Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Education

Theory Integration – 3 credits
Prerequisite(s): Admission to MSN Program

This course explores and analyzes theories and propositions from social, psychological, medical, nursing, and interpersonal relations as a foundation to understanding research, practice, and scholarship in nursing. A grade of B or above must be received in this course to allow progression in the Nurse Practitioner program.

Advanced Pathophysiology – 3 credits
Prerequisite(s): Admission into MSN

This course focuses on pathophysiological processes across the lifespan and the development of clinical reasoning skills that distinguish the relationships between normal physiology and specific system alterations produced by injury and disease. Particular attention will be given to etiology, pathogenesis, developmental and environmental influences, and clinical manifestations of major health problems. A grade of B or above must be received in this course to allow progression in the Nurse Practitioner program.

Research Integration – 3 credits
Prerequisite(s): NURS 5300
Corequisite(s): None

Students will learn to integrate appropriate research to assist in resolving clinical issues. Evidence-based practice will be utilized to include patient preferences and values as well as clinical expertise while integrating research data.

Advanced Health Assessment – 3 credits
Prerequisite(s): Admission into MSN
Corequisite(s): NURS 5120

This course will build upon health assessment skills developed in the professional nurse’s basic educational program. The theoretical and clinical basis for assessment in advanced nursing practice will be developed. The process whereby the advanced practitioner utilizes comprehensive physical, psychosocial, and cultural assessment across the lifespan to gather specific data relevant to common health problems is demonstrated. Faculty and preceptors facilitate laboratory and clinical experiences, which focus on assessment of clients and presentation of findings in a variety of settings. A grade of B or above must be received in this course to allow progression in the Nurse Practitioner program.

Leadership for Quality, Safety & Health Policy – 3 credits
Prerequisite(s): Admission to MSN Program

The principles and theories germane to leadership will be explored in relation to complex organizations and the development of leadership styles and policy making within microsystems, mesosystems, and macrosystems to transform those healthcare systems. Course content will include continuous quality improvement models, processes, and tools to measure outcomes in a healthcare facility. Emphasis will be placed on the political, demographic, and economic forces that influence the development of health policy and professional nursing practice. Ethical and legal dimensions of nursing practice and interprofessional relationships at advanced level will be explored. A grade of B or above must be received in this course to allow progression in the Nurse Practitioner program.

Advanced Pharmacology – 3 credits
Prerequisite(s): Admission into MSN

This course provides the opportunity to acquire advanced knowledge and skills in the therapeutic use of pharmacologic agents. The pharmacologic treatment of major health problems will be explored. Principles of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and pharmacogenomics will be examined. The effects of culture, ethnicity, age, pregnancy, gender and funding on pharmacologic therapy will be emphasized. Legal aspects of prescribing will be fully addressed. A grade of B or above must be received in this course to allow progression in the Nurse Practitioner program.

Curriculum Development – 3 credits (90 clinical hours)
Prerequisite(s): NURS 5309
Corequisite(s): None

This course examines various classical and modern curriculum theorists as they apply to nursing curriculum development. Emphasis is placed on congruence between institutional mission, philosophy, and goals; professional standards; and needs and expectations of a program’s communities of interest. Students design a curriculum to meet the needs of a stated nursing role and setting.

Role of the Educator – 3 credits (90 clinical hours)
Prerequisite(s): NURS 5300 and NURS 5303 and NURS 5309 and NURS 5305 and NURS 5302 and NURS 5304
Corequisite(s): None
Fee(s): None

This course will investigate the essential skills needed for the roles and responsibilities of the nurse educator, including facilitate learning and learner development and socialization. Students will explore mechanisms for functioning within the educational environment. This course requires 90 hours of educator role experience.

Effective Teaching Strategies – 3 credits 1.95 Didactic/1.05 Clinical (47.5 Clinical Hours)
Prerequisite(s): NURS 5309
Corequisite(s): None

This course will incorporate a learner-centered approach to course development and instructional delivery. Assessment tools and strategies used to evaluate student learning will be emphasized. Students will demonstrate instructional techniques and strategies in the teaching of didactic competencies and clinical proficiencies based upon evidence-based teaching practices.

Evaluation of Learning – 3 credits 1.95 Didactic/1.05 Clinical (47.5 Clinical Hours)
Prerequisite(s): NURS 5309
Corequisite(s): None

This course examines a variety of assessment models and techniques used to evaluate student classroom performance and clinical performance, instructor performance, and effectiveness of education programs. Students will design and execute assessment and evaluation plans, interpret assessment data and develop closing the loop activities.

Advanced Healthcare Informatics – 3 credits (90 clinical hours)
Prerequisite(s): Entry into MSN program or approval by department
Corequisite(s): None

In this course, students will explore core concepts, skills, tools that define the informatics field, including the examination of health information technologies to promote safety, improve quality, and foster consumer-centered care and efficiency.

Residency – 3 credits (135 clinical hours)
Prerequisite(s): NURS 5300 and NURS 5309 and NURS 5302 and NURS 5308 and NURS 5316 and NURS 5319 and NURS 5319 and NURS 5321 and NURS 5021 and NURS 5307 and NURS 5400 and NURS 5000
Corequisite(s): None
Fee(s): None

This capstone course will provide the opportunity for the learner to integrate and practice the content from previous courses in various healthcare systems. The course requires 200 hours of clinical experiences.