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Bulletin of the
University of Nebraska Medical Center
College of Nursing
2008 – 2009
For Additional Information
Student Services Office,
College of Nursing
985330 Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, NE 68198-5330
(402) 559-4110
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Overview
Academic Calendar ......................................................................................3
Letter from the Dean ....................................................................................4
The College of Nursing ................................................................................5
Testing Information – All Students ...........................................................10
Tuition and Fees 2008-2009 .......................................................................13
Scholarship and Financial Aid Information ................................................15
II. Essential Information
Admission to the College of Nursing .........................................................18
Learning Resources ....................................................................................18
Student Services and Information ..............................................................21
III. Student Policies
Academic Policies and Procedures .............................................................24
Student Rights and Responsibilities ...........................................................30
IV. Program Information
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (BSN) ........................................32
Masters Program Purpose, Outcomes and Competencies ..........................42
Post Masters Certificate .............................................................................53
Doctoral Program Purpose, Outcomes and Competencies ........................56
Graduate Program Faculty..........................................................................69
Appendices
I - Undergraduate Baccalaureate Program Course Descriptions ................70
II - Graduate Program Course Descriptions ...............................................76
III - College of Nursing Faculty and Educational Support Staff ................93
IV - Maps ...................................................................................................98
Index ...............................................................................................................101
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I - OVERVIEW
Academic Calendar
Spring Semester 2008
First Day of Classes ............................................... January 7
Last Day of Classes ..................................................... May 1
Summer Semester 2008
Eight Week Session ..................................... May 12 - July 3
First Five Week Session................................. June 2 - July 3
Second Five Week Session ........................ July 7 - August 8
Fall Semester 2008
First Day of Classes .............................................. August 25
Last Day of Classes .......................................... December 12
Spring Semester 2009
First Day of Classes ............................................. January 12
Last Day of Classes ..................................................... May 1
Summer Semester 2009
Eight Week Session ..................................... May 11 - July 3
First Five Week Session................................. June 1 - July 3
Second Five Week Session ........................ July 6 - August 7
Fall Semester 2009
First Day of Classes .............................................. August 24
Last Day of Classes .......................................... December 11
Student holidays and breaks are indicated yearly in the UNMC Student
Handbook published by the UNMC Student Services Office. A copy of current
academic year handbook is made available for currently enrolled students on
line at http://net.unmc.edu/care/docs/handbook.pdf and a hard copy is provided
to newly enrolled students.
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Letter from the Dean
The UNMC College of Nursing offers academic programs leading to the bachelor
(B.S.N.) and master of science (M.S.N.) degrees in nursing and a doctoral program
in nursing leading to the doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree. The baccalaureate
program of study is available in four sites; these are the Omaha, Lincoln, Kearney
and West Nebraska (in Scottsbluff) divisions. The RN to BSN is also available at
some rural sites. The graduate programs (MSN and PhD) are available on the Omaha
campus; however, with the use of distance learning technology, many graduate
courses, specialties, and clinical experiences are available at the other divisions and
some off-site locations. The College, through the range of academic programs
offered, is committed to career advancement of nurses.
The baccalaureate degree program prepares graduates for beginning professional
nursing practice. The Master of Science degree program prepares advanced practice
nurses. Many areas of specialization are offered including Adult Health and Illness
(oncology and acute care), Women's Health, Children's Health, Neonatal Health,
Gerontology, Health Systems Nurse Specialist (nursing administration and
community health), Psychiatric Mental Health, and Family Nurse Practitioner. Nurse
practitioner programs also are available in Adult Health, Women's Health,
Pediatrics, Neonatal Health, Gerontology and Family Nurse Practitioner Psychiatric
Mental Health combined program. Post Master's Certificate programs are available
in most of the specialty areas. All students have the opportunity for rural clinical
learning experiences. The doctoral program prepares nurse scientists; students
complete the program with a dissertation. They are prepared to contribute to the
science base of the field and to hold academic or clinical research positions.
Faculty of the College of Nursing have a range and depth of experience as teachers,
practitioners, and researchers. They are an active professional group serving on
national and regional committees, boards, and in professional nursing organizations;
their work is published and cited by others. They create the academic environment
for which this College is nationally recognized. The Nebraska Medical Center
hospitals and clinics, and the many other hospitals, clinical agencies and offices that
support our educational mission across the state of Nebraska, add to the excellence
of our programs.
The faculty, staff, and administration at all our divisions welcome your interest in
the UNMC College of Nursing. We look forward to helping you engage in a
rewarding educational experience and earning a degree from the University of
Nebraska Medical Center.
Virginia P. Tilden, DNSc, RN, FAAN
Dean and Professor
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THE COLLEGE OF NURSING
History
The University of Nebraska School of Nursing was established in 1917. From that
time until 1950 the school offered a three-year diploma program for nurses. A
baccalaureate program was authorized by the Board of Regents in 1950 and the first
class was graduated in 1956.
The School of Nursing initiated a Continuing Education Program in 1967. The
program provides opportunities for registered nurses to increase knowledge and
perfect skills in the care of patients. The program includes workshops, institutes and
seminars which focus on updating and upgrading nursing practice. The continuing
education programs are offered on a non-credit basis.
In 1969, the School of Nursing, with the approval of the Board of Regents, initiated
a graduate program which prepared clinical specialists in psychiatric and medical-
surgical nursing. The first students were admitted to the graduate program in the fall
semester of 1969. The master of science in nursing program offers a number of
options preparing nurse practitioners (family, gerontological, psychiatric mental
health and neonatal), preparing nurses for synthesized nurse practitioner/clinical
specialist roles (adult health with options in oncology, acute care and ambulatory
care; maternal and women's health; children's health) and preparing nurses for roles
as health systems nurse specialist (with emphasis in community health, nursing
administration or informatics). Course work for Masters program options is offered
from the Omaha campus. Distributive learning technologies permit the delivery of
core courses and selected specialty courses to the other CON divisions (Lincoln,
Kearney and West Nebraska).
During the Nebraska Legislative session of 1969, funds were appropriated and
approval was given by the Board of Regents to establish an Associate of Science
Degree Program in Nursing. The first class was admitted in the fall of 1970.
In 1972 the Nebraska Legislature approved a change of status from School of
Nursing to College of Nursing. That same year the Board of Regents authorized the
extension of the UNMC undergraduate program in nursing to the Lincoln campus.
The program was funded by the legislature and the first class of associate degree
students was admitted on the Lincoln campus in 1974. The associate, baccalaureate
and masters programs were revised to articulate with one another and in 1975 all
students were admitted to the articulated program.
In 1977 UNMC officially offered an off-campus program for RN to BSN students.
RN students entering the program met the same requirements as those on campus. In
1993, the off-campus program received a new title the Rural Education program.
At the March 17, 1984, meeting of the Board of Regents of the University of
Nebraska, plans for discontinuing the Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN)
Program were adopted. The ASN Program was discontinued as of May 1986. A new
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baccalaureate program and RN-BSN track was instituted in the fall of 1985 and
baccalaureate nursing students were admitted to the new program in the spring of
1987. In April 1986, the Nebraska Legislature appropriated funding for a West
Nebraska Division of the UNMC College of Nursing located in Scottsbluff. Students
were admitted to the West Nebraska campus in the Fall of 1987. In December 1989,
the Board of Regents approved the addition of a doctoral program in nursing, which
began in the fall of 1990. In July 1991, Kearney State College was added to the
University of Nebraska system and became the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
The College of Nursing offers Post Master's Certificates in most specialties. In April
of 1991, the Board of Regents approved a plan to place the baccalaureate nursing
program at Kearney under the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Nursing
students became part of the UNMC Kearney Division in the Fall of 1991. Family
nurse practitioner education began in the Fall of 1992. Students now have a choice
of completing the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in Omaha, Lincoln,
Kearney or Scottsbluff. Preparation of the Self-Study for the Commission on
Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) lead to a successful accreditation visit and a
letter granting full accreditation for 10 years in the fall 1999. Addressing the need
for nurses, a nurse recruiter was added to the staff late fall 1999 to increase the
student applicant pool to all our sites and all our programs. Funding was received to
develop a computer-based educational model for rural RN-BSN students. To
facilitate students to balance their academics, employment and family roles,
additional course and distance technology transmission mechanisms were developed
in 1999-2000 so that student do not have to travel to campus as often. In 2001-2002
the college begins to take big steps in International education by having guest
students from Armenia take a graduate course. They took the course online through
the internet and provided a wonderful opportunity to ―pilot test‖ a global online
classroom for nurses. The Moorehead Center for Nursing Practice was established
in 2004-2005. The Center became the infrastructure for coordination, support and
development of faculty practices. In July of 2005 the Lincoln division moved from
the UNL campus to the Commerce Court Building and had a new space designed to
better provide practice labs and classrooms for the Lincoln campus students. In
January 2007 the College of Nursing created new leadership positions for the
academic programs. A new Associate Dean for Academic Programs, a Program
Director for the BSN, MSN and PhD were hired to manage each program for the
College of Nursing. The UNMC College of Nursing continues to grow and develop
curricula designed to help meet the educational challenges facing today's nursing
professionals in the new millennium.
Accreditation
The University of Nebraska Medical Center is accredited by The Higher Learning
Commission, a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and
Schools, 30 North La Salle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504.
The baccalaureate and master's degree program at the University of Nebraska
Medical Center College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate
Nursing Education, One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, DC 20036,
(202) 887-6791.
The BSN program is also approved by the Nebraska State Board of Nursing, P.O.
Box 95044, Lincoln, NE 68509-5044.
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Nursing Mission and Vision
The Mission of the College of Nursing is to improve the health of Nebraska through
premier nursing education programs, innovative research, the highest quality patient
care, and service to underserved populations.
The Vision of the College of Nursing is to be a vital part of a world-renowned health
sciences center and to:
Deliver state of the art nursing education blending traditional learning
approaches with emerging learning technologies;
Offer health care and health systems solutions grounded in leading-
edge nursing science;
Promote health, reduce the burden of illness, and lessen health
disparities in Nebraska and beyond.
Nursing Philosophy Statement
The philosophy statement of the College of Nursing is consistent with the overall
role and mission of the University of Nebraska Medical Center, which emphasizes
education, research, patient care and outreach to underserved populations. This
philosophy of nursing and nursing education is embedded in a milieu of commitment
to quality of work and learning environments, respect for diversity, and an
appreciation of scientific inquiry.
Human Beings
Clients, students, faculty, and co-workers are viewed as unique human beings who
are intrinsically valued and worthy of respect. Human beings are embedded in a
cultural milieu. They have inherent rights and reciprocal responsibilities. Humans
are in the process of constantly evolving and have potential for growth.
Environment
The environment consists of economic, social, cultural, legal, ethical, technological,
ecological, and political forces which interact at local, state, regional, national, and
global levels. The environment influences health and how health care is organized
and implemented. Human beings interact with, influence, modify, and adapt to the
environment. Nursing practice, education, and research are affected by and affect the
environment. Environmental forces at all geopolitical levels influence the health care
system.
Health
Health is a dynamic, multidimensional process of developing which is influenced by
biological factors, individual perceptions, cultural norms, and environmental forces.
It is an important part of human experience and quality of life. Health affects and is
affected by human need, potential, behavior and choice. The aim of health care is
achievement of a fuller measure of health for all members of society. Achievement
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of this goal requires an integrated approach and partnerships between clients, health
care professionals and the community. This approach includes promoting wellness
and positive lifestyle; facilitating coping; preventing disease, dysfunction, and/or
injury; and caring for those who are experiencing health problems.
All members of society have a right to access health care.
Nursing
Nursing is a scholarly practice discipline which integrates both art and science in the
care of human beings as individuals and aggregates. The goal of nursing is to
promote client health using knowledge, clinical judgment, skills, experience, and
leadership. Nursing involves an investment of self in the
establishment of reciprocal trusting relationships with clients and health team
members. Nurses have a responsibility for ethical awareness in the social, political,
legal, ecological, and economic arenas to
serve as advocates for client health. The body of nursing knowledge is both
experientially and scientifically developed and validated through nursing research
and practice.
Nursing Education
Nursing is practiced in a health care environment characterized by cultural diversity
and rapid advances in knowledge and technology that challenge learned rules,
values, and beliefs. Nursing education facilitates development of the critical thinking
and creative problem solving skills and the personal and professional integrity
essential for practicing nurses to continuously learn, question, and refine the
knowledge, values, and beliefs that inform their practice. Nursing education fosters
multiple ways of knowing in the development of nursing knowledge, including
scientific or empirical knowing, ethical knowing, personal knowing, aesthetic
knowing, and others. Thus, the educational process includes the interactions that
occur between teachers, students, health team members and clients that promote the
development in students of clinical reasoning; psychomotor, communication and
technology skills; ethical reasoning; advocacy; and personal and professional
integrity.
Both teachers and students are responsible for actively engaging as partners in
learning and for acquiring the attitudes and skills of life-long expert learners. The
different knowledge, skills, and experiences of individual students and faculty are
acknowledged in developing learning activities. The practice of teaching in nursing
is recognized as a scholarly endeavor.
Professional nursing education at the baccalaureate level prepares graduates for
practice as beginning nurse generalists. Master's education in nursing prepares
nurses for advanced practice roles (nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, and
health systems nurse specialists). Doctoral education in nursing prepares nurses to
assume leadership in the development of nursing knowledge.
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Residency Requirements
If the applicant or applicant’s parents are residing in a state other than Nebraska, or
have moved to Nebraska within the past three years, it will be necessary to apply for
resident status in order to qualify for the Nebraska resident tuition rate. The Office of
Academic Records, 2038 Student Life Center, UNMC campus in Omaha, has
application forms for residency.
International Students
International applicants must present scores on the Test of English as a Foreign
Language (TOEFL) and Test of Spoken English (TSE) or Speaking Proficiency
English Assessment Kit (SPEAK). The minimum scoring standards are:
Internet Based TOEFL (IBT): minimum score of 83. A TSE score is
not required.
Computer Based TOEFL (CBT): minimum score of 220 and a TSE
minimum score of 55.
Paper Based TOEFL (PBT): minimum score of 550 and TSE
minimum score of 55.
Foreign students admitted on the basis of undergraduate work completed in a college
or university in which instruction is in a language other than English will be required
to demonstrate acceptable proficiency in English before they will be eligible for
admission. Any student who presents with a question of English proficiency upon
faculty or student service advisor interview must demonstrate English proficiency
according to the standards listed above.
Omaha international students who have their CNA, LPN or RN Nebraska license can
work 20 hours a week at the Nebraska Medical Center. The agreement between
UNMC and the Nebraska Medical Center is approved by the International Affairs
Office. Students must complete a form in the Omaha Student Services Office.
Transfer Credit
As a result of the Board of Regents policy established January 11, 1975, the hours
presented for transfer by applicants will be recorded by the university and made a
part of the permanent university record. The applicability of transferred credit to
entrance and degree requirements or petitions for advanced standing is determined
by the college through the admissions committee on an individual basis after all
necessary application materials have been submitted. The College of Nursing
reserves the right to accept or reject any transfer hours and to determine how transfer
credits apply toward the degree in nursing. Credits must be earned at a fully
accredited institution of higher learning. A maximum of 66 semester hours of
college-level hours earned will be accepted from a community college.
Registered nurse students who are graduates of accredited Associate of Nursing
Degree Programs may transfer additional credits.
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Courses and hours which will not apply to admission or degree requirements
are as follows:
1. Hours graded "C-" or lower from any institutions whether
accredited or non-accredited.
2. Courses graded "inc." (incomplete), or "w" (withdrawal) and
audit courses.
3. Courses completed, but with no credit awarded.
4. Remedial courses will not be recognized, even though credit may
have been awarded, since these courses are considered to be pre-
college level.
5. Courses that are primarily continuing education in nature.
Courses and hours recorded which will apply include:
1. Credits presented for transfer from another nursing college or
school, based on evaluation and decision of the appropriate
faculty and committee of the college.
2. Hours earned and presented for transfer through various
examinations: Advanced Credit, National League for Nursing
Achievement Exam, CLEP, DANTES, and Guide to Evaluation
of Educational Experiences in Armed Services.
3. Courses from universities and colleges in other countries will be
accepted only after an evaluation and recommendation by a
specialist with experience and training in the evaluation of foreign
transcripts.
4. Courses from applied science areas of community college (not
designed as academic and for transfer) may be applied toward
degree requirements in the area of free electives if validated by
appropriate advanced standing examinations or academic records.
5. Hours earned in independent studies (correspondence or Internet-
based) courses may be accepted and applied toward degree
requirements in the same manner as indicated for other courses
from regionally accredited institutions.
It is emphasized that even though courses and credits may transfer, the College of
Nursing is the final authority on how these courses and credits apply toward a degree
in nursing. The College of Nursing reserves the right to evaluate applicability of
credits older than 5 years. Transfer credits are recorded with no grade or quality
points assigned. However, all grades from transfer courses may be considered for
admission and scholarship purposes.
TESTING INFORMATION - ALL STUDENTS
Students who believe they are prepared to pass an examination covering content in
required courses are encouraged to do so. The most commonly used methods of
obtaining credit by examination are as follows:
10
Advanced Placement Program (APP)
College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) Advanced Placement Program
examinations are used to grant college credit to talented high school students
completing "college-level study" in high school. APP hours awarded by other
institutions are transferable for enrolled students by submitting an official college
transcript.
Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support
(DANTES)
DANTES exams provide opportunities for military personnel to continue their
education while on active duty with the Armed Forces of the United States.
DANTES "course" hours appearing on the transcripts of other institutions are not
honored for transfer. Scores must be submitted to the institution and placed on the
transcript before credit can be awarded.
American Council of Education "Guide to the Evaluation of
Educational Experience in the Armed Services"
Recommendations
Currently enrolled students and new applicants submitting official records of service
school are awarded credit as directed by the Guide to Evaluation of Educational
Experience in the Armed Services. Many service schools are not identified as
"collegiate" in nature and credit is not awarded. Hours for collegiate schools are
recorded on the student’s permanent record. There is no requirement for a score
other than endorsement by the ACE guide and an official record of completion of the
service school.
Education experience hours appearing on the transcripts of other institutions are not
accepted for transfer. Rather, the service school must submit an official record for
evaluation.
College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
CLEP Subject and General Exams are recognized at UNMC for students who apply
for admission and complete enrollment. There is no limit on the number of hours
that can be earned through Subject Exams, but a maximum of 24 credit hours can be
earned through General Exams. (The English General Exam is not accepted at this
time).
CLEP hours recorded on college transcripts of transfer students will be accepted for
transfer to the university only following verification that hours were awarded on the
scaled score or percentile required by the university. Accordingly, transfer students
must supply an official CLEP score report for verification. CLEP and APP programs
at UNMC are based on policies of UNO, UNL, and UNK.
National League for Nursing Examinations for Registered
Nurses
Credit by examination for anatomy (4 cr), physiology (4 cr), and microbiology (4 cr)
will be granted if the resulting percentage correct (number correctly
11
answered/number of total items correct) on the appropriate examination is at least
70%. For nutrition, validation of knowledge is noted on the permanent record if the
resulting percentage is 70% or above; however, credit hours are not awarded. The
College of Nursing reserves the right to adjust passing standards and the score
needed for a "pass" on any exam.
Departmental or Course Examinations for Advanced Standing
Credit
Students may challenge any nursing course in which they have previous education or
experience through specially prepared department examinations, previously prepared
"finals" or "end of course" examinations. Credit hours are recorded on the students
permanent record if credit is granted by faculty. A grade will not be indicated. Credit
by departmental or course examinations appearing on transcripts received from other
institutions may be accepted only if the institution is accredited and the criteria used
for awarding the credits are known.
Credit by challenge examination in the College of Nursing may be attempted only
once per course. No student may challenge a course if they have previously taken
any portion of that course.
College of Nursing Testing Center
The College of Nursing Testing Center, located at the Omaha Division, administers
examinations for credit in the nursing major and in anatomy, physiology and
microbiology. An examination for nutrition is also administered to validate
knowledge. No credit is given for nutrition. Tests are available during the second
week of every month. Specific examination dates, sites or additional information
may be obtained from the Testing Center by calling (402) 559-4110 or Toll Free 1-
800-626-8431 ext. 4110 or by writing to:
Student Services Testing
College of Nursing
985330 Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, NE 68198-5330
Testing Fees
A non-refundable fee will be charged to administer all nursing faculty prepared
examinations, the Biophysical Science course exams, and for NLN Achievement
Tests. A fee of ½ of the current resident tuition rate for each Biophysical science
course (anatomy, physiology, and microbiology) is due after passing the test to
award credits. Nursing courses requiring faculty clinical or process evaluation will
have a fee of ½ of the current resident tuition rate charged after successful
completion of the written portion of the exam process. Credits will be awarded only
if the student successfully completes all components of the challenge exam.
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TUITION AND FEES 2008 – 2009
(Subject to Change)
The current tuition and fees are posted on the UNMC Student Services for Current
and Prospective Students web site at
http://www.unmc.edu/dept/studentservices/index.cfm?conref=27
Tuition
Tuition for undergraduate students enrolled in nursing courses is $227.75 per credit
hour for residents of Nebraska. Tuition rates at the other University of Nebraska
campuses may differ slightly for non-nursing courses. The tuition rate for non-
residents of Nebraska is $ 666.75 per credit hour for undergraduate nursing courses.
Official tuition rates and costs change annually and are subject to change. Official
tuition figures for the next academic year are available in July of every year.
Fees
Course fees are applied to all undergraduate courses. Fees are evaluated yearly and
may change. The new fee structure begins each June.
(Inpatient Insurance is mandatory for all students except those with waivers)
1. Full-time, for this purpose, is defined as follows: Per semester: Undergraduate
- 7 or more hours; Graduate - 5 or more hours.
2. Undergraduate West Nebraska Division students will be assessed for
Outpatient Health. They will not be assessed a Recreation fee.
3. Undergraduate Kearney and Lincoln Division students will pay the fees of
their respective campus for student health and have use of the health services
provided by payment of such fees on that campus.
Additional/Alternate Fees - Lincoln, Kearney and West
Nebraska Divisions
The College of Nursing divisions supported by host campuses of the University will
have some additional or alternate fees for the same services as the University of
Nebraska Medical Center campus students. You may refer to the host's bulletin. The
West Nebraska Division has no host campus and therefore some of the services are
contracted through outside agencies and the fees will differ slightly.
Payment of Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees are due in full on the first day of the semester. Accordingly, at
UNMC, notices of the date and the amount due are not sent to students by the
Cashiers Office. Notices reminding the students of tuition are posted at appropriate
times on bulletin boards around campus. A late fee will be added to accounts
remaining unpaid on the twenty-first calendar day of the semester or quarter.
13
Accounts remaining unpaid on the forty-fifth day of the semester will be referred to
Academic Records, Student Services, for appropriate action including disenrollment.
Refund of Tuition and Fees
Students who withdraw from the university or drop a course may be entitled to a
refund of a portion of tuition and fees. The refund schedule is as follows:
Tuition Refund Schedule
Before classes start, during Percent of tuition refunded
1st week 100%
2nd week 75%
3rd week 50%
4th week 25%
After 4th week 0%
Advanced Placement
Advanced placement is designed for the student who will fit into the curriculum at
some point other than the beginning. Students who qualify for advanced placement
include RNs, LPNs, or transfer students from other nursing programs. Please contact
Student Services (refer to CON Policy 5.2.7, Advanced Placement Policy) for
specific information or contact a student advisor for current information regarding
progression through the program.
Graduate Nursing Tuition
Tuition and fees charges are subject to future change without notice. The following
information, therefore, is offered as a guideline, not as a firm commitment. Tuition is
based on the number of hours enrolled. During the 2007-2008 academic year, the
tuition rates for graduate courses are:
2007-2008 Total 07-08
(per semester hour) (full time 18 cr. hrs)
Resident $243.25 $ 4,378.50
Non-resident $679.00 $ 12,222.00
Fees include course charges of $10 - $30. Laboratory fees of $ 200.00 for NRSG
811, NRSG 820, NRSG 833, NRSG 851 and NRSG 886. A lab fee is charged if the
student is registered for greater than 3 semester hours. If the student is registered for
theory credit only, no lab fee will be assessed. The Student Senate fee (Fund A) and
the Outpatient Health fee (Fund B) will be charged to all graduate students.
14
Current tuition information and other miscellaneous fees and charges for graduate
students is on the University of Nebraska Medical Center: Graduate Studies website
located at
http://app1.unmc.edu/gradstudies/index.cfm?L2_ID=44&L1_ID=2&CONREF=13#fees
SCHOLARSHIP AND FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION
Students needing financial assistance for their education must apply for Federal
Financial Aid within 30 days after acceptance to the college and then annually
before February 1 to be considered for college scholarships. Scholarships are
available to students who maintain academic excellence. Financial aid programs are
available to students who need financial help to complete their education. The
UNMC Office of Financial Aid, in coordination with the academic units, administers
all scholarship and financial aid programs for UNMC and its academic units.
Application Procedure
Students must apply only once for any form of scholarship. To receive all other
financial aid students must apply annually by February 1. Students applying for aid
based on 'need' must also file a financial statement annually which may require
parents financial information. If you are accepted to the College of Nursing after
January 31, your application deadline is 30 days after the date of your acceptance.
Types of Aid
Aid is available to students in the form of scholarships, tuition waivers, grants, loans
and employment (work-study). Basic eligibility criteria are academic excellence
and/or financial need, or a combination of both of these criteria. Some loans are
available to both students and parents for which financial need is not a consideration.
Certain funds provide scholarships based on specific conditions, for example, CON
campus, high school graduated from, and students will be sorted according to these
conditions.
The College of Nursing has a number of academic scholarships available to students.
Please contact student services for a list of scholarships and their criteria.
Scholarships - Academic Based
Awards are based primarily on academic excellence and are awarded by committee
action. Awards range from $100 to full tuition.
Scholarships/Grants/Tuition Waivers - Need Based
Various federal, UNMC, and donated funds are awarded primarily on the basis of
financial need, but some funds have academic excellence as a secondary criterion.
Awards range from $100 to full tuition plus expenses.
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Student Loan
Various federal, state, donated and privately sponsored student loan programs are
available. Most loan programs require demonstration of need to some extent. Other
eligibility criteria vary as do loan amounts, interest rates, etc.
Parent Loan
Some loan programs are available to parents who may borrow on behalf of the
student. These loans are interest-bearing loans at a variable rate. This type of loan
can assist parents experiencing cash flow problems.
Employment
Part-time work on the UNMC campus is available through College Work-Study
programs for students who demonstrate need. Work-study jobs are assigned on an
individual basis after interviews by the Office of Financial Aid and the employing
department. Other part-time work may be available through the UNMC Department
of Human Resources. Information on outside employment may also be available at
other divisions.
Emergency Loan Funds
Interest-free loans in small denominations are available on a short-term basis to meet
"emergency needs." Students must contact the Office of Financial Aid when a need
for emergency funds arises.
Community and Other Sources
Assistance may also be available through community agencies, foundations,
corporation, and professional organizations. Assistance may be in the form of
scholarship, grant, or loan. Students are encouraged to explore these possibilities.
Most public libraries have commercially published lists of private aid programs.
Additional Information
Detailed information about scholarships and financial aid, application materials and
educational costs are available in the Office of Financial Aid, (402) 559-4199 or toll
free at 1-800-626-8431, ext. 4199. Web address -
http://www.unmc.edu/dept/studentservices/financialaid/
Visiting Professional Students
Visiting students are licensed professionals who may take specific courses for non-
degree credit. Admission to these offerings is based on an application, an application
fee, and permission of the instructor.
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UNMC College of Nursing Administration
Catherine Bevil, EdD, RN, Professor, Director, Continuing Nursing Education &
Evaluation
Pam Bataillon, MBA, MSN, RN, Associate Professor, Assistant Dean,
Administration
Susan Beidler, PhD, RN, APRN, Associate Professor, Director Morehead Center
for Nursing Practice
Ann Berger, PhD, RN, AOCN, FAAN, Professor, Director, PhD Program
Marlene Cohen, PhD, RN, FAAN, Professor, Associate Dean, Research
Mary Cramer, PhD, RN, Associate Professor, Chair, Community-Based Health
Department
Janet Cuddigan, PhD, RN, Associate Professor, Chair, Adult Health and Illness
Department
Kathleen Duncan, PhD, RN, Associate Professor, Assistant Dean, Lincoln Division
Karen Grigsby, PhD, RN, Associate Professor, Chair, Families & Health Systems
Department
Larry Hewitt, MS, Director, Student Services
Louise LaFramboise, PhD, RN, Assistant Professor, Director, Undergraduate
Programs
Steve Pitkin, MN, RN, Assistant Professor, Assistant Dean, Kearney Division
Sheila Ryan, PhD, RN, FAAN, Director of International Programs
Linda Sather PhD, RN, Chair, Faculty Coordinating Council
Cheryl Bagley Thompson, PhD, RN, Associate Professor, Assistant Dean for
Informatics & Learning Technologies
Sarah A. Thompson, PhD, RN, Professor, Associate Dean, Academic Programs
Virginia P. Tilden, DNSc, RN, FAAN, Dean, College of Nursing
LaDonna Tworek, Administrative Assistant to the Dean
Constance G Visovsky, PhD, RN, ACNP, Associate Professor, Director, Master's
Program
Sue Wilhelm, PhD, RN, Assistant Professor, Assistant Dean, West Nebraska
Division
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II - ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
ADMISSION TO THE COLLEGE OF NURSING
It is the belief of the College of Nursing that diversity within the College at all levels
promotes the quality of the education offered to our students, as well as improves the
level of service our students eventually provide to the public. A broad range of
viewpoints facilitates better answers to complex questions. Understanding those
viewpoints facilitates better health care and service to those eventually served by our
students. Therefore, we will consider favorably the application for admission from
students with experiences that will further our goal of providing superior education
and superior health care providers, enhanced by diversity.
Registration
The College of Nursing will provide information about registration and enrollment
for classes following receipt of the letter of intent.
LEARNING RESOURCES
Clinical Facilities
A variety of community agencies are utilized for clinical course work. Students will
participate in nursing practice in a variety of community-based settings. Some
clinical experiences may require travel to rural communities surrounding campus
sites. Students will need their own transportation. All learning experiences are under
the supervision of College of Nursing faculty.
Clinical learning takes place in a variety of settings through cooperative agreements
with community agencies. These settings include the following: inpatient medical
and surgical units and specialty health care areas such as high-risk newborn care,
cancer therapy, bone marrow and liver transplantation, emergency transport, and
geriatric care; University Medical Associates, primary care and specialty clinics;
Meyer Rehabilitation Institute, which treats developmental disabilities and chronic
handicapping conditions of children, youth, and adults; and the nursing centers
managed by the college, Family Health Care Center (FHCC) and Mobile Nursing
Center (MNC), Lincoln Senior Center and The Panhandle Hispanic and Native
American Diabetes Outreach Clinic.
Cooperating community agencies utilized by the College of Nursing may include but
are not limited to:
Omaha Lincoln
Nebraska Health Systems - Hospitals and
The Veterans Affairs Hospital of Lincoln
Clinics
Alegent Bergen Mercy Hospital Bryan-LGH East
Douglas County Hospital Madonna Centers
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Ehrling Bergquist USAF Hospital Bryan-LGH West
Immanuel-Fontenelle Nursing Home Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department
Lutheran Medical Center Lincoln Regional Mental Health Center
Maplecrest Care Center St. Elizabeth Community Maxicare Health
Midlands Community Hospital
Richard Young Memorial Hospital Kearney
Creighton University Medical Center Good Samaritan Hospital
St. Joe Villa Kearney Clinic
Veterans Administration Medical Center Richard Young Hospital
Visiting Nurse Association St. Francis Medical Center
Hastings Regional Center
West Nebraska Veterans Administration Medical Center
Regional West Medical Center Hall County Health Department
Nebraska Veterans Home
Panhandle Community Services
Northfield Villa
Head Start
Library Facilities
Omaha Division
The Leon S. McGoogan Library of Medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical
Center is one of the major biomedical resource libraries in the country. The library
incorporates the most sophisticated techniques of information storage retrieval and
dissemination and anticipates some of the techniques expected to evolve in the
future. Students of the College of Nursing have access to one of the most complete
medical libraries in the Midwest. A competent staff of librarians is available for
consultation and information regarding how to do computerized literature searches
and information retrieval and electronic access to resources.
19
Lincoln Division
The Don L. Love Memorial Library on the UNL City campus provides services to
the UNMC nursing students in Lincoln.
The library open stack circulation and closed reserved methods of lending allows for
diverse use of materials by students and faculty. Other user services provided
include intra library loans and computer-based bibliographic searches to and from
other campuses within the University of Nebraska.
Kearney Division
The Calvin T. Ryan Library on the UNK campus provides services to the UNMC
nursing students in Kearney. The library has an automated integrated system with
online catalog, automated circulation system, and automated financial/management
system which enhance the library's services. Computer access to the other University
of Nebraska libraries is available.
West Nebraska Division
The Lockwood Memorial Library located on the first floor of the Regional West
Medical Center South Unit provides services to the UNMC nursing students in
Scottsbluff. The library has access to the UNMC Library of Medicine through inter-
library loan services and also has access to various departmental collections in the
hospital. Part of the services available include online searches in the areas of
biomedicine, nursing, allied health, hospital administration, drug information and
psychology. The Nebraska Western Community College Library is also available to
the West Nebraska campus nursing students.
Niedfelt Nursing Research Center
The purpose of the Niedfelt Nursing Research Center on the Omaha campus is to
initiate, coordinate, conduct, supervise and evaluate research studies in nursing.
Services which are available to all faculty and students include support services (i.e.
computer searches, statistical consulting, dissemination of grant information, peer
review of research and data analysis).
Computer Access and E-Mail
Computers are available for faculty and students use within the Omaha, Lincoln,
Kearney and West Nebraska Divisions computer cluster or learning resource centers.
Technical assistance is provided for each division through UNMC computer services
and College of Nursing personnel on each campus. Students will be assigned Lotus
Notes e-mail accounts prior to or during new student orientation. Only Lotus Notes
e-mail accounts will be used for college and student communication and access to
Blackboard Courses.
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Learning Resource Centers (LRC)
Learning Centers are provided for faculty and students within the Omaha, Lincoln,
Kearney and West Nebraska Divisions. The LRCs provide audiovisual materials,
skills laboratories and practice areas, computer access and assistance and other
independent learning resources for student and faculty support. Distance/remote
students are also able to contact a campus LRC for support as needed.
STUDENT SERVICES AND INFORMATION
Health Services Inpatient Care
All full-time students are required to have health and accident insurance through
UNMC student inpatient insurance plan unless evidence is provided (completing the
Waiver Insurance Form in Student Services) of comparable coverage through
parents, spouse or personal plan. The student policy provides coverage for inpatient
and outpatient surgery and related expenses. A detailed summary of coverage may
be obtained from the Division of Student Services, UNMC 402-559-7276.
Part-time students are encouraged to participate in the insurance plan available and
outpatient health care services required by UNMC full-time students. The University
of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing will not assume responsibility for
any health care expenses incurred by students (whether on campus or off campus),
even though they are engaged in an assignment connected with their course work.
Outpatient Care
Omaha Division
The Student Health Service provides outpatient health care for University
of Nebraska Medical Center students and an optional system for
dependents of students. All undergraduate students enrolled in 7 or more
hours and graduate students in 5 or more hours are required to pay Student
Health Service fees. See the UNMC Student Handbook for a detailed
description of eligibility requirements for participation, services provided
and procedures for using this service.
Lincoln Division
Health services are provided by the University Health Center, which offers
a wide variety of inpatient and outpatient services. Fees are charged for
required laboratory tests and X-rays. Further information is printed in the
General Information Bulletin of the University of Nebraska - Lincoln.
Kearney Division
Nursing students on the University of Nebraska - Kearney campus will pay
the fees of the Kearney campus and have use of the health services as
provided by payment of such fees on that campus.
West Nebraska Division
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Health services for UNMC students in the West Nebraska Division -
Scottsbluff are provided by the Regional West Medical Center Employee
Health Facility. See the UNMC Student Handbook for additional
information.
Counseling Services
Omaha Division
Counseling is available to students through the Student Counseling Center
on the UNMC campus. Services are available on either a walk-in or
appointment basis. All services are free-of-charge and strictly confidential.
Services can be provided on an individual, couple or group basis.
Lincoln Division
Counseling is available to students through the Counseling Center on the
UNL campus. Contact the Counseling Center for information on access to
services.
Kearney Division
The Counseling Center offers confidential and free counseling to students
who are currently enrolled at UNK. Nursing students on the UNK campus
will pay the fees of the Kearney campus and have use of counseling
services as provided by payment of such fees on that campus.
West Nebraska Division
The professional staff of the Psychological Services of the Regional West
Medical Center will provide initial counseling services for students.
Contact the West Nebraska Student Services Advisor or the Assistant Dean
for help in arranging counseling services.
Services For Veterans
All men and women planning to attend the University of Nebraska Medical Center
campus under Chapters 30, 32, 34, 35, and 106 of the educational assistance and
vocational rehabilitation laws administered by the Veterans Administration, should
inquire at the Office of Academic Records, before registering, to make sure all
necessary steps have been taken.
Transportation
Students are responsible for their own transportation to all learning activities and
clinical agencies.
Parking
Parking at UNMC, UNL, and UNK is limited. Annual parking permits may be
purchased. Specific information is available during campus orientation programs and
in campus handbooks. Students may park in designated areas only on all campuses
with valid parking permits.
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Transcripts
Transcripts are obtained from the Assistant Director of Academic Records,
University of Nebraska Medical Center (402) 559-7391. Enrolled students may
obtain transcripts on-line at https://net.unmc.edu/care.
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III - STUDENT POLICIES
ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Registration
Registration procedures vary at each division of the College of Nursing, therefore
students are advised to contact the Student Services Advisors in Omaha, Lincoln,
Kearney and Scottsbluff.
Adding/Dropping Courses
1. Courses may be added through the first six school days after the first day of
class for that term.
2. Courses may be dropped through the first eight weeks after the first day of
class for that term.
a. Courses dropped before the end of the sixth school day of class are not
entered on the permanent record.
b. A "W" (Withdrew) entry is made on the permanent record for a student
who drops a course(s) before the end of the eight-week period.
c. The grade of "WP" (Withdrew Passing) or "WF" (Withdrew Failing) as
assigned by the instructor for the class is entered on the permanent
record card for course(s) dropped after the eight-week drop period.
d. Class withdrawal procedures after the eighth week differ slightly at the
different divisions. See the campus of registration handbook and
student services advisor for the procedure.
Progress/Probation/Suspension/Dismissal [CON Policy 5.2.23]
The student must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or higher. A
grade of "C" received in a non-nursing course taken at the University of Nebraska
will be calculated into the cumulative GPA. This course cannot be used to meet a
non-nursing course requirement. A minimum grade of "C" is required in all
nursing courses before the student can progress to the next level of nursing course.
Theory and clinical/laboratory performance make up the nursing grade. This means
that the student must earn a minimum grade of "C" for theoretical content and a
pass" for clinical/laboratory performance.
Candidates for a degree who do not complete all requirements within a five-year
period will have their records re-evaluated and may be required to repeat some
courses.
Probation: A student whose cumulative grade point average falls below a 2.0
will be placed on academic probation for the succeeding term. To remain in the
college, the student must raise the cumulative grade point average to at least a 2.0 by
the end of the probation period.
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A student who does not raise the cumulative grade point average to a 2.0 or above at
the end of the probation period will be denied enrollment privileges in the College of
Nursing until the cumulative grade point average of 2.0 is met. At that time the
student may apply for readmission.
A student who receives a course grade of less than a "C" in a nursing course may not
continue into any nursing course which has as a prerequisite, the course in which the
failing grade was received.
Suspension: A student who receives a final grade of less than "C" in a nursing
course may repeat the course one time. A student who has a total of two separate
nursing courses with grades less than "C" (no matter if they have repeated the course
and subsequently received a passing grade), will be suspended from the College of
Nursing for two academic terms. Summer session counts as one academic term.
Dismissal: Academic dismissal from the College of Nursing occurs when a
student does not raise the cumulative University of Nebraska grade point average to
a 2.0 by the end of the academic probation period, receives a grade less than "C" in
the same nursing course twice or receives a grade less than "C" three times in
different required nursing courses. This includes all nursing courses in which the
student was unsuccessful the first time but repeated and received a passing grade.
Students who are academically dismissed from the Undergraduate Program of the
College of Nursing are not eligible for readmission to the College of Nursing.
The faculty of the College of Nursing reserve the right to dismiss at any time a
student whose academic integrity or professional conduct make it inadvisable to
retain the student in the nursing program. An example of inappropriate academic
integrity includes cheating or plagiarism. An example of unprofessional conduct
includes unsafe clinical practices, falsified documents or statements. These are
examples only and are not inclusive of all potential unprofessional behaviors. For
more information, see UNMC Student Handbook.
Withdrawal
There is a formal procedure for withdrawal from each division of the College of
Nursing. The official policy for withdrawal is in effect at the campus of registration.
In addition, the student must notify the Director of the Undergraduate Program and
the Student Services Advisor at the campus of enrollment. If the official withdrawal
procedure is not completed, the student's grades may be recorded as failures. An
official withdrawal means that a student is no longer enrolled for any courses in the
College of Nursing, UNMC.
1. Withdrawal before the end of the sixth day -- Only the withdrawal date is
entered in the permanent record.
2. Withdrawal after the sixth day of classes through the first eight weeks of
classes -- The notation of "W" is entered for each class in which the
student was enrolled.
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3. Withdrawal after eight weeks of class -- The grade of "WP" (Withdrew
Passing) or "WF" (Withdrew Failing) as assigned by the instructor for the
class will be entered in the permanent record.
4. Administrative Withdrawal -- A "WX" grade will be entered when a
student has been administratively withdrawn due to non-payment of
tuition/fees or disciplinary reasons.
5. Grades of W, WP, WF, or WX will not be counted in grade point
computations.
6. Grades of "WF" are considered the same as failures for purposes of
progression in the nursing program.
Lincoln Division students should contact the Student Services Advisor for
withdrawal policies specific to that division.
Auditing Courses [CON Policy 5.2.9]
All nursing courses may be audited (taken on a non-credit basis) with the permission
of the Instructor and the Chairperson of the Department. Students who audit courses
are not held responsible for course assignments, do not participate in clinical
laboratories, and receive no credit. The fee for auditing a course is one-half the
current resident credit hour fee.
A course which is audited may be changed to a credit course with permission of the
Instructor and the Chairperson of the Department before the late registration period
ends provided that the student meets the course prerequisites. Students accepted or
enrolled in the College of Nursing will have priority for class space over auditing
students.
The fee for auditing a course is one-half the current resident tuition credit hour fee.
Full-time/Part-time Enrollment
Undergraduate students enrolled for 12 or more credit hours in a semester are full-
time students. Graduate students enrolled for 9 or more hours in a semester are full-
time students. Correspondence courses may not apply toward full-time status.
Students enrolled as inter-campus students may count those hours toward full-time
status. West Nebraska Division students may count hours at Nebraska Western
Community College and Chadron State toward full-time status. Kearney students
enrolled at Central Community College may count those hours towards full-time
status.
Attendance (Class and Clinical/Laboratory) [CON Policy 5.1.2]
The University of Nebraska has no regulation which permits absences. If a student in
the undergraduate program is absent from the clinical laboratory, the absent day(s)
must be made up by the end of the semester in which they occur. The procedure for
such clinical make-up is left to the discretion of the department chairperson, course
coordinator and clinical instructor.
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Due to requirements for community clinical experiences, access to an auto will be
necessary.
Students who have missed taking an examination at the scheduled time may make up
the examination according to the procedures and guidelines established by the course
faculty and communicated to the students at the beginning of the course.
Students are expected to attend all class and clinical laboratory periods. It is the
individual student's responsibility to obtain information regarding class
announcements, requirements or course content in the event of tardiness or absence
from class. Students in the College of Nursing are considered sufficiently mature to
appreciate the necessity of regular attendance, to accept personal responsibility, to
demonstrate the kind of self-discipline essential for such performance and,
conversely, to recognize and accept the consequences of failure to attend class and
laboratory periods.
Credit Hours
Credit allocation for nursing courses is based on a semester hour. Each class hour
per week earns 1 credit hour. Clinical/laboratory hours are computed on a basis of 1
credit hour for each three-hour clinical/laboratory period.
Course Numbering
Generally, courses numbered 200-499 are undergraduate courses. Courses
numbered 800-899 are masters courses. Courses numbered 900-999 are PhD
courses. Undergraduate courses and their descriptions can be found in Appendix I of
this document and online. Graduate courses and their description can be found in
Appendix II of this document and online.
The Grading System [CON Policy 5.2.16]
1. The percentage system used to award grades within the College of Nursing is
the following:
A+ 98-100 D+ 68-69
A 93-97 D 63-67
A- 90-92 D- 60-62
B+ 88-89 F below 60
B 83-87
B- 80-82
C+ 78-79
C 73-77
C- 70-72
Quality points are calculated according to the following system:
Grade Quality Points Grade Quality Points
A+ & A 4.0 C 2.00
A- 3.67 C- 1.67
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B+ 3.33 D+ 1.33
B 3.00 D 1.00
B- 2.67 D- 0.67
C+ 2.33 F 0.00
Grades of C or above are considered to be passing grades in the College of Nursing.
Students must maintain a cumulative University of Nebraska average of 2.0 GPA in
order to remain in good standing.
2. The grade of "Incomplete" is awarded according to guidelines set forth in Policy
5.1.9.
3. Within courses, clinical laboratory performance is rated on a Pass/Fail basis. A
rating of "Fail" in clinical laboratory performance results in a "D" in the course
unless the theory grade is an "F." If the clinical laboratory performance is
"Pass" the grade awarded for the course will be based upon the theory grade.
4. Withdrew or Incomplete grades are indicated as follows:
W - Withdrew within 1st eight weeks of class. After the 1st eight weeks the
instructor must assign a WP or WF grade for students withdrawing.
WP - Withdrew passing.
WF - Withdrew failing.
WX - Administrative withdrawal.
I - Incomplete. (Grade average is not affected until the incomplete has been
removed. Students have one semester to remove the Incomplete grade or the ―I‖
reverts to an ―F.‖ Refer to current Student Policy Manual for additional
guidelines regarding incomplete grades.)
Grades of W, WP, WF, WX, and P are not assigned grade points and therefore are
not used in computation of a student's cumulative GPA.
5. In courses or clinical components that run for less than 15 weeks, students who
withdraw after more than half of the course or clinical has been completed will
be assigned one of the following grades:
Omaha, Kearney, Scottsbluff Lincoln
Passing = WP Passing = W
Failing = WF Failing = F
Note: On the Lincoln campus, the withdrawal deadline is after the deadline for the
UNMC campus. In the event that a student on the Lincoln campus withdraws after
the UNMC deadline for last date to drop but before the Lincoln last date to drop,
faculty will have to complete a change of grade to assign the student the appropriate
grade for the course. On the Lincoln campus, students who withdraw from a course
and are failing that course are assigned the grade of ―F‖ rather than ―WF.‖ Students
who withdraw from a course and are passing the course will be assigned a grade of
―W.‖
Reinstatement/Readmission [CON Policy 5.2.28]
After a period of suspension, the student may be reinstated. The student will provide
evidence that the reasons which resulted in academic difficulty have been resolved.
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Following a period of suspension, a grade less than ―C‖ will result in dismissal from
the College of Nursing.
Transfer of Campus [CON Policy 5.2.29]
Students may request transfer from one campus to another effective at the beginning
of a semester. A letter requesting transfer should be submitted to the Director of the
Undergraduate Program. Consideration of the request will be made if space is
available and if the student is in good standing. Requests are accommodated when
possible in the order they are received.
Graduation Honors [CON Policy 5.2.36]
1. Graduation with honors may be conferred upon individuals who complete a
minimum of 40 hours, excluding credit-by-examination, at the University of
Nebraska by the conclusion of the semester prior to graduation.
Criteria:
a. The degree "With Highest Distinction" is awarded to students with a
cumulative grade point average earned at the University of Nebraska of
3.85 or above. Final semester grades are not included.
b. The degree "With High Distinction" is awarded to students with a
cumulative grade point average earned at the University of Nebraska of 3.7
to 3.84. Final semester grades are not included.
c. The degree ―With Distinction‖ is awarded to students with a cumulative
grade point average earned at the University of Nebraska of 3.5 to 3.69.
Final semester grades are not included.
2. RN-BSN students and advanced placement nursing students who are not able to
complete the minimum number of graded hours within the University of
Nebraska system for graduation with honors will receive special recognition for
outstanding academic achievement. This recognition is based on all college or
university graded hours completed prior to the semester in which they graduate.
Procedure:
The student must complete at least 20 credit hours in the University of Nebraska
System.
The "Award of Academic Excellence" is given to nursing students with a
cumulative grade point average of 3.75 and above. Final semester grades are
not included.
The Student Services Advisors will verify eligibility the semester before
graduation and will notify the Academic Records Office.
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Application for Degree [CON Policy 5.2.31]
Each student must file an Application for Degree at least 6 - 8 weeks prior to
graduation. There is a non-refundable fee required. Any student who does not
graduate must re-apply and pay the fee again. Students at the Omaha Division file
for candidacy in the Academic Records Office. Announcements concerning
deadlines for applications are posted on campus bulletin boards.
Graduation
Degrees in nursing are granted by the Board of Regents of the University of
Nebraska to those candidates who have been recommended for the degree by the
faculty of the College of Nursing and who have completed the following
requirements:
1. Passed all required courses and required examinations.
2. Cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or above.
3. Earned 30 hours of the last 36 hours at UNMC. Registered nurse students
must complete at least 20 hours of the nursing major at UNMC to receive
a BSN degree.
4. Discharged all indebtedness to the University of Nebraska.
Commencement
Commencement attendance is required unless excused by the Associate Dean of
Academic Programs. Formal commencement ceremonies are held in May and
December. Those graduating at other times will receive diplomas when requirements
are fulfilled, but have the privilege of participating in the next formal
commencement.
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Bylaws of the Board of Regents protect the rights of each member of the
university community. Each individual has the right to be treated with respect and
dignity, and each has the right to learn. With these rights comes the responsibility of
each individual to maintain an atmosphere in which others may exercise their human
rights and their right to learn. Chapter V of the bylaws fully delineates the rights and
responsibilities of students.
General Procedures for Student Disciplinary Actions
In accordance with Section 5.4 of the Bylaws of the Board of Regents and in order to
insure the protection of the student’s rights, the University of Nebraska Medical
Center has established general procedures that must be followed if any disciplinary
action is proposed against a student. Students will be informed in writing by the
Office of the Dean of the specific charges, the supporting evidence, and the proposed
disciplinary action. The Office of the Dean will also inform students of their right to
appeal. The UNMC "Procedural Rules Relating to Student Discipline" may be found
in the UNMC Student Policy Handbook.
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Student Guidelines for Appeals of Academic Evaluation
The UNMC Student Policy Handbook describes the undergraduate student
guidelines for appealing an academic evaluation felt to be unfair. For graduate
students, appropriate procedures are contained in a document entitled General
Procedures for Academic and Grade Appeals of Graduate Students at the University
of Nebraska Medical Center. Graduate students may obtain a copy of this document
through the Office of Graduate Studies, UNMC/Academic Affairs ARS 2022
UNMC zip 7810 or on-line in the Graduate Bulletin at
www.unmc.edu/Education/gradstudies.
Access to Student Records
In accordance with federal law as established in 1974 by the Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act, the University of Nebraska Medical Center maintains the
confidentiality of student records and allows students to inspect and review
information in their educational records at the University of Nebraska Medical
Center. The UNMC policy statement concerning student records may be found in the
current UNMC Student Handbook.
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IV - PROGRAM INFORMATION
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING PROGRAM (BSN)
PURPOSE/GOALS/OUTCOMES
The undergraduate nursing program at University of Nebraska Medical Center
College of Nursing is committed to quality higher education and a learning
environment which promotes personal development, scholarship, and competent
practitioners who are skilled in the caring art and science of nursing. The graduate of
this program is prepared for entry into nursing practice as a generalist with emphasis
on the roles of provider of health care, coordinator of health care and member of the
nursing profession.
Outcome 1:
As a provider of health care, the baccalaureate generalist integrates scientific,
conceptual and nursing practice competencies from the domains of knowing, relating
and developing that are common to nursing and human experience.
1. Provides evidence-based practice by integrating research with clinical
expertise and client values for optimal care.
2. Uses critical and creative thinking in providing nursing care.
3. Uses clinical judgment and evidenced-based knowledge of major health
problems in providing nursing care for individuals, families, groups, and
communities.
4. Demonstrates appropriate assessment, diagnostic, interventive, and evaluative
skills when providing care.
5. Demonstrates cultural sensitivity while practicing in a variety of settings and
with diverse populations
6. Uses technologies to enhance care delivery, increase client knowledge &
access to care, and document and evaluate client care.
7. Protects the safety and privacy of clients.
8. Develops caring and therapeutic relationships with the individuals, families,
groups, and communities.
9. Advocates for clients within the health care delivery system.
10. Demonstrates appropriate, competent use of cognitive, affective and
psychomotor skills in a thoughtful, caring manner.
32
11. Develops and implements health promotion, risk reduction, disease
prevention, and restorative strategies.
Outcome 2:
As a coordinator of health care, the baccalaureate generalist employs managerial,
nursing practice and professional competencies to promote comprehensive cost-
effective and meaningful health care for individuals, families, groups, and
communities in diverse health care environments.
1. Assumes a leadership role within registered nurse scope of practice
2. Uses critical thinking in the application of management strategies to plan,
coordinate, and deliver health care in diverse health care environments.
3. Organizes, manages, and evaluates health care of individuals, populations,
and communities across the lifespan.
4. Develops partnerships with colleagues, clients and other health care team
members to promote health.
5. Considers client-specific, cost-benefit, quality care data in the provision and
evaluation of care.
6. Creates opportunities for clients to learn about, experience, and/or participate
in their personal health care.
7. Delegates and supervises the nursing care given by others while retaining the
accountability for the quality of care given to clients.
8. Organizes, manages, and evaluates the functioning of a team or unit.
9. Participates in quality improvement processes to measure client outcomes,
identify hazard and errors, and develop changes in processes of client care.
Outcome 3:
As a member of the profession of nursing the baccalaureate generalist displays a
professional ethic and behaviors reflective of the social responsibility and caring
tradition of nursing.
1. Understands the impact of the history of nursing on current issues, trends and
the global environment in which health care is provided.
2. Incorporates professional ethical principles, standards and scope of practice
and the caring tradition of nursing into the professional role.
3. Demonstrates responsibility for professional development and presentation of
self as a nurse.
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4. Works to support agendas that enhance both high quality, cost-effective
health care, and the advancement of the profession.
5. Demonstrates effective communication skills including oral, written, and
electronic strategies.
Technical Standards for the Undergraduate Program
The following general abilities have been identified as necessary to meet the
technical standards for progression:
The student must possess functional use of the senses of sight, hearing, touch and
smell; and a sense of equilibrium along with sufficient motor function to carry out
activities required in nursing. Additionally, the student must possess the
communication and intellectual skills to perform the assessment and intervention
activities required in providing nursing care. These general abilities will be required
to meet the objectives of undergraduate courses and will be evaluated throughout the
program.
ADMISSION TO THE BSN PROGRAM
Students can be admitted to the BSN program in the Traditional, Accelerated or RN-
BSN Track. Students who have met the requirements for admission to UNMC can
apply on-line at http://net.unmc.edu/apply/nurs.asp. Students who have already
received a Bachelor’s Degree have the option to apply for the Accelerated BSN
track. Students who have a Bachelor’s degree and would like to apply for both the
Traditional and Accelerated tracks can do so when applying through the web site
application process.
Admission is competitive based primarily on grade point averages of prerequisite
and co-requisite courses taken at colleges or universities, total number of non-
nursing courses successfully completed, and requisite interpersonal skills. Applicants
must also be able to meet eligibility requirements for licensure to practice nursing in
Nebraska. Persons who have criminal records, substance abuse problems, or health
problems that could interfere with safe practice may be ineligible for licensure.
Applicants with a history of these difficulties will be considered for admission on an
individual basis with consultation from the State Board of Nursing. All students
must complete a disclosure form as part of the application process. Students will be
required to have a background check performed. Students may have to submit to
drug screening before being allowed into clinical practice at certain clinical agencies.
All students are obligated to provide care to assigned clients regardless of gender,
race, creed, or religion. Any student with health concerns, religious beliefs or moral
convictions that proscribe their participation in a health care activity must inform the
clinical instructor no later than clinical orientation to the course, or as soon as the
information becomes available. The clinical instructor shall make the final decision
about assignment of care, taking into consideration the student's expressed concern.
34
Students will be asked to rank preferences for one of four campuses: Omaha,
Lincoln, Kearney or West Nebraska in Scottsbluff. Assignments to each campus are
based on student preference and GPA upon admission.
Admission Requirements - BSN
1. Students must have a high school diploma or GED Certificate (High
School Equivalency), and must meet general University admission
criteria.
2. Admission is competitive based on prerequisite and co-requisite
cumulative GPA and course completion. Therefore it is in the best
interest of the student to complete as many of the non-nursing courses
with the best GPA possible. The average GPA for admission has been
3.2 or above for all campuses. Applicants with GPAs of 2.5 and above
will be given consideration for admission. A course grade of "C" or
above is needed in all of the non-nursing courses required for the BSN
degree.
3. A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.50 or better for all
prerequisite and co-requisite college course work is required prior to
admission. Applicants should note that the GPA for work completed
within the University of Nebraska system must be at least 2.0 or "C."
Courses completed in other colleges or universities cannot be included to
meet this minimum requirement.
4. Consideration for final acceptance for all BSN tracks is dependent upon
the prerequisite and co-requisite cumulative grade point average from all
colleges attended and the number of non-nursing courses successfully
completed. Transcripts from all colleges and Universities attended must
be submitted. (see below)
5. Prerequisite and Co-requisite courses required for all tracks of the BSN
program are:
PREREQUISITES CR CO-REQUISITES CR
COURSE NAME HRS COURSE NAME HRS
*English Composition 1 3 Ethics 3
*Introduction to Psychology 3 Microbiology 4
*Introduction to Sociology 3 English Composition II 3
*Human Growth and *Statistics 3
3
Development
*Anatomy & Physiology I and 8 Nutrition 3
35
II
OR Humanities 3
Culture, Race, Ethnicity and 3
*Human Anatomy 4
Gender
Family and Human 3
AND
Behavior
Political Science and Social 3
*Human Physiology 4
Organization
Required Elective 3
(Immunology, Genetics, or
*Chemistry 4 one additional course from
Humanities, Culture, Family
or Political Science.)
** Evidence of Math competency *** Free Electives 7-9
Key:
* Course work students should complete first
** Students must show evidence of math competency; Math ACT of 22 or above or
readiness for College Algebra. Registered Nurses Only: the Math requirement
may be met by satisfactorily completing College Chemistry and College
Statistics.
*** The 7-9 credits of free electives may be any course transferable to the
University of Nebraska. Additional courses in a previously studied area or a
new area, e.g., drug awareness, computer classes, mathematics, health education
or social problems may be selected.
6. Two references are required. Examples of acceptable references are high
school teachers, college faculty and employers. RNs with work
experience need one reference from a supervisor.
7. A personal interview may be required.
8. Final acceptance is dependent upon the successful completion of all pre-
requisite courses and receipt of the following:
(a) Completed medical health forms;
(b) Evidence of immunizations for the following:
36
PPD (within 6 months) [If the student tests positive the current
guidelines from the CDC will be followed],
Rubella (or titer showing immunity),
Rubeola,
Tetanus/Pertussis (if you have not had the diphtheria
component within the last 10 years, Tdp is required),
Mumps,
Polio,
Varicella,
Hepatitis B series and titer
Flu Immunization - for spring admission the flu immunization
must have been received in the preceding 6 months
CPR for Health Professionals (verification required).
A background check is required before admission.
Information regarding these requirements will be sent to applicants
prior to enrollment.
Application Process
A complete application for admission includes the following:
application for admission form
Campus Preference Form
two letters of recommendation
an official high school transcript (showing date of graduation) or high
school equivalency certificate (GED)
a completed and notarized disclosure statement and official transcripts of
all university/college work and any other educational institutions attended
since graduation from high school. Failure to send all transcripts may make
the candidate ineligible for admission or continued enrollment.
Admission application/materials should be sent to:
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Office of Academic Records
Student Life Center
984230 Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, NE 68198-4230
Applications can be submitted on-line at the following web site
http://net.unmc.edu/apply/nurs.asp
Application Deadlines
The starting date for the Traditional and RN-BSN program is August and January of
each year. Applications are reviewed in March for August admission and in
37
September for January admission. Deadlines for receipt of application materials are:
February 1st for fall admission of the following year and August 1st for spring
admission of the following year. Early application is strongly encouraged.
Enrollments may be limited by educational resources available.
The Accelerated BSN program has a starting date of January each year and
continues for 12 consecutive months. The deadline for applications to the
Accelerated BSN program is May 15 of each year.
A non-refundable application fee must accompany each new application to the
University of Nebraska Medical Center. If you reapply within the same academic
year an additional fee is not required. Application fees are not applied toward tuition
or fee charges. Payment is made by check or money order, payable to the University
of Nebraska Medical Center. This fee can be paid with a credit card if you apply on-
line.
Transcripts and all other materials submitted in support of an application become the
permanent property of the University and will not be returned.
Beginning in April and October of each year, notification of admission will be
mailed to applicants. If admission limits are met, an alternate list of qualified
applicants is maintained, and offers of admission will be sent to those applicants as
vacancies occur. Upon admission to UNMC, applicants who were enrolled in pre-
nursing at the University of Nebraska Omaha, Lincoln or Kearney must authorize
the transfer of records and transcripts by completing the "Change of Campus Form."
Accelerated BSN
An intensive full-time program for well-qualified students with a bachelor’s degree
in another field. After satisfying pre-requisite and co-requisite courses, students
complete the BSN curriculum in 12 months, including clinical rotations on evenings
and/or weekends.
The RN-BSN Program
RNs must meet all requirements for admission to the Undergraduate Program. See
Admission Requirements. Specific requirements are: RNs will have 27 credit hours
granted for previous knowledge and upon validation of at least 30 days of full time
employment, and an additional 4 credit hours granted for experience, for a total of 31
hours. These hours will be awarded at the time of graduation. When an RN student
becomes a candidate for the BSN degree and upon successful completion of the
Health Care Outcomes Management course, the student will be awarded an
additional 11 credits at ½ the current tuition rate.
The RNs must provide proof of licensure before enrolling in any course. It is the
RESPONSIBILITY of the Registered Nurse Student to inform us if any action is
taken against their license while they are in the program. A copy or documentation
of a current license must be on file in the Student Services office. Failure to inform
the College of any actions taken against their license may result in disciplinary
action.
38
Full admission is based upon completion of the provisional requirements, RN
licensure and the following:
a. Required immunizations and current CPR certification for health
professionals.
b. Projection of a plan of study for nursing courses.
c. All students must complete a disclosure form as part of the application
process. Students may be required to have a background check
performed and submit to drug screening before being allowed into
clinical practice at certain clinical agencies.
RN-BSN Nursing Courses
An RN student must satisfy the following required 24 nursing credits for the BSN
degree. RN students must enroll in and complete a minimum of 20 semester credits
of nursing courses in the College of Nursing to earn a BSN degree from the
UNMC. There are no exceptions to the 20 credit hour rule.
Required nursing courses include the following:
NRSG 325 Pathophysiologic Basis of Alterations in Health 4 cr (theory 4)
NRSG 268 Health Assessment and Promotion 4 cr (theory 2.5/lab 1.5)
NRSG 386 Evidence-Based Nursing Practice and Research 2 cr (theory 2)
NRSG 435 Health Policies and Issues 2 cr (theory 2)
NRSG 385 Health Care Outcomes Management 5 cr (theory 5)
NRSG 470 Nursing Management Strategies 2 cr (theory 2)
NRSG 420 Community Health Nursing 5 cr (theory 2/clinical 3)
24 cr
UNDERGRADUATE COURSE OF STUDY INFORMATION
There are a minimum of 62 credit hours of non-nursing requirements taken at any
accredited general education institution for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing
(BSN) degree. In addition to the 64 credit hours of nursing course work, 2 credits
of Pharmacology will be completed. To receive the BSN you must complete a
combined total of 128 semester hours of non-nursing and nursing courses. All
non-nursing course work except for electives must be completed before the start of
the second semester clinical nursing courses.
UNDERGRADUATE NURSING COURSES
39
The nursing major includes one semester of sophomore level nursing course work,
two semesters of junior nursing course work and two semesters of senior level
course work for a total of five semesters or levels.
COURSE
COURSE NAME CR HRS
NUMBER
Level 1 (Sophomore):
NRSG 262 Professional Nursing 2
NRSG 268 Health Assessment and Promotion 4
NRSG 280 Essentials of Nursing Care 4
Evidence-Based Nursing Practice and
NRSG 386 2
Research
12
Level 2 (Junior):
Family-Centered Nursing Care of
NRSG 320 7
Adults
Pathophysiologic Basis of Alterations
NRSG 325 4
in Health
Pharmacology for Healthcare
*PHAR 470 2
Professionals
13
Level 3 (Junior):
Family-Centered-Maternity and
NRSG 340 5
Women’s Health Nursing
Family-Centered Nursing Care of
NRSG 350 5
Children
Concepts, Issues, and Nursing Care
NRSG 425 4
Related to Chronic Health Conditions
14
Level 4 (Senior):
Client-Centered Psychiatric Mental
NRSG 410 4
Health Nursing
40
NRSG 420 Community Health Nursing 5
NRSG 460 Gerontological Nursing 4
13
Level 5 (Senior):
NRSG 435 Health Policy and Issues 2
Family-Centered Nursing Care of
NRSG 450 Clients with Acute Complex 5
Problems
NRSG 470 Nursing Management Strategies 3
NRSG 480 Transition to Professional Nursing 4
14
* PHAR 470 - Pharmacology is not a nursing course, but is taught here in the
curriculum so students will have the background to proceed in the nursing
program.
41
THE GRADUATE PROGRAM IN NURSING
The University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing offers graduate
programs leading to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Post Master's Certificate
(PMC) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). The masters student enters with an interest
in a chosen field of clinical nursing and basic clinical competence to develop an area
of specialty. The PMC student has completed specialty work and enters the program
with specific learning objectives, often with a second specialty area. The doctoral
student enters with clinical competence in a chosen field of nursing and an interest in
a specific area of research. The Fast-Track BSN-PhD student enters with an interest
in perusing a career in nursing research.
Graduate-level nursing courses are offered by the graduate faculty at the College of
Nursing. Graduate-level cognate courses in the basic, behavioral and social sciences
may be taken at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Lincoln, Kearney or the
Medical Center, or from other accredited graduate programs. All programs of study
for MSN and PMC students are planned with the major advisor after acceptance into
the graduate program; doctoral students develop a program of studies in conjunction
with the Supervisory Committee.
MASTERS PROGRAM PURPOSE, OUTCOMES AND
COMPETENCIES
PURPOSE
The purpose of the master's program in nursing is to prepare nurses for advanced
practice as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse administrators, or
informatics nurse specialists. The master's program in nursing is dedicated to
meeting the advanced practice nursing needs of the citizens of Nebraska and the
region through excellence in graduate education. The College of Nursing is
committed to preparing advanced practice nurse leaders who are recognized for their
scholarship, practice, and professional standards. The outcomes and competencies
presented here are representative of the core competencies of graduates. Specialty
specific expectations may be found in other documents.
Outcome I. Advanced practice nurses work collaboratively within the health care
system to promote client health and improve client outcomes.
Competencies. The advanced practice nurse:
1. Uses knowledge, theories, models, and research from nursing and related
disciplines in the practice of advanced nursing.
2. Evaluates, uses, and/or develops data, information, and knowledge
resources for use in delivery, and/or coordination of care for individuals,
families, groups and communities.
3. Uses advanced assessment, diagnostic, intervention, and evaluation skills
for complex client health problems and health system issues.
42
4. Integrates principles of ethics, interpersonal processes, cultural diversity,
and respect for human beings into their advanced practice.
5. Analyzes consumer health care needs through examination of
interrelationships of demographics, major social health care problems,
regulatory requirements, and economic health care policies.
Outcome II. Advanced practice nurses are leaders for the discipline and are
responsive to current and emerging issues facing nursing and health care.
Competencies. The advanced practice nurse:
1. Serves as a leader to facilitate improvement in client outcomes in the
health care system.
2. Values personal integrity and growth in self and others as an essential
element in effective leadership within professional nursing organizations
and the health care system.
3. Analyzes changes in the health care system to determine the impact on
nurses in advanced practice.
4. Builds networks and effectively communicates (written and oral) with the
interdisciplinary health care team, professional colleagues, community
leaders, and policy makers.
5. Supports quality health care by adhering to professional standards and
leading by example.
6. Applies knowledge from economics and business to understand how
health care is financed and organized nationally, state wide, and locally.
7. Understands the health care policy development process and how it
influences the health system and nursing practice.
Outcome III. Advanced practice nurses apply the research process to
collaborate with experienced investigators in advancing nursing knowledge and in
addressing nursing practice and health system problems.
Competencies. The advanced practice nurse:
1. Collaborates with experienced investigators in implementing research.
2. Analyzes the clinical and health system relevance of research findings and
integrates them into advanced practice.
3. Reads research critically and synthesizes research and practice evidence.
4. Uses electronic and emerging technology to access, process, and
disseminate information.
43
5. Values scholarship and the research process as key elements of advanced
practice.
MSN Programs of Study
Adult Health and Illness
Subspecialities include: Acute care, and Oncology Nursing
Family Nurse Practitioner
Family Nurse Practitioner/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Gerontological Nursing
Subspecialties include: Advanced Gerontological Nursing, Gerontological
Nurse Practitioner, Geropsychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Health Systems Nurse Specialist
Subspecialties include: Community/Public Health Nursing, Nursing
Administration and Nursing Informatics (temporarily suspended)
Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
Women's and Children's Advanced Practice Nursing
Women's Health Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist (temporarily
suspended)
A post-master’s certificate option is also available for the above specialty
tracks.
MSN Program Admission Requirements.
Following receipt of the completed application from the UNMC Office of Academic
Records and a complete set of transcripts from all educational institutions attended,
the Graduate Committee of the College of Nursing evaluates candidates according to
the following criteria:
• Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing from a program accredited by the CCNE
or NLNAC.
• A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) on all
undergraduate work.
• Prior to admission to the Graduate Program, U.S. citizen applicants must
hold Registered Nurse License in one of the fifty states if research or
clinical practicum includes contact with patients. Foreign citizens not
legally licensed to practice nursing in the U.S. shall provide evidence that
they (1) have the equivalent of a baccalaureate degree in nursing and (2)
are eligible to practice nursing in their country of residence. Prior to
enrollment in clinical courses and to conduct research (NRSG 896; NRSG
899) student must hold Registered Nurse Licensure in the particular state(s)
in which participating in clinical practice and research activities.
44
• Three letters of recommendation: one from the dean, administrator, or
faculty member of the college from which the student was graduated and
two from nursing employers.
• Personal interview with a Graduate Faculty Member in the area of
concentration to which the student has applied.
• Biographical sketch including a description of the applicant’s goals relative
to his/her professional career.
• A course in health assessment or its equivalent.
• An undergraduate research course.
Courses in health assessment and research are offered, if needed to meet
prerequisites, by the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Students with
experience in research may challenge the undergraduate research course.
Admission Deadlines
Students will be recommended for admission two times per year in Fall or Spring
semesters for most advanced practice specialties. The deadline for applications for
Fall admission is July 1, and November 1 for Spring admission.
Please note that the Acute Care, Oncology and Family Nurse Practitioner specialties
admit candidates only one time per year, with applications due March 1 for Fall
admission.
Student Classification
The following classifications are possible on admission to the graduate program:
1. Full graduate status. Classification given to students who have met all
requirements for admission and who have been accepted by the
Graduate Committee of the College of Nursing and the Graduate
College for work leading to a masters degree in nursing.
2. Provisional status. Classification given when students show potential for
graduate work and have excellent letters of support but have attained
below 3.0 average in undergraduate studies. Verification of potential for
graduate studies requires "B" for a designated number of hours of
graduate work.
3. Unclassified status. Classification given to applicants who have met the
minimum requirements for admission and desire to complete a
minimum of course work without reference to degree. Students with
unclassified status will not qualify for an advanced degree until accepted
into the Graduate Nursing Program.
4. A person holding an MSN degree from an accredited program may take
courses with a non-degree objective only with permission of the
instructor and approval by the Graduate Committee.
45
Admission to Master’s Degree Candidacy
Admission to the graduate program does not necessarily imply admission to
candidacy for a higher degree. A student may be admitted to candidacy for a Masters
degree on recommendation of the graduate nursing department and approval by the
Associate Dean for Academic Programs, and upon demonstrating his or her ability to
perform satisfactorily in graduate courses. A student must be admitted to candidacy
at least eight weeks prior to the date of the final comprehensive examination. The
following criteria for candidacy have been established by the Graduate Affairs
Committee of the College of Nursing:
1. Completion of one semester of graduate study or its equivalent.
2. Grade point average of "B" or above.
3. Full graduate standing.
4. Completion of research course NRSG 802
5. Completion of one clinical nursing course.
6. Removal of any deficiencies.
Comprehensive Examinations
Students will be given written or oral comprehensive examinations. The
comprehensive examinations will be offered each semester and will cover all areas
of Master’s degree course work.
Incomplete grades must be removed four weeks prior to comprehensive
examinations or examinations will be canceled. The examination may be scheduled
prior to removal, but will not be given if incomplete grades are not removed.
Refer to the Graduate Studies Bulletin on line at
www.unmc.edu/Education/gradstudies for further information regarding:
Admission to the Graduate College
Scholarship Requirements
Transfer of Credit
Summary of Procedures for the Masters Degree
46
CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING
All MSN students are required to complete the following courses:
NRSG 802 - Nursing Scholarship (4 credits);
NRSG 804 – Health Systems Innovation and Improvement (4 credits);
NRSG 806 – Information Literacy and Scholarly Writing for the Advanced
Practice Nurse (1 credit);
NRSG 896 - Research in Clinical Nursing (2 credits) or NRSG 899 - Masters
Thesis (6 credits)
Graduate Statistics (3 credits)
In addition, the following courses are required in the students' selected specialty
area:
A. ADULT HEALTH & ILLNESS 2
Specialty Core Course1 Credits
883 Applied Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses 3
818 Pathophysiology for Advanced Practice Nurses I 3
810 The Role of the APN in Adult Health and Illness 1
811 Advanced Health Assessment and Health Promotion 5
812 Management of Adult Clients with Health Problems I 6
814 Management of Adult Clients with Health Problems II 6
Outcome Management for the Health Care
808 2
Professional
Subspecialties: (select one area)
#1: Acute Care
813 Advanced Practice Nursing in Acute Care 6
#2: Oncology
47
815 Advanced Practice Nursing in Oncology 2
816 Practicum in Advanced Practice Nursing in Oncology 4
B. WOMEN'S AND CHILDREN'S HEALTH 2
Specialty Core Course1 Credits
818 Pathophysiology for Advanced Practice Nurses, I 3
Advanced Women’s and Children’s Health Nursing
839* 1-6
Practicum
Role Preparation Tracks: (select one area)
#1: Women's Health Nursing
833 Advanced Assessment in Women’s Health Care 3
Primary Care and Health Promotion In Women’s
834 2-4
Health
835 Acute Care and Health Promotion in Women 3-6
837 Chronic Care and Health Promotion in Women 2-5
883 Applied Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses 3
#2: Children's Health Nursing
Primary Care and Health Promotion in Children’s
819 3-5
Health
820 Advanced Assessment in Children’s Health Care 3
822 Primary Care of Children II: Acute Health Problems 2-5
Primary Care of Children III: Chronic Health
824 2-5
Problems
883 Applied Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses 3
#3: Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (Temporarily Suspended)
48
825 Neonatal Assessment 3
830 Neonatal Assessment and Diagnostic Practicum 2
831 Management of the High Risk Neonate 3-5
832 Care of High Risk Neonate Practicum 3-5
884 Pharmacotherapeutics for Neonatal Care 3
#4: Clinical Nurse Specialist (*clinical hours in marked courses
above would be reduced to add the following in the student’s
selected role track: )
821 Advanced Practice CNS Clinical Practicum I 3
823 Advanced Practice CNS Clinical Practicum II 3
829 Advanced Practice CNS Clinical Practicum III 5
C. PSYCHIATRIC / MENTAL HEALTH NURSING 3
Specialty Core Course1 Credits
Applied Pharmacology for Advanced Practice
883 3
Nurses
Neuroscience of Psychopharmacology for
867 2-3
Advanced Practice Nursing
Counseling Models in Advanced Psychiatric Mental
862 3
Health Nursing
Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing with
863 4
Adults
882 Advanced Health Assessment 3
885 Role Issues for the Advanced Practice Nurse 1
Focus Area Courses: (select one area)
#1: Advanced Psychiatric Nursing Practice
Practicum in Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health
868 7
Nursing
49
Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing with
864 4
Children and Adolescents
#2: Advanced Geropsychiatric Nursing
Advanced Gerontological Nursing: Health
851 3
Promotion
852 Advanced Gerontological Nursing: Health Problems 4
Advanced Gerontological Nursing in the Aging
853 3
Network
Special Topics in Psychiatric Mental Health
892 2
Nursing
Practicum in Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health
868 9
Nursing
D. GERONTOLOGICAL NURSING 4
Specialty Core Course1 Credits
851 Advanced Gerontological Nursing: Health Promotion 6
852 Advanced Gerontological Nursing: Health Problems 4
Advanced Gerontological Nursing in the Aging
853 3-5
Network
883 Applied Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses 3
Focus Area Courses: (select one area)
#1: Advanced Gerontological Nursing Practice
Advanced Gerontological Nursing: Mental Health
855 3
Assessment and Intervention
854 Advanced Practicum in Gerontological Nursing 4-6
818 Pathophysiology for Advanced Practice Nurses I 3
888 Primary Health Care of Older Families 3
#2: Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
818 Pathophysiology for Advanced Practice Nurses I 3
855 Advanced Gerontological Nursing: Mental Health 3
50
Assessment and Intervention
854 Advanced Practicum in Gerontological Nursing 4-6
888 Primary Health Care of Older Families 6
#3: Advanced Geropsychiatric Nursing Practice
Counseling Models in Advanced Psychiatric Mental
862 3
Health Nursing
Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing with
863 4
Adults
Neuroscience of Psychopharmacology for Advanced
867 2
Practice Nursing
868 Practicum in Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health 4
Nursing
885 Role Issues for the Advanced Practice Nurse 1
E. FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER 5
Specialty Core Course1 Credits
818 Pathophysiology for Advanced Practice Nurses I 3
840 Community Based Care of Vulnerable People 2
882 Advanced Health Assessment 3
883 Applied Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses 3
885 Role Issues for the Advanced Practice Nurse 1
886 Advanced Health Promotion 3
887 Primary Health Care of Young Families 6
888 Primary Health Care of Older Families 6
889 Advanced Primary Health Care of Families 6
(Students in the Integrated FNP/Psych MH track take
courses listed above in addition to the following: )
Counseling Models in Advanced Psychiatric MH
862 3
Nursing
863 Advanced Psychiatric MH Nursing with Adults 4
51
Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing with
864 4
Children and Adolescents
867 Neuroscience of Psychopharmacology for APN 2
Practicum in Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health
868 3
Nursing
Advanced Integrated Primary Health Care and
869 5
Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
6
F. HEALTH SYSTEMS NURSE SPECIALIST
Specialty Core Course1 Credits
841 Health Care Systems and Policy 3
842 Community and Organizational Development 3
Nursing Health and Culture in Organizations and
844 3
Communities
871 Introduction to Health Informatics 3
872 Health Care Economics and Financial Management 3
Subspecialties: (select one area)
#1: Public/Community Health Nursing
847 Community Assessment and Health Programming 4
Practicum in Managing and Evaluating Health of
848 5
Populations
Graduate Epidemiology 3
#2: Nursing Administration
Developing Systems and Infrastructures in Health
873 5
Care Organizations
Practicum in Managing and Evaluating Health Care
874 4
Organizations
One Elective Course (3 cr.) 3
#3: Nursing Informatics: (Temporarily Suspended)
Computer Programming Course 3
875 Health Informatics Systems Analysis and Design 3
52
Practicum in Implementation, and Evaluation of
876 4
Clinical Information Systems
877 Database Design for Health Systems 4
1. Students in Adult Health & Illness complete the specialty core courses listed in
addition to selecting and completing the courses in one preparation track or
focus area and are eligible to obtain certification as Clinical Nurse Specialists or
Nurse Practitioners in the chosen area.
2. The Women and Children’s program offers a synthesized nurse practitioner-
clinical nurse specialized role in advanced practice nursing. Graduates from
this area will be eligible to take the professional certification examination as a
Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist.
3. Upon completion of the Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing specialty and
additional clinical practice, graduates will be qualified to take the certification
examinations as a Clinical Specialist in Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health
Nursing or in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing.
Graduates are also eligible for the AACN Psychiatric Mental health NP – Adult
OR Psychiatric Mental health NP-Family. One of the above certifications is
required for licensure as a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Nebraska and
adjacent states.
4. Graduates from the Gerontological specialty area will be eligible to take
certification examinations as a Gerontological Nurse Practitioner or Clinical
Specialist in Gerontological Nursing or Clinical Specialist in Adult Psychiatric
and Mental Health Nursing (Geropsychiatric Nursing specialty graduates only).
5. Graduates from the Family Nurse Practitioner specialty area are eligible to sit
for professional certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Graduates who
complete the integrated FNP/PMH subspeciality are eligible to sit for the
Psychiatric Mental Health certification examinations and the FNP certification
examination.
6. Graduates from the Health Systems Nurse Specialist area will have completed
the course work necessary to take one of the following certification
examinations: CNS Public/Community Health Nursing-Advanced; Nursing
Administration – Basic or Advanced. Additional practice experience may be
required.
Post-master's Certificate Admission Requirements
The post-master's certificate program is offered through the College of Nursing.
Applicants must submit: an application: a transcript showing a Master's degree in
nursing from a CCNE or NLNAC accredited school; two letters of support from an
employer or educator, narrative description of career goals, current curriculum vitae,
53
and an interview with the advisor in the selected area of concentration. Admission
will be recommended based on the applicant's credentials, career objectives, and
space available within the program. Prior to admission to the graduate program,
applicants must be legally licensed to practice nursing in one of the 50 states. Prior
to enrollment in clinical courses all graduate students must hold Registered Nurse
Licensure in the particular state/states in which participating in clinical practice.
Certificate requirements must be completed within five years. Additional criteria
may apply based on the selected certificate program.
54
COURSE OF STUDIES FOR POST MASTER'S CERTIFICATES
(HSNS) (HSNS) (HSNS) Psych.- Adult Women's &
Family Nursing Nursing Community Mental Health & Maternal Children's
Nurse Admin- Informatics Health Health Gerontological Illness Health Health Neonatal
Practitioner istration Nursing Nursing Nursing Nursing Nursing Nursing Nursing
Clinical 882 (3) 871 (4) 871 (3) 841 (3) For CNS: Nurse Practitioner: 810 (1) 833 (3) 819 (3) 820 (1)
Core 885 (1) 872 (3) 872 (3) 842 (3) 862 (4) If Master's is in 811 (5) 834 (2) 820 (6) 825 (3)
886 (3) 873 (4) 875 (4) 844 (3) 863 (4) Gerontological 808 (2) 835 (6) 822 (5) 830 (2)
887 (6) 874 (4) 876 (5) 871 (3) 864 (4) Nursing: 812 (6) 837 (5) 824 (5) 831 (4)
888 (6) 877 (3) 872 (3) 867 (2) 888 (6) 814 (6) 839 (6) 839 (6) 832 (3)
889 (6) 868 (5) 854 (6) Select one: 833 (2)
840 (2) 883 (3) 851 (3-6)** Acute: 839 (6)
883 (3)** 813 (6) or
If Master=s is 818 (3)** Oncology: 815
in an NP (2)
program (not Additional If Master's is not in 816 (4)
family): courses for Gerontological
886 (3-6) eligibility Nursing:
889 (6) for NE 851 (6)
887 or 888 Psych NP: 852 (4)
(6) 868 (2)* 853 (3)
Graduate 855 (2)
55
840 (2)
Health (3) 888 (6)
854 (6)
883 (3)**
818 (3)**
Adv. Gerontological
Nursing Practice:
851 (6)
Support 883 (3)** 877 (3) Student must Epidemio- 852 (4) 883 (3)** 883 (3) 883 (3) 884 (3)
Courses 818 (3)** 881 (3) have a course logy (2-3)** 853 (3) 818 (3)**
in computer 847 (4) 855 (2)
programming 848 (5) 854 (4)
883 (3)**
Elective 0 0 Negotiated 0 0 Optional: Optional: Optional:
Credits 808 (2) 808(2) 808(2)
818(2) 818(2)
** Additional 2 credits to meet 500 practice hours requirement
* May be waived if equivalent course was included in Master's program.
DOCTORAL PROGRAM PURPOSE, OUTCOMES AND
COMPETENCIES
Approved 10/13/03
Purpose
The purpose of the doctoral program is to prepare beginning nurse scientists to
enhance the health of human beings through the development, testing and
dissemination of nursing knowledge. The doctoral program is committed to quality
graduate education and to a learning environment which promotes development of
personal, professional, leadership and scholarly dimensions.
Outcomes
The doctoral program prepares beginning nurse scientists who are recognized for
their focused area of expertise and who receive this recognition based on:
A. Development and dissemination of knowledge:
Competencies
1. Critically evaluates and synthesizes theoretical and research
knowledge as it relates to a specific area of the practice of nursing.
2. Generates and/or tests theories which guide practice.
3. Develops and designs a program of research which will advance
knowledge and practice in a specific area of expertise.
4. Disseminates finding of research through publications and
presentations to the scientific community as well as to
interdisciplinary health care providers, students, policy makers, and
consumers.
B. Impact of the health of the population:
Competencies
1. Develops scholarly communication skills to begin influencing other
scholars, interdisciplinary health care teams, professional
colleagues, community leaders, policy makers and health care
environments.
2. Uses data effectively and responsibly in shaping education, clinical
practice, health care environments and public policy
3. Participates in local and national groups or organizations that have a
health care agenda related to area of expertise.
C. Contribution to the professional/discipline:
Competencies
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1. Participates in and provides leadership in professional
organizations, health service systems, and other health related
enterprises.
2. Incorporates professional accountability (ethical, legal, political and
economic) into role as professional nurse scientist.
Admission Requirements
Following receipt of the completed application and a complete set of transcripts from
all educational institutions attended and receipt of the Graduate Record Examination
scores, students will be selected from a pool of qualified applicants meeting the
following requirements:
In addition to the requirements of the Graduate College of the University of
Nebraska, the College of Nursing considers students for admission to the Doctoral
Program. Requirements for admission to the Doctoral Program (PhD) in addition to
those listed in the Graduate Studies Bulletin include:
a. BSN or Master’s degree in nursing from an accredited school.
Students without a master’s degree in nursing may be accepted into
the BSN to PhD program. Necessary master’s course work will be
completed under the supervision of the advisor.
b. General congruence between research interests of the applicant with a
faculty research advisor, the program’s goals, and the resources of the
University.
c. Professional accomplishments as evidenced by a biographical sketch
including a description of the applicant’s goals relative to his/her
professional career.
d. A minimum grade point average of 3.2 in the BSN and/or master’s
program.
e. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores.
f. Evidence of capacity for original scholarship and research in nursing.
g. Evidence of the ability to communicate in a scholarly manner both
orally and in writing.
h. Participation in an interview with a minimum of two doctoral program
faculty members with one of the two faculty being a potential research
interest match.
i. Three letters of reference (preferably from persons holding a
doctorate): two academic references, preferably one reference
focusing on the applicant’s research ability, and one professional
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performance reference.
United States citizens, prior to admission to the graduate program, must be legally
licensed to practice nursing in one of the 50 states. Foreign citizens not legally
licensed to practice nursing in the United States shall provide evidence that they
have the equivalent of a baccalaureate degree in nursing. If applicable, students
must meet Registered Nurse Licensure requirements in the particular state/states in
which they will be performing data collection.
Recommendations for admission are made in the Spring. Applications from
International students must be received by the Graduate Studies Office by April 1
and from within the United States by June 1.
Areas of Research Emphasis
The areas of research emphasis for Doctoral Program faculty and students are
broadly described in three general categories:
1. Improving Quality of Care
2. Managing Healthcare in Chronic Illness
3. Promoting Health in At-risk Individuals
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
PROGRAM
Sample Plans of Study
When developing the Plan of Studies, the Supervisory Committee should consider
the student's need for role development and consider supplemental activities to
support these goals.
Full Time Student
Part Time Student w/Statistics Prior to Enrollment
Definition of Cognates and Requirements
A cognate is defined as a graduate level course that contributes to the depth and
breadth of the student's understanding within his/her chosen focus of study.
Cognates can be taken from nursing and other departments; some should be from
outside of nursing. The course of study, including cognate courses, is approved by
the supervisory committee. It is the responsibility of the committee to determine that
58
courses offering depth and breadth are selected as cognates. Students may need to
take more than the minimum of 5 cognates to acquire sufficient depth and breadth
for their program of study. Courses may be specifically designed to meet students
needs (e.g., special topics or readings courses). Methods courses that predominately
teach how to use research methods, instruments or tools to conduct research should
not be considered to be cognates. Students may need to take additional methods
courses (e.g., qualitative, modeling, epidemiology, measurement) to support their
research.
NRSG 970 Doctoral Research Other Than Dissertation
This course was devised to give the student experience in research beyond their own
dissertation. The course is a hands-on practical research experience other than
dissertation arranged between a student and faculty member. A contract is made
between the faculty member directing the NRSG 970 and the student, defining the
hands-on research experience. The course grade is assigned by the faculty member
based on stated expected outcomes.
Students have engaged in the following types of activities: worked with a faculty
member on a research study, revised and briefly tested a tool with a new population,
worked in a laboratory learning how to assay biological samples, and collaborated
with a faculty member analyzing data.
Statistics Requirement
Statistics courses through multivariate analysis are required. All doctoral students
will take ANOVA and Correlational statistics courses as prerequisite to or
concurrent with NRSG 901. Multivariate statistics is pre/co-requisite to NRSG908.
The sequence of courses most appropriate for the student should be determined by
the student and the advisor and the Supervisory Committee. Below are a number of
options which have been taken by other doctoral students. Please check the
respective campus class schedules for availability.
1. UNMC Statistical Courses for Doctoral Students
P-SM 806 Biostatistics I, 3 cr. The objective is to learn correct use of
statistical methods for design and analysis of biomedical investigations.
Topics include probability distributions, parametric/nonparametric tests,
survival analysis, types of errors, and sample size determination.
P-SM 808 Biostatistics II, 3 cr. A continuation of 806. Topics include
repeated measures anova, odds ration in 2x2 tables, confounding, log-
linear models, multiple linear and logistic regressions, survival analysis,
multivariate methods, and covariance analysis.
2. UNO Statistical Courses for Doctoral Students
59
PSYC 9010 Proseminar: Statistical Methods I, 3 cr. This course is
intended for graduate students in psychology as a part of a core
requirement in statistics. It is appropriate for persons in other disciplines
interested in a correlational approach to the study of relationships
among variables. Prereq: Graduate and an undergraduate course in basic
statistics which included an introduction to correlation and linear
regression.
PSYC 9020 Proseminar: Statistical Methods II, 3 cr. This course is
designed to fully satisfy the graduate degree requirements for most
students in the masters degree program and partially satisfy the graduate
degree requirements in the doctoral degree program in the Department
of Psychology. Prereq: Graduate and undergraduate course in basic
statistics which included a broad introduction to inferential statistics and
the analysis of variance model.
PSYC 9120 Multivariate Statistical Analysis, 3 cr. An examination of
statistical techniques for describing and analyzing multivariate data
commonly collected in behavioral research. Analytic techniques derived
from general linear model will be considered, focusing on proper
interpretation and use. The course is intended for doctoral students in
psychology and (selectively) for advanced masters students in
behavioral sciences. Prereq: PSYC 9090, 9100, and 9110 or permission
of instructor.
Other Related Courses:
PSYC 9090 Theory of Measurement and Design, 3 cr. Study of
theoretical and practical problems related to the development and use of
psychological measures and research designs covering such topics as
scaling, test development, reliability, validity, interpretation of results
and generalizability. Prereq: PSYC 2130 or equivalent.
3. UNL Statistical Courses for Doctoral Students
The 900-level courses below have been taken by doctoral students as
part of their plan of study and are highly rated by former students. The
courses are in the Educational Psychology Department.
EdPsyc 941. Intermediate Statistics: Experimental Methods, 3 cr.
Computation, interpretation, and application of analysis of variance
techniques, including factorial and mixed model designs. Computer and
microcomputer software will be accessed. Prereq: EdPsyc 859.
EdPsyc 942. Intermediate Statistics: Correlational Methods, 3 cr.
Various correlational-based statistical procedures will be presented,
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including linear and nonlinear regression, multiple regression, statistical
control, analysis of interactions, the general linear model, factor
analysis, and discriminant analysis. Prereq: EdPsyc 859 or equivalent.
EdPsyc 972. Multivariate Analysis,3 cr. The course is designed to
teach the techniques of multivariate analysis, including multivariate
analysis of variance and covariance, multivariance multiple regression,
multigroup discriminant analysis, canonical analysis, repeated measures
(Multivariate model), and time series. Mathematical models will be
presented and analyzed. Instruction will be complemented by
appropriate statistical software packages. Prereq: EdPsyc 941, 942.
Other Courses:
EdPsyc 969. Nonparametric Statistical Methods, 3 cr. Presentation of
statistical procedures that do not require fundamental assumptions about
the distribution property of the variables to be analyzed. Included are
Chi Square tests, rank tests of location (Wilcoxen, Mann Whitney,
Kruskal-Wallis, Friedman) tests of goodness of fit (Chi Square,
Kolmogorov-Smirnoff), tests of randomness (Runs). Prereq: EdPsyc
850 or equivalent
4. Kansas State University - Correspondence courses approved for doctoral
students.
STAT 704-The Analysis of Variance, 2 cr. This course is an
introduction to analysis of variance techniques. Computation and
interpretation for two and three-way analysis of variances; multiple
comparisons, applications including use of computers.
STAT 705-Regression and Correlation Analyses, 2 cr. Continuing
computation and interpretation for two and three-way analysis of
variances; multiple comparisons, applications including use of
computers.
5. University of Michigan, Institute for Social Research and School of Public
Health
There is a lengthy list of statistics and data analysis courses offered in
the Summer, usually in blocks of time over a week or two. The School
of Public Health and the Institute for Social Research both offer
excellent courses which may meet student needs.
EPID 701 Fundamental Biostats, (3 cr)
EPID 741 Anl. Epid. Measurements, (1 cr)
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EPID 742 Intro. Logist. Model, (1 cr)
The above courses are offered through the School of Public Health and
Epidemiology. Other statistics courses are offered through the Institute
of Social Research. Please call the University of Michigan to inquire
about available courses.
62
Curriculum
Required Core Courses Credits
NRSG 901 Research Design and Methods I 3 cr
(Pre-requisite: 2 advanced statistics courses -
usually ANOVA and Regression)
NRSG 902 Theory Development in Nursing and Health Care 3 cr
NRSG 904 Concepts in Health and Illness I 3 cr
NRSG 907 Concepts in Health and Illness II 3 cr
NRSG 908 Research Design and Methods II 3 cr
NRSG 920 Grant Application and Management 2 cr
NRSG 998 Doctoral Seminar 1 cr
(Each semester from completion of NRSG 920
through defense of dissertation)
NRSG 970 Doctoral Research Seminar Other Than Dissertation 1 - 3 cr
(2 semesters with 4 cr minimum)
Five courses in a cognate area
NRSG 999 Doctoral Dissertation 24 cr
minimum
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SAMPLE PLAN OF STUDY
For
Full Time Doctoral Student
Year One
Fall NRSG 902, 904, Statistics
Spring NRSG 901, 907, Statistics
Qualifying examination
Summer Statistics or Cognates
Year Two
Fall NRSG 908, Statistics, Cognates
Spring NRSG 970, 920, Cognates
Summer Cognates
Year Three
Fall NRSG 970, 998, Cognates
Comprehensive Examination
Spring NRSG 998, 999
Summer NRSG 999
Year Four
Fall/Spring NRSG 999, 998
Oral defense of dissertation
Manuscript submission
64
SAMPLE PLAN OF STUDY
for
Part Time Doctoral Student W/O Statistics Prior To
Enrollment
Year One
Fall NRSG 902 AND Statistics
Spring Cognate AND Statistics
Summer Cognate
Year Two
Fall NRSG 904 AND Cognate
Spring NRSG 901, 907
Qualifying Examination
Summer Cognate OR NRSG 970
Year three
Fall NRSG 908 AND a Cognate
Spring NRSG 920 AND a Cognate OR multivariate statistics
Year Four
Fall NRSG 998, Cognates AND statistics if needed
Spring NRSG 970, 998, AND Cognates
Summer NRSG 970
Comprehensive Examination
Years Five and Six
Fall/Spring NRSG 999, 998
Oral defense of dissertation
Manuscript submission
65
SAMPLE PLAN OF STUDY
for
Part Time Doctoral Student With Statistics Prior To
Enrollment
Prior to Enrollment
Statistics: ANOVA
Statistics: Correlation/Regression
Year One
Fall NRSG 902, 904
Spring NRSG 901, 907
Qualifying Examination
Summer Statistics OR Cognate
Year Two
Fall NRSG 908, Cognate
Spring NRSG 920, Cognate OR Statistics
Summer NRSG 970
Year Three
Fall NRSG 998, Cognates
Spring NRSG 970, 998, Cognate
Summer Cognates
Comprehensive Examination
Year Four
Fall/Spring NRSG 999, 998
Summer NRSG 999
Years Five and Six
Fall/Spring NRSG 999, 998
Oral defense of dissertation
Manuscript submission
66
FAST TRACK BSN TO PHD
Created expressly for academically strong BSN graduates who want to be educators
and researchers. Full-time students can complete their PhD degree in 4-1/2 to 5 years
without all the clinical requirements of the MSN program. All features and benefits
of the traditional PhD program apply, including faculty advisor support and
mentoring.
Nursing Specialty Preparation
Students first complete 12-15 hours of courses to obtain a MSN-level specialty
(required by many state boards of nursing for faculty roles). Actual number of
credits depends on the clinical specialty and your career goals.
Specialty Areas
Women’s Health • Children’s Health • Adult Health & Illness (Oncology or Acute
Care) • Gerontological Health • Psychiatric / Mental Health • Public / Community
Health • Nursing Administration
For course information, ask an advisor for our MSN specialties overview — or see
our website.
First and Second Year Study
First year study consists of specialty and statistics courses. Core PhD courses begin
in the second year of full-time study.
Qualifying Exam
A qualifying exam is scheduled when students complete 4 core courses: NRSG 901,
902, 904 and 907.
Teaching Preparation
Students are encouraged to take education courses and the teaching practicum and/or
work as a graduate teaching assistant for at least one semester.
Distributive Learning Requirements
A. Orientation
All new students are required to attend an on-campus orientation to the
program. The orientation provides students with experience using distributive
technologies, including hardware and software applications necessary to
complete the Ph.D. program.
B. Transfer of Courses
Following completion of a course taken at another university as part of the
program of study, the student should write a letter to the Associate Dean of the
67
Graduate Program, indicating the name and number of the course to be
transferred. An official transcript must be sent directly from the school
attended to the Graduate Nursing Office. Copies issued to students cannot be
accepted. The course will be reviewed by the Graduate Affairs Committee and
a recommendation for transfer sent to the Graduate College. Upon approval of
a Supervisory Committee, that committee is responsible for approving
appropriate courses in a student's program. The Dean of Graduate Studies
gives the final approval or denial for transferring a course.
C. Campus Visits
At the beginning of each academic year students will be informed of the
number of times in which they should plan to be present on the Omaha
campus.
Training Requirements
Basic Life Support Certification
All students are required to maintain current BLS Certification while in the
graduate program. Students must present their current BLS certification card
to the Student Services Office no later than the beginning of the Fall semester
each year for verification.
HIPAA Required Training
All students are required to complete training in the Health Information
Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. This training must be completed
once early in the first semester of enrollment. You may do so through
Blackboard. Click on the "My UNMC" tab and then on the right side menu,
look for ―my training requirements‖. If you do not complete required training
you will be placed on hold and not be allowed to register, receive grades, or
graduate until the requirement is completed.
Blood-Borne Pathogens & TB Training
All students are required to complete the annual training in Blood-Borne
Pathogens. You may do so through Blackboard. Click on the "My UNMC" tab
and then on the right side menu, look for ―my training requirements‖. You
must complete the appropriate course materials, take the quiz and obtain at
least an 88%.
Confidentiality and Information Security agreement (POL6045)
68
You must read and electronically sign the ―Privacy, Confidentiality and
Information Security agreement‖ annually. You may do so through
Blackboard. Click on the "My UNMC" tab and then on the right side menu,
scroll down until you see the "Privacy, Confidentiality and Information
Security Agreement (Form 6045) Renewal" item. Click on it and follow the
instructions.
Health Requirements
Immunizations / TB Testing
In addition to the immunizations required for admission, all students must
annually present evidence of a tuberculin skin test and an influenza
immunization.
69
GRADUATE PROGRAM FACULTY
Professor: Ann Berger, Marlene Cohen, Carol Pullen, Michael Rice, Sheila Ryan,
Sarah Thompson, Virginia Tilden, Lani Zimmerman
Associate Professor: Sue Barnason, Joyce Black, Lynne Buchanan, Mary Cramer,
Janet Cuddigan, Kathleen Duncan, Karen Grigsby, Gloria Gross, Barbara Head,
Melody Hertzog, Julia Houfek, Diane Brage Hudson, Polly Hulme, Kathy Kaiser,
Louise LaFramboise, Mary Megel, Susan Muhlbauer, Audrey Nelson, Carol Ott,
Peggy Pelish, Bunny Pozehl, Janice Rustia, Karen Schumacher, Rita Snyder, Cheryl
Thompson, Janice Twiss, Connie Visovsky, Nancy Waltman, Peggy Wilson,
Bernice Yates;
Assistant Professor: Christie Campbell-Grossman, Claudia Chaperon (temporary
status), Janet Cuddigan, Margaret Kaiser, Rebecca Keating-Lefler, Rebecca Kreman
(temporary status), Louise LaFramboise, Connie Miller (temporary status), Janet
Nieveen, Natalie Rasmussen, Kim Rodehorst, Linda Sather, Barbara Sittner, Susan
Wilhelm, Shirley Wiggins
Graduate Affairs Committee: (elected) Drs. Janice Twiss (Chair), Nancy
Waltman, Joyce Black, Carol Pullen, Mary Cramer, Susan Muhlbauer, Lynne
Buchanan, Diane Brage-Hudson, Rebecca Keating-Lefler, Rebecca Kreman
PhD Council – Graduate Affairs Committee: Drs. Ann Berger, Sarah Thompson,
Sheila Ryan, Karen Schumacher, Bernice Yates and Lani Zimmerman.
70
APPENDIX I
Undergraduate Baccalaureate Program Course Descriptions
Credit allowance for nursing courses is based on a semester. Each class hour earns 1
credit hour. Clinical/laboratory hours are computed on a basis of 1 credit hour for
each three-hour clinical/laboratory period.
NRSG 262 Professional Nursing 2 cr.
This course begins the student's development as a professional nurse. It
will cultivate students as co-participants engaging in a variety of learning
interactions. The traditional and evolving roles of the professional nurse
will be explored with an emphasis on societal forces. The philosophy and
conceptual framework of the College of Nursing at UNMC will be
examined and the relationship among the concepts will be explored. Course
content will promote acquisition of the professional role through the
development and enhancement of life-long learning skills. Class - 2 hours.
Prerequisite - Admission to Nursing Major.
NRSG 268 Health Assessment and Promotion, 4 cr.
The major focus of this course is a holistic approach to lifespan assessment
of the well individual. Through the processes of knowing, relating, and
developing the student will attain a better understanding of self and others.
Students will examine health beliefs, identify factors impacting adoption of
healthy lifestyle, and develop a health promotion plan for self and others.
Students will use knowledge from prerequisite and concurrent courses as
they obtain health histories and perform physical examinations on selected
clients. They will identify expected findings, identify the presence of
alterations, and explore health promotion behaviors. Further skills to be
developed include: interviewing, developing a narrative, formulating a
health history, developing assessment skills in the physical, psycho social,
developmental, cultural, spiritual, and environmental areas. Completed
assessments will be used in the framework of the nursing process. The role
of the nurse as a competent, caring professional will be applied to health
assessment and health promotion. Class - 2.5 hours. Lab - 1.5 hours.
Prerequisite or Concurrent - NRSG 262 or permission of instructor.
NRSG 280 Essentials of Nursing Care, 4 Cr.
This course provides theory and practice focusing on essential
psychomotor and therapeutic interpersonal skills for professional nursing.
Student are given an opportunity to develop and practice skills in
laboratory and clinical settings with adult clients. Class - 2.5 hours, Lab -
1.5 hours. Prerequisite or concurrent - NRSG 262 and NRSG 268.
NRSG 320 Family-Centered Nursing Care of Adults, 7 cr.
This course focuses on the nursing care of individual adult clients within
the context of their families. Core knowledge from prerequisite and co-
71
requisite courses will be used to support integration of content. Emphasis
will be placed on the students' beginning utilization of decision making
models and development of clinical judgment to restore, promote and
protect the health care of adult clients. A variety of health care settings will
be utilized to maximize student experiences. Through the processes of
knowing, relating, and developing the student will attain a better
understanding of self and adult clients and their families. Class - 4 hours.
Lab - 3 hours. Prerequisites - Level I Courses, PHAR 270. NRSG 325
Prerequisite or Concurrent.
NRSG 325 Pathophysiologic Basis of Alterations in Health , 4 cr.
This course focuses on the pathophysiologic basis for selected alterations
in health across the lifespan. Theories of disease causation will be
explored. Acquired, immune, infectious, carcinogenic and genetic
alterations in health in the body systems will be presented with an
emphasis on etiology, cellular and systemic pathophysiologic response and
clinical manifestations. Interdisciplinary management will be introduced.
Class - 4 hours. Prerequisite - Anatomy and Physiology. Permission of
Instructor.
NRSG 340 Family-Centered Maternity and Women's Health Nursing , 5 cr.
This course focuses on the nursing care of the at low/high risk childbearing
family across antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum and newborn periods.
Common women's health issues across the lifespan will be addressed.
Decision making processes are applied in a family centered approach to
promote and to restore women's health. The concepts of wellness,
developing, relating and knowing are integrated into the nursing care.
Current trends and issues related to family centered maternity and women's
health will be explored. Ambulatory, inpatient and home management of
various levels of wellness will be implemented in a variety of clinical
settings. Class - 3 hours. Clinical - 2 hours. Prerequisites-Level I and Level
II Courses.
NRSG 350 Family-Centered Nursing Care of Children, 5 cr.
This course focuses on the application of problem-solving approaches to
promote, protect, and restore the health of children from infancy through
adolescence within the context of the family. The concepts of growth,
developing, relating and knowing are emphasized. Current trends and
issues related to family centered health care of children will be explored. A
variety of clinical experiences will be provided in ambulatory, inpatient
and community settings. Class - 3 hours. Clinical - 2 hours. Prerequisites -
Level I and Level II Courses.
NRSG 385 Health Care Outcomes Management, 5 cr.
This course focuses on health care outcome management of clients and
their families who are experiencing alterations in their health or life
processes. This course is designed to build on the previous education and
72
experience of the RN and will provide those concepts and learning
experiences that are unique to baccalaureate education. Concepts such as
family dynamics, health promotion, symptom management, ethics, and
research are integrated into three nursing areas; gerontology, chronic
illness, and acute complex problems. Emphasis is placed on the student's
ability to use critical thinking skills to promote health care outcomes.
Prerequisites - NRSG 325; NRSG 399; NRSG 268.
NRSG 386 Evidence Based Nursing Practice and Research, 2 cr.
This course provides an introduction to the language and skills of evidence
based nursing practice and research. Students will focus on the practical
skills required to identify and appraise best evidence to support nursing
practice. Students will be exposed to all components of the research
process. Issues related to implementation and integration of best evidence
in practice will be included. Class - 2 hours. Prerequisites - Statistics.
NRSG 410 Client-Centered Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, 4 cr.
This course presents nursing care which emphasizes the process of relating
to promote, restore, and protect the mental health of individuals and
groups. This course will explore the human experience of mentally ill
clients as they interact with environmental forces including their families
and health care providers. Current trends and issues related to psychiatric
mental health nursing will be explored. A variety of settings will be used to
provide learning experiences. Class - 2 hours. Clinical - 2 hours.
Prerequisites - Level I, Level II and Level III Courses.
NRSG 420 Community Health Nursing, 5 cr.
In this course the students learn about community-focused nursing practice.
The process of knowing focuses on introductory concepts of public health,
community assessment, health program development, case management for
individuals and families, and analysis of health risks for populations.
Health promotion, protection, and restoration interventions for clients
across the lifespan are emphasized in clinical practice. Concepts consistent
with the nursing dimensions of relating and developing are expanded to
include aggregates and multi disciplines in this community-focused
experience. The influence of cultural diversity, economics, politics,
environments, and ethics as they impact community health nursing practice
are explored throughout the course. Opportunities to practice
comprehensive, independent nursing care roles and functions in
unstructured, diverse health care environments are provided. Class - 2
hours. Clinical - 3 hours. Prerequisites - Level I, Level II, and Level III
courses. Prerequisite or Concurrent - NRSG 410.
NRSG 425 Concepts, Issues, and Nursing Care Related to Chronic Health
Conditions, 4 cr.
This course focuses on the developmental tasks and biopsychosocial
coping of clients and families experiencing chronic health conditions
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across the life span. The instructional strategy of problem based learning
will be used to assist students to examine major problems and issues
related to chronicity. During seminar sessions, students will use their
decision making skills to plan promotive, protective, and restorative care
for selected case studies of clients with chronic health conditions and their
families. Cultural, ethical, legal, and economic issues related to chronicity
will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on collaboration and
coordination to provide continuity of care in a variety of environments.
During clinical experiences of practice knowledge and skills during
interactive experience with clients and families, health care providers, and
agencies providing assistance with management of chronic physical
conditions. Class - 2 hours. Clinical - 2 hours. Prerequisites - Level I and
Level II.
NRSG 435 Health Policy and Issues, 2 cr.
Emphasis in this course is on professional role development in relation to
environmental, social, political, and economic factors which influence
health care policy. Selected topics are examined to help students analyze
issues, compare and contrast multiple views on issues, and formulate
appropriate responses to health care policy. Class - 2 hours. Prerequisites -
Level I, Level II, Level III and Level IV Course or permission of
Instructor.
NRSG 438 Independent Study (elective - students must file a plan of study with
the instructor the semester before they intend to take the course)
Independent Study is designed to meet needs and interests of individuals
and/or groups of students for nursing theory and/or practice not offered in
other courses. Self-directed learning requires independence in motivation
and direction as students use their own unique learning abilities to
accomplish their selected goals. Prerequisites-senior level standing in the
College of Nursing or permission of the instructor.
NRSG 438H Honors Independent Study (3-4 cr. elective - students must file a
plan of study with the instructor the semester before they intend to take the course)
Honors Independent Study is designed to fulfill the research requirement
for University of Nebraska Honors programs. Self-directed learning
requires independence in motivation and direction as students use their
own unique learning abilities to accomplish their selected goals.
Prerequisites - senior level standing in the College of Nursing or
permission of the instructor.
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NRSG 444 Senior Clinical Nursing Externship, 3-6 cr. - elective
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with expanded client
care experiences in a faculty supervised practice setting. The course focus
is on improving student planning, organization and psychomotor skills,
enabling the student to enter their senior year and their professional
practice more knowledgeable about the responsibilities of the nursing role,
and more secure in their own capabilities. Prerequisites - all 300 Level
Nursing Courses. Clinical - 3 hours.
NRSG 450 Family-Centered Nursing Care of Clients with Acute Complex
Problems, 5 cr.
This course focuses on nursing care of clients and their families who are
experiencing acute alterations in health. Emphasis will be on restoration,
protection and promotion of health in high acuity settings. Students will
have the opportunity for follow-up of clients they have cared for during
acute health alterations. Problem based approaches will be utilized in the
planning, organization, and implementation of nursing care. Through the
processes of knowing, relating, and developing, the student will gain an
understanding of the human health experience as it relates to the acutely ill.
Class - 2 hours. Clinical - 3 hours. Prerequisites - Level I, Level II, Level
III and Level IV Courses.
NRSG 460 Gerontological Nursing, 4 cr.
This course synthesizes scientific, conceptual and nursing content while
focusing on the unique biopsychosocial factors related to the aging client.
Demographic, environmental, ethnic, and cultural issues related to aging
are explored. Emphasis is placed on the students' ability to apply complex
clinical judgment and skills in promoting, protecting, and restoring older
adults highest functional capacity. Clinical experiences are provided in
diverse environments. Class - 2 hours. Clinical - 2 hours. Prerequisites -
Level I, Level II and Level III Courses.
NRSG 470 Nursing Management Strategies, 2-3 cr. (RN students may take the
course for 2 credit theory only)
Management of human, fiscal, and material resources to promote an
environment facilitating delivery of health care is the focus of this course.
Skills in influencing, collaborating, facilitating, negotiating, and building
teams, selected management strategies, and development of personal
effectiveness, accountability, and responsibility for maintaining standards
of quality client care are emphasized. Class - 2. Clinical - 1 hour.
Prerequisites - Level I, Level II, Level III, and Level IV courses.
NRSG 480 Transition to Professional Nursing, 4 cr.
This course is a clinical practicum which provides each student an
opportunity to assume the role of a beginning professional nurse in concert
with a registered nurse preceptor in a health care setting selected by the
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student in collaboration with faculty. During the practicum students
integrate previously acquired knowledge and experience to develop self-
reliance, build expertise, and begin role transition. Students employ the
human processes of knowing, developing, and relating as they explore and
demonstrate competency in the roles of provider of health care, coordinator
of health care, and member of the profession. Clinical - 4 hours.
Prerequisites - Level I, Level II, Level III, Level IV Courses and NRSG
450, NRSG 460, and NRSG 470.
NRSG 485/880 Complementary Therapies in Health Care, 2 cr. elective
Provides and understanding of theory and practice in a variety of
complementary health care modalities. Efficacy, cost, and ethics will be
included. Seminar - 2 hours. Prerequisites - None.
NRSG 649/849 Entrepreneurship For Health Care Providers, 2 cr. elective
Examination of the introductory marketing, human resource management,
legal, tax, insurance, accounting and financing concepts applicable to the
organization and management of profitable business ventures by self-
employed health professional and health professional employed by a
variety of organizations providing health care services. Prerequisites -
None.
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APPENDIX II
Courses Offered in the Graduate Nursing Program
NRSG 800: Introduction to Global Health Care, 1 cr. Optional Internship: 1-3
credits.
This introductory course to global health care is designed to help prepare
nursing students for opportunities in international health. Students will
explore the interplay of culture, public health, ethics, social justice, policy,
and models of health care delivery from a global perspective.
NRSG 802: Nursing Scholarship, 4 cr.
This course is designed to engage the learner in critically examining the
scholarship of nursing. Emphasis is on the description and appraisal of
nursing theories, research, and other forms of literature as the foundation of
evidenced-based advanced nursing practice. Lect. 4, Pre-requisite or co-
requisite: Graduate Statistics, or permission of the instructor.
NRSG 804: Health Systems Innovation and Improvement, 4 cr.
This course is designed to analyze changes within the evolving health care
system and apply principles of quality improvement as a basis for shaping
innovation in healthcare. The course provides a foundation for leadership
and cooperation with other members of the health care team. Group
functioning to change healthcare is the major focus. Lect. 4.
NRSG 806: Information Literacy and Scholarly Writing for the Advanced
Practice Nurse, 1 cr.
This course is designed to increase the learner’s information literacy and
scholarly writing skills. Emphasis is on technological skill development
and writing as a scholarly process. Lect 1 cr.
NRSG 808: Outcome Management for the Health Care Professional, 2 cr.
Measurement, management, and evaluation of health care outcomes in
practice. Prereq: NRSG 802 and graduate statistics pre- or coreq; or
permission of instructor.
NRSG 810: The Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse in Adult Health and
Illness, 1 cr.
Orients students to the synthesized Clinical Nursing Specialist/Nurse
Practitioner role in adult health and illness nursing. Prereq: Admission to
the Graduate Program or permission of instructor.
NRSG 811: Advanced Health Assessment and Health Promotion, 4-5 cr.
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Increase the knowledge and expertise for the acquisition of advanced
clinical skills used in assessing, promoting, and maintaining the health of
adults. Lect 2, clin/lab 2-3. Prereq: NRSG 810, an undergraduate health
assessment course within five years of admission to graduate program, or
permission.
NRSG 812: Management of Adult Clients with Health Problems I. 3-6 cr.
Focuses on advanced practice nursing with adult clients experiencing acute
and chronic alterations in selected body systems (e.g., integumentary,
respiratory, musculoskeletal, immune, genitourinary, and gastrointestinal).
Lect 3, clin/lab 0-3. Prereq: NRSG 818, 810 and 811 OR permission of
instructor.
NRSG 813: Advanced Practice Nursing in Acute Care, 2 or 6 cr.
Develop knowledge and competencies for advanced nursing practice with
adults experiencing acute episodes of common chronic illnesses/problems.
Lect 2, clin/lab 0 or 4. Prereq: NRSG 810, 811, 812, 814, 808, 818, 883 OR
permission of instructor.
NRSG 814: Management of Adult Clients With Health Problems II, 2-6 cr.
Focuses on advanced practice nursing with adult clients experiencing acute
and chronic alterations in selected body systems (e.g., musculoskeletal,
cardiovascular, neurological, and cerebrovascular, and immune). Lect 2,
clin/lab 0-4. Prereq: NRSG 818, 810, 811, 812 OR permission of
instructor.
NRSG 815: Advanced Practice Nursing in Oncology, 2 cr.
Develop in depth knowledge and skills for advanced nursing practice
within the context of cancer care. Lect 2. Prereq: NRSG 818, 810, 811,
812, 814 OR permission of instructor.
NRSG 816: Practicum in Advanced Practice Nursing in Oncology, 1-4 cr.
To apply knowledge and skills in advanced nursing practice with adult
clients experiencing cancer. Lab 1-4. Prereq: NRSG 810, 811, 812,
814. Pre- or coreq: NRSG 819, 833, 815; or permission of instructor.
NRSG 818: Pathophysiology for Advanced Practice Nurses I, 1- 3 cr.
An integrated study of the pathophysiology of disorders seen in primary
care settings. Lect/disc. 1-3 cr. hrs. Prereq: Course in undergraduate
pathophysiology or permission of instructor.
NRSG 819: Primary Care and Health Promotion in Children's Health, 3-5 cr.
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Knowledge and skill in the diagnostic reasoning process for assessing,
promoting and maintaining the health of children and the management
of common health problems. Clinical based experiences will provide
opportunities for students to develop advanced practice interventions in
management, promotion and maintenance of common health problems
in children within the family context. Lect/Sem 3, Lab 0-2. Prereq:
NRSG 820 concurrent or permission of instructor. NRSG 803 prior or
concurrent.
NRSG 820: Advanced Assessment in Children’s Health Care, 3 cr.
Knowledge and skill in the diagnostic reasoning process for assessing the
health of children and their families. Independent modules, clinical lab and
simulation will provide opportunities for students to develop advanced
practice skills in history taking and physical examinations, including
diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Lect/Sem 2, Lab 1. Prereq:
Undergraduate health assessment course. Pre- or coreq: NRSG 819 or
permission of instructor.
NRSG 821: Advanced Practice CNS Clinical Practicum I, 3 cr.
This clinical will provide preceptored practicum to begin to explore the
advanced practice clinical nurse specialist (CNS) roles of clinician, clinical
care manager, researcher, health educator, and consultant. Opportunities
for implementation of advanced practice skills related to the areas of
women's, neonatal and children's health will be provided. Prerequisites:
NRSG 820, or NRSG 833 or NRSG 884, permission of instructor. Credit
allocations: 3 clinical credits.
NRSG 822: Primary Care of Children II: Acute Health Problems, 2-5 cr.
Management of selected acute care problems of children within the context
of their families. Lect/sem 2, lab 0-3. Prereq: NRSG 820; Pre- or coreq:
818, or permission of instructor.
NRSG 823: Advanced Practice CNS Clinical Practicum II, 3 cr.
This clinical course focuses on the implementation of principles of
evidenced based practices delivered by advanced practice clinical nurse
specialists (CNS) in the delivery of quality care services in the areas of
women's, neonatal or children's health care. Clinical practice will allow for
the implementation of health care projects. Prerequisites: NRSG 821 or
permission of instructor. Credit allocations: 3 clinical credits.
NRSG 824: Primary Care of Children III: Chronic Health Problems, 2-5 cr.
Focuses on management of selected chronic health care problems of
children within the family context. Lect/Sem 2, Lab 0-3. Prereq: NRSG
822 or permission of instructor.
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NRSG 825: Neonatal Assessment, 3 cr.
In depth study of advanced neonatal assessment that incorporates
knowledge of perinatal history taking, physical examination and common
technologic procedures. Lect/sem 2, clin 1.
NRSG 826: Curriculum Design for the Future, 2 cr.
Provides elements of curriculum design, including course and syllabus
development, evaluation of student learning, and current issues in teaching
college students. Includes history of higher education in health sciences
and the role of the academician, emphasizing educational preparation of
professional nurses.
NRSG 827: Effective Teaching, 2-3 cr.
Participants will learn a variety of teaching strategies (classroom, seminar,
distributive, laboratory and other simulated situations, clinical) designed to
facilitate the development of knowledge and critical thinking of
undergraduate and graduate students. Legal issues will be included.
(Lect/Sem 2, Lab 1. Prerequisites: None.
NRSG 829: Advanced Practice CNS Clinical Practicum III, 5 cr.
This course focuses on the application of principles of evidenced based
practices delivered by advanced practice clinical nurse specialists (CNS) in
the evaluation of quality care services in the areas of women's, neonatal or
children's health care. Areas of evaluation include outcomes, costs and
delivery systems for care. Prerequisites: NRSG 823 and permission of
instructor. Credit allocations: 5 clinical credits.
NRSG 830: Neonatal Assessment and Diagnostic Practicum, 2 cr.
Preceptored practicum applying knowledge of assessments, radiological
evaluation, laboratory interpretation and diagnostic reasoning for normal
and high risk neonates. Pre-req: NRSG 825
NRSG 831: Management of the High Risk Neonate, 2-5 cr.
Didactic content and preceptored clinical practicum experiences in
common neonatal cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal,
hematological, neurological and infectious disorders. Lect/Sem 2; Clin 0-3.
Pre-req: NRSG 830.
NRSG 832: Care of High Risk Neonate Practicum, 2-5 cr.
Didactic content in neonatal high risk care with the application of
principles of assessment and management under the direction of a
preceptor. Lect/Sem 2; Clin 0-3. Pre-req: NRSG 831.
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NRSG 833: Advanced Assessment in Women’s Health Care, 3 cr.
The purpose of this course is to increase knowledge and skill in the
diagnostic reasoning process for assessing the health of women.
Independent modules, clinical lab and simulation will provide opportunities
for students to develop advanced practice skills in history taking and
physical examinations, including diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.
Lect/Sem 2, Lab 1. Prereq: undergrad health assessment course, Pre- or
coreq: NRSG 834 or permission of instructor.
NRSG 834: Primary Care and Health Promotion in Women's Health, 2-4 cr.
The purpose of this course is to increase knowledge and skill in the
diagnostic reasoning process for assessing, promoting and maintaining
the health of women and the management of common health problems.
Clinical based experiences will provide opportunities to develop
advanced practice interventions in management, promotion and
maintenance of common health problems and low risk pregnancy in
women. Lect/Sem 2, Lab 0-2. Prereq: NRSG 833 concurrent or
permission of instructor. NRSG 803 prior or concurrent.
NRSG 835: Acute Care and Health Promotion in Women, 3-6 cr.
Assessment and management of selected health care problems related to
pregnancy, reproductive and sexuality issues. Lect/Sem 3, Lab. 0-3 cr.
Prereq: NRSG 833; pre- or co-req: NRSG 818 or permission of instructor.
NRSG 837: Chronic Care and Health Promotion in Women, 2-5 cr.
Assessment, diagnosis, and management of women's health status over
time with emphasis on stable chronic health care problems. Lect/Sem 2,
Lab 0-3. Prereq: NRSG 833 or permission of instructor.
NRSG 839: Advanced Women's and Children's Health Nursing Practicum, 1-6
cr.
Synthesis of advanced theoretical knowledge as a basis for advanced
nursing practice with women and/or children, including neonates, within
the context of their families. Lect/Sem 1, lab 0-5. Prereq: NRSG 824, 837,
or 825.
NRSG 840: Community Based Care for Vulnerable People, 2 cr.
Influence of rural, cultural and vulnerability theories and concepts on
health status and health care delivery within a community based model.
Physical, psychological, demographic, socioeconomic, and cultural issues
influencing health status and health care delivery are examined. Prereq:
permission of instructor.
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NRSG 841: Health Care Systems and Policy, 3 cr.
Evaluation of health care systems and their effect on the health of
populations. Emphasis will be on systems theory/thinking, case
management, health policy and strategies to influence systems. Sem 2, Prac
1. Prereq: NRSG 804 or permission of instructor.
NRSG 842: Community and Organizational Development. 3 cr.
Analysis of communities and organizations as a basis for fostering their
development, with emphasis on change/transition theories, program
planning/development, CQI tools and techniques, and outcome evaluation.
Sem 3. Prereq: NRSG 804 or permission of instructor.
NRSG 844: Nursing, Health, and Culture in Organizations and Communities, 3
cr.
Study of the influence of social and organizational culture on health
conception and behavior with implications for practice and delivery of
nursing and health care. Sem 2. Lab 1. Pre- or co-req: NRSG 841 or
permission of instructor.
NRSG 847: Community Assessment and Health Programming. 4 cr.
Analysis of community systems and dynamics with examination of
programming models to assess a community’s health and delivery of health
services to the community. Sem 2, Lab 2. Prereq: Epidemiology, NRSG
841, 842, 844, 871, and 872 or permission of instructor.
NRSG 848: Practicum in Managing and Evaluating Health of Populations. 5 cr.
Capstone course to examine in depth an individually selected aspect of
managing and evaluating the health of a population with emphasis on
application and synthesis of previous content. Sem 1, Lab 4. Pre- or co-req:
NRSG 841, 842, 844, 847, 871, 872, and Epidemiology, or permission of
instructor.
NRSG 849: Entrepreneurship For Health Care Providers, 2 Cr.
Examination of the introductory marketing, human resource
management, legal, tax, insurance, accounting and financing concepts
applicable to the organization and management of profitable business
ventures by self-employed health professionals and health professionals
employed by a variety of organizations providing health care services.
Seminar 2.
NRSG 851: Advanced Gerontological Nursing: Health Promotion, 3 or 6 cr.
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Focus on normal aging changes and comprehensive nursing assessment of
older adults’ health and functional status. Research-based interventions to
promote wellness, prevent illness and enhance self-care capacity. Design of
health promotion programs. Seminar 3, lab 3. Prereq: Adm. Graduate
Nursing Program or permission of instructor.
NRSG 852: Advanced Gerontological Nursing: Health Problems, 3-4 cr.
Selected clinical issues and health problems of older adults. Assessment
and research-based intervention within a rehabilitative framework for
advanced gerontological nursing practice. Clinical experience with
chronically ill and older adults. Lect. 3, lab 1. Prereq: NRSG 851 or
permission of instructor.
NRSG 853: Advanced Gerontological Nursing in the Aging Network, 3 cr.
Overview of health and social policy issues and initiatives relevant to older
adults. Study of continuum of health and social services available in
community. Emphasis on advanced nursing roles in providing care for
older adults and families. Prereq: NRSG 861 or permission.
NRSG 854: Advanced Practicum in Gerontological Nursing, 4-6 cr.
Opportunity to implement advanced gerontological nursing practice roles.
Objectives and activities determined in consultation with faculty. Focus on
case management. Seminar 1, lab 3-5. Prereq: NRSG 851, 852, 853 (and
888 for GNP students); Coreq: 855; and permission.
NRSG 855: Advanced Gerontological Nursing: Mental Health Assessment and
Intervention, 2-3 cr.
Foundations of theory-based gerontological mental health nursing practice.
Comprehensive assessment and individual and family-focused
interventions with older adult and family. Prereq: NRSG 851 or
permission.
NRSG 856: Advanced Geropsychiatric Nursing, 2 Cr.
Examination of issues and nursing management of selected psychiatric
mental health problems of older adults and their families based on
gerontological and psychiatric nursing knowledge. Seminar. Prereq:
NRSG 863, 867, 852, 853, or permission of instructor.
NRSG 858: Designing and Evaluating Learner-Centered Curricula, 3 Cr.
An analysis and understanding of pedagogical philosophies and
assumptions associated with adult learning and nursing education form
the basis for curricular and course development, implementation, and
evaluation. Attention will be given to the impact of current and future
external and internal forces on the development of curriculum, course
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content, and teaching/learning strategies. Students will explore best
practices and research based strategies to create an active learning
environment and support various learning styles that enhance student
retention and learning success for a diverse multicultural student
population. Prerequisites: Admission to graduate program or consent
of instructor.
NRSG 859: Teaching and Learning Strategies, 3 Cr.
Effective classroom and clinical teaching/learning strategies foster
sound clinical judgment, safe clinical practice, and professional role
development. In this course, students will develop theoretically-based,
teaching/learning strategies focused on individual learner needs within
the context of the traditional classroom and clinical learning
environment. Special attention will be given to the interplay between
different learning environments, learner needs, and learner evaluation.
Through reflective strategies, students will examine nursing behaviors
that promote professional role development. Pre-requisite/co-requisite:
NRSG 858: Designing and Evaluating Learner-Centered Curricula.
NRSG 860: Using Technology to Enhance Teaching and Learning Strategies, 3
Cr.
Technology offers numerous opportunities to enhance diverse
teaching/learning strategies. Using theories of education, students will
discuss and evaluate how the use of technology influences teaching,
learning, and evaluation strategies. Students will explore a variety of
technologies and their applicability to learning goals, active learning
strategies, and different learning environments such as clinical sites and
learning resource centers. Students will evaluate how teacher and
learner roles are influenced with the use of technology. Pre-
requisite/co-requisite: NRSG 858: Designing and Evaluating Learner-
Centered Curricula.
NRSG 861: Implementation of the Educator Role: Practicum, 3 Cr.
Various components of the educator role are implemented under the
guidance of a preceptor in an educational setting. Opportunities are
provided to utilize teaching and learning strategies, educational
research findings, and evaluation methods with diverse students.
Professional issues such as continuous quality improvement, health
care quality and safety, scholarship of teaching, and multicultural
workforce needs will be incorporated into accompanying modules.
Prerequisites: NRSG 858, NRSG 859, and NRSG 860.
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NRSG 862: Counseling Models in Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health
Nursing, 2-3 cr.
Application of counseling frameworks in the care of individuals, families,
groups, and communities representing diversity in culture, lifestyle, and
values. Emphasizes the counseling role of the psychiatric mental health
advanced practice nurse (PMHAPN) as well as the concepts underlying
nursing's practice of the counseling role, including ethical and legal
considerations. Lab focus on the development of individual and group
counseling skills for advanced nursing practice. Sem 2, Lab 0-1. Pre or co-
req: NRSG 801, NRSG 885 or permission of instructor.
NRSG 863: Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing with Adults, 2 or 4
cr.
The advanced nursing role in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and
management of psychiatric mental health problems in adulthood at the
individual, family, and community levels. Sem 2, lab 0 or 2. Prereq: NRSG
862; pre- or coreq: NRSG 867, 883; or permission of instructor.
NRSG 864: Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing with Children and
Adolescents, 2 or 4 cr.
The advanced nursing role in assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and
management of psychiatric mental health problems in childhood and
adolescence at the individual, family, and community levels. Sem 2, lab 0
or 2. Prereq: NRSG 862; pre- or coreq: 867, 883; or permission of
instructor.
NRSG 867: Neuroscience of Psychopharmacology for Advanced Practice
Nursing, 2 cr.
Emphasis on knowledge of neuroanatomy, neuroregulation,
psychopharmacological management of psychiatric problems and
promotion of well-being across the lifespan. Prerequisites or Corequisites:
NRSG 862 or permission of instructor.
NRSG 868: Practicum in Advanced Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, 1-8 cr.
Development of additional clinical skills, including advanced nursing
judgment, decision-making skills, and leadership. Specific learning
objectives and setting(s) determined in consultation with faculty. Lab 1-8.
Prereq: NRSG 862, NRSG 863, NRSG 864, NRSG 867, and NRSG 883; or
permission of instructor.
NRSG 869: Advanced Integrated Primary Health Care and Psychiatric Mental
Health Nursing, 5 cr.
Didactic content addresses nursing practice issues and health care
policies affecting delivery of primary and mental health care. Practicum
component integrates the knowledge and skills from primary care and
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psychiatric mental health care while managing patients with both
primary care and mental health problems. Lect. 1, Lab 4. Prereq: NRSG
887 and NRSG 864 or permission of instructor.
NRSG 871: Introduction to Health Informatics, 3 cr.
Explores analysis and evaluation of information systems in health care
organizations. Knowledge, skills, and abilities for using information
technology to make decisions emphasized. Emphasizes information
management and utilization within health systems. Seminar 3. Prereq.
NRSG 804, permission of instructor.
NRSG 872: Health Care Economics and Financial Management, 3 cr.
Examination of health care economic trends, reimbursement issues,
funding sources, and related ethical issues. Application of key principles
and methods of financial analysis, cost analysis, budgeting, and business
and grant planning. Sem 3. Pre- or co-req: NRSG 802 and 804, or
permission of instructor.
NRSG 873: Developing Systems and Infrastructures in Health Care
Organizations, 3-5 cr.
Exploration of leadership and management knowledge as they relate to
supporting and maintaining the mission of health care organizations.
Emphasis is on developing leadership skills, analyzing systems to promote
transitions, and managing units, departments, or programs strategically.
Lect 3, clin. lab. 2. Pre or co-req.: NRSG 802, 804, 841, 842, 844, 871,
872, or permission of instructor.
NRSG 874: Practicum in Managing and Evaluating in Health Care
Organizations, 4 cr.
Seminar and clinical management and evaluation experiences in a health
care organization. Emphasis is on developing leadership, management, and
evaluation skills, enhancing personal effectiveness, and integrating
knowledge into the practice role of a nursing administration specialist.
Lect. 1, Clin.lab. 3. Prereq: NRSG 841, 842, 871, 872 and 873.
NRSG 875: Health Informatics Systems Analysis and Design, 3 cr.
Information system development life cycle will be introduced with
emphasis on determination of nursing information requirements for
healthcare, analysis of information system needs, and design of a system to
meet healthcare information requirements. Lect. 2, lab 1. Prereq: NRSG
871, permission of instructor.
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NRSG 876: Practicum in Implementation, and Evaluation of Clinical
Information Systems, 4 cr.
Clinical information system implementation and support strategies will be
introduced with emphasis on documentation, training and educational
programming, and system maintenance. Information system testing and
evaluation strategies will be explored. Lect. 2, lab 2. Prereq: NRSG 875, or
permission of instructor.
NRSG 877: Database Design for Health Systems, 4 cr.
Data management strategies with emphasis on development of data and
information models that support health care systems. The course introduces
the conceptual and practical foundation necessary for analysis, design,
implementation, and use of information systems. Lect. 3, lab 1. Prereq:
Admission to program or permission.
NRSG 880: Complementary Therapies in Health Care, 2 cr.
Provides an understanding of theory, research and practice in a variety of
complementary health care modalities. Research, efficacy, cost and ethics
will be included. Seminar 2.
NRSG 882 Advanced Health Assessment, 3 cr.
Comprehensive, interval, and problem focused assessment of individuals
and families across the lifespan. Included are history-taking, physical
examination, health problem identification, and ambulatory care
procedures. Lab 3. Pre-req: NRSG 258 or equivalent undergraduate health
assessment course, admission to the Graduate Nursing Program and
permission of the instructor.
NRSG 883: Applied Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses, 3 cr.
Provides advanced clinical pharmacological management skills in
delivering health care. Addresses pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic
properties of medications recommended or prescribed in primary and other
health care settings. Prereq: Undergrad pharmacology course or
permission.
NRSG 884: Pharmacotherapeutics For Neonatal Care, 3 cr.
Principles of pharmacology for the neonate with the emphasis on nutrition,
pain management, medications in ventilation therapy, drug administration
and effects of prenatal substance abuse.
NRSG 885: Role Issues for the Advanced Practice Nurse, 1 cr.
The role of the primary care nurse practitioner within the health care
system, multidisciplinary health team and nursing is analyzed. Professional
and societal forces shaping primary health care and the nurse practitioner
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role are examined. Lect 1. Pre: Admission to Graduate Nursing Program
and permission of the instructor.
NRSG 886: Advanced Health Promotion, 3 cr.
Assessment and interventions for risk management, disease prevention, and
case findings for individuals and families across the lifespan. Lect 3. Pre-
requisite: Admission to the Graduate Nursing Program and permission of
the instructor. Twelve (12) months of recent full time clinical experience
per CON policy. Co-Req: NRSG 882.
NRSG 887: Primary Health Care of Young Families, 3-7 cr.
Knowledge and skills for providing primary health care to children and to
childbearing and childrearing families. Lect 3, Lab 3 or 4. Pre-requisite:
NRSG 886 and permission of instructor.
NRSG 888: Primary Health Care of Older Families, 3-6 cr.
Knowledge and skills for providing primary health care to middle-aged and
older families. Focus is on risk management and care of major acute and
chronic illnesses. Lect 3, Lab 3. Prerequisite: NRSG 886 or 851 and
permission of instructor.
NRSG 889: Advanced Primary Health Care of Families, 3-6 cr.
Comprehensive primary health care is provided to individuals and families
across the life span. Didactic content addresses advanced nursing practice
issues and policies affecting delivery of primary health care. Lect 1, Lab 5.
Prereq: NRSG 887, 888 and permission of instructor.
NRSG 890: Special Topics in Adult Health Nursing, 1-6 cr.
Independent study of selected clinical problems in the area of Adult Health
Nursing.
NRSG 892: Special Topics in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, 1-6 cr.
Opportunity to explore selected topics or clinical problems related to
advanced practice in psychiatric mental health nursing in depth. Either
independent study involving readings developed in consultation with
instructor, or seminar for which topics will vary depending upon the
interests of students and faculty. Prereq: Permission of instructor.
NRSG 893: Special Topics in Gerontological Nursing, 1-6 cr.
Opportunity to explore selected topics or clinical problems related to
advanced practice in gerontological nursing in depth. Either independent
study involving readings and/or clinical practicum developed in
consultation with instructor, or seminar for which topics will vary
88
depending upon the interests of students and faculty. Prereq: Permission of
instructor.
NRSG 894: Special Topics in Parent-Child Nursing, 1-3 cr.
Independent study course in which readings focus on selected concepts or
clinical problems that underlie advanced practice in parent-child health.
NRSG 895: Special Topics in Community Health Nursing, 1-6 cr.
Opportunity to explore selected topics or clinical problems related to
advanced practice in community health nursing in depth. Either
independent study involving readings and/or clinical practicum developed
in consultation with instructor, or seminar for which topics will vary
depending upon the interests of students and faculty. Prereq: Permission of
instructor.
NRSG 896: Research in Clinical Nursing, 1-2 cr.
Upon completion of this course, students will be prepared to apply new or
existing knowledge to: improve health care interventions and/or system
processes, initiate change, improve clinical practice, and/or monitor and
evaluate outcomes. Under supervision of graduate faculty, the student
engages in an evidence-based application project, and communicates the
project in writing and in a scientific forum. Prereq: NRSG 802 and
graduate statistics.
NRSG 897: Special Topics in Primary Health Care Nursing, 1-6 cr.
Provides opportunity to explore selected topics or clinical problems related
to advanced practice in primary health care nursing in depth. Either
independent study involving readings developed in consultation with
instructor, or seminar for which topics will vary depending upon the
objectives identified by students and faculty. Prereq: Permission of
instructor.
NRSG 898: Special Topics (Clinical) in Primary Health Care Nursing, 1-6 cr.
Provides opportunities for primary care nurse practitioner students to
obtain advanced clinical practice to augment basic skills or to explore a
specific clinical area in depth. All clinical experiences are under the
supervision of master clinicians. Prereq: Permission of instructor.
NRSG 899: Master's Thesis, 1-9 cr.
Independent student research directly related to thesis.
NRSG 901: Research Design and Methods I, 3 cr.
Focus is on common experimental and non-experimental designs
applicable to the investigation of nursing research questions.
89
Aims/hypothesis development, sampling, methods of data collection,
reliability and validity of measurement, data analysis, and issues related to
the use of human subjects specific to designs examined. Laboratories focus
on select analytic skills and techniques. Prerequisites: NRSG 902, NRSG
904, Pre or Co-requisite: ANOVA and regression , NRSG 906.
NRSG 902: Theory Development in Nursing and Health Care, 3 cr.
Opportunities to develop, analyze and test theories. This knowledge forms
the foundation for the development of conceptual and theoretical
frameworks from which hypotheses are generated and tested. Prereq: Adm.
to doctoral program in nursing or permission of instructor.
NRSG 904: Concepts in Health and Illness I, 3 cr.
Critical analysis of concepts from the physiological, psychosocial, and/or
health systems perspectives with synthesis of the literature and
identification of gaps in knowledge. Beginning development of concepts
and relationships for dissertation proposal. Prerequisite or concurrent:
NRSG 902 Pre or Co-requisite or permission of instructor.
NRSG 905: Advanced Seminar in Nursing, 2-3 cr.
Students focus on selected research problems, methods and/or other
specific topic areas. Topics will vary depending upon the needs and
interests of students. Doctoral students must take at least two semesters and
a minimum of 4 cr. Prereq: Adm. to doctoral program in nursing or
permission of instructor.
NRSG 907: Concepts in Health and Illness II, 3 cr.
Continued in depth study of selected concepts with emphasis on
relationship to other concepts and on measurement of concepts.
Prerequisite: NRSG 904.
NRSG 908: Research Design and Methods II, 3 cr.
Focus is on more complex experimental and non-experimental designs
applicable to the investigation of nursing research questions.
Aims/hypothesis development, sampling, methods of data collection,
reliability and validity of measurement, data analysis, and issues related to
the use of human subjects specific to the designs examined. Laboratories
focus on selected analytic skills and techniques. Prerequisite: Successful
completion of qualifying examination, NRSG 901; Co-requisite:
Multivariate Statistics. (2 sem. 1 lab)
NRSG 910: Health-Related Instrument Construction and Evaluation, 3 cr.
Provides a knowledge base and experience in the inductive and deductive
process for constructing and evaluating instruments to measure
90
psychosocial, behavioral, biophysiological and clinical phenomena. Lab
Prereq: Two statistics courses; either P-SM806 or P-SM808 or two courses
that meet requirements of the doctoral program or permission of instructor.
NRSG 914: Symptom Management for Acute and Chronic Illness, 3 cr.
Designed for doctoral students interested in developing and implementing
symptom management interventions for aggregate populations of patients
with acute and chronic illnesses. Emphasis will be on the fatigue, pain,
sleep disturbance, and dyspnea as individual symptoms or as a cluster of
symptoms. Lect 3. Prereq: NRSG 901, 902, 904, 907, 908 or permission
of instructor.
NRSG 916: Special Topics in the Management of Individual and Family
Responses to Acute and Chronic Illnesses, 1-6 cr.
Independent study or small seminar course focusing on research and theory
in the Management of Individual and Family Responses to Acute and
Chronic Illnesses. Prerequisites: Admission to a Doctoral Program.
NRSG 917: Special Topics in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, 1-6 cr.
Independent study or small seminar course focusing on research and theory
in the area of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. Prereq: Admission
to Doctoral Program.
NRSG 918: Special Topics in Health Systems, 1-6 cr.
Independent study or small seminar course focusing on research and theory
in the area of Health Systems Prerequisites: Admission to a Doctoral
Program.
NRSG 920: Grant Application and Management, 2 cr.
All aspects pertaining to the preparation of applications for research funds
are addressed, including funding sources, proposal writing and
administration of funded proposals.
NRSG 925: Healthy Lifestyle Behavior Theory and Interventions, 3 cr.
This course provides an opportunity for synthesis and integration of
knowledge regarding the phenomenon of healthy lifestyle behavior. The
focus is on critical examination of multidisciplinary theoretical and
empirical literature concerning selected frameworks/models of
determinants of behavior and intervention methods for healthy lifestyle
behavior change research. Emphasis is on applicability to research and
practice. Sem 3. Prereq: NRSG 901, 902, 907, 904 and statistics or
permission of instructor.
91
NRSG 926: Use of Technology to Deliver and Monitor Interventions and
Outcomes, 3 cr.
Develop and implement interventions and/or measuring outcomes for
aggregate populations using technologies. Evaluate the different types of
technologies used for specific applications and demonstrate an
understanding of the biopsychosocial theories that underpin the use of
technology. Develop expertise in using emerging and innovative
technologies with particular emphasis on store-and-forward technology;
self-monitoring/testing with technological devices; and technology to
deliver and monitor interventions. Lec. 3. Prereq: NRSG 901, 902, 904,
907, or permission of the instructor.
NRSG 927: Physical Activity in Clinical Research, 3 cr.
This course will focus on theoretical approaches and measurement issues in
the study of physical activity/exercise. Particular emphasis will be placed
on self-report and physiological measures in selected client populations and
settings. Practical issues of using technology in the design and
implementation of physical activity/exercise will be discussed. Lec. 3,
Prereq: Graduate level Exercise Physiology course, NRSG 901 and 904 or
permission of instructor.
NRSG 928: Interdisciplinary Outcomes Research, 3 cr.
This course focuses on measurement, management, and evaluation of
health care outcomes with a focus on the end-results of care. The Medical
Outcomes Study conceptual framework (Structure of Care, Process of
Care, and Outcomes) with an emphasis on the broad categories of outcome
types: clinical end points, functional status, general well-being, satisfaction
with care, and economic evaluations will be employed. The course
analyzes the system model of quality improvement as an alternate
paradigm for studying outcomes. Additionally, the design and use of
information systems for outcomes research will be integrated throughout
the course. Lect. 3. Pre-requisites: NRSG 901, 902, 904, 907, 908, and
multivariate statistics, or permission of the instructor.
NRSG 970: Doctoral Research Other Than Dissertation, 1-6 cr.
Each doctoral student participates in an ongoing research project (other
than dissertation) under the direction of faculty. Doctoral students must
take at least two semesters and a minimum of 4 credits.
NRSG 998: Doctoral Seminar, 1 cr.
Students actively participate in seminar discussion in the area of their
dissertation research, including but not limited to application of research
conceptualization and methods synthesis of work from prior courses.
Prereq: successful completion of qualifying examination. Cannot be taken
concurrently with NRSG 920. Doctoral students must enroll in this course
each semester between completion of NRSG 920 and successful
dissertation defense.
92
NRSG 999: Doctoral Dissertation, 1-9 cr.
Independent student research directly related to dissertation. This
course may be utilized before or after successful completion of the
comprehensive exam. Credit arranged with advisor.
93
APPENDIX III
College of Nursing Faculty and Educational Support Staff (Update as of 09/08)
(This list includes highest degree, year earned, and school where earned, UNMC
faculty title and division.)
Aguirre, Trina, BSN, RN, UNMC, Instructor, West Nebraska
Antonson, Rita, MSN, RN, 1998, UNMC, Instructor, Lincoln
Barnason, Susan, PhD, RN, 1992, UNL, Associate Professor, Lincoln
Barry, Teresa, PhD, 2007, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Bataillon, Pam, MBA, MSN, RN, Associate Professor, Assistant Dean,
Administration
Beam, Elizabeth, MSN, RN, 2004, UNMC, Instructor, Omaha
Beidler, Susan, PhD, MBE, APRN, BC, Associate Professor, Omaha
Bentz, Jeanne, MSN, RN, 1996, UNMC, Instructor, Kearney
Berger, Ann, PhD, RN, FAAN, 1996, UNMC, Professor and Dorothy Hodges Olson
Chair in Nursing, Director, Doctoral Program, Omaha
Bevil, Catherine, EdD, RN, 1978, Columbia University - New York, Professor &
Director of Continuing Nursing Education & Evaluation, Omaha
Bickerstaff, Kathleen, MSN, RN, 2000, UNMC, Instructor, Omaha
Binstock, Catherine, MSN, APRN, 1996, UNMC, Mobile Nursing Center,
Instructor, Omaha
Black, Joyce, PhD, RN, 1999, UNMC, Associate Professor, Omaha
Brage-Hudson, Diane, PhD, RN, 1990, UNL, Associate Professor, Lincoln
Bravo, Katherine, MSN, RN, 2004, UNMC, Instructor, Omaha
Brown, B. Jane, MSN, RN, 1995, UNMC, Instructor, West Nebraska
Buchanan, Lynne, PhD, RN, 1989, University of Washington, Associate Professor,
Omaha
Bull, Linda, MSN, RN, 1996, Clarkson College, Instructor, West Nebraska
Burge, Stephanie, MSN, RN, 1995, UNMC, Instructor, Kearney
Campbell-Grossman, Christie, PhD, RN, 1996, UNL, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
Chamberlain, Julie, MSN, RN, 1992, Creighton University, Instructor, Omaha
Chaperon, Claudia, PhD, APRN-BC, 2005, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Clark, Lissa, MSN, RN, 2000, UNMC, Instructor, Omaha
Cook, Ernestine, MSN, RN, 1976, UNMC, Instructor, Omaha
Cramer, Mary, PhD, RN, 1998, UNL, Associate Professor, Omaha
Crawford, Marilin, Nurse Specialist, Instructor, Lincoln
Cuddigan, Janet, PhD, RN, 1999, UNMC, Associate Professor, Omaha
Curtis, Andrea, Nurse Specialist, Instructor, West Nebraska
Dauel, Lois, MSN, APRN, 2005, UNMC, Instructor, Kearney
Davis, Rebecca, MSN, RN, 2004, UNMC, Instructor, Lincoln
Duncan, Kathy, PhD, RN, 1994, University of Nebraska, Associate Professor,
Lincoln
Eveloff, Dannette, MSN, RN, 1995, Creighton University, Recruitment Coordinator
Farris, Nancy, MSN, RN, 1986, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Filipi, Mary, PhD, APRN, 2005, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Fleck, Missy Ofe, MSN, RN, 1990, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
Fulwider, Jami, Nurse Specialist, Instructor, Lincoln
94
Grant, Janell, MSN, RN, APRN, Instructor, West Nebraska
Grigsby, Karen, PhD, RN, 1988, University of Texas at Austin, Associate Professor,
Omaha
Gross, Gloria, PhD, RN, 1986, UNL, Associate Professor
Head, Barbara, PhD, RN, 1997, University of Iowa, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Herboldsheimer, Amy, MSN, RN, Graduate Assistant, Scottsbluff
Hertzog, Melody, PhD, 1996, UNL, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
Hewitt, Larry, M.S., 1981, Wayne State College, Director, Student Services
Holyoke, Sharon, MSN, RN, APRN, 1971, University of Colorado, Assistant
Professor, Omaha
Houfek, Julia, PhD, RN, 1989, University of Texas at Austin, Associate Professor,
Omaha
Hulme, Polly, PhD, APRN, 1997, University of Iowa-Iowa City, Associate
Professor, Omaha
Jensen Jeremiah, MSN, APRN, 2005, UNMC, Instructor, Kearney
Jepsen, Diana, MSN, RN, 1991, Clarkson, Instructor, Omaha
Judy, Jan, MSN, RN, 1992, University of Wyoming, Instructor, West Nebraska
Kaiser, Katherine, PhD, RN, 1993, UNL, Associate Professor, Omaha
Kaiser, Margaret, PhD, RN, 2002, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Keating-Lefler, Rebecca, PhD, RN, 2001, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Kreman, Rebecca, PhD, RN, 2005 UNMC, Assistant Professor, West Nebraska
Kroeger, Roberta, MSN, APRN, 1995, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
LaFramboise, Louise, PhD, RN, 1998, University of Colorado, Associate Professor,
Director, Undergraduate Program, Omaha
Langdon, Kathleen, MSN, RN, 2005, UNMC, Instructor, Lincoln
Lehn, Rebekah, Assistant Professor 12 month, Omaha
Lindeman, Marlene, MSN, RN, 1980, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Linder, Denise, MSN, RN, 1998 UNMC, Instructor, Omaha
Lovejoy, Bruce, MSN, APRN, 2000, UNMC, Instructor, Omaha
Macnamara, Ruth, PhD, 1986, UNL, Associate Professor, Omaha
McCoy, Heidi, MSN, RN, 2006, Northwestern University, Instructor, Lincoln
McElvain, Donna MSN, RN, 1993, UNMC, Instructor, Lincoln
McGivney-Liechti, Karen, Instructor, Lincoln
Megel, Mary, PhD, RN, 1987, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Associate Professor,
Omaha
Meier, Nancy, MSN, RN, 2000, UNMC, West Nebraska
Mertz, Mary Ann, Assistant Professor, West Nebraska
Miller, Connie, PhD, RN, 2005, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Miller, Joella, MS, RN, 1989, Creighton University, Assistant Professor, Kearney
Morris, Kathy, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, 2007, University of Kentucky, Assistant
Professor, Omaha
Moyer, Leeza, Nurse Specialist, Instructor, Lincoln
Muhlbauer, Susan, PhD, APRN, 1999, UNL, Associate Professor, Omaha
Munn, Dawneane, PhD, RN, 1995, UNL, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
Nelson, Audrey, PhD, RN, 1994, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill,
Associate Professor, Omaha
Nickel, Kathryn, PhD, RN, 1997, University of Colorado Health Science Center,
Assistant Professor, Kearney
Nieveen, Janet, PhD, RN, 2001, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
95
Ott, Carol, PhD, RN, 1996, UNL, Associate Professor, Kearney
Pelish, Peggy, PhD, RN, 1988, UNL, Associate Professor, Omaha
Petersen, Mary, MSN, RN, 1997, UNMC, Instructor, Omaha
Pitkin, Steve, MN, RN, 1989, Wichita State University, Assistant Professor,
Assistant Dean, Kearney
Pozehl, Bunny, PhD, RN, 1990, UNL, Associate Professor, Lincoln
Pullen, Carol, EdD, RN, 1991, East Tennessee State University, Professor
Quinn, Debora, MSN, APRN, 2004, UNMC, Nurse Specialist, Instructor, Kearney
Rasmussen, Natalie, PhD, RN, 2000, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Reed, Jill, MSN, RN, 2000, UNMC, Instructor, Kearney
Rodehorst, Kim, PhD, RN, 2001, University of Wyoming, Assistant Professor, West
Nebraska Rustia, Janice, PhD, RN, 1970, UNL, Associate Professor,
Omaha
Ryan, Sheila A., PhD, RN, 1981, University of Arizona, Professor and Charlotte
Peck Lienemann & Alumni Distinguished Chair; Director, International
Programs, Lienemann and Alumni Distinguished Chair in Nursing, Omaha
Sams, Courtney, MSN, APRN, 2003, UNMC, Instructor, Omaha
Sand, Barbara, MSN, 1995, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
Sather, Linda, EdD, RN, 1992, Columbia University, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Schlife, Judith, MSN, RN, 1997, UNMC, Instructor, Lincoln
Schmaderer, Myra, MSN, RN, 1994, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
Schmitz, Rita, MSN, RN, 1983, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
Schulz, Paula, PhD, 2007, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
Schumacher, Karen, PhD, RN, 1994, UCSF, Associate Professor, Omaha
Seidl, Lucinda, MSN, RN, 1976, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
Seo, Yaewon, PhD, RN, 2006, Case Western, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Siedlik,Carri, MSN, RN, 2000, University of Missouri—Kansas City, Instructor,
Omaha
Sittner, Barbara, PhD, RN, 2002, UNL, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
Soper, Laurie, MSN, RN, 1997, CSU Bathurst, Instructor, West Nebraska
Stanley, Mary Jane, MA, RN, 1985, University of Iowa, Assistant Professor, Lincoln
Stuart, Nancy, MS, RN, 1987, Boston University, Instructor, Kearney
Sueper, Mary, MSN, APRN, 2004, UNMC, Instructor. Omaha
Tachenko-Achord, Shirley, MSN, APRN, 1995, UNMC, Assistant Professor,
Lincoln
Thompson, Cheryl Bagley, PhD, RN, 1992, University of Rochester, Associate
Professor, Assistant Dean for Informatics & Learning Technologies,
Omaha
Thompson, Sarah, PhD, RN, 1996, University of Kansas, Professor, Associate Dean,
Academic Programs, Omaha
Tilden, Virginia, DNSc, RN, FAAN, 1981, UCSF, Professor, Dean, College of
Nursing, Omaha
Trausch, Patricia, MS, RN, 1989, University of Colorado, Instructor, Kearney
Twiss, Janice, PhD, APRN, 1989, UNL, Associate Professor, Omaha
Tyser, Kathleen, MS, RN, 1986, Creighton, Instructor, Omaha
Vieth, Maxine, Part-time/Leased, Kearney
Visovsky, Constance, PhD, RN, ACNP, 2002, Case Western Reserve University,
Associate Professor, Director, Master’s Program, Omaha
Waibel-Rycek, Denise, MSN, RN, 1996, Creighton, Instructor, Kearney
96
Waltman, Nancy, PhD, RN, 1988, UNMC, Associate Professor, Lincoln
Weber, Rita, MS, RN, 1986, Creighton University, Instructor, Kearney
Weilgus, Kim, PhD, RN, APRN, 2007, UNMC, Assistant Professor, Omaha
Wells, Wendy, MSN, RN, 2001, UNMC, Instructor, West Nebraska
Wertz, Kirsten, MSN, RN, 2004, UNMC, Instructor, Lincoln
White, Alison, MSN, RN, Instructor, Omaha
Wiggins, Shirley, PhD, RN, 2002, University of Colorado Health Science, Assistant
Professor, Lincoln
Wilhelm, Susan, PhD, RN, 2001, University of Wyoming, Assistant Dean, West
Nebraska
Wilson, Peggy, PhD, RN, 1984, University of Florida-Gainesville, Associate
Professor
Yates, Bernice, PhD, RN, 1989, University of Washington, Associate Professor &
Associate Dean for Research
Zimmerman, Lani, PhD, RN, 1983, UNL, Professor, Chair, Lincoln
Emeriti Faculty
Atwood, Jan, PhD, RN, FAAN
Barr, Kathleen, PhD, RN
Barron, Cecilia, PhD, RN, 1980, Ohio State University, Emeritus Associate
Professor
Baun, Mara, DNSc, RN, 1977, University of California-San Francisco, Emeritus
Professor
Bergstrom, Nancy, PhD, RN, 1981, University of Michigan, Emeritus Professor
Billings, Judith, PhD, RN
Boyle, Rena, PhD, RN, 1953, University of Minnesota, Emeritus Professor of
Nursing
Corrigan, Marjorie, PhD, RN, 1975, Catholic University, Emeritus Associate
Professor
Craft, Betty, PhD, RN,
Crutchfield, Joyce, PhD, RN, 1986, UNL, Emeritus Associate Professor
Farr, Lynne, Ph.D.
Finn, Gwendlyn, MSN, RN, 1974, UNMC, Emeritus Assistant Professor
Foxall, Martha, PhD, RN, 1979, UNL, Emeritus Professor & Chair, Parent/Child,
Administration, Education, & Science Department
Garrett, Mary Jane, PhD, RN, 1991, UNL, Emeritus Assistant Professor
Grasser, M. Carol, PhD, RN,
Hays, Beverly, PhD, RN, 1990, Case Western Reserve University, Emeritus
Associate Professor, Omaha
Hedman, Lorraine, MPN, RN, 1962, UNO, Emeritus Assistant Professor
Heermann, Judith, PhD, 1988, UNL, Emeritus Associate Professor, Omaha
Hille, Gail, MSN, RN, 1973, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Emeritus
Instructor, Omaha
Horrell, Martha, MA, RN, 1963, Columbia University, Emeritus Assistant Professor
Hutchison, Doris, MSN, RN, 1970, Indiana University, Emeritus Assistant Professor
Kellett, Marguerite, MNAd, RN, 1958, University of Minnesota
Kentopp, Elizabeth, MSN, RN, 1975, UNO, Emeritus Assistant Professor
Kreman, Marie, EdD, RN, 1997, UNL, Emeritus Assistant Professor, West Nebraska
97
Lindsey, Ada, PhD, RN, 1977, University of Maryland, Emeritus Professor and
Dean, College of Nursing
McCabe, Barbara, PhD, RN
McMahon, Margaret, MS, RN, 1970, UNO, Emeritus Assistant Professor
McVay, Joan, MSN, MA, RN, 1986, Central Michigan University, Emeritus
Assistant Professor
Munchrath, Muriel, MSN, RN, 1969, University of Illinois, Emeritus Assistant
Professor
Schneckloth, Nancy, MSN, RN, 1975, UNMC, Emeritus Assistant Professor
Sedivy, Sybil, M.Ed., 1960, UNL, Emeritus Assistant Professor
Walker, Susan Noble, EdD, RN, 1981, Northern Illinois University, Emeritus
Professor & Chair, Gerontological, Psychosocial, & Community Health
Nursing Department
West, Cheryl, MS, RN, 1973, University of Arizona, Emeritus Assistant Professor
Westfall, Joan PhD, RN, 1990, UNL, Emeritus Assistant Professor
Yeaworth, Rosalee C., PhD, RN, 1970, University of Cincinnati, Emeritus Dean and
Professor
98
APPENDIX IV
99
100
101
INDEX
Academic Calendar ....................................................................................................3
Accreditation ...............................................................................................................6
Administration...........................................................................................................16
Admission .................................................................................................................18
Aid, Financial ............................................................................................................14
Auditing ....................................................................................................................26
BSN Program ............................................................................................................32
Candidacy, Graduate .................................................................................................46
Center, Nursing Research ..........................................................................................20
Center, Testing ..........................................................................................................12
Centers, Learning Resource ......................................................................................21
Commencement .........................................................................................................30
Counseling ................................................................................................................22
Credit, Transfer ...........................................................................................................9
Doctoral Program ......................................................................................................56
Employment ..............................................................................................................16
Examinations ....................................................................................................... 10-12
Facilities, Clinical......................................................................................................18
Faculty ........................................................................................................ 16, 69, 93
Fees, Testing .............................................................................................................12
Financial Aid .............................................................................................................14
Grading ....................................................................................................................27
Graduate Program ............................................................................................... 42, 76
Graduation .................................................................................................................30
Health Care.......................................................................................................... 17-18
History ......................................................................................................................5
Libraries .............................................................................................................. 17-20
Master’s Program ......................................................................................................42
Parking ....................................................................................................................22
Part-time Study..........................................................................................................26
Policies and Procedures, Academic ..........................................................................24
Probation ...................................................................................................................24
Records, Student .......................................................................................................31
Regents, Board of .............................................................................................. 5-9, 30
Registration ...............................................................................................................18
Residency ....................................................................................................................8
Resources, Learning ..................................................................................................21
Rights, Student ..........................................................................................................30
Scholarships ..............................................................................................................14
Services, Health .........................................................................................................21
Services, Student .......................................................................................................21
Student, International ..................................................................................................9
Students, Transfer................................................................................................ 11, 14
Testing ....................................................................................................................10
Transcripts ..................................................................................................... 10-12, 23
102
Transfer
of credit ................................................................................................................9
of campus...........................................................................................................29
Transportation .....................................................................................................18, 22
Tuition ........................................................................................................ 12-15, 26
Withdrawal ...................................................................................................... 9, 24-25
Veterans ........................................................................................................ 18-19, 22
103
104
NOTICE
Acceptance of registration by the University of Nebraska and admission to any
educational program of the university does not constitute or warranty that the
university will continue indefinitely to offer the program in which a student is
enrolled. The university expressly reserves the right to change, phase out of
discontinue any program.
The listing of courses contained in any university bulletin, catalog, or schedule is by
way of announcement only and shall not be regarded as an offer of contract. The
university expressly reserves the right to (1) add or delete course from its offerings,
(2) change times or locations of course or programs, (3) change academic calendars
without notice, (4) cancel any course for insufficient registrations, or degrees and
any other policy or regulation affecting student, including, but not limited to,
evaluation standards, whenever the same is considered to be in the best interests of
the University. Effective: June 8, 1985 Board of Regents.
105
