm. It is recommended that students do not submit their Application for Degree until they have consulted with the Assistant Dean for the DNP Program and completed an in depth progression review including an examination of all outstanding graduation requirements. Students will not be certified to graduate from a degree program until they have completed all requirements for the degree. Students must be registered for a minimum of 2 credit hours in the semester in which they plan to graduate. NOTE: The process of filing an application for degree or participation in the commencement ceremony does not assure certification for the degree. Students must be found to have completed all degree requirements by the deadlines established to be certified for the degree in a given semester. Students who do not graduate in the semester in which they had originally applied to graduate must reapply to graduate in the semester in which they plan to complete all degree requirements. They must submit a new Application for by the application deadline in the semester in which the degree requirements will be met, and must be registered for a minimum of 2 credit hours in that semester. Commencement Exercises Commencement ceremonies are held each semester following submission of final grades. Graduates of the College of Nursing are encouraged to attend the University commencement exercises which are open to all family and friends. The USF doctoral regalia are required for all doctoral students who participate in Commencement. Doctoral regalia is available for rent or purchase through the USF Bookstore for doctoral students. The doctoral robe is green with black velvet detailing and gold piping, and features two embroidered university seals. This robe has been designed exclusively for the University of South Florida and adds a prestigious element for the doctoral students during the ceremony. The doctoral hood is specific to the University and the student s discipline. It is the velvet band on the hood that distinguishes the student s discipline. Please note: DNP students should order and wear a hood with the apricot colored velvet band. This color is unique/specific to the DNP Degree. The full doctoral set for purchase includes the robe, hood, and tam. The set for rental includes the robe and hood. Tams must be purchased and cannot be rented due to health considerations. Mortarboards are permitted, but are not recommended. For more information on academic regalia and commencement please refer to the following web site M. Student Immunization, Drug Test and Background Check Requirements Upon admission to the program all students must have a completed Student Health Record. It is the student s responsibility to ensure that the required physical examination forms are current and submitted at or before start of the program. Additional requirements, such as x-rays, immunizations 10

14 and/or communicable disease screening/testing must be met from time to time depending upon the requirements of specific affiliating agencies. Individual facilities may require additional health screenings and background checks. Students are responsible for any costs associated with fulfilling any additional agency-specific requirements. The Office of Student Affairs must have current health records on all students while enrolled in the program. 1. USF Student Health Services Health Form All USF students must submit a USF Student Health Services Health Form. This form can be downloaded by clicking here: Until this form is submitted, students will not be permitted to register for any live courses at the USF Campus. 2. Background Check, Fingerprints, Drug Test & Medical Document Manager The College of Nursing requires all new graduate students to complete a level two criminal background check, drug test and immunization requirements prior start of the program. These requirements are completed via Certified Background: Failure to maintain an active and complete profile with Certified Background may result in inability to progress in the DNP Program. Specific information can be found once the order is placed with Certified Background using code UE05. More information about these requirements is in Appendix N. N. DNP Program Course Descriptions Course descriptions for all graduate program courses, including DNP Program courses, are listed in the USF Graduate Catalog and are available online at O. DNP Student Advising The DNP Assistant Dean or his/her designee, in collaboration with the Master s Concentration Directors and the DNP Residency/Practicum Coordinator, serves as the faculty advisor for DNP students for matters relating to the DNP final project and the end of program practice immersion experience. The DNP Academic Services Administrator and the Doctoral Academic Advisor typically provide students with guidance on issues relevant to coursework, progression, and related academic issues. P. Grievance Procedures Information on USF and College of Nursing grievance procedures is included in individual course syllabi each semester. The College of Nursing is compliant with the University Academic Grievance Procedure as described in the current Graduate Catalog on the USF website: 11

15 III. DNP Project and Residency/Practicum A. DNP Project 1. Goals/Purpose: Doctoral education, whether practice or research focused, is distinguished by the completion of a scholarly project that demonstrates the student s ability to integrate, synthesize, and apply the knowledge and skills gained as a result of doctoral educational experiences and attainment of end-of-program expected student learning outcomes. The DNP project provides a measurable medium, including specific tangible work products, for evaluating the DNP student s ability to evaluate and apply evidence to improve patient and practice outcomes---which is the hallmark of DNP education. 2. Project Guidance/Information: All students should discuss their interests and initial/preliminary ideas relative to the DNP project with the Assistant Dean for the DNP Program, or his/her designee, surrounding admission to the program and each semester thereafter prior to initial registration in NGR 7974 (DNP Evidence Based Practice Project course) as a component of the routine advising conference process. In addition, students are strongly encouraged to attend the Orientation to the DNP Project and Residency/Practicum information sessions conducted at the beginning of each semester upon program entry or as soon as possible thereafter. Every effort will be made to offer at least one morning and one evening schedule option each semester; the same information will be provided at each session. Dates and times will be posted in the DNP Student Forum in Canvas at the beginning of each semester. All students are required to participate in the live section of NGR 7974 during the first semester of registration in the course. The Assistant Dean for the DNP Program will assist students with the identification/selection of a DNP Supervisory Committee Chair; once the Chair has been selected, the Chair assumes primary responsibility for student advising relative to the DNP project. The Chair of the Committee and all members must confirm their willingness to serve on the committee in writing. The student is responsible for completing the Supervisory Committee Chair Agreement and Supervisory Committee Member Agreement forms and securing relevant signatures. Copies of these forms are available through the DNP Student Forum in Canvas as describe below. Following execution, copies of the signed agreements must be placed in the student s professional portfolio. Selection of the Supervisory Committee Chair is subject to approval by the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. Effective with the Spring 2015 semester, detailed information on DNP project procedures and requirements will be provided in NGR 7974 (didactic/class). Additional information on the DNP project and the DNP Residency/Practicum, including copies of all required forms and templates, will also be posted in the DNP Student Forum in Canvas. All students will receive an invitation to join/participate in the Forum surrounding admission to the program. 3. General Requirements: The DNP project has been defined based on recommendations of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA), and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF). 12

16 Under these guidelines, the project is guided and evaluated by a two or three member supervisory academic committee and must meet the following requirements: Relate to advanced practice in the student s selected area of practice Benefit a group, population, or community Address an identified need or gap through innovative application of evidence Include an adequate description of the innovation Include a comprehensive literature review that demonstrates the need and evidence base for the proposed project Reflect a systematic approach Involve the use of methods and tools that are consistent with accepted standards Include defined and measurable outcomes Be conducted in accordance with ethical principles Include dissemination of the results to the profession and the public 4. Types of Projects: AACN (2006) and NONPF (2007) have identified a number of types of projects that are appropriate. Selected examples are listed below. All projects must involve the evaluation and application of evidence to practice. Translation of research to practice Quality improvement Implementation and evaluation of evidence based practice guidelines Development, implementation, evaluation, and/or revision of a policy to improve health outcomes for patients and/or patient populations Financial analysis to compare care models and potential cost savings Implementation and evaluation of a project involving the use of technology to enhance or evaluate care Design and evaluation of new models of care and/or programs Collaboration with lay or professional coalitions to develop, implement, or evaluate health programs 5. DNP Project Milestones: Students typically complete the requirements for the DNP Project during their final year in the program over a period of three or more semesters. While CON requirements allow students to complete the project over a minimum of two semesters, project completion over three or more semesters is typical and should be anticipated. Initial and subsequent registrations for NGR 7974 are by permit only based on approval of the student s committee Chair. Each student must participate in the didactic course sessions as required by the Chair of his/her DNP Project Supervisory Committee and develop a DNP Project Learning Agreement in collaboration with the Chair of his/her committee each semester. The learning 13

17 objectives outlined in the agreement serve as the basis for evaluation of the student s progress at the end of each semester. The learning agreement is subject to modification/updates at any time subject to the approval of the committee Chair. Copies of the learning agreement template are available in the DNP Student Forum in Canvas. Several learning agreement examples as also posted in the Forum. Key milestones relevant to the DNP Project are listed below. Students will receive detailed information on relevant DNP Project procedures, processes, and requirements during the Orientation to the DNP Project and Residency/Practicum information sessions and during the first semester of registration in NGR 7974 (class). The timeline for completion of these milestones will vary among students. Ongoing collaboration and consultation with the Supervisory Committee Chair and members, as well as the Assistant Dean for the DNP Program, throughout the entire project period is essential to student success. a. Initial consultation/exploration of topics/ideas with faculty advisor/assistant Dean for the DNP Program upon program entry b. Participation in one or more Orientation to the DNP Project and Residency/Practicum information sessions upon program entry c. Participation in live class sessions during the first semester of registration in NGR 7974 d. Selection of DNP Supervisory Committee Chair e. Initial collaboration with Committee Chair f. Establishment of the DNP Supervisory Committee g. Specification of the problem/question that will be the focus of the student s project h. Approval of project focus and design i. Approval to move forward with proposal development j. Completion of human subjects protection training k. Submission/presentation of proposal to the Supervisory Committee for evaluation/approval l. Approval of proposal m. Preparation and submission of IRB application n. Approval to launch/implement project o. Completion of all project-related implementation actions including data collection and analysis activities p. Development and submission of final report for Committee approval q. Approval of final report r. Poster presentation of project s. Collection and submission of all required project-related evaluation rubrics via the DNP Professional Portfolio 14

18 All required forms, templates, and evaluation rubrics required for the project are accessible through the DNP Student forum in Canvas. 6. Tangible Work Products: There are three primary tangible work products associated with the DNP Project: (a) the project proposal, (b) the final project report, and (c) the project poster. The content requirements and evaluation criteria for these work products/documents are delineated in Appendices H, I, and J respectively. This information is also available in the DNP Student Forum in Canvas. IRB/HIPAA Compliance: All projects must be submitted for IRB review through the College of Nursing Research Center prior to implementation. Information on the resources and services available through the center is accessible online at Students should schedule a consultation with Trudy Wittenberg (twittenb@health.usf.edu), IRB Manager, at the time of initial registration for NGR 7974 to discuss processes and procedures associated with IRB/HIPAA compliance as relevant to the DNP project. Students must complete human subjects protection training prior to submission of the IRB application. Training is accessible online at 7. DNP Project Poster Presentation Event: Beginning with the Fall 2015 term, a poster presentation reception/event will be conducted in the CON at the end of each semester. The date and time(s) will be established by CON faculty. All students who have completed project requirements during a given semester are required to present their projects at this event. The Chair of the Committee is authorized to approve or to deny the scheduling of any poster presentation as necessary to ensure that the student is thoroughly and properly prepared and has completed all requisite project-related requirements. Approval of the final report by all project Committee members is required prior to the poster presentation. Event details (dates, times, locations, etc.) will be posted in the DNP Student Forum in Canvas at the beginning of each semester. Students must complete all project-related work and be prepared to present their projects on/before the date established for the post presentation reception event established for a given semester. Students should contact Allisha Azard (allisha@health.usf.edu), DNP Program Academic Program Specialist, at least six weeks prior to the poster presentation event for preparation assistance and dissemination of relevant notifications. All DNP Project requirements, including those associated with the poster presentation, must be fulfilled in order for students to be eligible for graduation. B. DNP Residency/Practicum 1. Goals/Objectives: The USF College of Nursing DNP Program is designed to provide students with advanced practice preparation in in a population-focused or specialized area of advanced nursing practice within the larger domain of nursing. End-of-program expected student learning outcomes include the ability to demonstrate advanced levels of clinical judgment, systems thinking, and accountability for improving patient outcomes. DNP residency/practicum experiences are structured to promote attainment of these competencies and to allow students to expand and assimilate knowledge for advanced practice at a high level of complexity. 15

19 2. Requirements/Procedures: Residency/practicum experiences are highly individualized. Students should begin planning for NGR 7945 at least one semester in advance of anticipated registration. Detailed information on residency/practicum procedures will be posted in the DNP Student forum in Canvas every semester for the following semester. Nurse practitioner residents are required to complete a minimum of 500 practice hours and to work with one or more expert mentors during the residency period in order to achieve the objectives delineated for each rotation or residency experience. Residency experiences for post-master s students with CRNA licensure are also individualized and based on the student s unique professional goals. Clinical hours are completed through placement with an affiliated clinical faculty member or site. Residency requirements, including clinical hour requirements, will vary depending upon the clinical residency selected and the associated clinical competencies required for attainment of the practice goals/objectives established for the residency. Selected residencies may require completion of additional elective/academic coursework. Each student is responsible for clarifying and understanding the specific requirements for his/her chosen residency. Registration for NGR 7945 (DNP Residency course) is by permit only and requires the approval of the DNP Residency/Practicum Coordinator or the Assistant Dean for the DNP Program. All forms and templates required for permitting, clinical placement, and fulfillment of residency-associated requirements each semester are available through the DNP Student Forum in Canvas. Professional practice standards established by national certification organizations and national clinical practice guidelines inform specification of the learning objectives for DNP residency experiences. Each student establishes an individualized learning agreement, using a standardized residency learning agreement template, at the beginning of each rotation, semester, or residency period in collaboration with the DNP Residency/Practicum Coordinator and his/her selected clinical mentor(s). Copies of the template are accessible in the DNP Student forum in Canvas. The terms and conditions established through the learning agreement are the basis for evaluation of student performance by the instructor of record and the practice mentor at the end of each rotation and/or semester. Students are also required to submit a log of clinical hours/experiences and a self-evaluation at the end of each rotation and/or semester. 3. Academic/Professional Portfolio: Each DNP student is required to develop an academic/professional portfolio during the project and/or residency periods. A copy of the portfolio must be submitted for formative evaluation at the end of each semester during the project and/or residency period (i.e., each semester the student is registered to earn credits for NGR 7945 and/or NGR 7974) prior to the semester of graduation. The completed portfolio must be submitted for summative evaluation at the end of the student s final semester in the program. The portfolio will be evaluated by the Assistant Dean for the DNP Program or his/her designee based on the criteria delineated in the DNP Professional Portfolio Rubric and established guidelines for organization and sequencing of portfolio content. See Appendix L. A portfolio template and detailed information on portfolio requirements are available through the DNP Student Forum in Canvas. 16

20 Appendix A MS-DNP Knowledge Building Core Course Requirements Course Number Course Name Credits NGR 6673 Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing 3 NGR 7766 Leadership and Systems Analysis 3 NGR 7767 Practice Management 3 NGR 7848 Fundamentals of Statistics for Clinicians 3 NGR 7874 Informatics and Patient Care Technology 3 NGR 7892 Health Policy Issues in Nursing and Health Care 3 NGR 7945 DNP Clinical Residency 8* NGR 7974 Evidence-Based Practice Project 4 *Additional credits are required for some residencies. 17

21 Appendix B BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Concentration Curriculum Course Number Concentration Specific Course Requirements Credits NGR 6002C Advanced Health Assessment Across the Lifespan 4 NGR 6064C Advanced Diagnostics & Procedures 3 NGR 6152 Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology 4 NGR 6172 Pharmacology for Advance Nurse Practitioners 4 NGR 6638 Health Promotion Theories and Strategies Across the Lifespan 3 NGR 6673 Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing 3 NGR 6733 Organizational & Professional Dimensions of Nursing Practice 3 NGR 6803 Research and Evidence-Based Practice 3 NGR 6893 Systems & Populations in Healthcare 3 NGR 7766 Leadership and Systems Analysis 3 NGR 7767 Practice Management 3 NGR 7848 Fundamentals of Statistics for Clinicians 3 NGR 7874 Informatics and Patient Care Technology 3 NGR 7892 Health Policy Issues in Nursing and Health Care 3 NGR 7945 DNP Clinical Residency 8 NGR 7974 Evidence-Based Practice Project 4 NGR 6210C Clinical Management of Acute and Chronically Ill Adults and Older Adults 7 NGR 6211C Clinical Management of Complex Acutely and Critically Ill Adults and Older Adults on Special Topics 7 NGR 6232C Clinical Management of Acutely & Critically Ill Adults and Older Adults 7 Total Minimum Credits Required 78 18

22 Appendix C BS-DNP Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Concentration Curriculum Course Number Concentration Specific Course Requirements Credits NGR 6002C Advanced Health Assessment Across the Lifespan 4 NGR 6064C Advanced Diagnostics & Procedures 3 NGR 6152 Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology 4 NGR 6172 Pharmacology for Advance Nurse Practitioners 4 NGR 6638 Health Promotion Theories and Strategies Across the Lifespan 3 NGR 6673 Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing 3 NGR 6733 Organizational & Professional Dimensions of Nursing Practice 3 NGR 6803 Research and Evidence-Based Practice 3 NGR 6893 Systems & Populations in Healthcare 3 NGR 7766 Leadership and Systems Analysis 3 NGR 7767 Practice Management 3 NGR 7848 Fundamentals of Statistics for Clinicians 3 NGR 7874 Informatics and Patient Care Technology 3 NGR 7892 Health Policy Issues in Nursing and Health Care 3 NGR 7945 DNP Clinical Residency 8* NGR 7974 Evidence-Based Practice Project 4 NGR 6207C Health Management of Adults and Older Adults I 6 NGR 6244C Health Management of Adults and Older Adults II 6 NGR 6291C Health Management of Adults and Older Adults: Special Topics 6 Total Minimum Credits Required 75 *Additional credits are required for some residencies. 19

23 Appendix D BS-DNP Dual Occupational Health/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Concentration Curriculum Course Number Concentration Specific Course Requirements Credits NGR 6002C Advanced Health Assessment Across the Lifespan 4 NGR 6064C Advanced Diagnostics & Procedures 3 NGR 6152 Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology 4 NGR 6172 Pharmacology for Advance Nurse Practitioners 4 NGR 6638 Health Promotion Theories and Strategies Across the Lifespan 3 NGR 6673 Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing 3 NGR 6733 Organizational & Professional Dimensions of Nursing Practice 3 NGR 6803 Research and Evidence-Based Practice 3 NGR 6893 Systems & Populations in Healthcare 3 NGR 7766 Leadership and Systems Analysis 3 NGR 7767 Practice Management 3 NGR 7848 Fundamentals of Statistics for Clinicians 3 NGR 7874 Informatics and Patient Care Technology 3 NGR 7892 Health Policy Issues in Nursing and Health Care 3 NGR 7945 DNP Clinical Residency 8 NGR 7974 Evidence-Based Practice Project 4 NGR 6207C Health Management of Adults and Older Adults I 6 NGR 6244C Health Management of Adults and Older Adults II 6 NGR 6291C Health Management of Adults and Older Adults: Special Topics 6 NGR 6650 Occupational Health Nursing I 2 NGR 6651 Occupational Health Nursing II 2 PHC 6351 Occupational Medicine 3 PHC 6356 Industrial Hygiene 2 PHC 6360 Safety Principles and Practices 2 PHC 6364 Plant Operations Interdisciplinary Field Experience 2 PHC 6977 Special Project 3 Total Minimum Credits Required 93 20

24 Appendix E BS-DNP Dual Oncology/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Concentration Curriculum Course Number Concentration Specific Course Requirements Credits NGR 6002C Advanced Health Assessment Across the Lifespan 4 NGR 6064C Advanced Diagnostics & Procedures 3 NGR 6152 Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology 4 NGR 6172 Pharmacology for Advance Nurse Practitioners 4 NGR 6638 Health Promotion Theories and Strategies Across the Lifespan 3 NGR 6673 Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing 3 NGR 6733 Organizational & Professional Dimensions of Nursing Practice 3 NGR 6803 Research and Evidence-Based Practice 3 NGR 6893 Systems & Populations in Healthcare 3 NGR 7766 Leadership and Systems Analysis 3 NGR 7767 Practice Management 3 NGR 7848 Fundamentals of Statistics for Clinicians 3 NGR 7874 Informatics and Patient Care Technology 3 NGR 7892 Health Policy Issues in Nursing and Health Care 3 NGR 7945 DNP Clinical Residency 8 NGR 7974 Evidence-Based Practice Project 4 NGR 6207C Health Management of Adults and Older Adults I 6 NGR 6220 Pathobiology of Neoplasia 3 NGR 6221 Oncology Nursing Concepts 3 NGR 6244C Health Management of Adults and Older Adults II 6 NGR 6291C Health Management of Adults and Older Adults: Special Topics 6 Total Minimum Credits Required 81 21