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

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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 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS...i CONTACT INFORMATION FOR GRADUATE PROGRAMS... iii IMPORTANT DATES FOR MN STUDENTS... v MASTER OF NURSING PROGRAM AT MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY INTRODUCTION INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS Program Admission Qualifications for Admission Deferral of Admission Policy Transfer Credits GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE MN PROGRAM l Purpose Philosophy Program Objectives Curriculum Design Program of Study Course Descriptions Core Courses (all MN students) Specific Practicum Option Courses Specific Nurse Practitioner and Post Master s Nurse Practitioner Diploma Courses Full-Time Versus Part-Time Status Thesis Option PRACTICUM OPTION Required Courses Suggested Sequencing for Practicum Option Preparing for the Practicum NURSE PRACTITIONER OPTIONS Purpose Philosophy Goals of the NP Option NP Option Objectives MN Nurse Practitioner Option MN-NP Required Courses Post Master s Nurse Practitioner Diploma Clinical Placements National Exam Clinical Evaluation Clinical Policies Clinical Hours Identification Suggested Sequencing for MN-NP Options FINAL COPIES OF PRACTICUM REPORTS CONFLICT OF INTEREST INTELLECTULAL PROPERTY OBTAINING ETHICAL APPROVAL FOR RESEARCH i

4 10. OTHER PROGRAM INFORMATION Representation on School of Nursing Committees Fellowships and Scholarships Course Registration Addresses Distance Education, Learning and Teaching Support (DELTS) Web Participation Telephone Costs Evaluation/Promotion/Termination Academic Advising/MN Program Planning Course Requirements Managing Workload Application for Graduation Faculty/Graduate Student Seminars MN Student Status Description CONCLUSION APPENDIX I: ACADEMIC INTEGRITY AND PLAGIARISM Academic Integrity Plagiarism APPENDIX II: GUIDELINES FOR LEAVES ii

5 CONTACT INFORMATION FOR GRADUATE PROGRAMS Ms. Michelle Caines-Puddester Academic Program Assistant Graduate Programs Ms. Barbara Hynes Assistant to the NP Co-ordinator Nurse Practitioner Option Dr. Donna Moralejo Professor and Associate Dean Graduate Programs Telephone: (709) FAX: (709) Ms. Donna Best Associate Professor and Co-ordinator Nurse Practitioner Option Telephone: (709) FAX: (709) Webpage: Mailing Address: Memorial University of Newfoundland School of Nursing Health Sciences Centre 300 Prince Philip Drive Room H2916 St. John s, NL A1B 3V6 Canada iii

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7 IMPORTANT DATES FOR MN STUDENTS Here are some important dates. Refer to the 2015/1016 calendar for others August 3, 2015, Monday September 7, 2015, Monday September 9, 2015, Wednesday September 30, 2015, Wednesday Registration begins for graduate students, Fall semester, 2015 Labour Day, no lectures Lectures begin, Fall semester Final date for graduate students to withdraw from programs without incurring liability for tuition fees, Fall semester 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 12, 2015, Monday October 15, 2015, Thursday October 23, 2015, Friday October 28, 2015, Wednesday November 11, 2015, Wednesday November 27, 2015, Friday December 4, 2015, Friday January 7, 2016, Thursday January 14, 2016, Thursday February 22, 2016, Monday Thanksgiving Day, no lectures Lectures will follow the Tuesday schedule on this day only Annual Fall Convocation, St. John s Last day for undergraduate students and graduate students to drop courses without academic prejudice, Fall semester Remembrance Day holiday, no lectures Registration begins for graduate students, Winter semester 2016 Lectures end, Fall semester Lectures begin, Winter 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 Winter semester break begins at St. John's and Grenfell Campuses v

8 February 25, 2016, Thursday March 25, 2016, Friday April 6, 2016, Wednesday April 12, 2016, Tuesday May 9, 2016, Monday May 31, June 1 to 3, 2016 Tuesday to Friday June 2, 2016, Thursday June 24, 2016, Friday June 27, 2016, Monday Final date for undergraduate and graduate students to drop courses without academic prejudice, Winter semester Good Friday. No classes or examinations Lectures end, Winter semester Registration begins for graduate students, Spring semester (14-week courses, Intersession and Summer Session) 2016 Lectures begin, Intersession and 14-week Spring semester Annual Spring Convocation, St. John s Final date for undergraduate and graduate students to drop courses without academic prejudice, Intersession 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 Lectures begin for Summer session Final date for undergraduate and graduate students to drop courses without academic prejudice, 14-week Spring semester July 1, 2016, Friday July 21, 2016, Thursday August 5, 2016, Friday August 6, 2016, Saturday Memorial Day holiday, no lectures Final date for undergraduate and graduate students to drop courses without academic prejudice, Summer session Lectures end, 14-week Spring semester Lectures end, Summer session. Lectures will follow the Friday schedule on this day only. vi

9 MASTER OF NURSING PROGRAM AT MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY 1. INTRODUCTION This program information booklet is designed to provide you with information on many topics that are important to you when applying to the MN program and throughout your program. Keep this program information booklet for reference and consult it 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. These are published in the University Calendar located at 1 P a g e

10 2. 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 web site. 2.1 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 for admission in the Fall semester of that year. 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. Individuals who apply after the deadline date may request that their application be held for consideration the following year. 3. In addition to the application form for the School of Graduate Studies, students must complete the School of Nursing Application 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. 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. 2.2 Qualifications for Admission 1. Applicants to the Master of Nursing Program Practicum and Nurse Practitioner 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 must have completed an undergraduate nursing research course and a statistics course (such as Statistics 2500 or Education 2900 or an equivalent) normally within the last 5 years. 2 P a g e

11 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. 4. 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. 5. Applicants to the MN practicum option are also required to have a minimum of one year s experience in nursing practice. 6. In addition to the above requirements (1-4), candidates seeking admission to the MN-Nurse Practitioner Option must have two years of clinical experience preferably in their chosen specialty area. 7. In addition to the above requirements, candidates seeking admission to the Post Master s Nurse Practitioner Diploma program must have completed a Master s Degree in Nursing or an equivalent degree with a nursing focus and have two years of clinical experience preferably in their chosen specialty area. 8. Applicants are not permitted to be registered in any other graduate/postgraduate program while they are in the MN program. 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 the admission requirements listed above. 2.3 Deferral of Admission Policy Students are normally accepted into the Master of Nursing Program for admission in the Fall semester. Students accepted for the Fall semester who are unable to begin course work at that time may ask to have their applications held for consideration in the next intake of students in the next Fall semester. 2.4 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., two courses for the practicum option. Check with the Associate Dean (Graduate Programs) for possible transfer of credit for the NP Option. For regulations governing this transfer of credits please refer to the School of Graduate Studies General Regulations, and in particular regulation Transfers of Course Credits found at 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. 3 P a g e

12 3. GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE MN PROGRAM 3.1 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. 3.2 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. 3.3 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) promote evidence-informed practice; 4) conduct projects 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; and 7) demonstrate leadership in nursing. 3.4 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-informed practice and provides students with beginning research skills; and 3) a reflective practice component that enables students to develop advanced nursing competencies and provide clinical leadership in nursing. For students in the practicum option this component is the practicum project. Students in the NP option have multiple practice components. 4 P a g e

13 3.5 Program of Study There are two options offered that lead to a Master of Nursing degree: (I) Practicum (non-thesis) option, and (II) Nurse Practitioner (NP) option (either Family/All Ages or Adult Care (speciality). These are further described in sections 4 and 5, respectively. 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, with the exception of some components within some Nurse Practitioner courses, are offered by web delivery only. For further information, contact MNSON@mun.ca 3.6 Course Descriptions Core Courses (all MN students) N6250: Foundations for Advanced Nursing Practice This course will help students develop professional and academic skills required for success in graduate studies and for evidence-informed decision making in advanced nursing practice. One area of emphasis will be on developing writing competencies for scholarly work. Topics will include mechanics of writing, building and defending arguments, locating information, critical reading, evaluating various forms of knowledge, writing integrative literature reviews, and presenting the results of these in different formats. The second area of emphasis will be on indepth exploration of the different competencies associated with, and their application to, advanced nursing practice. (3 credit hours). Note: This course is pre-requisite to all other courses for practicum option students, although students may take this course as a co-requisite with others in the first term of the program. N6011: Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing 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. Pre-requisite: N6250 Foundations for Nursing Practice. (3 credit hours) N6240: Nursing Individuals and Families Through Life Transitions This course involves an examination of theoretical and research knowledge needed by advanced practice nurses for the provision of care to individuals and families experiencing life transitions. The core concepts addressed are life transitions (developmental, situational, and illness-related) and stress, coping, and health outcomes. Evidence-based interventions that advanced practice nurses use to assist individuals and families who are experiencing life transitions are explored. 5 P a g e

14 Pre-requisites: N6250 Foundations for Nursing Practice and N6011 Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing. (3 credit hours) N6010: Research in Nursing I: Quantitative Methods This course is designed to facilitate development of skills in the application of quantitative research methodologies to nursing problems and the interpretation of descriptive/inferential statistical tests. The student will be expected to demonstrate competence in critiquing research articles, developing research questions, completing a literature review on a nursing problem, selecting appropriate statistical tests for analyzing data and interpreting test results. Prerequisite: An undergraduate or graduate statistics course taken within 5 years of admission to the MN program. Pre-requisite: N6250 Foundations for Nursing Practice. (3 credit hours) N6100: Research in Nursing II: Qualitative Methods 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. Pre-requisite: N6011 Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing. (3 credit hours) N6221: Population-Based Nursing This course involves an examination of theoretical and research knowledge related to the key domains of the population health framework: influencing personal health practices, creating supportive environments and building community capacity, reorienting health services, and healthy public policy. Core concepts explored include risk, generating and interpreting rates from population health data to identify priority problems, and determinants of health. Emphasis is placed on the critical appraisal of population-based interventions, including screening programs, for selected high-priority population health problems, assessing their strengths, limitations, applicability to different problems, and effectiveness. The roles of nurses, advanced nursing practice and nursing leadership in population health will be explored. Pre-requisite: N6250 Foundations for Nursing Practice. (3 credit hours) N6020: Program Development in Nursing 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). 6 P a g e

15 Students will propose a program for health education or health promotion in this course, using a program development model. Alternatively, students may elect to propose a program for nursing or client education using an instructional design model. Pre-requisite: N6250 Foundations for Nursing Practice. (3 credit hours) N6031: Education in Nursing 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 are explored. The concept of a student-centered curriculum is discussed. Learners have an opportunity to apply active learning strategies in a facilitated learning situation. Pre-requisite: N6250 Foundations for Nursing Practice. (3 credit hours) Specific Practicum Option Courses N6660: MN Practicum I In the first practicum course, students propose a practicum project that will provide them with the opportunity for integration and synthesis of philosophical perspectives, theories, research and skills that have been acquired in the previous course work. The project also provides students with the opportunity for application of skills and material learned in previous course work and for development of further knowledge in a selected area of interest, as well as for demonstration of advanced nursing practice competencies. Practicum projects will vary from student to student and are negotiated with the course professor. In the first practicum course, students develop a written proposal for the project and conduct a comprehensive review of the literature. Depending on their project, they may consult with colleagues or assess available resources if they are developing educational materials or policies. If their project involves implementation of existing educational materials or policies, they may develop an implementation or evaluation plan. An interim practicum report is expected at the end of the first practicum course which includes an outline of activities for the second course and a reflection of progress to date in terms of advanced nursing practice competencies. Students are expected to revise all documents (e.g., proposal, literature review, reports) during the term based on feedback. Work that is unsatisfactory after a maximum of 3 drafts will constitute a failure and inability to progress to the next practicum. Activities cannot be carried out until plans are approved by the course professor. Pre-requisites: all required courses. (3 credit hours) N6661: MN Practicum II In the second practicum course, students continue to implement their project, following the original proposal and the plans outlined in the interim report at the end of the first practicum course. For example, students will develop educational materials or policies based on their literature review and consultations with colleagues, or they will implement existing educational 7 P a g e

16 materials or policies based on their implementation and evaluation plan. They will share what they have done and accomplished in presentations to their colleagues, and they will write a final practicum report that includes all materials generated during the two courses, e.g., literature review, reports of consultations or evaluation, developed educational materials or policies. The final report includes a summary of advanced nursing practice competencies demonstrated by the student, illustrated with examples. Prerequisites: all required courses and N6660 MN Practicum I. (3 credit hours) Specific Nurse Practitioner and Post Master s Nurse Practitioner Diploma Courses N6251: Writing Skills for Nurse Practitioners This course will help students develop academic skills required for success in graduate studies. The area of emphasis will be on developing writing competencies for scholarly work. Topics will include mechanics of writing, building and defending arguments, locating information, critical reading, evaluating various forms of knowledge, writing integrative literature reviews and presenting the results of these in different written formats. (1 credit hour). Pre-requisite: Admission to the NP program. Note: This course is pre-requisite to all other courses for MN-NP option students, although students may take this course as a co-requisite with others in the first term of the program. Students who have transferred from the practicum option and have credit for N6250 Foundations for Nursing Practice will have this course waived. 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 comprehensive 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 healthcare setting by either a nurse practitioner or physician. (39 hours lecture, 104 hours clinical and hours residency) (4 credit hours) 8 P a g e

17 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 healthcare setting by either a nurse practitioner or physician in completing focused health assessments. (39 hours lecture, 104 hours clinical and hours residency) (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. (39 hours lecture) (3 credit hours) N Adult Advanced Clinical Decision Making III 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 clients 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 managing their disease. Students will be preceptored in a healthcare setting by either a nurse practitioner or physician in the specialty area for the clinical component. (39 hours lecture, 104 hours clinical) (4 credit hours) N6802 Family/All Ages Clinical Decision Making III 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 healthcare professionals in practice. Students will be preceptored in a healthcare setting by a physician for the clinical component. (39 hours lecture, 104 hours clinical) (4 credit hours) N690X - Advanced Clinical Practicum IV 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 9 P a g e

18 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. (416 hours clinical, seminar and hours residency. (12 credit hours) 3.7 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. At present there is no university funding available for practicum students. 3.8 Thesis Option With the MN program revisions that were approved by Senate in early 2014, the thesis option is now closed. Students admitted to the thesis option prior to 2014 may remain in that option or may choose to switch to the practicum option. Students in the practicum option are not permitted to switch to the thesis option. The thesis option consists of a minimum of 19 credit hours in graduate program courses and a thesis. The School of Graduate Studies requires an annual Supervisory Report Form including a detailed outline for completion of the program be completed on every graduate student in the Thesis Option within an academic unit. It is the responsibility of the Advisor/Supervisor to ensure that this report is completed on each student assigned to her/his supervision. In March of each year the Associate Dean (Graduate Programs, School of Nursing) will forward a form to the appropriate faculty member requesting that the form be completed in a timely manner and returned to the Associate Dean (Graduate Programs). The form is copied and placed on the student s file and the original is forwarded to the School of Graduate Studies. A copy is given to the student. Students currently in the thesis option can consult earlier versions of the MN Program Information Booklet for details of the options. It should be noted, however, that course availability has changed. Students should consult with the Associate Dean (Graduate Programs) to plan their programs. Students currently working on their thesis projects should consult with their supervisors and the School of Graduate Studies for guidance about thesis related policies and procedures. 10 P a g e

19 4. PRACTICUM OPTION The practicum route consists of seven courses and a two-course practicum. The practicum consists of a project that allows the student to demonstrate advanced nursing practice competencies. The project is done under faculty supervision. 4.1 Required Courses N6250: Foundations for Advanced Nursing Practice N6011: Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing N6240: Nursing Individuals and Families Through Life Transitions N6010: Research in Nursing I: Quantitative Methods N6100: Research in Nursing II: Qualitative Methods N6221: Population-Based Nursing Either one of: N6020: Program Development in Nursing or N6031: Education in Nursing And N6660: MN Practicum I N6661: MN Practicum II 1. Students must complete an approved program of study consisting of a minimum of 21 credit hours in graduate program courses and 6 credit hours in a consolidated practicum (total 27 credit hours). 2. The program of each student 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 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 convocation. 3. Each student shall complete an approved practicum project under the direction of a supervisor recommended by the Associate Dean (Graduate Programs), School of Nursing. 4. Students are expected to present their practicum projects to the School of Nursing during the second practicum course and to submit a final practicum report approved by their supervisor(s) prior to convocation. Both a printed copy and a digital copy of the final practicum report will be submitted to the Health Sciences Library. 5. Students are expected to participate, by teleconference, in the School of Nursing s ongoing graduate student/faculty seminar series. Students must participate in at least two 11 P a g e

20 presentations during their program, with one normally within the year prior to starting the first practicum course. These seminars are designed to provide students with current information about developments in research, education and practice. It is also an excellent means of supporting colleagues in the program and learning more about their work. For provinces where continuing competence programs are in place for nursing licensure, such as NL, this is an opportunity to help fulfill that requirement. See the ARNNL website ( for more information on the ARNNL Continuing Competency Program. 4.2 Suggested Sequencing for Practicum Option Practicum Option - Full-time Sequencing Fall Winter Spring N6250: Foundations for Advanced Nursing Practice (3 credits) (pre requisite for all other courses though may be taken as a co-requisite in the first semester) N6100: Qualitative Research Methods (3 credits) (pre or co requisite 6011) N6011: Philosophical & Theoretical Foundations in Nursing (3 credits) N6010: Quantitative Research Methods (3 credits) N6240: Nursing Individuals and Families Through Life Transitions (3 credits) (pre or co requisite 6011) N6221: Population-Based Nursing (3 credits) Fall Winter Spring N6020: Program Development in Nursing (3 credits) OR N6031: Education in Nursing (3 credits) N6660: MN Practicum I (3 credits)(pre requisites: all other courses including 6020 or 6031) N6661: MN Practicum II (3 credits)(pre requisites: all other courses including 6660) Each practicum option student must actively participate in at least two School of Nursing graduate students presentations prior to enrolling in the first practicum course, one of which is normally in the year prior to beginning the practicum. At least one of the presentations must be a practicum presentation, rather than a research presentation. The Associate Dean (Graduate Programs) will keep track of attendance. 12 P a g e

21 Practicum - Part-time Sequencing Fall Winter Spring N6250: Foundations for Advanced Nursing Practice (3 credits) (pre requisite for all other courses though may be taken as a co requisite in the first semester) N6011: Philosophical & Theoretical Foundations in Nursing (3 credits) N6240: Nursing Individuals and Families Through Life Transitions (3 credits) (pre or co-requisite 6011) Fall Winter Spring N6100: Research in Nursing: Qualitative Methods (3 credits) (pre or co requisite 6011) N6010: Research in Nursing: Quantitative Methods (3 credits) N6221: Population-based Nursing (3 credits) Fall Winter Spring N6020: Program Development in Nursing (3 credits) OR N6031: Education in Nursing (3 credits) N6660: MN Practicum I (3 credits)(pre requisites: all other courses including 6020 or 6031) N6661: MN Practicum II (3 credits)(pre requisites: all other courses including 6660) Each practicum option student must actively participate in at least two School of Nursing graduate students presentations prior to enrolling in the first practicum course, one of which is normally in the year prior to beginning the practicum. At least one of the presentations must be a practicum presentation, rather than a research presentation. The Associate Dean (Graduate Programs) will keep track of attendance. 4.3 Preparing for the Practicum A few weeks before a student is scheduled to start the first practicum course (N6660), the Associate Dean (Graduate Programs) will contact the student by with information about the practicum. Each student is expected to identify a potential project prior to the start of N P a g e

22 so that arrangements related to the project and the practicum proposal can be finalized within the first two weeks of N6660. Students can discuss their project ideas with the Associate Dean (Graduate Programs) either by or phone call prior to the start of the course. Each student will be assigned a practicum supervisor who will guide the student through the entire process. N6660 and N6661 are restricted-access courses. This means that students will need to complete a course change form to add the course. The Associate Dean (Graduate Programs) will sign the forms and forward them to the registrar s office. Staff in the registrar s office will then register the students in the courses. All required course must be completed prior to starting N6660. N6660 and N6661 must be taken sequentially; they cannot be taken at the same time. 14 P a g e

23 5. NURSE PRACTITIONER OPTIONS 5.1 Purpose The purpose of the Master of Nursing-Nurse Practitioner (MN-NP) option is to prepare nurses at an advanced level to practice as nurse practitioners in a variety of practice settings either within Family/All Ages or Adult Care. 5.2 Philosophy The MN-NP option is based on the belief that advanced practice in nursing requires graduate level preparation. The major thrust of the Nurse Practitioner (NP) role has been to build on a foundation of graduate nursing education. The role of the NP in advanced nursing practice is grounded in knowledge of theory and expanded practice skills in areas of advanced clinical decision-making, research, consultation/collaboration and leadership. Nurse practitioners have advanced knowledge and decision-making skills in health assessment, diagnosis and health care management of common and complex conditions. 5.3 Goals of the NP Option 1. To prepare advanced practice nurses as cost effective, competent healthcare providers within a changing healthcare environment; 2. To prepare nurse practitioners who practice nursing in partnership with clients and other healthcare professionals; 3. To improve health care though the education of advanced practice nurses; and 4. To prepare advanced practice nurses with nurse practitioner competencies to act as leaders in health care and the nursing profession. 5.4 NP Option Objectives Graduates of the option will be able to: 1. Critically appraise existing knowledge in nursing and related disciplines (philosophical, theoretical, research-based and other); 2. Appropriately apply knowledge to improve nursing practice; 3. Promote evidence-informed practice; 4. Work collaboratively in a guided specialty practice; 5. Examine and critically analyze issues in nursing and health care; 6. Demonstrate advanced knowledge and competency in an area of nurse practitioner practice; 7. Provide care to a selected population within a given specialty practice; and 8. Practice nursing within the domains and competencies of Nurse Practitioner practice. 5.5 MN Nurse Practitioner Option Candidates must complete an approved program of study consisting of a minimum of 36 credit hours in graduate program courses and an integrated clinical practice experience, comprising 12 credit hours. 15 P a g e

24 5.6 MN-NP Required Courses N6251: Writing Skills for Nurse Practitioners. Note: Students who have transferred from the practicum option and have credit for N6250 Foundations for Nursing Practice will have this course waived. *N6010: Research in Nursing I: Quantitative Methods N6011: Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing N6100: Research in Nursing II: Qualitative Methods N6020: Program Development in Nursing N6240: Nursing Individuals and Families Through Life Transitions N6221: Population-Based Nursing N6701: Advanced Practice Issues and Role Development N6703: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Practicum I N6704: Applied Pathophysiology and Clinical Practicum II N6705: Pharmacotherapy and Therapeutics Either one of: N6800: Adult Advanced Clinical Decision Making III, or N6802: Family/All Ages Clinical Decision Making III And N690X: Advanced Clinical Practicum IV (The integrated practice component will normally consist of a minimum of 400 hours of preceptored specialty clinical practice and biweekly seminars). 1. The program of each candidate shall be approved 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. 2. A mandatory on-site residency is required for all NP students for three time periods throughout the program. During this time students will be offered a variety of learning experiences that may include skill development, simulation, lectures from content experts, OSCE evaluations and written exams. The onsite time periods normally occur as follows: In 6703, this will occur during the second week of classes in Fall In 6704, this will occur during the exam period in Winter In 690X, this will occur during the exam period in Winter Contact hours for the course will be as follows: 6703: 39 hours lecture, 104 hours clinical and hours residency 6704: 39 hours lecture, 104 hours clinical and hours residency : 39 hours lecture, 104 hours clinical 690X: 416 clinical, seminar and hours residency 16 P a g e

25 3. Normally in 6704 and 690X, students must complete all clinical hours before taking the OSCE exam. Students must achieve 65% in the OSCE exam in order to pass the course. 5.7 Post Master s Nurse Practitioner Diploma Required Courses N6701: Advanced Practice Issues and Role development N6703: Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Practicum I N6704: Applied Pathophysiology and Clinical Practicum II N6705: Pharmacotherapy and Therapeutics Either one of: N6800: Adult Advanced Clinical Decision Making III, or N6802: Family/All Ages Clinical Decision Making III And N690X - Advanced Clinical Practicum IV (The integrated practice component will normally consist of a minimum of 416 hours of preceptored specialty clinical practice and biweekly seminars). 1. Candidates with a Master s degree in Nursing or an equivalent degree with a nursing focus must complete an approved program of study consisting of a minimum of 21 credit hours in graduate program courses and integrated clinical practice experience, comprising 12 credit hours. 2. The program of each candidate shall be approved 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. 3. A mandatory on-site residency is required for all NP students for three time periods throughout the program. During this time students will be offered a variety of learning experiences that may include skill development, simulation, lectures from content experts, OSCE evaluations and written exams. The onsite time periods are as follows: In 6703, this will occur during the second week of classes in Fall In 6704, this will occur during the exam period in Winter In 690X, this will occur during the exam period in Winter Contact hours for the course will be as follows: 6703: 39 hours lecture, 104 hours clinical and hours residency 6704: 39 hours lecture, 104 hours clinical and hours residency : 39 hours lecture, 104 hours clinical 17 P a g e

26 690X: 416 clinical, seminar and hours residency 4. In 6704 and 690X students must complete all clinical hours before taking the OSCE exam. Students must achieve 65% in the OSCE exam in order to pass the course. 5.8 Clinical Placements Clinical experiences in the various semesters will take place in an agency chosen by the student. Some agencies assign a preceptor to students after the request for a placement is made. Students are responsible for informing the NP coordinator well in advance of the clinical placement. An affiliation agreement may need to be negotiated before the placement can occur which often takes up to two months. 5.9 National Exam All graduates from a Nurse Practitioner Program will be required to write a Nurse Practitioner Licensure Exam. This exam is a requirement for licensure in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador (ARNNL) Clinical Evaluation Students must achieve the minimum passing mark of 65% in each clinical course and receive a pass in each clinical component including clinical practice, labs and OSCEs. Clinical experiences are provided in 6703, 6704, 6800/6802 and 690X Clinical Policies Students will be expected to adhere to the policies and procedures of the agency in which the clinical learning experience is being facilitated. Students will be expected to hold in the strictest confidence all matters pertaining to clients/patients/residents. Any verbal or written identification beyond that necessary for professional communication in an appropriate setting is considered a serious breach of ethical and legal principles. Any breach of confidentiality will be considered a serious clinical incident and addressed accordingly and may result in termination from the program Clinical Hours Our guidelines for clinical are governed by the ARNNL, CASN and CNA. CASN released a document in 2012, Nurse Practitioner Education in Canada, that presents the national standards for NP education in Canada. In that document guiding principle 6 states NP educational programs include clinical experiences to provide students with the depth and breadth of practice needed to develop entry-level compencies. The curriculum includes a minimum of 700 hours of direct clinical practice that does not include lab time Identification All students are required to wear a school ID. This ID is to be worn in a visible area at all times during clinical. 18 P a g e

27 5.14 Suggested Sequencing for MN-NP Options Suggested Sequencing for MN Nurse Practitioner Adult or Family/All Ages Full-time Fall Winter Spring N6251: Writing Skills for Nurse Practitioners (1 Credit) (pre requisite for all other courses though may be taken as a co-req in the first semester) N6011: Philosophical & Theoretical Foundations of Nursing (3 credits) N6703: Advanced Health Assessment & Clinical Practicum I (lecture, and 8 hrs/wk of clinical for 13 weeks throughout semester) (4 credits) N6100: Qualitative Research Methods (3 credits)(pre or co req 6011) N6020: Program Development in Nursing (3 credits) N6704: Applied Pathophysiology & Clinical Practicum II (lecture, and 8 hrs/wk of clinical for 13 weeks throughout semester) (4 credits) N6240: Nursing Individuals and Families Through Life Transitions (3 credits)(pre or co req 6011) N6221: Population-Based Nursing (3 credits) N6701: Advanced Practice Issue & Role Development (2 credits) N6705: Pharmacotherapy & Therapeutics (3 credits) Fall Winter Spring N6010: Quantitative Research Methods (3 credits) N6800: Adult Advanced Clinical Decision Making III (lecture, and 8 hrs/wk of clinical for 13 weeks throughout semester) (3 credits) OR N6802: Family/All Ages Clinical Decision Making III (lecture, 8 hrs/wk of clinical for 13 weeks throughout semester) (3 credits) N690X: Advanced Clinical Practicum IV (lecture and 4 days/wk of clinical for 13 weeks throughout semester and on-site residency) (12 credits) 19 P a g e

28 Suggested Sequencing for MN Nurse Practitioner Adult or Family/All Ages Part-time Fall Winter Spring N6251: Writing Skills for Nurse Practitioners (1 Credit) (pre requisite for all other courses though may be taken as a co-req in the first semester) N6011: Philosophical & Theoretical Foundations of Nursing (3 credits) N6100: Qualitative Research Methods (3 credits)(pre or co req 6011) N6240: Nursing Individuals and Families Through Life Transitions (3 credits)(pre or co req 6011) Fall Winter Spring N6010: Quantitative Research Methods (3 credits) N6020: Program Development in Nursing (3 credits) N6221: Population-Based Nursing (3 credits) Fall Winter Spring N6703: Advanced Health Assessment & Clinical Practicum I (lecture, and 8 hrs/wk of clinical for 13 weeks throughout semester) (4 credits) throughout semester) (4 credits) N6704: Applied Pathophysiology & Clinical Practicum II (lecture, and 8 hrs/wk of clinical for 13 weeks throughout semester) (4 credits) N6701: Advanced Practice Issue & Role Development (2 credits) N6705: Pharmacotherapy & Therapeutics (3 credits) Fall Winter Spring N6800: Adult Advanced Clinical Decision Making III (lecture, and 8 hrs/wk of clinical for 13 weeks throughout semester) (3 credits) OR N6802: Family/All Ages Clinical Decision Making III (lecture, 8 hrs/wk of clinical for 13 weeks throughout semester) (3 credits) N690X: Advanced Clinical Practicum IV (lecture and 4 days/wk of clinical for 13 weeks throughout semester and on-site residency) (12 credits) 20 P a g e