CALIFORNIA SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCES. Student Handbook: Nursing Education in U.S.A

Transcription

1 CALIFORNIA SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCES Student Handbook: Nursing Education in U.S.A

2 California School of Health Sciences The following document was prepared by Dr. Rafat Qahoush RN, PhD. and President of the California School of Health Sciences (CSHS). Dr. Qahoush is an expert in the field of nursing and international nursing programs. President of the United Arab American Nurses Association, Dr. Qahoush also serves on numerous boards such as United Doctors. Contact info: or (866) or CSHS website This package was prepared by the California Introduction lectures, proctor NCLEX exams, on-line testing School of Health Sciences ( mainly for Saudi students who are planning to continue their education toward a higher degree in nursing. If you are looking for more information or have any questions, feel free to send an to [email protected]. Please make sure to go through this catalogue before contacting CSHS. CSHS has extensive experience in the college application process and has helped many international students with their admission to U.S. universities. Furthermore, CSHS helps students in their application process for the Board of Nursing (NCLEX), thus avoiding numerous application delays. Likewise, CSHS assists students in communicating with the actual Board of Nursing. CSHS is also a leader in NCLEX Board reviews. We offer in-class NCLEX and nursing and preparation. Our materials and exams are the same as those used in U.S. universities and cannot be purchase on the market. CSHS also offers an Intensive English Program that can help students attain the required TOEFL or IELTS scores. Many international nursing students lack adequate knowledge and understanding of U.S. academic regulations. Furthermore, many students are unfamiliar with the application process, and do not possess the experience required to be in excellent standing and secure admission to a reputable nursing program. This document will provide incoming students with the appropriate resources, plans, and links, in order to be able to secure admission to the right program or area of specialization of their choice B R O O K H U R S T S T, S U I T E G A R D E N G R O V E C A P H O N E : F A X : w w w. c s h s. e d u e - m a i l : i n f c s h s. e d u Page 1

3 Nursing Degrees in the U.S.A 1. Associate Degree in Nursing: This is a two-year degree program which allows graduates to become Registered Nurses after passing the Nursing Board Exam 2. RN to BSN Program: This is a program for students who have completed two years of college and have already passed the exam and want to progress from an associate degree to a bachelor's degree. This is an issue for Saudi students who hold this particular diploma and are looking to bridge to BSN. a. The diploma from Saudi Arabia is not comparable to the U.S. Associate degree because the curriculum does not contain basic academic courses such as math, history, physics, chemistry, English, psychology, sociology, etc. The system existing in Saudi, Jordan, Egypt is considered to provide a technical diploma and not an education degree. b. Students who already hold a Saudi diploma have two options: to start from the beginning and the university might accept a few courses taken in KSA, or pass the RN exam and do the bridging. c. Some of the old nursing curriculums do not follow the correct standards that are required by the U.S. Board of Nursing, and at this point students need assistance to establish proper communication between their respective college in KSA and the Board of Nursing in the US. 3. Bachelor of Science: This is a four year program that leads to B.S. degree in Nursing (BSN). Upon completion of this degree, students will also become Registered Nurses after passing the Board Exam B R O O K H U R S T S T, S U I T E G A R D E N G R O V E C A P H O N E : F A X : w w w. c s h s. e d u e - m a i l : i n f c s h s. e d u Page 2

4 4. Master Degree in Nursing: Most of the programs in the U.S. require a RN license. Also, some programs require the GRE. The most common Master's programs are: a. Clinical Care Specialist: Acute Care, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, Women's Health, etc. b. Nurse Practitioner: Family, Midwifery, Acute Care, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, etc. c. Nurse Educator d. Nurse Leader/Management 5. Doctorate of Nursing (PhD): Most of the programs waive the RN License. If the student is from the U.S., England, or Australia, the graduate English requirement is waived. The GRE is required for most programs. NCLEX RN Exam Application 1. Learn about eligibility and then apply for licensure with a Board of Nursing. This a crucial point, and it is imperative to understand the requirements of the board before applying. For example: a. The Board of California requires students to have a social security number that was issued from Social Security Services (not your university). The Board will not accept the application if the Social Security Number (SSN) is missing from the application. b. The Board of Ohio requires high TOEFL Scores. c. Some boards require gerontology courses. d. If you need help in choosing which board to apply to, please CSHS at [email protected] 2. When you pass the RN exam (NCLEX) in one state, you will be able to transfer it to other states without sitting for the exam again. 3. CSHS advises all students to apply for one of the Compact States (24 states accept same license). Our Board of choice is the Board of New Mexico B R O O K H U R S T S T, S U I T E G A R D E N G R O V E C A P H O N E : F A X : w w w. c s h s. e d u e - m a i l : i n f c s h s. e d u Page 3

5 4. The application process is tricky and lengthy and any mistakes might delay your application for several months. The most common mistakes are: a. The nursing college in Saudi Arabia failed to complete the form correctly. b. Failure to send the transcript directly from your Saudi University to the Board or the evaluation agency. c. The Board of New Mexico requires the transcript evaluation to be received by the board before sending your application form. d. Errors in fulfilling the Fingerprinting Form e. Payment methods errors. 5. When you receive the Eligibility Letter from the Board of Nursing, you have to register and pay $200 with PearsonVue at 6. From Pearson VUE: Authorization to Test (ATT) will be sent to your 7. Schedule your exam with Pearson VUE. 8. Starting January 1, 2014, you will no longer need to bring a paper copy of the ATT for admittance to the NCLEX examination. 9. Bring your passport as an ID. Make sure you passport is signed by you before going to the exam 10. Incase if you fail the test, you have to take the following steps: a. Contact your Board of Nursing and notify them that you plan to retake the examination. Determine what fees or materials you need to submit to the board. b. Reregister with Pearson VUE and pay the $200 fee. c. Wait to receive your new ATT. d. Schedule your new exam B R O O K H U R S T S T, S U I T E G A R D E N G R O V E C A P H O N E : F A X : w w w. c s h s. e d u e - m a i l : i n f c s h s. e d u Page 4

6 Why the California School of Health Sciences 1. Experts in English and Nursing preparation 2. Extensive experience with international students and mainly Saudi students 3. Help you get Social Security # if needed for the board application 4. Our NCLEX courses are taught in a classroom, with one-on-one tutoring at no extra cost 5. Long computer lab hours: 8 am to 9 pm as well as on weekends 6. Help you apply for the Board of Nursing 7. Assist you with college selection and college application process 8. Our Intensive English Program is taught by native speakers who hold undergraduate and graduate degrees from prestigious institutions such as Georgetown University, American University, and UC Irvine. 9. Our Nursing faculty is composed of U.S. graduates. Most of our faculty members teach in Master's and PhD programs in U.S. universities. 10. Safe area, nice weather, nearby beaches, numerous fun attractions, and most important: many excellent local universities. 11. Strong professional relationship with local hospitals and clinics 12. One-on-one TO EFL and IELTS preparation before the test date B R O O K H U R S T S T, S U I T E G A R D E N G R O V E C A P H O N E : F A X : w w w. c s h s. e d u e - m a i l : i n f c s h s. e d u Page 5

7 هدرسة كاليفورنيا للعلوم الصحية دليل الطالب: تعلين التوريض في أهريكا

8 مدرست كاليفورويا للعلوم الصحيت اػس اىسمز ض ضأفذ قبح ؾ ص اى ص قخ. ح و اىسمز ض ضأفذ قبح ؾ ش بزح زمز ضاح RN ضئ ػ سضؼخ مبى ف ض ب ىيؼي اىظح خ.)CSHS( ثبالػبفخ اى م ذج ط ف غبه اىز ط غ ثطا ظ اىز ط غ اىس ى خ. ا ؼب ضئ ػ اىغ ؼ خ اىؼطث خ اى زحسح ىي طػ اال ط ن ػؼ ف اىؼس س اى غبىػ ضو غيػ االؽجبء اى زحس. ؼي بد االرظبه: أ )866( أ قغ سضؼخ مبى ف ض ب ىيؼي اىظح خ أػسد سضؼخ مبى ف ض ب ىيؼي اىظح خ ) ص اى ص قخ ثبالؼبغ ىيطالة اىؽؼ ز اىص رطط ى اطيخ رؼي و ش بزح أػي ف غبه اىز ط غ. إشا م ذ رجحش ػ ع س اى ؼي بد أ ىس ل أ أؼئيخ ال رزطزز ف إضؼبه ثط س إىنزط طع اىزأمس قطاءح صا اىنزبى ط قجو االرظبه ث سضؼخ مبى ف ض ب ىيؼي اىظح خ. ىس سضؼخ مبى ف ض ب ىيؼي اىظح خ ذجطح اؼؼخ ف ػ ي خ رؼجئخ ؽيجبد اىقج ه ىيني بد اىغب ؼبد قس ؼبػسد اىؼس س اىطالة اىس ى ف قج ى ف اىغب ؼبد األ ط ن خ. م ب رؽبػس سضؼخ مبى ف ض ب ىيؼي اىظح خ اىطالة ف ػ ي خ رقس اىطيجبد ى غيػ اىز ط غ )NCLEX( ثبىزبى زغ ت اىطالة شنيخ رأذ ط رقس اىطيجبد مصىل رؽبػس اىطالة ف اىز اطو غ غيػ اىز ط غ اىفؼي. ثبالػبفخ اى شىل فإ اى سضؼخ ضائسح ف ػ ي خ طاعؼخ اىطيجبد ف غيػ اىز ط غ. المقدمت رقس اى سضؼخ حبػطاد ػ اىز ط غ حبػطاد )NCLEX( proctor NCLEX غ ػخ االذزجبضاد ػجط اال زط ذ ى ؼطفخ ؽز اىطالة س عب ع ز. ز اؼزرسا فػ اى از اال زحب بد اىز رؽزرس ب اىني بد اىغب ؼبد األ طم خ اىز ال ن شطاؤ ب ا اىحظ ه ػي ب ثشنو فطز. م ب رقس اى سضؼخ ثط ب ظ اىيغخ اإل غي ع خ ثشنو نضف ى ؽبػسح اىطالة ف اىحظ ه ػي اىؼال بد اى طي ثخ ف ا زحب بد TOEFL أ.IELTS فزقطاىؼس س ؽالة اىز ط غ إى اى ؼطفخ اىف اىالظ ىف األ ظ خ األمبز خ ف اى ال بد اى زحسح. ثبإلػبفخ اى مو شىل فإ اىؼس س اىطالة غ ي م ف خ رقس اىطيجبد ى ػ ىس اىرجطح اىنبف خ ى ؼ ا قج ى ف ثط ب ظ اىز ط غ شاد اىؽ ؼخ اى زبظح. ر فط ص اى ص قخ ىيطالة اىقبز اى از اىرطؾ اىط اثؾ اىالظ خ ى ؼ اىطبىت قج ى ف اىجط ب ظ اى بؼت أ ف غبه اىزرظض اىص طغت ث B R O O K H U R S T S T, S U I T E G A R D E N G R O V E C A P H O N E : F A X : w w w. c s h s. e d u e - m a i l : i n f c s h s. e d u Page 1

9 شهاداث التمريض في الوالياث المتحدة االمريكيت Associate Degree in Nursing ثط ب ظ ى سح ػب ؽ ح ىيرط غ ى ظجح ا طػ طػبد ؽغي ثؼس اعز بظ ا زحب غيػ اىز ط غ. بروامج التجسير مه شهادة RN الى شهادة : BSN صا اىجط ب ظ ن اىطالة اىص أم ي ا زضاؼخ ؼ ز مي خ غح ا ثبال زحب طغج ف اىحظ ه ػي زضعخ ثنبى ض غ. ص رشنو شنيخ ىيطالة اىؽؼ ز اىص ح ي صا اىسثي طغج ف اىزغؽ ط ىيحظ ه ػي ش بزح.BSN أ. زثي اى ينخ اىؼطث خ اىؽؼ ز خ ال ن قبض ز ب ثش بزح اىز ط غ اىغب ؼ خ اال ط ن خ أل اى ب ظ ال رحز ػي اى قطضاد اىسضاؼ خ األؼبؼ خ اىز رؼز س ب اىغب ؼبد اال ط ن خ ضو اىط بػ بد اىزبض د اىف ع بء اىن بء اىيغخ اإل غي ع خ ػي اى فػ ػي االعز بع غ ط ب. اش ا اى ظب اى زجغ ف اىؽؼ ز خ األضز ظط ؼبزه زثي ف خ ال ؼبزه ش بزح ػي خ. ة. ىس اىطالة اىؽؼ ز اىص ح ي زضعخ اىسثي ذ بضا : اىر بض اال ه ا ب ا جسؤا اىجسا خ بك احز بى خ ثأ رقجو / رؼبزه اىغب ؼخ ثؼغ اى قطضاد اىز اذصد ف اى ينخ اىؼطث خ اىؽؼ ز خ اىر بض اىضب اعز بظ ا زحب RN ص اىزغؽ ط. د. ثؼغ اى ب ظ اىز ط غ اىقس خ ال رزجغ اى ؼب ط اىظح حخ اى طي ثخ قجو اى غيػ األ ط ن ىيز ط غ ف ص اى طحيخ حزبط اىطالة إى ؽبػسح ال شبء ؽط قخ االرظبه ث مي بر ف اى ينخ اىؼطث خ اىؽؼ ز خ غيػ اىز ط غ ف اى ال بد اى زحسح. بكالوريوس في التمريض :)BSN( سح صا اىجط ب ظ أضثغ ؼ اد به اىطبىت ف ش بزح ثنبى ض غ ف اىز ط غ )BSN( ثؼس اعز بظ ا زحب اى غيػ ظجح اىطالة طػ ؽغي. درجت الماجستير في التمريض :)MSN( ؼظ اىجطا ظ ف اى ال بد اى زحسح رحزبط إى رطذ ض.GRE أ ؼب رزطيت ثؼغ اىجطا ظ ش بزح RN امضط ثطا ظ اى بعؽز ط ش ػب : أ. أذظبئ اىؼ ب خ اىؽط ط خ: ػ ب خ اىفبئقخ اىطت اى فؽ ؽت األؽفبه طحخ اى طأح اىد ة. اى طع اى عا ه: ؽت االؼطح اىز ى س اىؼ ب خ اىفبئقخ اىطت اى فؽ ؽت األؽفبه اىد د. اى طع اى سضة س. اى طػخ اى شطف / إزاضح B R O O K H U R S T S T, S U I T E G A R D E N G R O V E C A P H O N E : F A X : w w w. c s h s. e d u e - m a i l : i n f c s h s. e d u Page 2

10 اىسمز ضا ف اىز ط غ : ؼظ اىجطا ظ ال رشزطؽبىحظ ه ػي ضذ ظخ RN ف حبه مب اىطبىت اى ال بد اى زحسح أ ا نيزطا أ اؼزطاى ب ف ص اىحبىخ ا ؼب رز بظه اىني بد ػ زطيت اىيغخ اإل غي ع خ. ا ب ثبى ؽجخ GRE ف زطيت ع ز ف ؼظ اىجطا ظ..5. طلباث امتحان NCLEX RN اىؼط ض ػي اىطبىت ف زطيجبد اى غيػ ؼطفخ س عب ع ز قجو رقس اىطيت ثؼس شىل ز رقس اىطيت ىيحظ ه ػي رطذ ض غيػ اىز ط غ األ ضيخ ػي زطيجبد اى غيػ ب ي : أ. زطيجبد غيػ مبى ف ض ب ا ن ىيطبىت ضق ػ ب اعز بػ ( SSN ) طبزض ذس بد اىؼ ب االعز بػ ) ى ػ ضق اىؼ ب اىربص ثغب ؼزل(. فإ اى غيػ ال قجو ا ؽيت ال عس ػي ضق ػ ب اعز بػ. ة. زطيجبد غيػ أ ب ا حظو اىطبىت ػي ػال بد ػبى خ ف ا زحب.TOEFL د. زطيجبد ثؼغ اى غبىػ ا به اىطبىت ز ضاد ف ؽت اىش خ. س. ى ؽبػسرل ف اذز بض رحس س أ غيؽزط س ىزقس ؽيجل ى طع إضؼبه ثط س إىنزط ى سضؼخ مبى ف ض ب ىيؼي اىظح خ ػي اىجط س[email protected] ػ س اعز بظك ا زحب RN) (NCLEX ف إحس اى ال بد ؼزن قبزضا ػي قي إى ال خ أذط ز اىحبعخ إى رقس اال زحب طح اذط. ر ظح سضؼخ مبى ف ض ب ىيؼي اىظح خ ع غ اىطالة ثزقس ؽيت الحس ىي ال بد اى حسح ثح ش ا 24 ال خ رقجو فػ اىزطذ ض اى غيػ اىص رزبض غيػ نؽ ن. ػ ي خ رقس اىطيجبد طؼجخ ؽ يخ ف حبه اضرنبة أ ذطأ قس زأذط اىطيت اىربص ثل ىؼسح أش ط. األذطبء األمضط ش ػب : أ. اذفبق مي خ اىز ط غ ف اى ينخ اىؼطث خ اىؽؼ ز خ ثزؼجئخ اى شط ثشنو طح ح. ة. ػس إضؼبه ؽرخ جبشطح اىغب ؼخ اىربطخ ثل ف اىؽؼ ز خ اى اى غيػ أ اى مبىخ اىزق. د. زطيت غيػ نؽ ن اؼزال اى غيػ ؽرخ اىزق قجو اضؼبه شط اىطيت اىربص ثل. س. أذطبء ف رؼجئخ شط اىجظ بد. ط. أذطبء ف ؽطق اىسفغ B R O O K H U R S T S T, S U I T E G A R D E N G R O V E C A P H O N E : F A X : w w w. c s h s. e d u e - m a i l : i n f c s h s. e d u Page 3

11 5. ػ س ب رزيق ضؼبىخ اىزأ و غيػ اىز ط غ ػي ل اىزؽغ و زفغ 200 ز الض ػي PearsonVue / 6. :PearsonVue ؼ ز اضؼبه رظط ح ىالذزجبض (ATT( اى ثط سك اإلىنزط. 7. حسز ػس ا زحب ل ػي.PearsonVue 8. اثزساء 1 ب ط 2014 ىؽذ ثحبعخ إى احؼبض ؽرخ ضق خ رظط ح االذزجبض ى ؽ ح ىل زذ ه ا زحب.NCLEX 9. ػي ل احؼبض ع اظ ؼفطك م ؼ يخ ىزحس س اى خ رأمس أ ل قؼذ ع اظ ؼفط قجو اىص بة إى اال زحب. 10. ف حبه ا ل ى ر غح ف االذزجبض ػي ل ارربش اىرط اد اىزبى خ: أ. االرظبه ث غيػ اىز ط غ اىص قس ذ ى إذطبض ثأ ل ر اػبزح رقس اال زحب ػي ل ا ؼب ؼطفخ اىطؼ اال ضاق اىز رحزبط ىزقس ب ىي غيػ. ة. إػبزح رؽغ و ف PearsonVue زفغ 200 ز الض ضؼ. د. اال زظبض ىزيق رظط ح اذزجبض )ATT) عس س. س. رحس س ػس عس س ىال زحب B R O O K H U R S T S T, S U I T E G A R D E N G R O V E C A P H O N E : F A X : w w w. c s h s. e d u e - m a i l : i n f c s h s. e d u Page 4

12 لماذا مدرست كاليفورويا للعلوم الصحيت 1.اىرجطح ف رحؼ ط اىطالة بح خ اىيغخ اال غي ع خ غبه اىز ط غ. 2. ذجطح اؼؼخ غ اىطالة اىس ى غ اىطالة اىؽؼ ز ثشنو ذبص. 3. رزقس زض غ ز ضاد NCLEX ف ع غ اىفظ ه اىسضاؼ خ ز فط زض غ ذظ ط خ ىنو ؽبىت ػي حس ز أ رنيفخ إػبف خ. 4. رزجطاد حبؼ ة ىؽبػبد ؽ يخ: اىضب خ طجبحب حز اىزبؼؼخ ؽبء عس حظض ف ػطيخ ب خ األؼج ع ا ؼب. 5. رؽبػسك ف اىحظ ه ػي اىطق اى ؽ اال ط ن مصىل رؽبػسك ف رقس ؽيجل ى غيػ اىز ط غ. 6. ؽبػسرل ف اذز بض مي خ أ عب ؼخ م ب رؽبػس ف ػ ي خ رقس ؽيجبد ىالىزحبق. 7. سضغ ثط ب ظ اىيغخ اإل غي ع خ اى نضف اشربص حي اال غي ع خ ىغز اال ح ي زضعخ اىجنبى ض غ ش بزاد ػي ب عب ؼبد ط قخ ضو عب ؼخ ع ضط رب اىغب ؼخ األ ط ن خ عب ؼخ مبى ف ض ب ف ا طفب. 8. رزن أػؼبء ئخ اىزسض ػ ذط غ اىز ط غ اى ال بد اى زحسح ؼظ أػؼبء ئخ اىزسض ػ رسضغ ثطا ظ اىسمز ضا اى بعؽز ط ف عب ؼبد اى ال بد اى زحسح. 9. طقخ آ خ ؽقػ ىط ف ش اؽئ قط جخ اىؼس س اى شبؽبد اى ؽي خ اىؼ ظط اال ا بىل اىؼس س اىغب ؼبد اى حي خ اى زبظح. 10. عس ػالقخ خ ق خ غ اى ؽزشف بد اىؼ بزاد اى حي خ. 11. رحؼ ط مو ؽبىت ػي حس قجو ػس اذزجبض.IELTS TOEFL B R O O K H U R S T S T, S U I T E G A R D E N G R O V E C A P H O N E : F A X : w w w. c s h s. e d u e - m a i l : i n f c s h s. e d u Page 5

13 information The Eight Steps of the NCLEX 1. Apply for licensure with one board of nursing. 2. Register and pay $200 to Pearson VUE via the Internet or telephone. Payment via MasterCard, Visa or American Express will be accepted. You must be made eligible by the board of nursing (see Step 4) within 365 days of your registration and payment. 3. Receive Acknowledgement of Receipt of Registration from Pearson VUE by . Your username and password for the Pearson VUE website is located in this Board of nursing makes you eligible in the Pearson VUE system. 5. Receive Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE. You must test within the validity dates (an average of 90 days) on the ATT. There are no extensions. You no longer have to present the ATT at your exam appointment. 6. Schedule your exam appointment via the Internet (by accessing your online account) or by telephone (international scheduling may only be done by phone). 7. Arrive for the exam appointment and present your acceptable identification. 8. Receive your official results from your board of nursing up to six weeks after your exam (this time period varies amongst boards of nursing). No Refunds There are no refunds of NCLEX fees for any reason. Acceptable Identification Use the exact name that is on your ID when registering for the NCLEX with Pearson VUE. At the test center, the name on the ID you present must match the name in the Pearson VUE system. If it does not match you will be required to reregister and pay another exam fee. In the U.S., American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands and U.S. Virgin Islands test centers, the only acceptable forms of ID are: U.S. drivers license (Department of Motor Vehicle-issued) (if expired, a renewal slip that includes a photograph and a signature must also be presented); U.S. state identification (Department of Motor Vehicle-issued); U.S. military identification; or Passport. At international test centers, only a passport is acceptable. All IDs listed above must be written in English, signed in English, valid (not expired) and include a photograph. IDs from a U.S. sanctioned (embargoed) country must follow the proof of residence policy. Driver s/learner s permits, temporary identification (e.g., limited term IDs and any ID reading temp or temporary ) and passport cards are not accepted for admittance to the NCLEX. If you cannot provide an acceptable ID at your appointment, you will have to reregister and pay another exam fee for the NCLEX.

14 Rules for Scheduling/Rescheduling/Unscheduling If you need to reschedule your appointment: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday appointments must be changed 24 hours in advance of the original date and time. For example, if your appointment is on Wednesday at 2:00 pm, then you must call to reschedule by Tuesday at 2:00 pm. Saturday, Sunday or Monday appointments must be changed no later than the Friday before the original date and time. For example, if your appointment is on Monday at 2:00 pm, then you must call to reschedule by Friday at 2:00 pm. Don t Forget! You may not access or bring any educational, test preparation or study materials to the testing center at any time during your examination. Cell/mobile/smart phones, tablets, pagers or other electronic devices may not be accessed at all during your examination appointment (including breaks). Candidates will be required to store electronic devices in sealable, plastic bags at the test center. Candidates who refuse to store their electronic devices in the Pearson VUE provided plastic bag upon check-in will not be allowed to test and will be required to reregister and pay another exam fee NCLEX Examination Candidate Bulletin The NCLEX candidate bulletin contains information for all registrations and scheduling of NCLEX appointments beginning January 1, Additional information is available at Do not discard before receiving your exam results. Know all the policies and rules before you start the NCLEX process by accessing the NCLEX Candidate Bulletin. FAQs Have questions? Check out the Frequently Asked Questions page of ncsbn.org. Contact Pearson VUE about registering, methods of payment, Authorization to Test s, scheduling/rescheduling, acceptable identification and comments about the test center: Online [email protected] Write NCLEX Examination Program Pearson Professional Testing 5601 Green Valley Drive Bloomington, MN By Phone U.S.: Call NCLEX Candidate Services (toll-free) NCLEX ( ), Monday Friday, 7:00 am 7:00 pm, Central Standard Time. Asia Pacific Region: Call NCLEX Candidate Services at (pay number) , Monday Friday, 9:00 am 6:00 pm, Malaysia Time. Europe, Middle East, Africa: Call NCLEX Candidate Services at (pay number) , Monday Friday, 9:00 am 6:00 pm, Central European Time. India: Call NCLEX Candidate Services at (pay number) , Monday Friday, 9:00 am 6:00 pm, Indian Standard Time. All other countries not listed above: Call (pay number) , Monday Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, Central Standard Time. Candidates with hearing impairments who use a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD): Call the U.S.A. Relay Service at (toll-free) or the Canada & International Inbound relay service at (pay number) These services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Contact NCSBN about NCLEX development, general NCLEX information and general questions/inquiries relating to exam administration: Online Write [email protected] By Phone National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc. Examinations Department 111 E. Wacker Drive, Suite 2900 Chicago, Illinois Contact your board of nursing about licensure, name or address changes and endorsement. Contact information for all boards of nursing is available at

15 Your Guide to Graduate Nursing Programs

16 Your Guide to Graduate Nursing Programs Table of Contents Your Graduate Nursing Education Know Your Nursing Education Options Master s Nursing Programs Doctoral and Post-Doctoral Nursing Programs Preparation for Specific Nursing Roles Advanced Practice Registered Nurses Nurse Researchers Nurse Educators Clinical Nurse Leaders Nurse Administrators Public Health Nurses Nurse Informaticists Public Policy Other Nursing Roles Insider Tips for Choosing the Right Graduate Program Financing Your Graduate Education Supporting Your Entry into Graduate Nursing Education Bibliography Web Resources

17 Your Graduate Nursing Education Nursing is a dynamic profession that brings many rewards and career advancement opportunities to those committed to lifelong learning. Today s nurses are expected to master an increasingly complex body of knowledge and attain clinical skills to effectively provide lifesaving and life-sustaining services. Though completing an entry-level registered nursing (RN) program and passing the NCLEX are important milestones in anyone s career, these are only the first steps in your preparation as a nursing professional. Throughout your career you will continue to expand your knowledge base due to advances in technology and cutting edge nursing research. For those wishing to play a part in developing new skills, research, and practice innovations, now is the time for you to consider graduate-level nursing education. More education brings more opportunity, and many doors are open to nurses with master s and doctoral degrees. More education brings more opportunity, and many doors are open to nurses with master s and doctoral degrees. Nurses with graduate preparation provide direct patient care at an advanced level, conduct research, teach online and in the classroom, impact public policy, lead health systems, consult with corporations, and implement evidence-based solutions that revolutionize health care. These highly skilled providers are in great demand to fill established and emerging roles that allow nurses to focus on a variety of practice areas, such as adult and family health, geriatrics, pediatrics, public health, administration, informatics, forensics, systems improvement, and genetics/genomics. The national movement toward healthcare reform is ushering in new models of care delivery that will place nurses in the driver s seat. As leaders of health/ Your Guide to GR ADUATE Nursing Programs 1

18 The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) encourages all nurses to strive for higher levels of education to advance their capacity to enhance the quality of care available to our nation s varied patient populations. medical homes, nurse-managed health clinics, community health centers, and other settings, nurses are moving to become full partners in driving change in the healthcare arena. As more patients enter the system and an aging population creates the demand for transformation in healthcare, many more nurses will be needed to serve in primary care and specialty roles, as well as to lead independent practices. Beyond the professional opportunities nurses gain through graduate education, there are some very tangible benefits to one s quality of life. Nurses with advanced preparation typically enjoy more opportunities to impact the overall design and implementation of care. As education increases, salaries follow suit. Nurses with doctoral preparation typically earn six-figure salaries and often rise to the top of healthcare s leadership ranks. With new practice opportunities emerging, and the demand for highly specialized nursing skills rising, the time is right for you to begin your graduate-level nursing education. The earlier in your career you complete your formal education, the longer your professional life and the higher your lifetime earnings will be. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) encourages all nurses to strive for higher levels of education to advance their capacity to enhance the quality of care available to our nation s varied patient populations. Calls for more nurses with graduate level preparation are coming from both inside and outside of the profession from authorities as diverse as the Institute of Medicine, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Tri-Council for Nursing, and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Now is the time for you to invest in your future and begin your journey into graduate nursing education. 2 American Association of Colleges of Nursing

19 Know Your Nursing Education Options As you consider how best to continue your education, it s important to keep your career trajectory in mind and know your options. Today s health system needs nurses prepared at both the master s and doctoral levels, yet you do not need to take a stepped approach to your education if your ultimate goal is the doctorate. Progressing seamlessly from baccalaureate to doctoral preparation is often more efficient, requiring less time in class and lower educational expenses. Of course, many students do choose to complete a master s degree followed by a doctorate later in their career. This well-established educational pathway provides additional career options and may be necessary when family, work demands, and finances are considered. Master s nursing programs prepare individuals for a variety of advanced roles in administration, teaching, research, informatics, and direct patient care. Once you determine your degree of choice, you must select the program type that is right for you. More than 500 nursing schools nationwide offer a menu of more than 2,000 graduate programs tailored to the needs of nurses with varying levels of education as well as non-nurses looking to enter the profession at an advanced level. Below is a snap - shot of commonly available graduate nursing programs. Master s Nursing Programs Master s nursing programs prepare individuals for a variety of advanced roles in administration, teaching, research, informatics, and direct patient care. Nurses at this level are in high demand as Clinical Nurse Leaders, nurse managers, clinical educators, health policy consultants, research assistants, public health nurses, and in many other capacities. Individuals looking to earn a master s degree may choose from these options: Entry-Level Master s Degree: Developed for those with a bachelor s or graduate degree in a discipline other than nursing, entry-level master s degrees are also referred to as generic or accelerated programs. These offerings generally take about 2 to 3 years to finish with baccalaureate-level content and initial RN licensure Your Guide to GR ADUATE Nursing Programs 3

20 completed during the first year. These programs, many of which prepare Clinical Nurse Leaders, are paced for students who have proven their ability to succeed at a four-year college or university. More than 60 entry-level master s programs are available at schools nationwide. RN to Master s Degree: Designed for nurses with associate degrees, RN to master s programs take about 2 to 3 years to complete with specific requirements varying by institution and based on the student s previous course work. Though most programs are offered in classroom settings, many are delivered largely online or in a blended classroom/online format. The baccalaureate-level content missing from associate degree curricula is built into the front-end of these degree completion programs. The number of RN to master s programs has more than doubled in the past 20 years with more than 170 programs available today. Baccalaureate to Master s Degree: The traditional post-baccalaureate master s is the most prevalent option offered to those seeking graduate preparation. Course work builds on undergraduate competencies and allows students to concentrate their learning on a focus area. Program requirements and credit load vary by institution, though most programs may be completed in months of full-time study. Though the majority of schools grant the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, some offer the Master of Nursing (MN) or MS in nursing in keeping with university policy. The MSN, MN, and MS in nursing are comparable degrees and prepare students at the same level of competency. Dual Master s Degree Programs: Nurses seeking a graduate degree with an in-depth concentration in a 4 American Association of Colleges of Nursing

21 related field of study often choose a dual MSN program. Nationwide, more than 120 dual master s degrees are available that combine nursing course work with business (MSN/MBA), public health (MSN/MPH), health administration (MSN/MHA), public administration (MSN/ MPA), and other content areas. Post Master s Certificate Programs: Certificate programs also are available to master s program graduates looking to sharpen their clinical skills and nursing knowledge in a number of focus areas, including nursing education, leadership, informatics, and specialty practice among many others. Today s nursing student can choose from doctoral programs focused on either research (PhD, DNS) or practice (DNP). Doctoral and Post-Doctoral Nursing Programs For nurses looking to assume leadership positions, advanced faculty appointments, and specialist roles, a doctorate is the appropriate credential. Today s nursing student can choose from doctoral programs focused on either research (PhD, DNS) or practice (Doctor of Nursing Practice or DNP). Given the need for more nurses to serve as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN), assume faculty positions, embark on careers as research scientists, and pursue leadership roles, nursing schools are moving quickly to increase the number of students entering both practice-focused and researchfocused doctoral programs. Those seeking a terminal nursing degree should consider these offerings: Fast-Track Baccalaureate to Doctoral Programs: This accelerated option provides an efficient educational pathway for motivated baccalaureate program graduates seeking an early-career doctorate. Strong clinical experiences are embedded throughout the entire 3-4 year program of study. These programs are available to both nurses in practice and new graduates, with the option to focus on either research or practice. Given the rigorous nature of these programs, full-time study is strongly recommended. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): The DNP is designed for nurses seeking the highest level of preparation in nursing practice. In 2004, nursing Your Guide to GR ADUATE Nursing Programs 5

22 Post-doctoral programs provide a bridge for new scientists to become independent, productive researchers who will generate and communicate knowledge fundamental to clinical nursing practice. schools affiliated with AACN voted to move the level of education necessary for advanced nursing practice from the master s degree to the doctorate by the target year of This move calls for doctoral preparation for the four APRN roles Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Nurse Anesthetists, and Nurse-Midwives as well as other nurses engaged in advanced specialty practice. Both post-baccalaureate and post-master s DNP programs are available with more than 150 nursing schools currently offering this degree and more than 100 new programs under development. DNP graduates are leaders in the health system and work collaboratively with nurse researchers to implement new nursing science and practice innovations. Research-Focused Doctorate: The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) represents the highest level of formal education for a career in research and the scholarship of discovery. Program graduates develop new nursing science, serve as leaders of the profession, and educate the next generation of nurses. In the academic setting, the PhD is required for success as a researcher in any discipline, not just nursing. In the scientific arena, the PhD is the beginning preparation for the development of independence in scientific pursuit. Attainment of the PhD (or the DNS degree at some institutions) requires a strong scientific emphasis within the discipline; an understanding of the science of related disciplines and translational science; dissemination of innovations; and interprofessional collaboration. Currently more than 120 nursing schools offer a research-focused doctorate. Post-Doctoral Programs: Post-doctoral programs provide a bridge for new scientists to become independent, productive researchers who will generate and communicate knowledge fundamental to clinical nursing practice. New scientists embarking on postdoctoral study are expected to develop more depth in an area of science and enhance their expertise and skills for communicating within the scientific community and for securing funding for future research. These programs are available at almost 40 research-intensive schools nationwide. 6 American Association of Colleges of Nursing

23 Preparation for Specific Nursing Roles Nurses with graduate degrees serve in a variety of direct and indirect care roles in a wide range of practice arenas. Below is a sampling of career options for master s and doctoral program graduates based on data collected by AACN on the most common majors available at U.S. nursing schools. This is by no means an exhaustive list, and there on no limits on where your graduate nursing education can take you. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) APRNs provide primary, preventive, and specialty care in a variety of roles in acute and ambulatory care settings. According to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), APRNs are RNs who have received advanced education to develop knowledge and skills in areas not usual for RNs, such as diagnosing and managing common acute and chronic diseases, ordering diagnostic tests, prescribing medications, and performing minor procedures. Those considering a career as an APRN may choose from one of four recognized roles: Nurse Practitioners (NP), the largest segment of the APRN workforce, are essential providers of primary and acute care, and are particularly important to providing access to quality health care in underserved areas. NPs provide initial, ongoing, and comprehensive care, which includes taking health histories; providing physical examinations and other health assessment; and diagnosing, treating, and managing patients with acute and chronic conditions. This care encompasses health promotion, disease prevention, health education, and counseling as well as disease management. NPs practice autonomously in areas as diverse as family practice, Your Guide to GR ADUATE Nursing Programs 7

24 pediatrics, geriatrics, psychiatric/mental health, and women s health care. Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) focus their nursing practice on areas that are often defined by a population, setting, or disease type. The CNS is responsible and accountable for diagnosis and treatment of health/ illness states, disease management, health promotion, and prevention of illness and risk behaviors among individuals, families, groups, and communities. With an emphasis on continuous, evidence-based improvement of patient outcomes and nursing care, CNSs clearly demonstrate that their practice reduces healthcare costs among other quality factors. These providers specialize in a number of areas, such as adult health, acute and critical care, and community health among others. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) provide the full spectrum of anesthesia care for individuals across the lifespan. CRNAs provide more than 30 million anesthetics in the U.S. annually and are the sole anesthesia providers in nearly all rural hospitals, affording patients access to trauma stabilization, pain care, and surgical services. Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) provide a full range of primary healthcare services, including gynecologic and obstetric care, childbirth, and care of the newborn. Ninety percent of visits to CNMs are for primary and preventive care, which may include addressing reproductive health issues and treating sexually transmitted diseases. This care is provided in diverse settings, including private homes, hospitals, birthing centers, and ambulatory care settings (e.g., private offices, community and public health clinics). 8 American Association of Colleges of Nursing

25 APRN Preparation To become an APRN, students must complete an accredited graduate program, pass a national certification examination, and obtain a license to practice in one of the four APRN roles. Programs focus heavily on advanced clinical knowledge and skills that prepare nurses to provide expert patient care in a number of specialty areas. While master s level programs are still available, the doctoral degree (DNP) is quickly becoming the standard for preparing APRNs for contemporary nursing practice. To date, more than twothirds of nursing schools offering APRN programs either offer or are planning to offer the post-baccalaureate DNP program, while most currently have a post-master s degree DNP option. Nurse Researchers are scientists who investigate ways to improve healthcare services and patient outcomes. Nurses in this field enhance patient care by translating research findings into practice innovations at the bedside. These specialists are responsible for identifying research questions, conducting studies, analyzing data, solving clinical problems, writing grants, and sharing their findings with the larger healthcare community. According to the National Institute of Nursing Research, a branch of the National Institutes of Health, the work conducted by nurse researchers is essential to building the scientific foundation for clinical nursing practice; preventing disease and disability; managing and eliminating symptoms caused by illness; and enhancing end-of-life and palliative care. Nurse researchers often begin their careers as research assistants, clinical data coordinators, and in other assistive capacities that usually require a master s degree. Doctoral preparation is expected for principal investigators and other senior research roles. To date, more than two-thirds of nursing schools offering APRN programs either offer or are planning to offer the post-baccalaureate DNP program, while most currently have a post-master s degree DNP option. Nurse Educators combine clinical expertise with a passion for teaching. Responsible for preparing new nurses and advancing the development of practicing clinicians, nurse educators possess a solid clinical background, strong communication skills, and a high level of cultural competence. Educators must be flexible enough to adapt curriculum and teaching methods in response to Your Guide to GR ADUATE Nursing Programs 9

26 innovations in nursing science and ongoing changes in the practice environment. Within this role, nursing professionals enjoy opportunities to conduct research, publish articles in scholarly journals, speak at nursing conferences, serve as consultants to education and healthcare institutions, write grant proposals, shape public policy, and engage in community service. Given the ongoing shortage of nurse faculty, the job outlook for those seeking careers in nursing education is bright with a growing demand for individuals needed to teach in schools of nursing, hospitals, public health agencies, and other settings. Preparation for the nurse educator role varies by role and teaching site. Nurses with master s preparation are needed to serve as instructors in the practice setting, clinical preceptors, staff development educators, and faculty in associate degree and allied nursing programs. Nurses seeking full-time faculty positions in four-year colleges and universities should pursue doctoral preparation. Future faculty pursuing a master s or doctoral degree are advised to specialize in a clinical area or research within the discipline, not the process of teaching. Individuals pursuing full-time faculty roles should have additional preparation in the art and science of teaching (i.e., pedagogy, curriculum development, student assessment) to better convey 10 American Association of Colleges of Nursing

27 their clinical mastery to nursing students. This additional preparation may occur in formal course work as part of a clinically focused doctoral or master s program, or be completed separately from the graduate degree. Clinical Nurse Leaders (CNLs) are prepared in master s degree programs to oversee the care coordination for patients, assess risks, develop quality improvement strategies, facilitate team communication, and implement evidence-based solutions at the unit level. Nurses looking to provide direct care services while exercising clinical judgment, systems improvement, patient advocacy, and communication skills often flourish in this role. CNLs by definition are leaders, but this leadership occurs at the point of care. This role is not focused on nursing administration or management. CNLs are typically found at the bedside or providing direct patient care in other settings where they collaborate with all members of the healthcare team to provide a safe environment for patients where needs are prioritized and individualized. Students graduating from CNL programs are encouraged to complete their role preparation by pursuing certification through the Commission on Nurse Certification. CNL certification is a mark of excellence that lets employers, patients, and colleagues know that the CNL possesses the requisite knowledge and skills to practice in this unique capacity. Given the ongoing shortage of nurse faculty, the job outlook for those seeking careers in nursing education is bright with a growing demand for individuals needed to teach in schools of nursing, hospitals, public health agencies, and other settings. Nurse Administrators serve in a variety of managerial and leadership capacities in all practice environments. These nursing professionals facilitate and deliver quality patient care while coordinating workflow and managing nursing care. A nurse administrator may run a small team of nurses, several nursing units, an entire department, or an entire health system. These nurses are well-versed in nursing practice as well as in administrative procedures. Nurses drawn to this specialty typically aspire to be leaders in health care and often seek executive and policy-making roles. Certification programs are available for graduates of nursing administration programs from the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Organization of Nurse Executives. Your Guide to GR ADUATE Nursing Programs 11

28 Public Health Nurses focus on preserving the health and well-being of the public. These specialists are licensed professional nurses who participate in activities related to population health, health promotion, disease prevention and control, and community education. Though their responsibilities vary by role and location, master s- and doctorally-prepared public health nurses often manage clinics in various state and community settings (e.g., immunizations, well-child, health screenings), investigate communicable disease cases to determine sources and implement action necessary to curtail the spread of disease; analyze data to identify needs and service gaps for individuals, families, and communities; provide education regarding disease control and prevention as well as general preventive health care to individuals and groups; and implement programs that address environmental and population health risks. These nurses work collaboratively with community leaders, government officials, teachers, parents, and other providers in areas related to community and population health. Nurse Informaticists seek to improve information management and communications in nursing to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the quality of patient care. The American Nurses Association defines nursing 12 American Association of Colleges of Nursing

29 informatics as a specialty that integrates nursing science, computer science, and information science to manage and communicate data, information, and knowledge in nursing practice. Nursing informatics facilitates the integration of data, information and knowledge to support patients, nurses, and other providers in their decision-making in all roles and settings. Informatics specialists must understand the nursing process, so they can design systems that will solve problems facing patient care. After completing a bachelor s degree in nursing, many nurse informaticists obtain a master s or doctoral degree in nursing depending on their career aspirations. Nursing is a dynamic, evolving profession that presents limitless career opportunities for nurses with graduate degrees. Public Policy: Nurses in this arena work to shape public policy at the federal, state, and local levels. These professionals use their nursing knowledge to advise legislators on healthcare policy, develop legislation, and consult on nursing-related issues. Policy nurses provide expert analysis of the potential and current impact of government policies on healthcare concerns. These specialists work with government policy-making bodies, think tanks, nursing schools, national associations, special interest groups, and with other stakeholder organizations. Other Roles: Nursing is a dynamic, evolving profession that presents limitless career opportunities for nurses with graduate degrees. Beyond the roles mentioned above, nurses are breaking fresh ground as specialists in forensics, case management, school nursing, genetics/genomics, and others emerging practice areas. Today s nurse experts are working as entrepreneurs, authors, consultants, attorneys, legislators, communicators, military officers, and in numerous other capacities. For an extensive list of nursing specialties, including an overview of academic requirements, see the Web site ExploreHealthCareers.org. Your Guide to GR ADUATE Nursing Programs 13

30 The strong majority of graduate nursing programs are CCNE-accredited. PhD programs in nursing, as in other fields, are not accredited. Insider Tips for Choosing the Right Graduate Program Now that you ve decided to advance your nursing education, it s important for you to do your research to make sure you choose the right program that fits your individual needs. Here are some important questions to ask and have answered before making your final decision: QWhat is required in terms of undergraduate grade point average, entrance testing (e.g., GRE), and prerequisites? These basic questions will help you determine if your academic background is a good match with the institutions you are considering. QHow long is the program, what is the credit load, and are full- and part-time study options available? Understanding the program structure and completiontime requirements up front is important to setting your expectations. Keep in mind that shorter programs are often more rigorous and may not always fit your needs. QAre education programs offered online, face-to-face, and/or in a hybrid format? Be sure to assess your own learning style preferences when selecting a course delivery option. QIs financial aid available for graduate students and in what form (e.g., loans, scholarships, traineeships)? Do not assume that a graduate nursing degree is beyond your means. Hundreds of scholarships, grants, and loan programs are available to nursing students pursuing advanced education. See pages American Association of Colleges of Nursing

31 QAre master s and DNP programs accredited by one of the two nationally recognized accrediting bodies for nursing education the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission? The strong majority of graduate nursing programs are CCNE-accredited. PhD programs in nursing, as in other fields, are not accredited. QDoes the faculty possess expertise that matches your academic, practice, and research interests? A good match will help to guarantee strong clinical and/or research experiences in your primary interest areas. QAre clinical and/or research learning opportunities or preceptorships available in your chosen specialty area? Having relevant clinical experiences is critical to your educational development. QIf you are considering a master s degree, is the program structured to transition students seamlessly into a doctoral nursing program? Though maybe not a current goal, ensuring easy articulation may facilitate and inspire future doctoral level study. QIf you are considering an APRN program, are faculty actively practicing? Faculty with one foot in the practice environment may be better equipped to understand the expectations of contemporary nursing practice. Your Guide to GR ADUATE Nursing Programs 15

32 Most grant and loan programs administered by the U.S. Department of Education, such as Perkins Loans, PLUS Loans, and Stafford Loans, are managed through the nursing school s financial aid office. QAre APRN program graduates eligible for certification from one of the national certifying bodies for APRNs? This is a fundamentally important requirement for licensure to practice as an APRN. QWhere are graduates finding jobs and what percentage have job offers at the completion of their studies? Knowing these answers will help to determine employer satisfaction with program graduates as well as future job prospects. QDoes the institution offer support in finding positions after completing your program of study? Many schools have career centers that assist students with resume writing, practice interviews, job fairs, and alumni networking to help them secure new jobs after graduation. Prospective graduate students are strongly encouraged to contact nursing schools early in their decision-making process to determine specific program entry requirements, as they vary from school to school. Feel free to visit, call, or faculty and admissions staff to discover more about particular specialties as well as career horizons in nursing. Financing Your Graduate Education Now that you have selected the right program, how are you going to pay for nursing school? Fortunately, a variety of financial aid options are available to those new to nursing as well as RNs looking to advance their education to the master s or doctoral level. The first place to go when seeking funding is the financial aid office at your chosen school of nursing. Most grant and loan programs administered by the U.S. Department of Education, such as Perkins Loans, PLUS Loans, and Stafford Loans, are managed through the nursing school s financial aid office. Eligibility for some programs, including Perkins Loans, is based on financial need. In order to receive any assistance through these programs, you must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA online at 16 American Association of Colleges of Nursing

33 Schools of nursing manage a variety of scholarship and loan programs for students pursuing graduate nursing degrees. Some programs do not involve repayment, while traditional loan programs have a payback requirement. Other programs also may require a post-graduation service commitment. Funded by the federal Division of Nursing, these programs include the Nurse Faculty Loan Program, Advanced Education Nursing Traineeships, Nurse Anesthetist Traineeships, and Nursing Student Loan Program. Because not all schools of nursing offer these specific funding opportunities, you should check first with the financial aid departments at the institutions you are considering attending. In addition to school-managed options, graduate students may apply directly for funding through a variety of federal programs. Here is a sampling of opportunities available through the Bureau of Health Professions: Nurse Loan Repayment and Scholarship Programs support current students and new graduates. These programs include: Loan Repayment: Repays up to 85% of nursing student loans in return for at least 3 years of practice in a designated healthcare facility with a critical shortage of nurses or service as a faculty member at a school of nursing. Scholarship: Offers individuals who are enrolled or accepted for enrollment as full-time nursing students the opportunity to apply for scholarship funds. Upon graduation, scholarship recipients are required to work in a healthcare facility with a critical shortage of nurses for at least 2 years. The Faculty Loan Repayment Program provides loan forgiveness for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who serve as faculty at eligible health professions schools for a minimum of 2 years. The Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students Program provides scholarships to full-time students from disadvantaged backgrounds who demonstrate financial need. Your Guide to GR ADUATE Nursing Programs 17

34 Some states have developed programs that offer loan forgiveness for nursing faculty or have proposed legislation to provide funding assistance to nurses pursuing advanced roles. To find out if a program is available in your state or if one is being considered, see the Health Workforce Information Center online at In addition to government-sponsored financial aid programs, RNs are encouraged to take advantage of employer-sponsored programs that enable nursing personnel to continue their education and complete graduate degrees. Be sure to check with your human resources department to see what programs are available at your practice site. Finally, many private foundations and corporate sponsors offer funding opportunities specifically for nurses seeking graduate degrees. AACN has compiled a directory of some of these opportunities online at Supporting Your Entry into Graduate Nursing Education AACN is to nursing students committed to providing resources and guidance considering graduate study. The association s Web site contains a wealth of useful information that will help you assess your nursing education options: Updated listings of nursing schools offering specific types of graduate programs, including PhD, DNP, Baccalaureate to Doctorate, and Clinical Nurse Leader programs. A comprehensive directory of Web links to affiliated schools of nursing. An extensive financial aid section, including specific programs for graduate nursing students. A link to NursingCAS, nursing s centralized application service, which facilitates applications to multiple schools of nursing. 18 American Association of Colleges of Nursing

35 Access to Education Scholar, an online faculty development program, and other professional development options for nursing faculty. In addition to AACN, the following resources are also available to you to help guide your career and nursing program search: Johnson & Johnson s Discover Nursing Developed to generate strong interest in nursing careers, this information-rich site provides clear advice on getting into nursing school, paying for your education, and selecting the nursing specialty that fits your interests. ExploreHealthCareers.org This online clearinghouse gives students reliable information about nursing and the health professions, including links to career profiles, enrichment programs, financial aid resources, and current issues in health care. Bibliography AACN Position Statements, White Papers, and Endorsed Models AACN Position Statement on the Practice Doctorate in Nursing Consensus Model for APRN Regulation: Licensure, Accreditation, Certification & Education The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice The Essentials of Master s Education in Nursing Master sessentials11.pdf Your Guide to GR ADUATE Nursing Programs 19

36 Preferred Vision of the Professoriate in Baccalaureate and Graduate Nursing Programs preferredvision.htm The Research-Focused Doctoral Program in Nursing: Pathways to Excellence White Paper on the Education and Role of the Clinical Nurse Leader WhitePapers/ClinicalNurseLeader.htm References and Related Articles American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2011) Enrollment and graduations in baccalaureate and graduate programs in nursing. Washington, DC: AACN. Benner, P., Sutphen, M., Leonard, V. & Day, L. (2009). Educating Nurses: A Call for Radical Transformation. Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. Health Resources and Services Administration. (2010, March) National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Institute of Medicine. (2010). The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health. Washington, DC: National Academies Press. Penn, B.K. (2008). Mastering the Teaching Role: A Guide for Nurse Educators. Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis. Penn, B.K., Wilson, L., & Rosseter, R. (2008, September 30). Transitioning from nursing practice to a teaching role. OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 13(3). Available at Tri-Council for Nursing. (2010, May). The educational advancement of registered nurses: A consensus policy statement. Available online at Education/pdf/TricouncilEdStatement.pdf 20 American Association of Colleges of Nursing

37 Web Resources Referenced in this Guide Nursing Program Accrediting Bodies Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education: Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs: National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission: Nursing s Centralized Application Service NursingCAS: Resources for Specific Nursing Roles Certified Nurse Midwives: Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists: Clinical Nurse Leaders: Clinical Nurse Specialists: Nurse Administrators: Nurse Educators: Nurse Informaticists: Nurse Practitioners: Nurse Researchers: Public Health Nurses: Certification and Regulation American Nurses Credentialing Center: Certification Examinations for Nurse Administrators: Certification Organizations for the APRN Roles: Commission on Nurse Certification (CNL Certification): National Council of State Boards of Nursing: General Information about Nursing Careers American Nurses Association: StudentNurses.aspx Occupational Outlook for Nurses: National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses: nursingsurvey.aspx Nurse Salary Surveys Registered Nurses: (See Jobs) Nurse Practitioners:

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