College of Nursing. (For Students admitted Fall 2009 and after) Department of Graduate Nursing. Master s Student Handbook TABLE OF CONTENTS

Transcription

1 College of Nursing Department of Graduate Nursing Master s Student Handbook (For Students admitted Fall 2009 and after) TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter One: About the College of Nursing Accreditation Status Program Purpose Program Objectives Student Outcomes Chapter Two: Admission Policies and Procedures Admission Requirements Deadlines for Submitting Applications for Admission Admission Procedure Previously Admitted Students Conditional Admission Status Special Student Status Graduate Student Health Requirements Changes in Licensure or Insurance Status Program Length Chapter Three: Curriculum Introduction Specializations Post-Master's Certificates RN to MS Program MS Degree for Post-BSN Certified NNPs (SDSU program only) Full and Part Time Study Sequence of Coursework 1

2 Chapter Four: Course Descriptions Chapter Five: Student Policies and Procedures Development of a Plan of Study Transfer Credit and Challenge Exams Academic Advisor Thesis or Project Advisor Changing the Academic Advisor Credit Restrictions for Special Problems and Special Topics Courses Plan of Study Changes Updating Obsolete Courses on Plan of Study Procedure for Updating Obsolete Course Work Degree and Progression Requirements Dropping a Course Student Behavior During a Course Prerequisites Priority Placement Residence Requirements Grade Point Average Petitions Changes in Specialization The Thesis or Research Project Human Subjects Protection In Progress Grades for Thesis and Project Credits Incomplete Grades Grade Appeals and Grievance Policies Class Absences Excused Absences Academic Dishonesty Graduate Student Participation in Faculty Research Visitors and Auditors in Class Travel Use of Equipment by Graduate Students Clinical Setting Selection Specific Policies for Students in Clinical Facilities Clinical Major Fee FNP Practicum Fee Additional Student Fees for Faculty Site Visit Chapter Six: Graduation Policies and Procedures Departmental Comprehensive Written Examinations Preparing for the Departmental Written Comprehensive Examinations 2

3 Departmental Comprehensive Professional Portfolio Graduation Certification Chapter Seven: Student Information Photocopying Services Forms Used by Graduate Students Hilton M. Briggs Library Student Health Care On Campus Housing Counseling Center Honor Societies Opportunities for Student Participation in Decision-Making Financial Assistance Chapter Eight: PhD in Nursing See PhD Program Accreditation Status CHAPTER ONE: ABOUT THE COLLEGE OF NURSING The master s degree program is fully accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) accreditation arm, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. Program Purpose The purpose of the Master s program is to prepare nurses for advanced practice in nursing administration, clinical practice, or education. Master s Program Objectives 1. Prepare graduates who demonstrate evidence based practice and lifelong learning. 2. Prepare nurses who serve South Dakota and the Region in the delivery of advanced nursing practice as nurse administrators, nurse educators or clinical nurse leaders. 3. Prepare advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in health care. Student Outcomes The graduate of the Master of Science with a major in Nursing Program will: 1. Incorporate knowledge and theories from nursing and other supportive disciplines into advanced nursing practice. 2. Display competence within the legal scope of practice for the chosen specialization. 3. Evaluate, conduct, and utilize research within advanced nursing practice. 3

4 4. Integrate cultural learning into nursing practice to effectively tailor health care to the diverse lifeways of clients. 5. Seek to decrease health disparities among populations by addressing socioeconomic-politicalcultural determinants of health. 6. Use leadership, administration, and teaching strategies to improve nursing practice and health care delivery. 7. Assume accountability to influence health policy, improve healthcare delivery, address the diversity of health care needs, and advance the nursing profession. 8. Contribute to the advancement of the science of nursing serving rural and underserved populations. CHAPTER TWO: ADMISSION An information packet and the two required application forms (one to the SDSU Graduate School and one to the College of Nursing) are available as follows: 1. Electronic link to application forms. 2. Contact the Department of Graduate Nursing (605) or , option 3, or 3. Request in writing to: Admission Requirements Department of Graduate Nursing South Dakota State University Box 2275 Brookings, SD A. Completion of the SDSU Graduate School Admission requirements. B. SDSU College of Nursing requirements listed below: 1. A baccalaureate degree in nursing from a nationally accredited program with an upper division major in nursing. 2. TOEFL Score of 600 paper-based, 250 computer-based, 100 internet-based, if applicable. 3. Completion of an approved course in statistics (containing both descriptive and inferential statistics) within the five years prior to enrollment in first clinical nursing course. A table listing all of the currently approved undergraduate statistics courses in the north central plains area is available on the department home page. Other courses can be evaluated for approval by sending a course description to the Graduate Nursing Department Head, South Dakota State University, College of Nursing, Box 2275, Brookings, SD, USA, Cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 grading scale. 5. A minimum of 1500 hrs of nursing practice experience as a registered nurse in the two years prior to enrollment in the first nursing core course as verified by employer(s). 6. Current licensure as an RN or eligibility for licensure prior to enrollment in the first graduate nursing course. 7. Coverage by professional RN liability insurance (1 million/5million) prior to enrollment in the first graduate nursing course. 4

5 8. Demonstration of logical thinking and writing skills in the preparation of a goal statement. This statement must: a) Include the applicant s short-term and long-term professional goals in nursing (maximum 250 words); b) Include the applicant s professional leadership and work experience in relation to practice setting, client population served, number of years of experience, and how the experiences prepared he/she for the graduate education (maximum 250 words); c) Include areas of inquiry where the applicant would like to pursue in the graduate studies (maximum 100 words); d) Signature of the applicant and date the statement was written. 9. Computer literacy, including word processing and Internet capability. The list of specific computer hardware and software requirements is located as a link on the College of Nursing webpage Deadlines for Submitting Applications for Admission Brookings Campus: A new on site program sequence begins every fall semester. The application deadline is the first day of March preceding the fall semester each year. Sioux Falls Campus: A new on site program sequence begins in the fall semester of odd numbered years (2009, 2011, 2013, etc.). The application deadline is the first day of March preceding the fall semester. Rapid City Campus: A new on site program sequence begins in the fall semester of even numbered years (2010, 2012, 2014, etc.) The application deadline is the first day of March preceding the fall semester. Internet Program: A new Internet program sequence begins every fall semester. The application deadline is the first day of March preceding the fall semester each year. Classes are combined into an Internet class if there are fewer than seven students registered. Admission Procedure Enrollment in the Master of Science program with a major in Nursing is limited and may vary depending upon available clinical facilities, qualified faculty and funds. Applicants are selected competitively from those best qualified for the program. The prospective student must send ALL the completed application forms to the SDSU Graduate School. When the SDSU Graduate School acknowledges that all the admission documentation is complete, the student's application materials are then forwarded to the Graduate Nursing Department. ALL of the application materials must be received by the SDSU Graduate School before March first. Prospective students are advised to follow up with the Graduate School to keep informed of the status of their application. After March first, the Graduate Nursing Admissions and Scholastic Standards Committee will review all of the applications and make recommendations to the SDSU Graduate School. The application materials are then returned to the Graduate School. Notification of admission to the graduate nursing program is made by the SDSU Graduate School and 5

6 not the Department of Graduate Nursing. After the SDSU Graduate School notifies the student of admission to the Master's Program, the student will receive the following required documents for completion and return: 1. Health Status Report; 2. Required Immunization Record; 3. FBI Background Check with Authority to Release information; 4. Drug Screening form; 5. Request for proof of current RN licensure; 6. Request for proof of current RN liability insurance; 7. Request for proof of current CPR certification; 8. Verification of 1500 hrs of nursing practice experience form. 9. Member of Sigma Theta Tau 10. Proof of current TB test. All new, transfer and readmitted students must submit proper proof of two measles and two rubella immunizations. This is a requirement for attendance at all South Dakota state schools. Failure to comply will result in a stop registration hold on the student s enrollment effective immediately. Students born before 1957 are exempt from this requirement. The graduate student is also required to have proof of a hepatitis B series. In addition, the student will be asked to reserve their place in the class by forwarding a check for $ to the Department of Graduate Nursing. This will hold the student s place and will be used for part of the tuition for the first semester. If a newly admitted student decides not to attend the program, the $ is nonrefundable. The graduate student is required to complete and return ALL of these forms to the Department of Graduate Nursing within 30 days of notice of admission to the Graduate Program. Failure to provide ALL requested information and reservation fee of $ within this timeframe will result in your position being offered to another applicant. The student will be notified of the academic advisor to whom they have been assigned. The academic advisor will assist you in completing your required program of study. Previously Admitted Students Previously admitted graduate students returning to SDSU after an enrollment lapse of 12 months or more, must apply for readmission. This process requires the re-submission of the application form to the SDSU Graduate School. New reference letters and transcripts are not required. The material will be reviewed by the Graduate Nursing Admissions and Scholastic Standards Committee and the student may be re-admitted into the College of Nursing Graduate Program on a space available basis. Previous coursework needs to be current or updated and an updated background check will be required for students inactive for 24 months or longer. If a previously admitted student has an enrollment lapse of over two years, a new application must be completed and submitted to the Graduate School. 6

7 Conditional Admission Status If the student does not meet certain admission criteria, she or he may be admitted on conditional status. Conditional admission indicates that the student does not meet one or more specific admission requirements of the College of Nursing graduate program, but it is expected that the student can meet the requirements by removing certain deficits in a time period specified by the Graduate Nursing Admission & Scholastic Standards Committee. Depending on the conditional status, students may not be allowed to register for certain courses or proceed in the program until the deficiencies are removed. The student will be informed of the admission status in the admission letter. Special Student Status See the University Graduate Bulletin for information - Admission Status - Special Student Students who are not admitted to the Graduate Nursing Program are allowed to take up to six credits of nursing classes with prior approval. Graduate Student Health Requirements Students are required to be immunized with Hepatitis B vaccine. Annual TB test is required. Changes in Licensure or Insurance Status It is the responsibility of the student to notify the Department of Graduate Nursing of any changes in the status of the RN License or the Professional Liability Insurance as soon as possible. It is the student s responsibility to insure that a current copy of RN licensure and Professional Liability is on file with Graduate Nursing Office. Failure to provide this information may result in the inability to progress with coursework. Program Length Once admitted, students have six years in which to complete the program before course work begins to become outdated. Readmitted students have six years to complete their degree, calculated from the semester of their original admission. Introduction CHAPTER THREE: CURRICULUM Students in the Master of Science program with a major in Nursing are required to complete between 35 and 40 semester hours of credit depending on the chosen specialization and the coursework, project or thesis option. Plans of Study vary for these alternatives. The following are required of all SDSU Graduate students: 1. Departmental Comprehensive Written Examinations; OR 2. Electronic Academic Professional Portfolio (will be part of their comprehensive evaluation; AND 3. A Graduate School final oral examination. 7

8 Specializations All students select a specialization of Nurse Administrator, Nurse Educator, or Clinical Nurse Leader. Nurse Administrator (AD) Prepares graduates to assume leadership positions in health care agencies utilizing concepts and theories from nursing management and health administration. This graduate demonstrates skills in personnel management and budgetary resources. Nurse Educator (ED) Prepares graduates to utilize theories of teaching and learning in a variety of settings with emphasis on nursing education. This graduate demonstrates the ability to plan, implement, and evaluate nursing education programs. Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) Prepares graduates for coordination of care and clinical leadership in all health care settings. This graduate demonstrates skills in managing microsystems of care and is prepared to implement outcomes-based practice and quality improvement strategies. Post-Master's Certificates Persons who hold a Master's in nursing degree from SDSU or from any other accredited nursing program are eligible to apply for the Post-Master's Certificate program. Certificates are available in the specialization of Nurse Educator. Because programs of study are individualized, interested applicants should contact the department secretary for an appointment. RN to MS Program A limited number of places in the MS program are available for qualified students who are enrolled in the SDSU RN to Bachelor's Degree program. For information regarding admission into the RN to Bachelor's Degree program, contact the. RN Upward Mobility secretary Full and Part-Time Study Students may select either full-time or part-time study at the Brookings campus. The length of the program for full-time students is four semesters. Students may choose to take the program over three years at two courses per semester or over four years at one course per semester at the other sites. The Internet program, the Rapid City program and the Sioux Falls program are all four year programs. Students who wish to change from full time to part time or from part time to full time must request the change in writing to the department head. Sequence of Course Work The program plan page summarizes the sequence of course work for all specializations for all course delivery options, not including elective courses for SDSU. Specific plans for each of the specializations may be found as links on the College of Nursing webpage at: Individually sequenced full or part-time plans of study including electives, if applicable, will be developed in collaboration with you academic advisor during the first year of graduate study. Students must meet with their advisor to develop a Plan of Study in the second semester of the major. 8

9 CHAPTER FOUR: COURSE DESCRIPTIONS See the SDSU Graduate School Bulletin link ( for current course descriptions. Development of Plan of Study CHAPTER FIVE: STUDENT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES At the time of admission, the nursing graduate student is assigned an academic advisor. The student should make an appointment to meet the academic advisor in order to become acquainted and to discuss the student s plan of study. The Plan of Study Form must be submitted to the Graduate Nursing Admissions and Scholastic Standards Committee during the second semester of study. After approval by the Graduate Nursing Admissions & Scholastic Standards Committee, the Plan of Study is sent to the Graduate Dean for approval. Students who have filed an official Plan of Study with the SDSU Graduate School are bound by the approved plan. If a student has not filed a Plan of Study and the Nursing Graduate Faculty approve changes to the specialization, the student must file a Plan of Study that adheres to the new requirements. Students who have already filed a Plan of Study may choose to adhere to the previously approved Plan of Study or may choose to file a Change of Plan of Study in order to take advantage of the new requirements. Transfer Credit The SDSU Graduate School policy on transfer credits applies to graduate nursing students. This policy allows 40% of the program credits (500 level or above, grade of "A" or "B") to be transferred from accredited institutions of higher education, unless there is a formal agreement with another university in which the transfer credits exceed 40%. The student initiates the transfer process with her or his advisor and is responsible for providing the Graduate School and the College of Nursing with course descriptions. Transfer credits must be approved by the Department Head for Graduate Nursing for inclusion in the Plan of Study. Challenge Exams The College of Nursing does not offer challenge exams for graduate nursing courses. Academic Advisor All students will be assigned an academic advisor after the Graduate Nursing Admissions and Scholastic Standards Committee has acted upon the admission application. The student should meet with his/her advisor at least once each semester. Telephone contact is acceptable. Thesis or Project Advisor The thesis or project advisor is selected by the student in consultation with faculty. The selection is made on the basis of expertise in the area of study for the thesis or research project. The academic advisor and thesis or project advisor may or may not be the same person. Changing the Academic, Thesis or Project Advisor Students may change their academic, thesis or project advisor by writing to the Admissions and 9

10 Scholastics Standards Committee. Credit Restrictions for Special Problems and Special Topics Courses Special Problems (N691) courses are for individual independent research or scholarly work on a topic agreed to by the student and instructor. These courses may include lab or clinical hours. No more than 4 credit hours of Special Problems courses (N691) are permitted on a Master's Plan of Study with certain exceptions. Special Topics (N692) courses follow the format of regularly scheduled formal courses but may cover specialized topics which do not justify a regular course or may precede development of a curricular request for a regular course. Special Topics classes do not include lab or clinical hours. No more than 3 credit hours of Special Topics courses may appear on a Master s Plan of Study with certain exceptions. All special problems and special topics courses must first be approved by the Graduate Nursing Department Head. A written syllabus is agreed upon by the student and the faculty supervising these courses and a copy of the syllabus must be filed in the departmental office. Correspondence or television course are not permitted on SDSU Master s Degree Plans of Study, except for those interactive television course offered by SDSU. Internet courses will be considered as applicable to the Master s Plan of Study only if the class originates from an accredited institution and from an accredited program of higher education according to the Board of Regents policy. Plan of Study Changes Any change in a submitted Plan of Study is to be initiated in consultation with the academic advisor. The student and the academic advisor will fill out the Change of Plan of Study Form and submit the form to the Graduate Nursing Admissions and Scholastic Standards Committee. The Committee will review the form prior to forwarding it to the Graduate School Office. Changes in the plan of study must be filed when the student and the advisor make any changes whatsoever to the Plan as it was originally filed. This includes substitution of courses due to low enrollment or when the number of the course has changed. Updating Outdated Courses on Plan of Study Courses on the Plan of Study taken more than six years prior to the completion of the master's degree are considered outdated unless they have been used for another degree. Students may petition to update courses taken at SDSU, but may only update 50% of the total coursework. Such petitions begin with the department in which the course is now being offered. The student must obtain documentation from that department verifying that her or his knowledge is current. If the course is to appear on the Plan of Study for the master's degree, approval from the College of Nursing and the SDSU Graduate School is necessary. Forms for updating courses are available from the department secretary. Procedure for Updating Outdated Course Work The following guidelines are designed to assist the student, advisor, and instructor in completing the update process: 1. During the semester preceding the semester of the update, the student initiates the process with 10

11 her or his academic advisor. The advisor will notify the current instructor of the course needing updating of the student's request. 2. The advisor will notify the student of the name of the instructor who has agreed to complete the update. It is the student's responsibility to contact the instructor. The student must complete arrangements the semester preceding the update. Delay in arrangements may result in delaying the updating process, as the agreement is based on time and faculty assignment in that particular semester. It is the responsibility of the instructor to determine the requirements for a successful update, based on the current course requirements. Copies of update exams are filed with the Graduate School. Degree and Progression Requirements It is the intent of the College of Nursing to offer program courses as adequate enrollment, faculty, and available resources permit. Classes with enrollments below seven (7) are subject to cancellation by the University. Due to conditions beyond the control of South Dakota State University, the College of Nursing reserves the right to modify, consolidate, or cancel courses. Graduate study may include required activities on campus in Brookings, or in off campus locations for degree completion. A grade of B or higher is required in all nursing and support courses. Students may earn a C in an elective course, but must maintain an overall B average. To pass a clinical course, a student must earn a grade of B or higher in both the didactic and the clinical portion. If a C or lower is earned in a required course, the course must be repeated. Students may repeat one failed graduate nursing course with permission. Upon failing a second graduate nursing course, the student is dismissed from the program. A student who needs to retake a failed course is re-enrolled in the course on a space available basis. A student who fails a course due to unsafe practice in a clinical experience will not be eligible for readmission to the nursing practicum courses unless evidence is submitted that the unsafe behaviors have been corrected. All undergraduate and graduate nursing students are expected to adhere to the principles of the Code of Ethics for Nurses (American Nurses Association, 2001). The Code of Ethics for Nurses communicates a standard of professional behavior expected throughout the total program and in each individual nursing course. Therefore, in addition to dismissal for academic failure, the faculty and administration of the Departments of Undergraduate Nursing and of Graduate Nursing reserve the right to dismiss any student enrolled in either the undergraduate or graduate program for unethical, dishonest, illegal, or other conduct that is inconsistent with the Code of Ethics for Nurses. Students must meet SDSU Graduate School Admissions, Progression and Graduate Standards and are responsible for meeting admission criteria and prerequisite courses required for progression in the program. Repeated Courses All courses taken appear on the student s academic record, but when a course is repeated, only the most recent grade is calculated into the cumulative GPA. This policy applies to both undergraduate and graduate coursework. Relative to number of repeats allowed: 11

12 A student may enroll in a graduate course (for which credit is granted only once) no more than two times without permission of the Dean of the Graduate School. Student Behavior During a Course Classroom / Lab If a student s behavior in a course is considered to be unsafe or disruptive by the faculty member, it is the responsibility of the faculty member to inform the student of the unsafe or disruptive behavior as soon as possible and provide guidance and direction for improvement. Should a student s behavior continue to be unsafe or disruptive, the faculty member has the right to remove the student from the course. The student must be informed of why she or he is being removed, and must be presented with a written learning contract within two working days. The written learning contract must include: 1) a description of the unsafe behavior; 2) the criteria that must be met for return to the classroom / lab area; 3) the date by which the criteria must be met; 4) the consequences of not meeting the criteria or the date. The written learning contract is signed by the faculty member and the student and a copy is forwarded to the Graduate Nursing Department Head. The student is accountable for the terms of the contract. Unsafe or Unacceptable Behavior during Clinical Courses If a student s behavior is considered to be unsafe in the clinical setting, it is the responsibility of the faculty to talk with the student about the behavior and to provide guidance and direction for improvement. The guidance may include a Learning Contract. The following are examples of unsafe or unacceptable performance. However, this is not an inclusive list, and the final determination of unsafe behavior is based on the faculty member s professional judgment: Inability to complete care within the established time frame Inappropriate or untimely communication Evidence of behaviors that reflect an impaired state Evidence of inadequate preparation for clinical activities Incorrect or inadequate assessment/intervention Failure to follow dress code guidelines Dishonesty In consideration of faculty guidance, should a student s behavior continue to be unsafe in a clinical course and the student has chosen not to drop the course, the faculty member can choose to remove the student from the clinical area. The faculty should advise the student that he/she will fail the course; however, the responsibility to drop the course is ultimately the student s. Dropping a Course According to University policy, the decision to drop a course is made by the student. Faculty members may not drop a student from a class for any reason. It is the responsibility of the faculty member of record to advise a student if poor progression is demonstrated at any time during the 12

13 semester based on criteria that are clearly stated in the course syllabus. The faculty member may recommend that the student drop the course, and should make such a recommendation before the official drop and add date, if possible. Faculty members will inform students of poor progress and present the student with a learning contract which will detail exactly what the student must achieve in order to receive a "B" in the course. Prerequisites - N615: Advanced Practice Nursing: Introduction to Roles and Issues is prerequisite or concurrent to all other nursing courses. - N631: Advanced Assessment Across the Lifespan, if required in the chosen specialization, must be completed prior to any clinical course. - All core courses must be completed prior to the practicum courses. Priority Placement Full time graduate nursing students have priority in placement in nursing classes that have limited enrollment. Residence Requirements The minimum residence requirement for this degree is 22 graduate credits. Residence credit is given only for graduate credit earned in courses offered by SDSU. Graduate nursing courses offered in Rapid City, Sioux Falls, and by Internet are approved as residence credits. Grade Point Average The candidate for the Master of Science degree with a major in nursing must earn a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 in all classes on the Plan of Study, including electives. Petitions A petition is a written request for an exception to any university or graduate program regulation, policy, or requirement. See the Graduate School Appeals Form for more information. It is the student s responsibility to initiate the petition or appeal. Forms are available from the department secretary. Changes in Specialization When students are admitted to the Master s program, they are admitted to one specialization. Students wishing to change specialization must submit a written request to the Graduate Nursing Admissions and Scholastic Standards Committee. Changes in specialization will be granted between the Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, and Clinical Nurse Leader. The Thesis or Project N626: Research Methods for the Advanced Practice Nurse, a required course for all nursing graduate students, must be completed at a 3.0 or higher prior to enrolling in thesis or project credits. The thesis option includes at least five credits of N798: Thesis. The project includes at least two credits of N788: Project. When students have completed all of their thesis or project credits they must continue to 13

14 register for one or more thesis or project credits every semester thereafter (including summer) until they pass their final oral defense, whether or not they take other classes. Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, and Clinical Nurse Leader specializations require a thesis or a project. All students admitted 2006 or later are required to complete an electronic academic professional portfolio. Those students admitted prior to 2006 complete the written departmental exams. All students are required to complete the final oral defense. The thesis is a publishable nursing research study performed under the direction of a graduate faculty member. The project, a two-credit scholarly endeavor, is an alternative option for meeting the research requirements for the Master of Science degree with a major in nursing. The College of Nursing accepts theses and projects only in APA format. Students should refer to the newest edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association. A project, as opposed to a thesis, is a scholarly work that produces a product that is not a publishable research study. A project may be a web-based product, a research paper, or a proposal. For more information regarding the choice between a thesis and a project, the student should consult their academic advisor or the department head. Current students may access the project and thesis guidelines by utilizing the Desire2Learn system. Students are required to defend the proposed thesis or the project in front of the academic committee consisting of four members of the SDSU Graduate Faculty, which include: - the thesis or project advisor, - the academic advisor, - the departmental representative, and - the graduate faculty representative. Students must defend the proposal the semester before the graduation semester. It is not possible to defend the proposal and graduate in the same semester. Students will then defend the finished thesis or project in front of the same committee during the final oral defense. Students cannot proceed to the final oral defense without having taken the departmental written examinations or completed the electronic academic professional portfolio and performed in a satisfactory manner. It is the student's responsibility to contact the members of the committee and find a time that is available for all committee members. It is the responsibility of the academic advisor to request the assignment of a Graduate Faculty Representative for the student's committee by sending an to the Dean of the Graduate School listing the names of the committee members. The Graduate School will choose a Graduate Faculty Representative. Students must work very closely with the academic and thesis advisors in order to meet all of the requirements for graduation. Students with further questions regarding graduation requirements should contact the Graduate Nursing Department Head. The student is required to send hard copies of the proposal of the thesis or the project, to the committee members at least 10 working days before the defense of the proposal. The student is required to send hard copies of the completed thesis, project, written exam answers or the comprehensive electronic professional portfolio to the committee members at least 10 working days before the final oral defense. The electronic professional portfolio may be sent to committee members on a CD-ROM disk. 14

15 Human Subjects Protection The project or thesis advisor will determine with the student whether the student s research does or does not involve human subjects. A download copy of the form for approval from the SDSU Human Subjects Committee can be found on the SDSU Graduate School Webpage The thesis or project advisor will also help the student determine whether or not other approvals are necessary before data collection begins. If human subjects are involved in the thesis or project, the form must be sent to the SDSU Human Subjects Committee for approval. Data collection using human subjects cannot be initiated until approval from the committee has been received in writing. In Progress Grades for Thesis and Project Credits Graduate students usually register for thesis or project credits during several semesters. An in progress (IP) is given until satisfactory completion of the thesis or project and final oral examination. The thesis or project advisor, upon satisfactory completion of the thesis or project and the final oral examination, will then assign a satisfactory grade (P) for all thesis and project credits by completing the Change of Grade form. If not satisfactory, a grade of unsatisfactory (F) is given. Incomplete Grade The College of Nursing complies with the policies of the Graduate School with regard to Incomplete Grades. See the Graduate School Bulletin for more information. Grade Appeals and Grievance Policies SDSU policies and procedures related to grievances can be found by clicking here, then scroll down and find the "GradAcadAppeals.pdf" link and click on it. You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer to see this file. It's free and you can go here to get it: Class Absences Attendance at all classes is a university expectation. All students are held accountable for attaining the course outcome criteria despite absences. Students are required to notify the course faculty member of all absences prior to the absence or immediately thereafter in the case of an emergency. Students hold the responsibility for making up missed content and are required to submit proposed plans to make up the missed class activities no later than the next class period unless granted special permission in writing from the faculty member of record. After review of the plan, the faculty member has one week to take one or more of the following actions: 1) approve the student s proposed methods to makeup class materials; 2) require the student to complete additional assignments under faculty direction; 3) lower the student s participation grade for the missed class and associated assignment(s); 4) lower the student s total course grade; or 5) fail the student based on professional accountability violation. Excused Absences There are activities that are regarded as College of Nursing approved events for excused absences 15

16 from nursing classes, labs or practica. In order to be an excused absence, students must be attending these events either in conjunction with their participation in the organization, as a class assignment, or as a professional board or committee member. Students must arrange in advance with the course faculty member to request an excused absence from class and/or lab or practicum experience to attend approved events. The student is responsible for any missed course content. Such events include but are not limited to the following: the South Dakota Nurses' Association Convention or board meetings; Nurses' Day at the Legislature; Sigma Theta Tau Research Day or regional and national research meetings; wellness or health events on campus which are sponsored as University events; the Ethel Austin Martin Nutrition Forum; South Dakota Rural Health Conference; South Dakota Environmental Health Association, South Dakota Public Health Association. Events not included in this list will be reviewed on an individual basis by the Graduate Nursing Department Head in the context of this policy. Absence from non-nursing courses are regulated by the department in which the course is offered. University policies pertaining to absences, trip permits, and travel must be followed. Academic Dishonesty South Dakota State University has taken a strong and clear stand regarding academic dishonesty and plagiarism. The consequences of academic dishonesty range from disciplinary probation to expulsion of the student. The full policies are found in Chapter One of the SDSU Student Code (01:10:23:01-01:10:23:04) in the SDSU Student Policy Manual. Any student charged with academic dishonesty or plagiarism may appeal the ruling of the faculty by following the appeal procedure described in Chapter Two of the Student Policy Manual (Academic Appeals and Classroom Standards). For further information contact the office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs Administration Building 230, (605) Graduate Student Participation in Faculty Research Faculty members are encouraged to make learning opportunities in research or service available to graduate students outside of class. Graduate students may work with faculty members conducting research as paid research assistants on a grant, for special topics or independent study credits, as volunteers, or as part of a larger faculty research project in order to conduct part of the study as their thesis research. In order for students to be involved in faculty research, the following must be observed: 1. Faculty members may not award course credit or waive any course assignments in exchange for students serving to advance any part of the faculty member s research which is unrelated to the course objectives. 2. When graduate students are involved in research, a contract between student(s) and faculty must be negotiated. A copy of the contract must be forwarded to the Graduate Nursing Department Head. Note: These guidelines do not address use of students as research subjects. Research involving nursing students as subjects requires the approval of the College of Nursing Research Committee and the University Human Subjects Committee. Visitors and Auditors in Class 16

17 It is a violation of state and university policy for anyone, including children and infants, to attend courses without being registered for credit, audit, or as visitors. There may be legal liabilities associated with having unauthorized individuals attend class. Faculty members may grant special permission in certain limited circumstances which have been negotiated in advance of the class. Students from on and off campus may register as auditors. They must apply for admission, register, and pay the regular tuition and fees. A transcript will be generated showing that they have audited the course (graded AUP or AUF). Audit Definition: (Reference: Memo to all faculty from Vice President Carol J. Peterson, dated 7/8/97) "The Board of Regents, at their June 24-25, 1997 meeting, approved the following definition for audit, which will be consistent for all campuses: Registration as an auditor is enrollment for informational instruction only. Regular attendance at class or classes is customary without other participation and without credit. The cost to audit a course is the established BOR approved tuition and fee rate. Registration for audit may be limited by space or permission of the instructor. Courses audited by graduate or undergraduate students will be recorded on the academic transcript. A transcript notation of AU will be given in each course audited. Audited courses are counted in the calculation of overloads. Audit courses are not counted in calculating undergraduate or graduate fulltime student status or for the purposes of financial aid. Audit courses cannot be used as a basis for testing out of a course for a letter grade or as prerequisites." Travel Students are responsible for their own transportation to class, labs and practicum placements. Unique assignments that involve group arrangements and motor pool vehicles may be negotiated with the faculty member of record. Travel time does not count as clinical time. Use of Equipment by Graduate Students Some of the equipment in the College of Nursing is available for check out by graduate nursing students. It is the student s responsibility to check out the equipment properly, take reasonable care of it, and return the equipment in the allotted time. The student is responsible for the condition of the equipment while the equipment is checked out in their name. Clinical Setting Selection 1. Faculty members select practicum sites and preceptors based on feasibility of achieving specified learning outcomes. 2. Student input into selection of a clinical area or facility may be solicited for some courses. 3. In order to obtain specific clinical experiences to meet course objectives, students may be required to travel to clinical settings in a variety of geographic settings. Students should be aware of the possibility of direct and the indirect expenses associated with travel. 4. In order to maximize learning outcomes, students may be required to travel to clinical sites the evening prior to clinical to assess patients, review medical records, or use the medical library facilities connected with the clinical agency. 17

18 Specific Policies for a Students in Clinical Facilities 1. Professional apparel that meets agency guidelines is expected. Conservative and professional dress clothing and a lab coat are the norm. No jeans or shorts or running shoes or bare midriff or low cut clothing are allowed in an agency or agency library. 2. The student will work within the policies of the agency and maintain a constructive relationship with the agency. 3. The student is required to supply health information to facilities as requested, including but not limited to required by Veteran's Administration Hospitals or Indian Health Service Hospitals. 4. The student must wear a name pin which identifies her or his status as a South Dakota State University graduate nursing student. Pin size is an individual choice; however, pins should be ordered with white letters on a blue background with the following designation: First Name, (Last initial), RN SDSU Graduate Student The graduate student name pin is worn only when the student is participating in or involved in experiences related to the graduate student role. The pin is ordered through the Departmental Secretary in Graduate Nursing. The first pin is free. Second or lost pins are paid for by the student. 5.The student is responsible for her or his individual costs related to clinical experiences. This includes transportation and may also include overnight hotel and meal costs. Clinical Major Fee While enrolled in graduate study within the College of Nursing, the student is required to pay a special Board of Regents approved graduate nursing major fee if the student is registered for two or more graduate credits in the College of Nursing. The fee is used for a variety of expenses in delivering the graduate courses, e.g., faculty travel to clinical sites within 75 miles of campus, faculty travel to classes in Sioux Falls, special supplies, independent study materials, and special lab equipment. The fee is evaluated annually and will change depending upon the costs of the program. This fee is paid in addition to other regular University fees. Chapter Six: Graduation Policies and Procedures Departmental Written Comprehensive Examinations Departmental Written Examinations are taken by graduate nursing students admitted prior to Fall 2006, during the last semester of capstone courses. The student's committee, chaired by the academic advisor, is responsible for administering the examination and advising the student regarding preparation for the final oral examination. Candidates for the Master of Science degree with a major in nursing are also required to pass the Graduate School Oral examination covering the departmental written examination (if applicable) and the thesis or the project and the courses included in the graduate program. Preparing for Departmental Comprehensive Written Examinations 18

19 Students should be prepared to respond to a broad range of questions. The general criteria upon which the evaluation of the questions is based is the student s demonstrated ability to analyze and synthesize responses and cite appropriate authorities in an organized and succinct, but complete manner. Review questions will be ed to eligible students prior to the exam. Departmental Comprehensive Professional Portfolio Students admitted to the program 2006 or later are required to complete a comprehensive professional portfolio. Candidates for the Master of Science degree with a major in nursing are also required to pass the Graduate School Oral examination covering the comprehensive professional portfolio and the thesis or the project and the courses included in the graduate program Graduation The Graduate School Bulletin for each academic year contains the deadlines which must be met to insure graduation in the Fall, Spring, or Summer session. The student must check with the Graduate School early in the semester as dates listed may be subject to change. If a student has completed all classes and has successfully defended the thesis or project but missed the deadline to graduate in one semester, then that student must apply for graduation in the following semester. Certification Students who complete the Nurse Educator or Clinical Nurse Leader focus are eligible to take the National Certification Exam for their respective specialization. Photocopying Services Chapter Seven: Student Information Students are responsible for expenses of photocopying related to class presentations and other course assignments. Forms Used by Graduate Students Common forms used by Graduate students can be found in on the Graduate School home page Hilton M. Briggs Library The H.M. Briggs Library on campus is available for on campus students and by the world wide web for off campus students. Students may also use the Wegner Health Science Information Center in Sioux Falls at the University of South Dakota School of Medicine on the Sanford Medical Center campus. Student Health Care All on campus students pay a required University Activity Fee each semester. Payment of this fee enables students to receive health care at the Student Health Clinic. The required University Fee provides certain health care services including: unlimited out patient visits with professional health care providers, human sexuality services, contraceptive consultation, health education programs and other services at a reduced cost. Off campus students do not pay the University Activity Fee and are 19

20 not eligible to receive medical care at the Student Health and Counseling Service. The Student Health and Counseling Service is located on the second floor of West Hall (across from Scobey Hall). Appointments can be scheduled by phoning During the regular academic school year, the clinic is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Summer school hours may vary. During those times when the Student Health and Counseling Service is closed (including weekends and holidays), students needing health care may use the Health Information Line, (free service) or be seen at the Brookings Hospital Emergency room, (any expenses incurred will be the responsibility of the student). A Board of Regents-approved hospitalization and accident insurance plan is available for SDSU students. Inquire at Student Health for details and cost information. For more details on the Student Health and Counseling Service, the on campus student is encouraged to obtain a copy of the brochure titled "Student Health Service Benefits and the Supplemental Health Insurance Program" from the Student Health and Counseling Service in West Hall. On Campus Housing Although the University provides limited residence hall accommodations for single graduate students and family housing for married students, most graduate students live off campus. Prospective students should inquire about housing from the Director of Student Housing. Counseling Center Students with educational, vocational or personal difficulties can receive special assistance through the Counseling Center in West Hall. Telephone: (605) Honor Societies Sigma Theta Tau (National Honor Society of Nursing) Phi Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, Inc., International Honor Society of Nursing, was established at SDSU in Membership is by invitation and is conferred upon students who have demonstrated superior scholastic achievement, shown evidence of professional leadership potential, and/or marked achievement in the field of nursing. The purposes of Sigma Theta Tau are to: 1. Recognize superior achievement. 2. Recognize the development of leadership qualities. 3. Foster high professional standards. 4. Encourage creative work. 5. Strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession. SDSU graduate students in nursing are eligible for membership if they have demonstrated scholastic achievement (GPA of 3.5 on 4.0 scale), academic integrity, professional leadership potential and/or marked achievement in the field of nursing. Both full-time and part-time graduate students are eligible upon the completion of one-fourth of the credits in the graduate curriculum for the student's selected functional role option. 20