Purdue University Calumet School of Nursing Graduate Student Handbook

Transcription

1 Updated July, Purdue University Calumet School of Nursing Graduate Student Handbook Table of Contents Conceptual Organization of the Master s Program... p. 4 Purpose... p. 4 Philosophy of the Master s Program... p. 4 Objectives... p. 5 Curriculum Overview... p. 6 Curriculum Options... p. 8 Overview of Areas of Concentration... p. 8 Full-Time/Part-Time Study Options... p.8 Thesis Option... p. 9 Courses and Curriculum Plans for Students Entering the Program Prior to Fall, p. 9 Course Descriptions... p. 9 Course Delivery Format Didactic Courses (Table 1)... p. 10 Core Graduate Courses... p. 11 Clinical Nurse Specialist Area of Concentration Courses... p. 12 Family Nurse Practitioner Area of Concentration Courses... p. 15 Nurse Executive Area of Concentration Courses... p. 17 Online Cohort Program Curriculum Plans... p. 19 Courses and Curriculum Plans for Students Entering the Program As of Fall, p. 19 Overview... p. 19 CNS Program Changes... p. 20 FNP Program Changes... p. 21 Post Master s Certificate Options... p. 22 Types of Certificates Available... p. 22 Post-Master s Certificate in Nursing Education Overview... p. 22

2 Updated July, CNS Post-Master s Certificate Program Overview... p. 22 FNP Post-Master s Certificate Program Overview... p. 24 Admission Requirements/Criteria... p. 25 Applying to Post Master s Certificate Programs... p. 26 Admissions Policies and Procedures... p. 26 Study Options... p. 26 Admission Requirements/Criteria... p. 26 Required Admission Documents/Items... p. 26 Application Procedures... p. 27 School of Nursing Mailing Address for Application Materials... p. 29 Application Deadlines... p. 29 Notification of Admission... p. 30 Conditional Admission... p. 30 Transfer of Credits... p. 30 Appealing Denial of Admission Decisions... p. 30 Classification Status... p. 31 Master s (Degree Seeking) Graduate Students... p. 31 Non-Degree Enrollment Students... p. 31 Progression Policies... p. 31 Standards of Work... p. 31 Grade Requirements... p. 32 Clinical Experience Requirements... p. 32 Submitting the Electronic Plan of Study (EPOS)... p. 32 Probation/Dismissal... p. 33 Grade Appeals... p. 33 Program Dismissal Appeals... p. 34 Changing Areas of Specialization... p. 34 Progression Time Limits... p. 34 Withdrawal and Re-entry Procedures... p. 35 Registration Information... p. 35 Registration... p. 35 Priority Registration... p. 35 Open Registration... p. 36 Late Registration... p. 36

3 Updated July, Financial Aid... p. 36 Financial Aid Office... p. 36 Scholarships and Talent Awards... p. 36 Graduate Aide Positions... p. 36 School Activities and Resources... p. 37 Student Representation on School of Nursing Committees... p. 37 Program Announcements... p. 37 Computer Laboratory... p. 38 Practicum Requirements and Information... p. 38 Clinical Experience Requirements... p. 38 Required Practicum Forms and Information... p. 38 Liability Insurance... p. 39 Licensure Requirements... p. 39 Policies Regarding Health Screening and Communicable Disease... p. 39 Beginning a Practicum Experience... p. 40 Practicum Responsibilities: Student, Preceptor and Faculty... p. 41 Clinical Attire... p. 42 Attendance... p. 42 Writing Behavioral Objectives... p. 43

4 Updated July, Conceptual Organization of the Master s Program Purpose The primary purpose of the graduate program in nursing is to prepare students for advanced practice in nursing. The program aims to prepare a graduate capable of assuming diverse leadership roles in clinical practice, thereby contributing to the advancement of the nursing profession while enhancing the quality of life for those that we serve. The program has a strong clinical emphasis and provides an opportunity for continuing career development. An educational environment is created in which scientific inquiry, role development and leadership behavior are synthesized to facilitate the implementation and advancement of nursing theory and to contribute to the scientific knowledge base needed for advanced clinical practice. The graduate program builds on the foundation established by undergraduate nursing education by providing experiences designed to increase the knowledge base necessary for advanced practice in nursing. This increased knowledge base includes developing expertise in scientific inquiry, specialized practice, and leadership skills. Philosophy of the Master s Program The faculty believes that all students begin graduate study with a basic understanding of the metaparadigm concepts of Person, Environment, Health and Nursing. These are conceptual areas commonly addressed in baccalaureate nursing education programs. Graduate study enables students to better understand and operationalize these concepts. The faculty respects the uniqueness of students basic preparation for professional nursing practice. Further, the faculty encourages them to build upon this foundation and to reflect, refine and evolve a professional philosophy and evidencebased framework for advanced practice in nursing. Universe. The synthesis of the major concepts of Person, Environment, Health, and Nursing. Together, these concepts provide the main focus for advanced practice of nursing, and define the contextual arena in which all professional activity occurs. Person: Persons are viewed as developing across the life span and are dynamic, complex and autonomous. As citizens of the world and members of a larger network of families, groups and communities, individuals strive to meet their basic human needs. Individuals are in constant interaction with other open systems and interpret

5 Updated July, the world according to their own contextual reality. In doing so, persons create their own subjective meanings about health, illness and well-being. As a result they have the right to fully participate in health care decisions which affect their quality of life. Environment: Environment in the arena for human development and provides the conditions of persons to grow, change and meet (or not meet) their basic human needs. Additionally, the environment exerts social, cultural, political and religious norms that influence the behavior of individuals, families, groups and communities. Reciprocally, individuals, families, groups and communities influence the nature of the environment. Nursing: Nursing is a profession rooted in a humanistic philosophy and encompasses ethical standards resulting in a commitment to advocacy and social justice. Central to the practice of professional nursing is respect for the autonomy and dignity of all individuals without regard to gender, ethnicity, religion or class. Advanced practice in nursing is based on the synthesis of scientific, experiential, aesthetic and interpersonal knowledge. It is through the application of this synthesis that the profession advances for the purpose of meeting the healthcare needs of those served. Health: Health is a subjective state, rooted in experiences, values, and beliefs and is culturally defined and practiced. Health is influenced by life events that are biological, psychological, sociological and spiritual. Health is reflected in a person s ability to pursue their goals and desires and achieve a quality of life that produces satisfaction and happiness. Teaching-Learning Process: The primary mission of the Purdue University Calumet graduate program in nursing is to engage students in the teachinglearning process relevant to advanced practice in nursing. The faculty believes that this dynamic process is mutual, constantly evolving and provides the opportunity to both inspire and empower students. Through faculty and preceptor interactions and role modeling, students are challenged to implement critical thinking skills relevant to advanced practice decision making in the provision of evidence-based therapeutic intervention, to communicate effectively and to provide leadership that supports positive change. Furthermore, students are encouraged to value and assume responsibility for life-long learning. Program Objectives Advanced practice in nursing students are educated to: 1. Synthesize advanced nursing knowledge, patient preferences and best available evidence to make decisions for practice. 2. Provide leadership to influence delivery of healthcare to diverse populations in

6 Updated July, increasingly complex environments. 3. Operationalize role competencies appropriate to the area of nursing specialization. 4. Evolve a professional philosophy that reflects the humanistic values of nursing and a commitment to the discipline. Curriculum Overview Concepts are ordered and related within the curriculum systematically. The core knowledge of nursing theory, sociocultural theory, evidence-based nursing practice, health promotion, ethics, and health policy form the basis of the curriculum. Grounding in the core concepts prepares students to move through the program to the advanced practice core and specialty courses. The faculty believes that this sequencing of curricular content best enables students to acquire the knowledge, attitudes and abilities necessary for advanced practice in nursing in an increasingly complex health care environment (see Figure 1). Figure 1 Conceptual Model for the Graduate Program Organizing Concepts Advanced Knowledge Base: Graduate education knowledge that builds upon the foundational nursing education and is informed by theory, evidence-based nursing practice, critical thinking, and humanistic values.

7 Updated July, Leadership: The ability to influence, guide and instill vision in people in order to effect practice change in professional, social, political and ethical situations that affect clients and the nursing universe. Decision Making for Practice: Selecting interventions and actions from alternatives that move patients/clients from a specified or desired outcome state in a clinical context of uncertainty. Core Concepts/Threads The program at the graduate level is built upon and includes the following major conceptual areas: Theory: Systematically organized information from nursing and related disciplines. Theory enables the individual to understand conceptual relationships, to rationally view and critically analyze predictable as well as unpredictable nursing practice situations, and to effectively act upon the nursing universe at an advanced level. Evidence-Based Nursing Practice: The process by which nurses make practice decisions using the best available evidence, their clinical expertise, and patient preferences in the context of available resources. Best available evidence: Findings from the highest quality research and/or other sources of evidence that are appropriately designed to answer a question relevant to nursing practice and forms the basis of therapeutic intervention. The type of evidence, and therefore what is best, depends on the nature of the question, activity and the purpose. Clinical expertise: Knowledge that forms professional craft know-how that arises from formal as well as informal experiences and reflection upon those experiences, externalized to others, analyzed and critiqued. Patient preferences: The relative value and meaning that patients place on varying health states that influence their autonomous choices regarding their healthcare. Available resources: Sociocultural, economic and human resources coupled with the political will within the context that nurses deliver care. Critical Thinking: The integration of a disposition toward inquiry with the processes of analyzing, evaluating and synthesizing relevant knowledge for the purpose of problem solving and developing creative approaches to nursing. Humanistic Values: A belief in the worth and dignity of every person in our universe. A commitment to humanistic values in nursing

8 Updated July, encourages compassion, reasoning and a striving to address issues of social injustice in order to make the world a better place to live for all humans regardless of race, ethnicity, or economic status. Therapeutic Intervention: A rational and deliberate nursing action based on theory, best available evidence, clinical expertise, patient preferences and available resources performed to enhance or support health. Communication: Dynamic process whereby participants transact ideas, information, and/or feelings through verbal, nonverbal, written or technological methods. Role development: The process of attaining advanced practice in nursing role competencies/standards as defined by national organizations related to specific areas of specialization. Curriculum Options Overview of Areas of Concentration The School of Nursing offers three areas of concentration within the Master of Science program. These include Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in Adult Health or Critical Care, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Nurse Executive. Note that after February, 2012, admissions to the Nurse Executive option were closed. We encourage potential Nurse Executive students to inquire about online Nurse Executive program options through the Department of Nursing at Indiana University/Purdue University Ft. Wayne: Full-Time/Part-Time Study Options Students in the traditional non-online option may choose to pursue their program on either a full-time or part-time basis. Students may switch from fulltime to part-time status and vice versa depending on space availability. Full-Time Study The full-time curriculum plan takes two years to complete beginning in fall semesters and ending with summer sessions. For students that opt to follow the full-time curriculum plan, we strongly advise them not to work full-time. Note that the full-time option is not currently available for the online students. Part-Time Study Many students opt to pursue their education on a part-time basis, taking one to two classes a semester. Most part-time students finish the program in three to

9 Updated July, four years. Note that the time limit to complete the program is 6 years from the term of admission. Students pursuing their program on a part-time basis must talk about their curriculum plan with their academic advisor in order to be certain they are taking courses in the correct sequence. Thesis Option Students may elect to complete 698 Master s Thesis in addition to their required courses. Students interested in pursing the thesis option should discuss this with their advisor. The thesis work will consist of assigned research, which will be recorded as satisfactory or unsatisfactory. The student must have three members of the graduate faculty serve on an examining committee, one of whom serves as chair of the committee. The chair of the examining committee is responsible for guiding the student through the thesis process including proposal development and implementation of the research study. After the research is completed and the thesis written, the candidate will be given an oral examination in which he or she defends the thesis. The thesis must be prepared according to the University format described in the Manual for the Preparation of Graduate Theses, a copy of which may be obtained online at Courses and Curriculum Plans for Students Entering the Program Prior to Fall, 2012 Course Descriptions Students can obtain course descriptions for all graduate courses by accessing the Course Descriptions link located under the student tab on the PUC website. The link to access course descriptions is:

10 Updated July, Course Delivery Format Didactic Courses (Table 1) Some of the graduate program didactic courses are only available in an online format whereas others may also be available in the classroom. The following list of courses includes information regarding the delivery format. Contact the Graduate Program Advisor for more specific information regarding the sequencing of courses and any eligibility requirements. Course # Course Title Delivery Format Theoretical Constructs in Nursing Online only (Asynchronous) Foundations of Advanced Practice in Online only (Asynchronous) Nursing Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Practice Nursing Online (Asynchronous) Classroom 2-way Video to IPFW Advanced Health Assessment Online (Asynchronous) Classroom 2-way Video to IPFW Sociocultural Influences on Health Online only (Asynchronous) Physiologic Concepts for Advanced Practice Nursing Online (Asynchronous) Classroom Nursing Research Online (Asynchronous) Classroom Health Promotion for Advanced Practice Online only (Asynchronous) in Nursing Informatics in Nursing Online only (Asynchronous) Ethics for Nurses in Advanced Practice Online only (Asynchronous) Adult Health CNS I Online (Combination of Synchronous/Asynchronous) Classroom with some Asynchronous Online Sessions Critical Care CNS I Online (Combination of Synchronous/Asynchronous) Classroom with some Asynchronous Online Sessions Primary Care of the Young Family Online (Asynchronous)

11 Updated July, Course # Course Title Delivery Format Classroom 2-way Video to IPFW Adult Health CNS II Online (Combination of Synchronous/Asynchronous) Classroom with some Asynchronous Online Sessions Primary Care of the Aging Family Online (Asynchronous) Classroom 2-way Video to IPFW Critical Care CNS II Online (Combination of Synchronous/Asynchronous) Concepts for the Nurse Executive Creating an Environment for Professional Practice Role of the Nursing Executive in Creating an Environment for Professional Practice Nursing Administration, Financial Management Classroom with some Asynchronous Online Sessions Online (Synchronous with Adobe Connect) from IPFW Online (Synchronous with Adobe Connect) from IPFW 2-way video from IPFW Advanced Practice in Nursing Seminar Online only (Asynchronous) Healthcare Organization, Policy and Online only (Asynchronous) Economics Core Graduate Courses Core Courses for All Areas of Concentration All graduate students complete a series of core courses that are common to all three areas of concentration. These courses include content related to foundations of advanced practice in nursing, nursing theory, research, sociocultural concepts, ethics, health promotion, health policy and issues affecting advanced practice in nursing. Advanced Practice Core Courses: CNS and FNP In addition to the core courses, all CNS and FNP students take advanced practice core courses. These courses include physiology, health assessment,

12 Updated July, and pharmacology. Following the advanced practice core, students may begin taking specialty coursework in the CNS or FNP options. CNS Area of Concentration Courses Students who choose the CNS area of concentration may opt for a focus in Adult Health Nursing or Critical Care Nursing. In addition to the core and advanced practice core courses, CNS specialty coursework consists of 6 credits of didactic courses and 6 credits of clinical practica courses. The combination of specialty clinical practica and the health promotion course practicum equals 500 clock hours. In addition to the specialty courses, CNS students are required to take a total of 2 hours of electives. The total number of credits in the CNS area of concentration equals 45. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take national certification exams for clinical nurse specialists in the areas of adult health or critical care nursing, depending on their specialty focus. The CNS full-time curriculum plan is listed below. Students will create individualized parttime curriculum plans through consultation with the Graduate Program Advisor. Table 2: Clinical Nurse Specialist Full Time Curriculum Plan Purdue University Calumet School of Nursing Master of Science Program, Full Time Plan of Study Clinical Nurse Specialist: Adult Health or Critical Care Course Requirements: (45 semester hours) Year1 Semester 1 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Foundations of Advanced Practice in Nursing Sociocultural Influences on Health Physiologic Concepts for Advanced Practice Nursing Clinical Contact Semester Hours/Week Hours/Semester Taken Fall Fall * Fall Totals * * Non-clinical lab hours Semester 2 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Nursing Research Spring

13 Updated July, Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Advanced Health * Spring Assessment Pharmacotherapeutics Spring for Advanced Practice Nursing Totals * * Non-clinical lab hours Semester 3 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Theoretical Constructs Summer in Nursing Health Promotion for Advanced Practice in Nursing Summer Totals Year 2 Semester 4 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Healthcare Organization, Policy and Economics Clinical Contact Semester Hours/Semester Taken Fall Adult Health CNS Fall Adult Health CNS Fall Practicum 1 OR Critical Care CNS Fall Critical Care CNS Fall Practicum 1 Totals Semester 5 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Ethics for Nurses in Spring Advanced Practice Adult Health CNS II Spring

14 Updated July, Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Adult Health CNS Spring Adlt Hlth Practicum II OR Critical Care CNS II Spring Critical Care CNS Spring Practicum II Totals Semester 6 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Elective Fall Spring Summer Advanced Practice in Summer Nursing Seminar Adult Health CNS Practicum III Clinical Synthesis Critical Care CNS Practicum III Clinical Synthesis Total Credits and Contact Hours OR Totals Summer Summer

15 Updated July, FNP Area of Concentration Courses In addition to the core and advanced practice core courses, the FNP specialty coursework consists of 6 credits of didactic courses and 8 credits of clinical practica courses. The combination of specialty clinical practica and the health promotion course practicum equals 555 clock hours. The total number of credits in the FNP option equals 45. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take national certification exams for family nurse practitioners. The FNP full-time curriculum plan is listed below. Students will create individualized part-time curriculum plans through consultation with the Graduate Program Advisor. Table 3: Family Nurse Practitioner Full Time Curriculum Plan Purdue University Calumet School of Nursing Master of Science Program, Full Time Plan of Study Family Nurse Practitioner Course Requirements: (45 semester hours) Year1 Semester 1 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Foundations of Advanced Practice in Nursing Sociocultural Influences on Health Physiologic Concepts for Advance Practice Nursing * Non-clinical lab hours Clinical Contact Semester Hours/Week Hours/Semester Taken Fall Fall * Fall Totals * Semester 2 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Nursing Research Spring Advanced Health * Spring Assessment Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Practice Nursing Spring Totals * * Non-clinical lab hours

16 Updated July, Semester 3 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Theoretical Constructs Summer in Nursing Health Promotion for Advanced Practice in Nursing Summer Totals Year 2 Semester 4 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Primary Care of the Fall Young Family Primary Care of the Young Family Practicum Healthcare Organization, Policy and Economics Fall Fall Totals Semester 5 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Primary Care of the Spring Aging Family Primary Care of the Aging Family Practicum Spring Ethics for Nurses in Spring Advanced Practice Totals Semester 6 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken FNP Practicum: Summer Clinical Synthesis Advanced Practice in Summer Nursing Seminar Totals Total Credits and Contact Hours

17 Updated July, Nurse Executive Area of Concentration Courses In addition to the core graduate courses, the Nurse Executive specialty coursework consists of 15 credits of didactic courses and 5 credits of clinical practica courses. There are 225 clock hours associated with the clinical practica courses. The total number of credits in the nurse executive option equals 43. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the national certification exam for nurse executives. The Nurse Executive full-time curriculum plan is listed below. Table 4: Nurse Executive Full Time Curriculum Plan Purdue University Calumet School of Nursing Master of Science Program - Nurse Executive Course Requirements: (43 semester hours) Year1 Semester 1 Course Course Title Credit Lecture SPEA V Foundations of Advanced Practice in Nursing Public Human Resources Management* Concepts for the Nurse Executive Creating an Environment for Professional Practice* (Even years only) Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Fall Spring Fall Fall Totals Semester 2 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Nursing Research Fall Role of the Nursing Executive in Creating an Environment for Professional Practice * (Odd years only) Sociocultural Influences on Health Spring Spring Fall Spring Totals 9 9 0

18 Updated July, Semester 3 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Theoretical Constructs Fall in Nursing Health Promotion for Advanced Practice in Nursing Summer Summer Totals Year 2 Semester 4 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Informatics in Nursing* Fall Healthcare Organization, Policy and Economics Nurse Executive Practicum I Fall Spring Fall Spring Summer Totals Semester 5 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Nursing Administration Financial Management* (Even years only) Ethics for Nurses in Advanced Practice Nurse Executive Practicum II Clinical Contact Semester Hours/Semester Taken Spring Fall Spring Fall Spring Summer Totals Semester 6 Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Semester Taken Elective Fall Spring Summer Advanced Practice in Summer

19 Updated July, Course Course Title Credit Lecture Hours/Week Clinical Contact Hours/Semester Nursing Seminar Totals Total Credits and Contact Hours *Courses offered through IPFW Semester Taken Online Cohort Program Curriculum Plans Students can contact the Graduate Program Academic Advisor for curriculum plans for the online cohort programs as they vary depending on the semester in which a student will start their coursework and the courses offered online in any given semester. Courses and Curriculum Plans for Students Entering the Program as of Fall, 2012 Overview Due to upcoming changes in regulatory and certification requirements, the School of Nursing graduate faculty approved changes to courses and curriculum for CNS and FNP students effective Fall, The changes to each study option can be located below. Note that courses and course titles are in the development/revision process. As they are finalized, we will post a complete revised curriculum plans.

20 Updated July, Course Changes for Clinical Nurse Specialist (Adult Health/Critical Care) Effective Fall 2012 Course # Course Title Current Credit Hours/ Clinical Contact Hours Changes Theoretical Constructs in Nursing 3 Theories and Ethics will be combined together for new number and title Ethics for Nurses in Advanced Practice 3 on the Plan of Study (3 credit hours total) Advanced Health Assessment Physiologic Concepts for Advanced Practice Nursing 4 Now 4 credit hours divided into 3 credits lecture and 1 credit lab (45 nonclinical hours). Converting into a two 3 credit hour course sequence with title and objective changes reflecting Pathophysiologic Concepts 1 and Informatics in Nursing Course has been added to new curriculum and is a 3 credit hour course or Adult Health or Critical Care CNS Practicum 1 2/ 150 Increasing by 1 credit hour (to 3) and 30 clinical contact hours (to equal 180) or Adult Health or Critical Care CNS Practicum 2 2/ 155 Increasing by 1 credit hour (to 3) and 25 clinical contact hours (to equal 180) Advanced Practice in Nursing Seminar 1 No longer a curriculum requirement. Elective (Relating to area of concentration) 2 No longer a curriculum requirement Courses With No Changes Total of 47 credit hours (increased by 2 credit hours) instead of 45 credit hours for the program. There is an increase in clinical contact hours from 500 to 555 total (non clinical lab hours excluded). Course # Course Title Current Credit Hours Current Clinical Contact Hours/Notes Foundations of Advanced Practice in Nursing 2 (pass/fail prerequisite course - no grade) Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Practice Nursing Sociocultural Influences on Health Nursing Research Health Promotion for Advanced Practice in Nursing 3 45 clinical contact hours or Adult Health or Critical Care CNS Didactic Course or Adult Health or Critical Care CNS Didactic Course Health Care Organization, Policy and Economics or Adult Health or Critical Care CNS Practicum 3: Clinical Synthesis clinical contact hours

21 Updated July, Course Changes for Family Nurse Practitioner Effective Fall 2012 Course # Course Title Current Credit Hours Theoretical Constructs in Nursing Ethics for Nurses in Advanced Practice 3 Changes Theories and Ethics will be combined together for new number and title on Plan of Study (3 credit hours total) Advanced Health Assessment Physiologic Concepts for Advanced Practice Nursing 4 Now 4 credit hours divided into 3 credits lecture and 1 credit lab (45 nonclinical hours). Converting into a two 3 credit hour course sequence with title and objective changes reflecting Pathophysiologic Concepts 1 and Informatics in Nursing Course has been added to new curriculum and is a 3 credit hour course Advanced Practice in Nursing Seminar 1 No longer a curriculum requirement. Total of 47 credit hours (increased by 2 credit hours) instead of 45 credit hours for the program. Courses With No Changes Course # Course Title Current Credit Hours Current Clinical Contact Hours/Notes Foundations of Advanced Practice in Nursing 2 (pass/fail prerequisite course - no grade) Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Practice Nursing Sociocultural Influences on Health Nursing Research Health Promotion for Advanced Practice in Nursing 3 45 clinical contact hours Primary Care of the Young Family Didactic Primary Care of the Young Family Practicum clinical contact hours Primary Care of the Aging Family Didactic Primary Care of the Aging Family Practicum clinical contact hours Health Care Organization, Policy and Economics FNP Practicum: Clinical Synthesis clinical contact hours No increase in clinical contact hours; 555 total (non clinical lab hours excluded)

22 Updated July, Post-Master s Certificate Options Types of Certificates Available There are four types of post-master s certificates available through the Purdue University Calumet School of Nursing. These are: Post-Master s Certificate in Nursing Education Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist Post-Master s Certificate Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist Post-Master s Certificate Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master s Certificate (Note: Admission for this certificate program is currently closed effective Summer, 2011) Post-Master s Certificate in Nursing Education Overview Purpose The purpose of the Post-Master s Certificate in Nursing Education Program at Purdue University Calumet is to increase the numbers of nurse educators and improve the quality of nursing education. This purpose is accomplished by: providing knowledge and experience in curriculum development; teaching methods to enable qualified master s prepared nurses to assume the role of beginning faculty; and providing faculty who wish to acquire formal academic preparation in teaching the means to do so. The target audience for this program consists of master s students and master s prepared advanced practice nurses, as well as faculty interested in continuing their formal education in teaching. Credit Hour Requirements The certificate requires students to complete 10 credit hours consisting of the following existing courses: EDCI 57200: Introduction to Learning Systems Design (3 credits, 3 3 pattern) 66000: Curriculum Development in Nursing (3 credits, pattern) 66200: Teaching Strategies for Nursing (4 credits, pattern consisting of 2 didactic, 2 teaching, and a teaching practicum equivalent to 6 hours/week) Clinical Nurse Specialist Post-Master s Certificate Programs Overview Purpose The purpose of the Clinical Nurse Specialist Certificate Programs at Purdue

23 Updated July, University Calumet is to provide Adult Health or Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) preparation to qualified Master s prepared nurses. CNSs are advanced practice nurses who are uniquely prepared to meet complex patients needs for expert nursing care. CNS educational preparation consists of content related to a patient-focused clinical specialty as well as content that prepares students to influence nursing personnel and the healthcare system for the purpose of achieving safe, quality patient care. Graduates of CNS programs are able to advance the practice of nursing through expertise in their specialty and through their skills as leaders, collaborators, consultants, mentors, and innovators. They are also experts at effecting change and introducing evidencebased practice protocols into the healthcare environment. As a result of their educational preparation and skills, CNSs exert a significant, positive influence on patient, nurse, and healthcare organizational outcomes. Credit Hour and Clinical Contact Hour Requirements+: The certificate requires students to complete a minimum of 12 hours and a maximum of 25 credit hours consisting of the following courses: Adult Health and Critical Care Students 50200: Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Practice Nursing* 3 credits 50300: Advanced Health Assessment* 3 credits 50700: Physiologic Concepts for Advanced Practice Nursing* 4 credits 51100: Health Promotions for Advanced Practice in Nursing* 3 credits and 45 clinical contact hours Adult Health Students 60000: Adult Health CNS I - 3 credits 60100: Adult Health CNS Practicum I 2 credits and 150 clinical contact hours 61800: Adult Health CNS II 3 credits 62000: Adult Health CNS Practicum II 2 credits and 155 clinical contact hours 65800: Adult Health CNS Practicum III: Clinical Synthesis 2 credits and 150 clinical contact hours Critical Care Students 60200: Critical Care CNS I 3 credits 60300: Critical Care CNS Practicum I 2 credits and 150 clinical contact hours 63000: Critical Care CNS II 3 credits 63500: Critical Care CNS Practicum II 2 credits and 155 clinical contact hours 65900: Critical Care CNS Practicum III: Clinical Synthesis 2 credits and 150 clinical contact hours

24 Updated July, Changes to the required certificate program courses will take place during the next 3 years for those beginning the program in the Spring of 2013 or after. Contact the Graduate Program Advisor for further details. *May be waived if student has taken a comparable graduate course at Purdue University Calumet or at another accredited nursing program within 5 years prior to application to this program. Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master s Certificate Program Overview (Admission to this Program is Currently Closed) Purpose The purpose of the Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program at Purdue University Calumet is to increase the numbers of family nurse practitioners prepared to provide primary care. Primary care is currently undergoing a period of expansion in order to meet the increasing healthcare needs of our nation s citizens. The post-master s certificate program at Purdue University Calumet exists to address the need for increased numbers of primary care providers. The target audience for this program includes mater s prepared nurses that are interested in becoming family nurse practitioners Credit Hour and Clinical Contact Hour Requirements+ The certificate requires students to complete a minimum of 14 credits and a maximum of 27 credit hours consisting of the following courses: 50200: Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Practice Nursing* 3 credits 50300: Advanced Health Assessment* 3 credits 50700: Physiologic Concepts for advanced Practice Nursing* 4 credits 51100: Health Promotion for Advanced Practice in Nursing* 3 credits and 45 clinical contact hours 61100: Primary Care of the Young Family 3 credits 61300: Primary Care of the Young Family Practicum 3 credits and 180 clinical contact hours 62200: Primary Care of the Aging Family 3 credits 62300: Primary Care of the Aging Family Practicum 3 credits and 180 clinical contact hours 65700: FNP Practicum Clinical Synthesis 2 credits and 150 clinical contact hours +Changes to the required certificate program courses will take place during the next 3 years for those beginning the program in the Spring of 2013 or after. Contact the Graduate Program Advisor for further details. * May be waived if student has taken a comparable course at Purdue University Calumet or another accredited nursing program with 5 years prior to application

25 Updated July, to this program. Admission Requirements/Criteria for Post-Master s Certificate Programs The admission process for the Certificate in Nursing Education parallels that for students seeking a Master s Degree in Nursing. Specific requirements are: 1. Master s degree in nursing from an accredited institution or admission and enrollment in a masters degree program in nursing 2. Minimum graduate GPA of 3.0/4.0 with the possibility of conditional admission for applicants who do not meet this requirement. 3. Graduate School requirements for non-native speakers of English 4. Evidence of current registered nurse licensure within the United States of America. 5. Criminal background check clearance from the company approved for use by the PUC School of Nursing The application can be found through the on-line application program described in the section on Application Procedures. The admission process for the Family Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist (Adult Health or Critical Care) Certificate Program parallels that for students seeking a Master s Degree in Nursing. Specific requirements are: 1. Master s degree in nursing from an accredited institution or admission and enrollment in a masters degree program in nursing 2. Minimum graduate GPA of 3.0/4.0 with the possibility of conditional admission for applicants who do not meet this requirement. 3. Graduate School requirements for non-native speakers of English. 4. Evidence of current registered nurse licensure within the United States of America. 5. A minimum of one year or 1,500 hours of experience as a registered nurse. 6. Criminal background check clearance from the company approved for use by the PUC School of Nursing. The application can be found through the on-line application program described in the section on Application Procedures. Applying to Post Master s Certificate Programs The application process and procedure is the same as the process used for admission to the master s program. Please see Application Procedures in this handbook for specific information.

26 Updated July, Study Options Admission Policies and Procedures Full-time study or part-time study is available for traditional students and part-time study is available for online cohort students. Students are admitted based on academic qualifications and Graduate Admission Committee recommendation. Admission Requirements/Criteria In order to be considered for admission into the graduate program, applicants must have: Graduation from an accredited baccalaureate program in nursing. A minimum undergraduate nursing cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.0, on a 4 point scale, or equivalent B average. Note: Applicants not meeting this criterion may be considered for conditional admission status. Current registered nurse licensure within the United States of America. Evidence of successful completion of an introductory statistics course taken within the last 5 years. Evidence of successful completion of a physical assessment course or equivalent. International non-native speakers of English must achieve a TOEFL score of 550 or higher on the paper-based examination or 213 or higher on the computerbased test, or 77 or higher on the Internet-based test, to be considered for admission to a degree program. In addition, applicants who take the TOEFL ibt must achieve the following minimum test scores, in addition to the overall required score: reading, 19; listening, 14; speaking, 18, and writing, 18. As an alternative to the TOEFL, the Graduate School accepts IELTS (Academic Module) scores of 6.5 or higher. (Non-native speakers of English who are U.S. citizens or who hold permanent visas are not required to submit TOEFL/IELTS scores.) The scores must be documented by an official report from Educational Testing Service or IELTS and must be no more than 24 months old at the time the application credentials are reviewed in the Graduate School. Required Admission Documents/Items The documents/items that we will need to process your application include: A completed application form using the Online Application button found on the Graduate School website for Degree-Seeking Admissions 3 recommendations using the university s recommendation format evaluating your scholarly potential with at least one from a former instructor A statement of words concerning your purpose for undertaking graduate study, your professional plans, career goals, and research interests

27 Updated July, Two transcripts from each university/college ever attended A copy of your U.S. RN license Your resume Criminal background check clearance from the company approved for use by the PUC School of Nursing Application Procedures Submit your application on-line using the graduate program application form. Following is specific information regarding the process for completing the application form. Location of Application You can locate the link to the application program by going to and click on ONLINE APPLICATION under the Application Process section. Select an Enrollment Objective on the Application Form After accessing the application form, you will be asked to select your enrollment objective. Your options will be non degree, master s, or one of the post-master s certificate programs. Non-Degree You will select non-degree if you are not ready to seek formal admission into the graduate program. This option is useful when there is not enough time to apply for regular admission, or if you are interested in taking just a few courses. If you select this option, you will only need to submit to the School of Nursing proof of your baccalaureate degree (e.g. a copy of your transcript or diploma). You will not be required to submit the remaining admission materials including the recommendations, statement of purpose, resume, license, or official transcripts. A criminal background check will also not be required at this time. Admission as a non-degree seeking student will depend on space availability. Master s You will select this option if you are applying for regular admission into the program. Admission deadlines are: September 15 for Spring admission February 15 for Summer or Fall admission Post Master s Certificate You will select this option if you are applying for the Family Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, or Nursing Education post-master s certificate program. Admission deadlines are:

28 Updated July, September 15 for Spring admission February 15 for Summer or Fall admission Submitting Recommendations through the Application System In order to process your admission, you are required to submit three recommendations evaluating your scholarly potential and ability to pursue graduate study. At least one recommendation should be from a former professor of nursing. Recommendations may be completed directly through the application system. You will just need the address of the people that will give your recommendations, and the system will contact them to complete the form. As an alternative, you can also print the recommendation form, give the form to each recommender and ask them to mail their recommendation form directly to the School of Nursing office. The mailing address is listed below. Submitting a Statement of Purpose through the Application System The statement of purpose consists of words that address your purpose for undertaking graduate study, your reasons for choosing Purdue, career goals and research interests. We suggest that you submit the statement of purpose directly through the application program. As an alternative you can upload a document stating that you intend to submit this at a later date and then mail your statement to the School of Nursing office or it to the academic advisor for the graduate program. You will not be able to submit your application without uploading some form of documentation. Submitting a Resume through the Application System We suggest that you submit your curriculum vita or resume directly through the application program. As an alternative, you can upload a document stating that you intend to submit this at a later date and then mail it to the School of Nursing office or it to the academic advisor for the graduate program. You will not be able to submit your application without uploading some form of documentation. Completing the Process of Submitting the Application Form Prior to submitting the application form, you will be asked to pay an application fee. When you are satisfied that the application form is complete, hit the submit button. Transcripts Submit two official (original) transcripts from each university or college you have ever attended, even if you did not complete a degree at that college. Please ask the colleges to send your transcripts to the School of Nursing at the address below. If you attended any campus of Purdue University in the past, you can check the box on the application that gives us permission to access your records. If you do this, we can directly request your Purdue Transcripts. License Submit a copy of your current registered nurse license(s) from within the United States of America to the School of Nursing office. As an alternative you can

29 Updated July, your license number and state of licensure to the academic advisor for the graduate program who will access that license from the appropriate database to confirm your status as current. Criminal Background Check Please follow these instructions to complete your criminal background check. Note that we cannot accept criminal background checks from other companies. 1. Go to and click on Students 2. In the Package Code box, enter package code: CH00 (note, the last 2 digits are zeros) 3. Select a method of payment: Visa, MasterCard or money order. After you submit your order, the company will send you a password to view the results of your background check. The results will be available in approximately hours. After your background check is complete, please call the School of Nursing graduate program secretary at and provide the password and the last four digits of your social security number. The graduate program secretary will then use this information to obtain the report. If you have questions, please call School of Nursing Mailing Address for Application Materials Heather M. Cook, MA Graduate Program Academic Advisor School of Nursing Purdue University Calumet th Street Hammond, Indiana Application Deadlines There are 2 application deadlines throughout the year. Additionally, those students who clearly meet all admission requirements may be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis at other times pending space availability. Note that no action pertaining to admission can be taken until all admission documents have been received. Summer or Fall admission: February 15 Spring admission: September 15

30 Updated July, Notification of Admission After the Graduate Admissions Committee reviews your materials, you will receive a letter informing you of the Committee s decision. You can consider yourself officially admitted to the Master s program after you receive a letter of welcome from the Dean of the Graduate School. Conditional Admission If you do not meet one or more of the admission requirements you may be considered for conditional admission. However, you need to be aware that admissions are competitive and there is no guarantee of admission on a conditional basis. Additionally, all conditionally admitted students must take all courses, with the exception of 65600, Health Policy and Economics, at the Calumet campus for their full tenure in the program. Acceptable replacements for include the health policy courses offered by the IPFW campus and George Mason University. Conditionally admitted students who fail to meet the specified conditions of admission may be dismissed from the program. Transfer of Credits A maximum of nine semester hours or equivalent of graduate credit may be used as transfer credit from another university. To be accepted, courses must fulfill curriculum requirements and must have been taken at a university that has national nursing accreditation. Additionally, a grade of the equivalent of 3.0 (on a 4 point scale) or higher must be present for any transfer course. All specialty and advanced core courses, including 51000, Nursing Research, must be taken at PUC. A request for an exception to this policy will be considered on a case by case basis. Other core courses will be evaluated for equivalency and transferability. You will need to submit the syllabi for all courses you wish to have considered for transfer credit by the application deadline date. Appealing Denial of Admission Decisions Applicants that are denied admission or readmission into the Graduate Program are allowed to appeal these decisions. Applicants who wish to appeal an admission or readmission decision should contact the Chairperson of the Admission, Progression and Graduation Committee. The Chairperson will review the appeals process with the student. This process includes a written notification of the desire to appeal and an appearance at the next scheduled Admission Progression and Graduation Committee meeting. If the decision to deny admission is upheld by the Committee, applicants may submit a written appeal to the Dean of the School of Nursing. If applicants are not satisfied with the outcome of the appeal to the School of Nursing Dean, a written appeal may be sent to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

31 Updated July, Classification Status Master s (Degree Seeking) Students Degree seeking applicants must submit applications online. You can locate the link to the application program by going to and clicking on ONLINE APPLICATION under the Application Process section. Specific requirements for admission can be found in the Application Procedures section of this handbook. The Admission, Progression and Graduation Subcommittee of the Graduate Committee of the School reviews completed application materials. The School forwards its recommendation and admission conditions if applicable to the Graduate School Office for review and final action. Students receive from the Graduate School official notification of the action taken. Non-Degree Enrollment Students This classification is intended for those who wish to pursue study beyond the baccalaureate degree but do not have specific degree objectives. It is not intended to be a form of probationary admission to a regular degree program. It is possible for those registered in this classification to be considered for admission to the Graduate School as a regular graduate student once they submit a degree seeking application and required application materials. If an individual in this classification is later admitted as a regular graduate student, not more than twelve hours of credit may be applied to an advanced degree program. No course in which a grade of less than B has been received will be permitted on a plan of study if the course is taken while enrolled as a non-degree registrant. Non-degree registrants may be required to secure consent from each of the departments in which they would like to register for courses. Ability to register for courses may depend on space availability. Standards of Work Progression Policies Success in graduate study requires a serious commitment and performance of high quality. Only grades of A, B, or C are acceptable in fulfilling Graduate School requirements in any plan of study. However, the School of Nursing Master of Science program requires student to obtain a minimum grade of B in all required courses. Pass/fail grades cannot be used in the plan of study. As written in the Purdue University Student Handbook, Graduate Education at Purdue University, Integrity in research is an essential part of Purdue

32 Updated July, University s intellectual and social structure, and adherence to its spirit and principles must be maintained. These principles include commitment to truth, objectivity, fairness, honesty, and free inquiry. ( page 20) Students enrolled in the Master of Science in nursing program must also adhere to the ANA Code of Ethics and conform to the Purdue University Calumet Standards for Academic Integrity ( The Purdue University Calumet Honor Code can be found at: and it states: I understand that academic dishonesty will not be tolerated at Purdue University Calumet. I am here to learn. Through learning, I will strive to become a better person and a more valuable contributor to society. I understand that dishonesty in the classroom, through cheating, plagiarism or other dishonest acts, defeats this purpose and disgraces the mission and quality of a Purdue University Calumet education. Therefore, I make the following pledge: in accordance with the Honor Code, I will not engage in dishonesty in my academic activities, and I will not tolerate such dishonesty by other students. Grade Requirements Graduate students must have a final graduation grade point average of a B or better on the approved plan of study in order to receive the Master of Science with a Major in Nursing degree. The School of Nursing requires a minimum grade of B in all required nursing courses. Clinical Experience Requirements Students must have completed the equivalent of one year or 1,500 hours of experience as a registered nurse related to their clinical track prior to enrolling in 51100, Concepts and Applications of Health Promotion for Advanced Nursing Practice. Submitting the Electronic Plan Of Study (EPOS) The Electronic Plan Of Study (EPOS) is an academic contract between the graduate student, the faculty members of the student s graduate committee, the School of Nursing Graduate Program Coordinator, and the Graduate School. On the EPOS, students will list the coursework they must complete in order to fulfill the requirements of the graduate degree and identify the members of their graduate committee. Students must submit their EPOS and have it finalized/approved prior to the start of the last semester of the program. Failure to file the EPOS in a timely fashion may prevent the student from graduating upon completing their final

33 Updated July, semester. Students can find instructions for submitting their EPOS in the Graduate Student Resources and Advising Information site and/or contact the Graduate Program Academic Advisor for assistance in completing their Electronic Plan Of Study. Probation/Dismissal Probation Graduate students in degree-seeking status who receive a grade of C or below in any required course or whose cumulative graduate program GPA falls below 3.0 (a B average) will be placed on probation, indicating serious academic difficulty. Students on probation must repeat within one calendar year the course in which they received the grade of C or below. Students will be dismissed from the program if a grade of C or below is received for the repeated class. Repeating Courses If a degree-seeking student receives a grade of C or below in a required class, the class must be repeated within one calendar year. A class may be repeated only one time and a grade of B or higher must be achieved. The maximum number of different courses toward the degree that may be repeated is two. Dismissal from the Program Degree-seeking students will be dismissed from the graduate program when any of the following occur: A conditionally admitted student fails to meet admission conditions. A student on probation fails to repeat a required nursing course within one calendar year after receiving a grade of C or below. A student receives a grade of C or below when repeating a required nursing course. A student received a grade of C or below on a third required nursing course. In matters of integrity, clinical judgment, plagiarism, or other situations that compromise the ANA Code of Ethics, the Purdue University Calumet Student Honor Code, and/or the Graduate Student Standards of Work, the graduate faculty of the SON may place a student on probation or recommend dismissal from the program to the Dean of Students. Grade Appeals If a student has concerns or complaints about grading or clinical evaluations, he/she should discuss these concerns with the faculty member responsible for teaching the course. If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of this discussion, he/she should bring the concerns to the Graduate Program Coordinator. After discussing the concern with the Graduate Program Coordinator and the situation is not resolved to the student s satisfaction, the Program Coordinator will direct the student to the university s grade appeal process and provide the name and contact information of the School of Nursing Grade Appeals Committee Chairperson. If the

34 Updated July, student wishes to proceed with a formal appeal, the student will contact the Grade Appeals Committee Chairperson. Students need to be aware that timelines exist for the appeals process, so it is important to begin the process as soon as possible following the semester when the grade in question occurred. Further information about the university s process for appealing a grade can be found in the Purdue University Calumet Student Handbook available on the university s website. Program Dismissal Appeals Students may appeal decisions of dismissal from their program of study for scholastic performance or violations of the code of conduct. Students who wish to appeal a decision related to program dismissal should meet with the Graduate Program Coordinator. The Program Coordinator will discuss the situation with the student. If students want to continue the appeals process, they will submit a written notification of the desire to appeal and a request for reconsideration explaining why the student should be given a second opportunity to continue in the program. The student will then appear at the next scheduled Admission Progression and Graduation Committee meeting to address the request for reconsideration. If the decision to dismiss the student from the program is upheld by the Committee, students may submit a written appeal to the Dean of the School of Nursing. If students that were dismissed due to academic reasons are not satisfied with the outcome of this step, they may submit a written appeal to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. For students dismissed due to conduct violations, a further appeal can be sent to the office of the Dean of Students. Changing Areas of Specialization Students are admitted to an identified area of specialization but may desire to change to another area of specialization following admission. If students are interested in changing to an area of specialization that differs from the admission area of specialization, they should submit to the Graduate Program Coordinator a written request. Permission to change areas of specialization may be given on a space available basis. Progression Time Limits Many students opt to pursue their education on a part-time basis, taking one to two classes a semester. Most part-time students finish the program in three to four years. Note that the time limit to complete the program is 6 years from the term of admission. Students pursuing their program on a part-time basis must talk about their curriculum plan with their academic advisor in order to be certain they are taking courses in the correct sequence. Part-time students may also use the curriculum plans in Tables 2, 3 and 4 to document their progress through the curriculum. The 6-year time limit also applies to students that sit out for one for more semesters. In addition, if 5 years elapse between taking courses and resuming

35 Updated July, work toward a degree, the Graduate School prohibits including any of the courses taken prior to the period of inactivity on the plan of study. Withdrawal and Re-entry Procedures If, following admission, students wish to withdraw from the Master of Science program they should submit a written notice to Dr. Jane Walker, Graduate Program Coordinator, School of Nursing, Purdue University Calumet, th Street, Hammond, IN All previously admitted graduate students who have not registered for three consecutive semesters must submit a re-entry application and any application materials that may have expired. The Graduate Admissions Committee will review the application and make a decisions regarding the re-entry request. Note that reentry is not guaranteed and if readmitted to the program, students may be required to adhere to any curriculum changes occurring during the period of inactivity. The application can be found through the on-line application program described above in the section on Application Procedures. Registration Registration Information Class schedules can be located under the student tab on the Purdue University Calumet website: You should watch the Purdue University Calumet website for specific dates for registration and withdrawal. Priority Registration Priority registration is held at announced times during the semester preceding the desired classes. Priority registration enables currently enrolled students to register for the forthcoming semester or summer session. The academic advisor will post an announcement or send an to students regarding the current semester s registration procedures. In an effort to accommodate working RNs most of the advising sessions are held via or telephone appointment. However, students can schedule an appointment with their advisor by calling the School of Nursing office at (219) If traditional students have discussed their plan of study with their advisor and know what classes they need to take, they are encouraged to self-register on-line using PC-Star. Online cohort students will not be able to selfregister and should watch for correspondence from their advisor regarding registration progress.

36 Updated July, Open Registration Open registration usually occurs during the week prior to the beginning of classes each semester. Those students who were unable to register during priority registration should use open registration. This time period can also be used by students who have already registered and need to make schedule adjustments (add/drops). Late Registration It is possible to register for classes during the first week or two of the semester. Registration during this period is subject to the availability of classes, approval of the advisor and the faculty teaching the class, and payment of a late fee. Financial Aid Office Financial Aid Students can arrange financial assistance through the Office of Financial Aid and Student Accounts. Further information is available on the Office of Financial Aid and Student Accounts website: Scholarships and Talent Awards A limited number of scholarships are available for graduate nursing students. The deadline for applying is generally in March of the academic year preceding the awards. Amounts of money awarded and eligibility requirements vary. For further information and applications, contact the Office of Financial Aid and Student Accounts at (219) Further information is also available on the Office of Financial Aid and Student Accounts website: Graduate students can also apply for the Graduate Distinction Scholarship. Visit the website at or contact the Graduate School Office for more information. Graduate Aide Positions A limited number of Graduate Aide positions are available for graduate students interested in providing a supportive role in scholarly and/or teaching activities with nursing faculty. Assignments vary and are based on departmental needs. Remuneration includes substantial tuition reimbursement and a monthly stipend. To be eligible for appointment, an individual must be enrolled as a regular graduate student and remain registered during the entire appointment period.

37 Updated July, Appointment is on a quarter time basis which is equivalent to 10 hours/week during the fall and spring semesters. Students interested in applying should submit a written resume to the Graduate Program Coordinator. Appointments are made based on the applicant s qualifications and the needs of the School. School Activities and Resources Student Representation on School of Nursing Committees Graduate students are needed to participate in the following School of Nursing Committees: 1. Graduate Committee: Provides general guidance to the graduate program; develops, evaluates, and revises the curriculum; and determines curriculum policies. 2. Academic Support Services Committee: Provides advice for procurement of learning materials and equipment, and develops policies related to student and faculty use of learning resource facilities. 3. Faculty Student Affairs Committee: Reviews and makes recommendations regarding faculty and student health and welfare. 4. School of Nursing Curriculum Committee: Approves curriculum proposals for the undergraduate program and evaluates the effectiveness of the School of Nursing environment and academic programs. Student input is of great importance to the faculty, and students are encouraged to participate and volunteer to serve on these committees. Program Announcements Students can find information pertinent to the School of Nursing graduate program through the e-courses link. The course Graduate Student Resources and Advising Information will appear in the course list. At this site, students can find announcements, School of Nursing forms, information related to specific courses including practicum course clinical requirements, and access to within Blackboard. We encourage students to visit this site regularly for information and announcements. The Graduate Program Academic Advisor will also send s and post announcements in this site regarding registration, special events, and program/policy updates.

38 Updated July, Computer Laboratory IBM-compatible personal computers are available for student use in the Learning Resource Laboratory (Room X-70). A total of sixteen machines are set up for word processing using Microsoft Word. Several statistical software programs are available for use on the PC s, and students can access accounts. Assistance is available and lab hours are posted. Practicum Requirements and Information Clinical Experience Requirements Students must have completed the equivalent of one-year or 1,500 hours of experience as a registered nurse prior to enrolling in the first clinical practicum course: 51100, Health Promotion for Advanced Practice in Nursing. Required Practicum Forms and Information to be Submitted by Students Students are to provide several required forms and information to the School of Nursing Graduate secretary before the start of all practicum courses. Some of this information will need to be submitted one time prior to the first practicum course or as needed as information expires. Other information will need to be submitted before each practicum course. In addition, students may be asked to submit a copy of this information to their clinical instructor or clinical agency site prior to the beginning of the practicum. Family Nurse Practitioner students will receive instructions regarding the process of uploading health information into Typhon, the online practicum management system. Following is a list of required forms and information. All required forms are available in the Clinical Requirements folder of the Graduate Student Resources and Advising Information course in ecourses. Note that it is important for students to keep a copy of each form submitted for their own personal records. Deadlines for submitting forms are: June 1 for Fall Practica; November 1 for Spring Practica; and April 1 for Summer. Note that students cannot begin practica courses unless the required forms are submitted. Required Information/Form Submit Prior to 1 st Practicum Submit Prior to Each Practicum or as Needed 1. Copy of current CPR certification card X As needed 2. Copy of current RN license X As needed 3. Statement of Refusal of Hepatitis B Vaccine X

39 Updated July, Required Information/Form Submit Prior to 1 st Practicum Submit Prior to Each Practicum or as Needed 4. Statement of Informed Consent X 5. Policies Regarding Communicable X Diseases Potential Disease Exposure Form 6. Student Physical Examination X Summary (completed and signed). Includes: Tetanus/Diphtheria Booster (last 10 X As needed years) Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) X vaccine or titer Varicella vaccine or titer X Hepatitis B or titer X Verification of Polio vaccine X PPD X Annually 7. Student Health Screening X Requirements 8. Practicum Information Sheet X X 9. Preceptor Credential Verification Form X X 10. Universal Precautions Policy and Instruction Acknowledgment X Annually NOTE: Some Clinical agencies may require testing or documentation in addition to these requirements (i.e. drug test, etc.) Liability Insurance All students enrolled in the graduate program are provided liability insurance purchased by the University at the time of registration. Students will receive a card verifying coverage. Licensure Requirements All students in the Graduate Nursing Program must present evidence of registered nurse licensure for all states in which they plan to pursue their practica experiences. Policies Regarding Health Screening and Communicable Disease Students need to undergo a comprehensive health examination performed by a physician or nurse practitioner no longer than 6 months prior to the start of the first

40 Updated July, practicum course. The healthcare provider should document a summary of the health examination on the Student Physical Examination Summary form. All students, prior to beginning practica courses, must meet immunization requirements as outlined on the Student Health Screening Form. The form must be completed by a physician or nurse practitioner. Specific immunization policies include: Tetanus/Diptheria Booster with the previous 10 years Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccinations or titers Varicella vaccinations or titer Hepatitis B vaccinations or titer. If Hepatitis B immunization has not been done, a signed and witnessed Statement of Refusal of Hepatitis B Vaccine must be completed. Two Mantoux skin tests administered 1 week apart within 3 months prior to the start of the first practicum course. If the student has obtained an annual TB test, then it is sufficient to obtain 1 Mantoux skin test within 3 months prior to the start of the first practicum course. Students must then submit documentation of annual Mantoux skin tests for the remainder of the program. Record of polio vaccine The School of Nursing document entitled Policies Regarding Communicable Diseases must be carefully read and adhered to. This policy is located in the Clinical Requirements folder within the Graduate Student Resources and Advising Information course in the ecourses site. Beginning a Practicum Experience Before beginning each practicum experience, there are several steps that each student needs to take. Each step is listed below: 1. Select area of focus based on educational, personal and/or professional goals. Note: Faculty are available for guidance in the selection process. 2. Write tentative behavioral objectives that are congruent with course objectives. Refer to the information in this section for further information 3. Select a preceptor. Points to consider: Acceptance by preceptor of the concept of advanced practice nursing Willingness to serve as preceptor. Size, type and quality of practice setting. Match of preceptor to the nature of the required experience. Qualifications of the preceptor: experience, credentials, type of preceptor The practicum experience cannot occur at your place of employment and the preceptor cannot be a family member or a personal friend. No more than three clinical sites may be used during a single semester to fulfill course requirements.

41 Updated July, For FNP students, the site must have a certified advanced practice nurse with prescriptive authority and minimum of one year of clinical experience and/or physician willing to act as a preceptor for the student. The preferred experience is with a nurse practitioner. At least one preceptor during the program must be a Family Nurse Practitioner. 4. Hold an initial meeting with the preceptor. Points to consider: Discuss goals and objectives of experience and provide a copy of your objectives Provide a current copy of your vita Arrange for orientation to the practice setting Determine a schedule most beneficial to both 5. Submit required forms. See the Required Practicum Forms section of this handbook for further information. 6. Check the Graduate Student Resources and Advising information course for any additional institution-specific requirements. 7. Note that letters of agreement or contracts and preceptor vitae must be in place prior to starting the practicum experience. Practicum Responsibilities: Student, Preceptor, and Faculty Student Responsibilities Prepare personal learning objectives and submit them to faculty during the first week of class. On the first day of your practicum, give your preceptor a copy of the course objectives, your personal objectives, the clinical time sheet and your clinical evaluation tool. Arrange for an on-site conferences/visits with preceptor and faculty member. Collaborate with and seek guidance from your preceptor in order to meet practicum objectives. Discuss your progress with preceptor. Continue to evaluate your progress toward meeting course and personal objectives. Assume responsibility and accountability for practicum requirements. Specific responsibilities include: Remain aware of deadlines and submit required materials to the Graduate Program Secretary. Maintain a professional appearance, behavior and etiquette. This includes but is not limited to: no texting or personal phone calls during the clinical practicum experience; arriving on time; and staying as long as necessary to complete practicum obligations.

42 Updated July, Notify your preceptor if you are unable to appear at a scheduled clinical experience or if you are not able to arrive on time. Notify your clinical instructor if you change sites or if you need to be absent from a scheduled clinical practicum. Notify your clinical instructor within 24 hours, per , if you are absent from clinical practicum for any reason. Preceptor Responsibilities Orient the student to the practice setting. Assist the student in selecting appropriate means for meeting course and personal objectives. Provide validation and feedback pertaining to student experiences. Provide faculty with feedback on student s performance. Provide feedback and contribute to the evaluation of the student s clinical performance. Faculty Responsibilities Clinical Attire Provide guidance and supervision for the student during the preceptorship. Arrange conferences with student at the beginning, middle and end of the semester or as needed or requested. Make on-site/telephone visits. Assist the student in solving clinical and interactional problems during on-site visits, conferences, and seminar discussions. Maintain communication with preceptors and other agency personnel. Evaluate the student s practicum performance. Practicum evaluation criteria may include: a. observations during on-site visits b. assigned materials c. ongoing contact with preceptor d. ongoing contact with student e. degree of attainment of course and personal objectives Students will purchase a standard lab coat and name tag to wear in the practicum setting. Purchasing instructions are located in the Graduate Student Resources and Advising Information course in the ecourses site. Attendance A large component of graduate study focuses on discussion and exchange of ideas. The graduate nursing faculty, therefore, expect that each student will recognize his/her responsibility to professional colleagues and attend all regularly scheduled lectures, seminars, conferences and clinical laboratories. If a graduate nursing student is unable to attend a classroom or laboratory

43 Updated July, session, the need for remedial study will be assessed on an individual basis or according to requirements set forth by the course faculty member. In the case of an absence from a practicum experience, both the clinical facility preceptor and the responsible faculty member are to be notified by the student prior to the scheduled experience. Writing Behavioral Objectives A behavioral objective is a learning outcome stated in measurable terms, which gives direction to the learner s experience and becomes the basis for student evaluation. Objectives may vary in several respects. They may be general or specific, concrete or abstract, cognitive, affective, or psychomotor. Cognitive objectives emphasize intellectual outcomes, such as knowledge, understanding, and thinking skills. Affective objectives emphasize feeling and emotion, such as interests, values, attitudes, appreciation, and methods of adjustment. Psychomotor objectives emphasize motor skills, such as physical assessment skills and administration of chemotherapy. Points in writing behavioral objectives: 1. Begin each behavioral objective with a verb. The critical aspect of any behavioral objective is the verb selected to indicate expected behavior from learning activities. 2. State each objective in terms of learner performance. A behavioral objective is one that is considered to be observable and measurable. Behavior is generally construed to be an action of an individual that can be seen, felt, or heard by another person. 3. State each objective so that it includes only one general learning outcome. Examples of objectives At the graduate level of nursing education, it is expected that learning objectives will be general, abstract, and cognitive or affective. Examples of appropriate objectives for graduate students are as follows: Cognitive: Create an assessment tool based on a nursing theory for patients experiencing pain. Cognitive: Evaluate the usefulness of nursing research in clinical practice. Affective: Accept professional responsibility for change in problem clinical situations. Illustrative verbs for stating specific learning objectives: Design Compare Decide Generalize Predict Defend Criticize Simplify Evaluate Modify Synthesize Explain

44 Updated July, Analyze Systematize Revise Appraise Conclude Formulate Combine Contrast Plan Many references are available concerning Behavioral Objectives. The materials in this guide were taken from: Gronlund, N. E. (2004). Writing instructional objectives for teaching and assessment (7 th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Merrill Prentice Hall.