Nursing (NURS)

https://chhs.unh.edu/nursing/

Degrees Offered: M.S., D.N.P., Graduate Certificate

Programs are offered in Durham and online.

Graduate Program Offerings

Clinical Nurse Leader

Students graduate as an advanced generalist as a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) with a master of science degree. Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Clinical Nurse Leader national certification examination. The CNL is a role in the field of nursing designed to provide master's-prepared, point-of-care nurse leaders with the ability to manage and solve complex patient problems within a systems framework.

Evidence-Based Nursing

The Evidence Based Nursing (EBN) nursing track focuses on developing advanced generalist nursing practice in a focused area of study, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering life-long learning, and preparing students for the leading edge of health care knowledge and delivery. Students strengthen knowledge and skills in clinical decision making, the application of nursing interventions, and their ability to critique and appropriately use evidence as a foundation for practice. In this graduate track, students study nursing as an applied discipline, advancing their knowledge of theoretical perspectives for clinical practice, with an emphasis on leadership; the cultural, social, and political context of health and illness; and quality improvement methodologies. Students are mentored in the enactment of leadership strategies to improve quality care in nursing practice through an intensive clinical practicum.

Family Nurse Practitioner

This program prepares Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP) who are clinically competent and practice with cultural humility as advanced practiced registered nurse (APRN). FNPs provide patient centered health care to individuals, families, and communities across the life span. Clinical practice includes health promotion, disease prevention, teaching, counseling, and acute and chronic disease management. At the completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for national certification as a family nurse practitioner. Upon licensure, FNPs may practice autonomously as well as in collaboration with other health professionals..

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Master’s Degree Program (MS-AGACNP) will prepare the baccalaureate prepared nurse (BSN, RN) to practice as an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) and increase patient access to acute care medical and surgical services. Building upon a background in nursing, graduates can apply newly learned knowledge and skills within the acute care setting, including and not limited to hospitals and ambulatory care centers. Successful completion of this program permits students to sit for national certification with the AACN or ANCC.

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

This online Master’s program offers both full- and part-time options combines the convenience of online learning with high and low-fidelity simulation experiences, competency-based education, and guidance of expert faculty. Foundational and specialty courses are taught by faculty with expertise in the content areas with current and relevant clinical and scholarly experience. Upon completion of the foundational coursework, students will transition into the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specialty course portion of the program. Within the PMHNP specialty courses, students take aligned didactic coursework prior to transitioning into an immersive clinical practicum experience. Students complete a minimum of 750 clinical hours and participate in three intensives (two virtual and one on-campus) scheduled throughout the program. Upon successful program completion, graduates will be eligible to sit for the ANCC board certification exam for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan (PMHNP-BC).

Direct Entry Master's in Nursing

The Direct Entry Master’s in Nursing Program (DEMN) is a full-time, five-semester, 63-credit course of study designed for non-RN students who hold a B.S. or B.A. or higher degree in a field other than nursing and prepares them to practice as a Registered Nurse. The curriculum begins in January and includes two summer sessions. Students graduate as an advanced generalist with a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in nursing. Students are prepared to take the Clinical Nurse Leader certification examination in their final semester.

Post-Master's Certification Offerings

Post-Master's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program

This Post-Master’s Psychiatric-Mental Health Certificate Program (PM-PMHNP) is designed for the advanced practice nurse (APN) with a master’s or doctoral degree and at least one year of APN clinical practice experience who is seeking to effectively care for patients with complex psychiatric and physical health needs. The aim of the program is to prepare APNs to add advanced psychiatric nursing skills of diagnostic assessment, psychotherapy, prescribing psychiatric medications and ongoing management to treat patients with a range of psychiatric conditions.Courses embrace a lifespan perspective and address foundational neurobiology, psychiatric assessment and diagnosis, psychopharmacology,psychotherapeutic treatment, and ongoing clinical management of psychiatric conditions. Didactic coursework along with clinical experiences and coursework provide the student with an evidence-based framework for comprehensive psychiatric-mental health care. Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the ANCC board examination to become certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners.

Post-Master's Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program

The Post-Master's Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate (PM-FNP) program is designed for those individuals with a master's degree in nursing who wish to expand their practice into the role of a family nurse practitioner. The PM-FNP specialty area prepares nurses to provide comprehensive care that includes health promotion, maintenance and restoration for persons across the life span.

Post-Master's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters program (PM-AGACNP) will prepare the advanced practice nurse (APRN) to perform as an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) and increase patient access to acute care medical and surgical services within the region. With backgrounds as either nurse practitioners or master’s prepared nurses with significant acute or critical care clinical experience, graduates can apply newly learned knowledge and skills within the acute care setting, including and not limited to hospitals and ambulatory care centers.

Doctoral Offerings

The Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares nurses for the highest level of specialized nursing practice. DNP graduates are innovative leaders prepared to translate evidence into practice, improve systems of care and measure health outcomes in diverse settings. Students are required to plan, implement and evaluate a quality improvement project customized to support their unique aspirations.

We offer two pathways to the Online Doctor of Nursing Practice degree:

The Post Baccalaureate DNP (PB DNP) program is for nurses with a baccalaureate degree in nursing who are seeking leadership development and certification as a Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Leader.

 The Post Master’s DNP (PM-DNP) program is for nurses with a master’s degree in nursing who bring their own knowledge, interests, expertise, experience and insights to this leadership specialty. Students build on these assets while learning to create innovative solutions for health care settings.

The curriculum is designed for students working full-time and includes personal leadership development, systems theory, quality improvement, patient safety, health equity and design thinking to prepare transformative leaders to assume diverse roles and emerging opportunities.

Accelerated Master's Offerings

Graduate Program in Nursing Accelerated Master's

Qualified senior nursing students at the University of New Hampshire may be admitted to the Graduate School prior to graduation. A 3.2 cumulative grade-point average or higher is required to be considered for the accelerated master’s program. Seniors who have been admitted to the accelerated master’s program may register for a maximum of 12 graduate credits.

Students enrolled in the accelerated master's program must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.20, complete their undergraduate degree as planned, and pass graduate courses taken for credit with a grade of B- or better. If these conditions are not met, admission is withdrawn.

Students accepted to the accelerated master’s program follow the Clinical Nurse Leader or Evidence-Based Nursing track and are admitted with the stipulation that their RN license must be obtained prior to beginning any clinical course. Stipulation is removed upon verification of the RN license provided to the department of nursing.

Direct Entry Master's in Nursing Accelerated Master's Program for Current UNH Junior Students

The Direct Entry Master's in Nursing Program provides an opportunity for accelerated admission to the graduate program for full time undergraduate UNH students who are not current nursing students and meet admission criteria. Students may apply during the second semester of their junior year by the posted application deadline. Application review continues until all seats are filled. To be considered, undergraduate students must have completed all major requirements by the fall of their senior year. Up to 12 credits of Direct entry courses taken during the spring of the senior year of undergraduate program will fulfill elective credits to complete B.A./B.S. degree requirements at UNH. A grade point average of 3.2 or better is required. Previous course work is taken into consideration. Prerequisite courses include Human Anatomy & Physiology I and II with lab, Microbiology at the cellular level, and Statistics with a grade of B or better. Applicants who are in the process of completing a prerequisite course spring semester must have instructor submit grade to date directly to the Department of Nursing by April 8. Students who have not completed all prerequisite courses at the time of application may be admitted with the stipulation that all prerequisite courses are completed with a B or better prior to starting the program.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to meet with the DEMN program coordinator and their discipline-specific advisor early on in their undergraduate program to plan this course of study.

Admission Requirements

Individuals interested in the Graduate Program in Nursing at UNH apply to the University of New Hampshire Graduate School. Applicants must complete the Graduate School application, which can be found at www.gradschool.unh.edu. All applicants who are not native English speakers are required to demonstrate a sufficient level of proficiency in the English language to meet the admission requirement of the Graduate School. The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) and Miller Analogies Test (MAT) are not required.

Post-Master's Certification Admission Requirements

In addition to the standard Graduate School requirements, the Nursing Department requires:

Unencumbered, active RN license in the United States;
Master's degree in Nursing;
Two letters of reference. References should be substantial with one academic, if available, and one current professional with graduate education background. Letters of recommendation from family or friends are not acceptable;
Updated resume; and
Course description for any course you request waived, if taken outside UNH.

Nursing (NURS)

NURS 801 - Health Policy and Nursing Practice

Credits: 3

This course provides a comprehensive view of the nature and functions of health care services from a systems perspective and explores the role of nursing and other health professionals. Students examine the interaction and effect of social, political, economic, ethical, professional, legal, and technological forces on health care systems. The course emphasizes the analysis of emerging issues that have an impact on the health care system and nursing. Students process their role as nursing advocates.

Equivalent(s): NURS 806, NURS 901

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 807 - Pathophysiology and Pharmacology

Credits: 4

Theory course focuses on concepts of human pathophysiology and pharmacology relevant to professional nursing practice. Physiologic response and manifestations of alterations in normal body functioning are analyzed. Pharmacological agents used for these alterations are examined. Application of concepts across the lifespan are incorporated through the discussion of pathophysiology and pharmacology. Provides the foundation for the clinical decision-making and management of care. In addition, learners are introduced to the professional nurse's responsibility for educating clients about basic pathophysiology and pharmacology issues. Nursing majors only.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS #810 - Families in Health and Illness

Credits: 3

Seminar focusing on the family environment as a context for the experience of health and illness. Current middle-range theories and research from nursing and other disciplines analyzed for their application to family health. Public policy initiatives related to family health will be explored.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 811 - Clinical Reasoning Through Simulation

Credits: 2

The course further develops and refines critical thinking skills be student participation in increasingly complex simulated clinical scenarios and de-briefings. Students prepare for the care of patients in a simulated environment, using the nursing process, to demonstrate the effective delivery of planned patient care.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 812 - Advanced Pharmacology and Therapeutics

Credits: 3

Apply the concepts of pharmacology including pharmacotherapies, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacokinetics necessary for advanced level nursing education across the lifespan.

Equivalent(s): NURS #907, NURS 912

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 813 - Health Assessment and Clinical Nursing Theory

Credits: 0 or 4

This course is designed to provide the student with evidence-based knowledge related to acquiring the psychomotor and assessment skills required for the safe delivery of nursing care to the adult client. Students develop foundational skills applicable to achieving program outcomes. The focus of the course will be on developing beginning health assessment, and clinical nursing skills while implementing critical thinking, and application of the nursing process, highlighting fundamental nursing concepts as they pertain to providing and improving client care.

Co-requisite: NURS 813C

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 813C - Health Assessment and Clinical Nursing

Credits: 2

Care of the adult clinical is designed to provide the student with the opportunities to apply the nursing process and clinical judgment within an acute care setting to clients with commonly occurring disease states and those undergoing surgery. The experience focuses on the application of knowledge and skills, evidence-based practice, clinical judgment and relationship-centered care.

Co-requisite: NURS 813

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 814 - Advanced Health Assessment Across the Lifespan

Credits: 3

This course includes knowledge to complete a comprehensive history and health examination on individuals across the lifespan incorporates assessing wellness, screening, and chief complaint.

Equivalent(s): NURS 909, NURS 914

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 816 - Health Promotion Theory and Population Health

Credits: 3

Provides theoretical foundation and a framework for examining health promotion, population health, health equity and the implementation of community-based interventions. Using current data to improve outcomes. Students develop and evaluate evidence-based population health programs to empower community action.

Equivalent(s): NURS 916, NURS 944

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 818 - Foundations of Evidence Based Practice

Credits: 3

Provides a broad overview of evidence-based practice for advanced level nursing education.

Equivalent(s): NURS 918, NURS 968

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 820 - Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan

Credits: 3

Integrate an advanced understanding of concepts in human physiology and pathophysiology as a foundation for the advanced level nursing education.

Equivalent(s): NURS 908, NURS 913

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 822 - Chronic Disease Management

Credits: 3

Theory course that explores concepts and foundations relevant to the chronic illness experience as defined as individual/family perceptions, beliefs, attitudes and response to disease. Analysis of biophysical and psychological function on patient engagement, decision-making processes and ethical considerations of care will be explored. The course emphasizes concepts of self-care, patient agency, informed decision making and problem solving to achieve patient centered care.

Equivalent(s): NURS 825

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 826 - Caring for People with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness

Credits: 2

This theory course is designed to provide an understanding of the neurobiological and psycho-social concepts of mental health and illness, factors influencing human behavior and interaction, current somatotherapies, and the role of the psychiatric nurse as part of the interdisciplinary team. Previous course knowledge and communication skills provide a theoretical foundation in explaining, guiding, and predicting nursing action.

Co-requisite: NURS 826C

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 826C - Caring for People with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness Clinical

Credits: 2

This clinical course provides students with the opportunity to participate in collaborative and interdependent health care relationships with professional and paraprofessional mental health partners. A special focus is placed on the integration of personal knowledge. Therapeutic use of self, and professional communication skills inherent in nurse-client relationships.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 827 - Managing Acute and Complex Care of Individuals

Credits: 4

In this theory course students develop the knowledge base to refine their clinical judgment and decision-making skills in care of individuals from diverse populations with acute, critical, and chronic illnesses. Focuses on illness management, health restoration, and risk reduction in prototypic health care problems. Focuses on nurses' ability to use leadership skills and concepts of care collaboration with clients, families, peers, and members of the health care team to maximize client outcomes. Care experiences primarily center on the acute care environment.

Co-requisite: NURS 827C

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 827C - Managing Acute and Complex Care of Individuals Clinical

Credits: 2

In this clinical course students demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge to refine clinical judgment and decision-making skills while caring for individuals from diverse populations with acute, critical, and chronic illnesses. Focuses on illness management, health restoration, and risk reduction in prototypic health care problems. Focuses on nurses' ability to use leadership skills and concepts of care collaboration with clients, families, peers, and members of the health care team to maximize client outcomes. Care experiences primarily center on the acute care environment.

Co-requisite: NURS 827

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 831 - Childbearing and Childrearing Families

Credits: 2

This course offers students an opportunity to develop necessary knowledge, attitudes and skills required for the provision of safe care to developing families and their children, from an antenatal care through adolescence. This course focuses upon patient and family centered care, normal physiological human development, client advocacy and the provision of therapeutic, reflective nursing practice to support families along a wellness-illness continuum.

Co-requisite: NURS 831C

Equivalent(s): NURS 830

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 831C - Childbearing and Childrearing Families Clinical

Credits: 2

This clinical course focuses on the provision of health care for individuals within the context of the family during the childbearing and childrearing period. Healthy transitions and physical alterations are examined. This course integrates clinical opportunities in a variety of settings for the development of the advanced nurse generalist role.

Co-requisite: NURS 831

Equivalent(s): NURS 830C

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 835 - Leadership in Healthcare

Credits: 3

This course uses leadership as a guide for analyzing and attaining positive organizational health care outcomes. Careful consideration is given to the complex challenges of achieving quality care delivery and quality health outcomes for aggregates in an ever-changing, complex environment. Course content includes health systems analysis, shaping care delivery, and resource management. Course fosters student integration of knowledge in preparation for clinical nursing leadership responsibilities.

Equivalent(s): NURS 925

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 844 - Population Health

Credits: 3

Students examine the theoretical and empirical basis for health promotion and risk reduction assessment and interventions to improve population health outcomes. Health promotion and risk reduction are examined within an ecological perspective, including critical social, political, racial/ethnic, cultural and economic environments. Epidemiological and biostatistical approaches are used to analyze population data to identify and analyze the determinants of health, health promotion and risk reduction strategies, and to evaluate the distribution of health conditions.

Equivalent(s): NURS 944

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 850 - Foundations in Acute Care

Credits: 3

The first theoretical course preparing the student for the Adult-Gerontologic Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) role. The foundations of practice will explore the AGACNP role and transition, clinical documentation, and clinical practice. Clinical focus will include the topics of sepsis, shock, and cardiovascular emergencies. Didactic learning will occur through asynchronous learning consisting of multimedia, discussion boards, and case studies. This course may be taken with NURS 851: Foundations in Acute Care Clinical Practicum.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 851 - Foundations in Acute Care Clinical Practicum

Credits: 2

This clinical practicum course accompanies the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner didactic courses and will highlight experimental learning. Students will need to complete a minimum 100 precepted clinical hours. Additional requirements include entering clinical documentation and hours into Typhon. Students will continue to formulate clinical knowledge and problem solving using foundational courses of advanced pathophysiology, physical assessment, and pharmacology, in conjunction with didactic content. May be taken with NURS 850 or NURS 852 only.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 852 - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner I

Credits: 3

The second theoretical course for the preparation of the adult-gerontological acute care nurse practitioner. Clinical knowledge will focus upon cardiovascular and cardiothoracic diagnoses, diagnostics, and therapeutics in the adult and older adult. Course will also explore palliative care, end of life, and pronouncement. This course is to be taken in tandem with a AGACNP Clinical Practicum (I-IV).

Co-requisite: NURS 851

Prerequisite(s): NURS 850 with a minimum grade of B.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 853 - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner I Clinical Practicum

Credits: 2

Prerequisite(s): NURS 850 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 851 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 854 - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner II

Credits: 3

The third theoretical course for the preparation of the adult-gerontological acute care nurse practitioner. This course will focus on pulmonary, immune and hematopoietic disorders, diseases, and therapeutics. Additional focus on standards of care in airway management and respiratory support. This course is to be taken in tandem with a AGACNP Clinical Practicum (I-IV). Will also include simulation activity pertaining to airway and ventilator management. Course should be taken with NURS 853 or NURS 855 or NURS 857.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 850 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 851 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 855 - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner II Clinical Practicum

Credits: 2

Prerequisite(s): NURS 850 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 851 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 856 - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner III

Credits: 3

The fourth theoretical course with a focus on HEENT, neurology and associated trauma, psychosocial and behavioral disorders, and care pertaining to the musculoskeletal and integumentary systems. Additional emphasis will be placed on the healthcare system/care continuum and discharge planning. Course should be taken with NURS 853 or NURS 855 or NURS 857.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 850 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 852 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 854 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 851 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 857 - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner III Clinical Practicum

Credits: 2

Prerequisite(s): NURS 850 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 851 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 858 - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner IV

Credits: 3

The fifth and final theoretical course for the preparation of the adult-gerontological acute care nurse practitioner. Clinical practice knowledge will focus upon endocrine, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and nephrological disorders. Additional focus on quality improvement and evidence-based practice. Course should be taken with NURS 853 or NURS 855 or NURS 857 or NURS 859.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 850 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 852 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 856 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 851 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 859 - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner IV Clinical Practicum

Credits: 2

This final clinical practicum course accompanies the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner didactic courses and will highlight experimental learning. Students will complete a minimum 100 precepted clinical hours. Additional requirements include entering clinical documentation and hours into Typhon. Students will continue to formulate clinical knowledge and problem solving using foundational courses of advanced pathophysiology, physical assessment, and pharmacology, in conjunction with didactic content. This practicum can be taken in tandem with AGACP Clinical Practicums I-III.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 850 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 852 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 854 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 856 with a minimum grade of B and NURS 851 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 894 - Special Topics

Credits: 1-4

Formal course given on selected topics or special interest subjects. Several topics may be taught in one year or semester. May be repeated. Special fee on some sections.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS #900 - Foundations of Scholarly Writing & Professional Communication

Credits: 3

Reinforces composition and writing skills for academic purposes. Students utilize citations and references in APA 7th edition format to assert that work reflects larger body of literature on the topic of interest. Supports written communication of ideas to inform and persuade a reader on the topic. Effective communication is emphasized as an essential skill for healthcare professionals.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 902 - Advanced Physical Assessment

Credits: 2

This course focuses on providing the student with the knowledge and skills to perform a comprehensive health assessment. Emphasis is placed on physical, psychosocial, and cultural assessment necessary to perform a high quality health history, review of systems, and head-to-toe comprehensive physical exam for clinical decision making that can be communicated in both written and oral form to members of the multi-disciplinary health care team. The course builds on knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology.

Equivalent(s): NURS 909

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS #907 - Advanced Pharmacology & Therapeutics

Credits: 3

Provides the knowledge and skills to assess, diagnose, and pharmacologically manage a patient’s health problems in a safe, high quality, cost-effective manner. Emphasis on the development of therapeutic decision-making in drug selection for the patient based on health problems, individual variations, and economic considerations. Focus is on prescriptive practice, client education and monitoring therapeutic response to pharmacological agents in diverse clients across the lifespan.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 908 - Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan

Credits: 3

Provides an advanced understanding of concepts in human physiology and pathophysiology as a foundation for the advanced nursing practice role. Concepts related to biological sciences including cell biology, tumor biology, immunology, genetics, and pathology will be presented. The focus of this course is on principles, theories, and current research related to physiological and pathophysiological system alterations across the lifespan.

Equivalent(s): NURS 820

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 910 - Genomics & Ethics

Credits: 3

This course focuses on application of principles of genetics and genomics. The impact and challenges of genomics on health and outcomes, quality and safety of patient care are explored.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 912 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 913 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 914 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 911 - Diagnosis & Management - Diagnostic Reasoning

Credits: 3

This course emphasizes acquiring and analyzing relevant data to develop a comprehensive assessment for advanced practice nursing encompassing metacognition, clinical reasoning, differential diagnosis, and diagnostic error.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 912 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 913 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 914 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 910 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 915 - Leadership, Role & Collaboration

Credits: 3

Focuses on theories and principles of leadership, interprofessional collaboration, change management and systems thinking to improve outcomes. Students gain a historical perspective of the expanded roles of nursing as well as the evolution of advanced practice nursing.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 917 - Biostats and Epidemiology

Credits: 3

Application and interpretation of statistical and epidemiological techniques appropriate for health sciences. Prepares students to think quantitatively and assess data critically. Examines principles of statistical inference and their application to the analysis and interpretation for answering practice questions. Students gain experience in interpreting quantitative data.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 920 - FNP Health Management I - Didactic

Credits: 3

This course focuses on a patient centered comprehensive assessment, differential diagnosis, diagnostic reasoning, and plan of care of wellness, acute, and chronic conditions for the adult and geriatric populations.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 820 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 812 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 814 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 911 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 921 - FNP Health Management I - Clinical

Credits: 4

This supervised clinical experience in the primary care management of patients includes biopsychosocial assessment, history taking, physical exam, development of differential diagnoses and evidence-based care. A preventative and wellness focused perspective is utilized for integration into practice. (250 clinical hours).

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 922 - FNP Health Management II - Didactic

Credits: 3

In this course a family centered comprehensive assessment, differential diagnosis, diagnostic reasoning, and plan of care of wellness, acute, and chronic conditions from infant to adolescence.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 923 - FNP Health Management II - Clinical

Credits: 4

A supervised clinical experience in the primary care management of the child and adolescent with a preventative and wellness focused perspective including biopsychosocial assessment, history taking, physical exam, development of differential diagnoses and evidence-based care. (250 clinical hours).

Prerequisite(s): NURS 820 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 812 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 814 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 911 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 920 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 921 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 922 (may be taken concurrently) with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 924 - FNP Health Management III - Didactic

Credits: 3

This course focuses on diagnostic reasoning and decision making of women's health and complex health population based on theory, evidence, ethics, and equity.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 820 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 812 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 814 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 911 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 920 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 921 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 922 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 923 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 926 - Clinical Nursing Leadership Scholarly Project I

Credits: 3

This course focuses on the integration of systems thinking when engaged in clinical nursing leadership. Emphasizes the development of the clinical nurse leader role at the micro-system level and with an aggregate focus (e.g., long term care; community/public health agencies; ambulatory care clinics; health centers; schools; and acute care settings). Online discussions focus student reflection on leadership experiences and emerging issues in health care delivery systems. Min 167 clinical hours.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 927 - Clinical Nursing Leadership Scholarly Project II

Credits: 3

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 928 - Clinical Nursing Leadership Scholarly Project III

Credits: 3

This course requires students to complete a scholarly project that defines and/or implements strategies that will address/resolve a substantive nursing practice issue that impacts the quality and safety of patients. As the capstone course for the clinical nurse leader nursing track, the students are required to complete and present this scholarship project under the direction of course faculty and/or a masters-prepared preceptor in the clinical agency. A minimum 167 clinical hours is expected for a total of a minimum 500 clinical hours required for eligibility for ANCC Clinical Nurse Leader Certification.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 933 - Applied Analytics for QI in Health Care

Credits: 3

Demonstrate the ability to reflect on one's own learning. Use technology to improve learning and understand models of health care systems. Application of theory, review of the literature and population data to frame the QI change project to drive cost-effective safe care.

Equivalent(s): HMP 933

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 935 - FNP Health Management I - Didactic

Credits: 3

Emphasis on thorough assessment, physical and mental health exam, differential diagnosis, diagnostic reasoning and plan of care for individual common conditions with a focus on wellness. Apply behavior change theory to improve health and ethical principles to care of patients. Role development toward independent practice.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 911 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 936 - FNP Health Management I - Clinical

Credits: 3

Clinical practice preceptorship with faculty oversight to develop physical and mental health exam, differential diagnosis, diagnostic reasoning and plan of care for individuals with common conditions. Integration of behavior and wellness theory into practice, wellness, and prevention. Seek out clinical experience for prevention and common illness. Practice with respect and dignity.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 935 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 937 - Primary Care of Families II

Credits: 3

Lecture/discussion course covering the primary care management of children across the health-illness continuum, including assessment and management of common acute and chronic clinical problems. A developmental perspective is taken to examine child-health evaluation and maintenance from infancy through adolescence.

Co-requisite: NURS 938

Prerequisite(s): NURS 935 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 936 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 938 - Primary Care of Families II Practicum

Credits: 3

Supervised clinical experience in the primary care management of the child and adolescent, including assessment and management of common acute and chronic clinical problems. A family-centered developmental perspective is taken to provide child-health services from infancy through adolescence. Nursing care, family, and rehabilitation issues related to various health problems are investigated in practice.

Co-requisite: NURS 937

Prerequisite(s): NURS 935 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 936 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 939 - Seminar and Practicum in the Primary Care of Families III

Credits: 6

Final integrative clinical course that allows for intensive application of primary care knowledge and skills in practice. Seminar allows for in-depth analysis of various clinical problems, scope of practice and professional role issues. This course provides students the opportunity to develop objectives for their own learning experiences in order to complete their individual achievement of the family nurse practitioner expected outcomes. Course provides the opportunity for extensive clinical experience under the guidance of a preceptor.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 937 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 938 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 940 - FNP Health Management III - Clinical

Credits: 4

This is a supervised clinical experience in women’s health and complex patients synthesizing evidence-based practice and technologies to improve community and population health outcomes (250 clinical hours).

Prerequisite(s): NURS 820 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 812 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 814 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 911 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 920 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 921 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 922 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 923 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 924 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 943 - Fundamentals of Quality Improvement & Safety in Healthcare

Credits: 3

This course introduces the fundamentals of quality improvement and safety at the microsystem level while learning applied clinical microsystem theory.

Equivalent(s): NURS 953

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 952 - Clinical Nursing Leadership

Credits: 2

This seminar course focuses on the integration of systems thinking when engaged in clinical nursing leadership. Emphasizes the development of the clinical nurse leader role at the micro-system level and with an aggregate focus (e.g., long term care; community/public health agencies; ambulatory care clinics; health centers; schools; and acute care settings). Seminars focus student reflection on leadership experiences and emerging issues in health care delivery systems.

Co-requisite: NURS 952C

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 952C - Clinical Nursing Leadership Clinical

Credits: 6

This clinical course focuses on the integration of systems thinking when engaging in clinical nursing leadership and the application of systems theory in analyzing dynamic health systems. This course immerses the student in a clinical microsystem to facilitate the development of the clinical nurse leader role with an aggregate focus (e.g., long term care, community/public health agencies; ambulatory care clinics; health centers; schools; and acute care settings).

Co-requisite: NURS 952

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 953 - Promoting Quality Management

Credits: 3

This course focuses on frameworks for the collection and analysis of quality data. Students are introduced to the creation and execution of action plans for quality improvement at the microsystem level. Changing processes, structures and outcomes using date are emphasized.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 955 - Evidence Based Nursing Scholarly Project I

Credits: 3-12

Students acquire the specialty knowledge and skills required in the area of their master's study. Students work with their faculty mentor to propose performance competencies, learning activities, settings, and resource persons for this supervised practicum. Practicum must include a minimum of 112 hours of supervised practice. May be repeated. Must hold RN license in state of practicum.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 956 - Evidence Based Nursing Scholarly Project II

Credits: 3

This course requires students to focus on nursing practice issues and to work as individuals or groups to develop solutions. As the capstone course for the evidence-based nursing track, the students are required to complete this scholarship project under the direction of a faculty member. Must hold RN license in state of project.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 955 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 958 - Clinical Nurse Leader Capstone

Credits: 6

This 6 credit capstone (200 hour) course requires students to complete a scholarly project that defines and/or implements strategies that will address/resolve a substantive nursing practice issue that impacts the quality and safety of patients. As the capstone course for the clinical nurse leader nursing track, the students are required to complete and present this scholarship project under the direction of course faculty and masters-prepared preceptor in the clinical agency. Prereq: majors only, all previous nursing courses in the CNL track.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 960 - Healthcare Finance Management

Credits: 3

This course explores healthcare finance from the perspective of managing healthcare services. Students develop the knowledge and understanding of financial principles to make decisions in the current economic state of healthcare delivery. Sound fiscal responsibilities are taught within the context of legal and ethical considerations, and students learn to examine financial statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements in order to make administrative decisions regarding operations and resource allocation.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 964 - Information Systems and Technology Improvement

Credits: 3

Focuses on nursing informatics knowledge and skills needed to assess, evaluate, and optimize health information systems/technology to support communication, the delivery of high-quality care, and improvement of population health. Emphasis on health care technology design and implementation that addresses industry-specific requirements and the integration of data and systems.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 966 - Creative Leadership: Embracing Disruption and Innovation

Credits: 3

Leaders in healthcare must possess dynamic skills that enable them to guide their organizations and teams through tough times of change. This course will address innovation strategy, creativity and complexity as well as a traditional focus on personal leadership development. Students will learn how to approach issues that arise in the workplace, evaluate strategic challenges in healthcare and self-assess personal leadership skills. Tools will be used to develop solutions specific to challenges facing healthcare leaders today.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 967 - Evidence Based Practice Methods

Credits: 3

Application and evaluation of clinical evidence to drive practice decisions that result in high quality care and are cost effective. Identify a problem, plan change to improve a process or outcome, or develop innovative solutions related to health care delivery.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 968 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 968 - Foundations of Evidence Based Practice

Credits: 3

Provides a broad overview of evidence-based advanced practice nursing. Philosophical, conceptual, and theoretical perspectives as well as research methods are examined. Explore the application knowledge to inform, evaluate, and translate evidence for practice.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 969 - Health Systems Policy, Economics & Financial Planning

Credits: 3

Provides a comprehensive, systems thinking approach to include policy, economics and financial principles to promote high quality the health care delivery to individual, populations and communities. Focuses on healthcare issues and advocacy, which influence patient centered policy development and implementation.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 970 - Clinical Practicum for Advanced Practice Nurse

Credits: 2

This clinical practicum is designed to provide the student with the opportunity to implement the role of the advanced practice nurse while under the supervision of other health care professionals in practice. Student will focus on clinical application of knowledge in a self-designed practicum. Student may complete up to 250 clinical practicum hours in this course, and may repeat this course one time.

Repeat Rule: May be repeated for a maximum of 4 credits.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 973 - Quality & Safety

Credits: 3

Explores the theoretical foundations and application of quality improvement methods, tools and strategies needed to increase organizational effectiveness. Focuses on measurement and accountability in health care delivery systems through the examination and analysis of data, structures, processes, and outcomes. Prepares students to lead and practice in organizations that advance high reliability principles, patient safety, interprofessional teamwork, and continuous learning.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 977 - Neurobiology of Mental Disorders Across the Lifespan

Credits: 2

This course builds on the advanced provider’s knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology, focusing on major mental disorders across the lifespan. Disorders are examined including various factors such as developmental, genetic, injury, trauma, infection, degeneration, and substance use disorders. Complex networks necessary for maintaining homeostasis within the brain and between the brain and body are examined in relation to these disorders.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 978 - Psychopharmacology of Mental Health Disorders Across the Lifespan I

Credits: 2

This course provides an overview of the principles and best practices for using psychopharmacology to treat mental disorders across the lifespan. Clinical uses, neuropharmacological mechanisms, risks, benefits, and outcomes of commonly used psychotropic drugs in the context of a comprehensive treatment plan will be explored. This course requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills to apply psychopharmacologic principles for treating chronic and acute clinical conditions across the lifespan. Part 1 of a 2- part course.

Co-requisite: NURS 991

Prerequisite(s): NURS 977 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 983 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 979 - Psychopharmacology of Mental Health Disorders Across the Lifespan II

Credits: 2

Co-requisite: NURS 992

Prerequisite(s): NURS 978 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 977 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 983 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 991 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 980 - Doctoral Scholarly Project I

Credits: 3

This course focuses on models and methods of translating evidence into practice, including synthesis of evidence, program planning and evaluation, and preparation of an evidence-based research proposal. Students lay the foundation for their DNP Scholarly Project and may begin their 500 required clinical hours.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 981 - Doctoral Scholarly Project II

Credits: 3

This course encourages further exploration and analysis of the selected client, population, and/or system. Students use their own evidence-based analysis and data from either clinical practice and/or epidemiological studies to guide the design and implementation of the practice dissertation including human subjects review, intervention and analysis. The course includes a clinical practice immersion in the DNP role.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 980 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

NURS 982 - Doctoral Scholarly Project III

Credits: 3

This final course focuses on interpretation and presentation of findings of the DNP Project and a clinical immersion. Students identify additional goals and activities to meet the minimum requirement of 500 practicum hours.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 981 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 983 - Foundations of Psychiatric-Mental Health Practice and Assessment

Credits: 3

This course provides an introduction to standardized bio-psycho-social data collecting tools and psychiatric rating scales will provide structure for the assessment/interview process. Students will further their development and progression of mental disorders with an overview of the classification system in the DSM 5 and introduction of medical/psychiatric disorders. The culmination of these activities is designed to foster critical thinking and help students develop a broader view of mental disorder formulation.

Co-requisite: NURS 977

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 986 - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Practicum I

Credits: 2

This course provides students an opportunity to synthesize and apply psychotherapeutic theories and concepts as they develop interview and assessment skills. (Minimum of 150 clinical hours and successful navigation of course competencies).

Co-requisite: NURS 990

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 987 - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Practicum II

Credits: 3

This course provides the student with knowledge and skills to perform advanced clinical differential diagnoses and management of individuals with mental disorders across the lifespan reinforcing knowledge of the diagnostic criteria of the DSM-5 and application of psychopharmaceutical and treatment planning skills. (Minimum of 200 clinical hours and successful navigation of course competencies).

Prerequisite(s): NURS 978 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 977 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 983 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 979 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 991 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 992 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 990 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 986 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 988 - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Practicum III

Credits: 3

This course will provide an opportunity to apply and synthesize psychiatric principles and policies with targeted information on management of complicated care and crisis management. Course will continue to build on previously attained competencies from clinical and didactic coursework (Minimum of 200 clinical hours and successful navigation of course competencies).

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 989 - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Practicum IV

Credits: 3

This course provides the student with knowledge and skills to synthesize all advanced KSA’s for patients with mental disorders across the lifespan to include knowledge of the diagnostic criteria of the DSM-5, application of psychopharmaceutical skills, and therapeutic modalities ensuring evidenced based practice, optimal outcomes, and adherence to ethical guidelines. It will assist the novice PMHNP with bridge to practice competencies. (Minimum of 200 clinical hours and successful navigation of course competencies).

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

Special Fee: Yes

NURS 990 - Mental Health & Special Populations

Credits: 3

This course will enhance the student’s understanding of addiction medicine and the effects of trauma from a microscopic, mesoscopic, macroscopic, and generational perspective. By weaving elements of basic science, assessment, and diagnosis, students will learn to understand and manage these disorders by integrated knowledge to propose evidenced based approaches for treatment. Special attention will focus on co-occurring disease processes and treatment approaches.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 991 - Diagnosis & Management of Mental Health Disorders Across the Lifespan I

Credits: 3

The advanced provider will develop knowledge, skills, and competencies to perform advanced clinical impressions, diagnostic differential diagnosis, and management of individuals with mental disorders across the lifespan. By using evidence-based research, bio-psychosocial formulations and best practice, students will acquire knowledge of the diagnostic criteria of the DSM-5. Students will also focus on the foundational elements and strategies used to care for individuals with mental health disorders using psychotherapeutic modalities. Part 1 of a 2-part course.

Prerequisite(s): NURS 983 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 977 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 992 - Diagnosis & Management of Mental Health Disorders Across the Lifespan II

Credits: 3

Prerequisite(s): NURS 977 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 983 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 978 with a minimum grade of B- and NURS 991 with a minimum grade of B-.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS 996 - Independent Study

Credits: 1-3

Opportunity for study and/or practice in an area of choice. Objectives are developed by students and must be approved by faculty. May be repeated.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

NURS #997 - Clinical Placement Continuation

Credits: 0

This course represents the continuation of the online Post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practitioner clinical placement courses (NURS 976 and NURS 985). PM-PMHNP students who are registered for one of those courses are also registered for NURS #900 and are considered enrolled. The grade for each course is awarded upon completion of the clinical placement experience. Registration requires departmental permission.

Grade Mode: Not graded

NURS 999 - Doctoral Scholarly Project Completion

Credits: 0

The purpose of this course is to provide DNP students with the support and resources necessary to complete their scholarly project when course work has been completed but they have not completed the project phase.

Grade Mode: Graduate Credit/Fail grading

Special Fee: Yes

Nursing Department Faculty