Full Course Description List:

NURS Courses

(5 credits)

Improvement of healthcare delivery in the United States relies on many factors, such as effective nurse advocacy through politics, policy, and professional associations. But advocacy depends on the ability to fully understand current issues, systems, policies, and related contexts. In this course, students engage in a systems-level analysis of the implications of healthcare policy on issues of access, equity, affordability, and social justice in healthcare delivery.

Through policy analysis assignments students apply legislative, regulatory, and financial processes relevant to their organization and provision of healthcare services in their community. Students consider the impact of these processes on quality and safety in nursing practice environment and disparities in the healthcare system. Through this course, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for vulnerable populations and promote positive social change. 

Note: BSN students must take this course first in their sequence.

(5 credits)

Improvement of healthcare delivery in the United States relies on many factors, such as effective nurse advocacy through politics, policy, and professional associations. But advocacy depends on the ability to fully understand current issues, systems, policies, and related contexts. In this course, students engage in a systems-level analysis of the implications of healthcare policy on issues of access, equity, affordability, and social justice in healthcare delivery.

Through policy analysis assignments, students apply legislative, regulatory, and financial processes relevant to their organization and provision of healthcare services in their community. Students consider the impact of these processes on quality and safety in nursing practice environment and disparities in the healthcare system. Through this course, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for vulnerable populations and promote positive social change.

Note: RN-MSN students must take this course first in their sequence.

(5 credits)

Improvement of healthcare delivery in the United States relies on many factors, such as effective nurse advocacy through politics, policy, and professional associations. But advocacy depends on the ability to fully understand current issues, systems, policies, and related contexts. In this course, students engage in a systems-level analysis of the implications of healthcare policy on issues of access, equity, affordability, and social justice in healthcare delivery. Through policy analysis assignments students apply legislative, regulatory, and financial processes relevant to their organization and provision of healthcare services in their community. Students consider the impact of these processes on quality and safety in nursing practice environment and disparities in the healthcare system. Through this course, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for vulnerable populations and promote positive social change. 

Pre-requisites

• NURS 3000

(5 credits)

Professionals often use information technology to support clinical and managerial decision making in the field of healthcare. Students in this course explore these information technology applications through a variety of written and practical assignments. They focus on information technology that supports the delivery of services, including the collection, storage, retrieval, and communication of data; information systems safeguards; ethical and legal issues; and information management to promote patient safety and quality of care. Students also share examples of information literacy and discuss why it is important to the practice of nursing. Additionally, students identify basic hardware and software components and explore fundamental software applications, including spreadsheets and healthcare databases.

BS in Communication

Pre-requisites

• COMM 1010

All Other Programs

Pre-requisites

• NURS 3005

(5 credits)

A major responsibility of nurses is to help ensure safe administration of medication by having an in-depth understanding of drug categories and how each type interacts with other drugs in the body. In this course, students explore foundational pharmacologic principles and topics, including key drug actions and interactions, effects of various categories of drugs, and pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Through case studies and other functional applications, students learn about the pathophysiology related to major health problems across the lifespan and the pharmacologic management of those problems. They examine the cellular aspects of disease, pathophysiological signs and symptoms, and dynamics of body defenses. Students also consider pathopharmacological implications in the practice of nursing.

Pre-requisites

• NURS 3010

(5 credits)

Through this course, students have the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills required to collect data related to assessment of individual health status. They learn the physical examination skills of inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation used to assess major body systems across the lifespan. They gain practical experience using interviewing techniques and communication skills for taking patient histories, and they discuss the psychological, social, and cultural aspects of clinical assessment. Additionally, students consider the integration of data to guide the nursing process and ethical guidelines. Engaging in interactive simulations, students apply knowledge and demonstrate understanding of conducting health assessments.

Pre-requisites

• NURS 3100

(6 credits)

(6 credits)

(5 credits)

(5 credits)

(6 credits)

In this course, students are provided with an overview of the evolution of nursing as a profession and introduced to their new role as scholar-practitioners. They examine changes in the U.S. healthcare delivery system, the importance of information technology, and measures that promote quality, safety, and better health outcomes in patient care. Students consider major issues and trends in contemporary nursing and healthcare practice, including the influence of socioeconomic, ethical, legal, and political variables and professional values. Through weekly discussions and assignments, students explore and share personal experiences in the context of contemporary nursing issues, such as the nursing shortage, workforce challenges, healthcare financing, professional organizations, and diversity. They are challenged to examine and propose solutions to these nursing issues in addition to those in their workplace. Students reflect on Walden's mission of social change and its impact on their future nursing practice as a scholar-practitioner. Because this is the first nursing course within the RN/BSN program, students learn to use Walden University's resources to enhance writing skills. Students are also introduced to the tools essential to success at Walden.

(6 credits)

In this course, students are provided with an overview of the evolution of nursing as a profession and introduced to their new role as scholar-practitioners. They examine changes in the U.S. healthcare delivery system, the importance of information technology, and measures that promote quality, safety, and better health outcomes in patient care. Students consider major issues and trends in contemporary nursing and healthcare practice, including the influence of socioeconomic, ethical, legal, and political variables and professional values. Through weekly discussions and assignments, students explore and share personal experiences in the context of contemporary nursing issues, such as the nursing shortage, workforce challenges, healthcare financing, professional organizations, and diversity. They are challenged to examine and propose solutions to these nursing issues in addition to those in their workplace. Students reflect on Walden's mission of social change and its impact on their future nursing practice as a scholar-practitioner. Because this is the first nursing course within the RN/BSN program, students learn to use Walden University's resources to enhance writing skills. Students are also introduced to the tools essential to success at Walden.

(5 credits)

Nursing informatics supports nursing practice in education, administration, research, patient safety, quality outcomes, core standards, and nurse-sensitive outcomes. In this course, students emphasize the meaningful use of information technology in the delivery of nursing services, including the collection, storage, retrieval, and communication of data; information system safeguards; ethical and legal issues; and information management to promote patient safety and quality of care.

Pre-requisites

• NURS 3100

(5 credits)

Nursing informatics supports nursing practice in education, administration, research, patient safety, quality outcomes, core standards, and nurse-sensitive outcomes. In this course, students emphasize the meaningful use of information technology in the delivery of nursing services, including the collection, storage, retrieval, and communication of data; information system safeguards; ethical and legal issues; and information management to promote patient safety and quality of care.

Pre-requisites 

• NURS 3100

(5 credits)

(5 credits)

Nurses must understand research in order to effectively participate in the provision of evidence-based nursing care. Students in this course learn the foundational elements of the research process, refine information literacy skills, and develop an understanding of ethical research. Students investigate each step of the research process and complete a critical examination of quantitative and qualitative research relevant to their nursing practice. Students are given the tools to analyze nurse-sensitive indicators and clinical practice guidelines.

RN-BSN Track Students Pre-requisites

• NURS 3100
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002

RN-BSN-AIM Track Students Pre-requisites

• NURS 3100
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002; cannot be taken with NURS 5052

(5 credits)

Nurses must understand research in order to effectively participate in the provision of evidence-based nursing care. Students in this course learn the foundational elements of the research process, refine information-literacy skills, and develop an understanding of ethical research. Students investigate each step of the research process and complete a critical examination of quantitative and qualitative research relevant to their nursing practice. Students are given the tools to analyze nurse-sensitive indicators and clinical practice guidelines.

Pre-requisites

• NURS3101
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002

(5 credits)

Nurses engage in research to stay up-to-date on the changing scope of healthcare as well as new methods and best practices in providing quality care to patients. Students in this course learn the basic elements of the research process. They also learn how scholar-practitioners use these elements to discover new knowledge and models for applying evidence to inform clinical decisions and improve nursing practice and patient outcomes. They consider the ethical conduct of research and scholarly work as well as the nurse's role in the collection, documentation, analysis, interpretation, dissemination, and utilization of research data. Students apply course concepts as they research a current problem in nursing practice, propose solutions for change, and synthesize literature that supports their proposed changes.

Pre-requisites

• NURS 3020

(5 credits)

Nurses engage in research to stay up-to-date on the changing scope of healthcare as well as new methods and best practices in providing quality care to patients. Students in this course learn the basic elements of the research process. They also learn how scholar-practitioners use these elements to discover new knowledge and models for applying evidence to inform clinical decisions and improve nursing practice and patient outcomes. They consider the ethical conduct of research and scholarly work as well as the nurse's role in the collection, documentation, analysis, interpretation, dissemination, and utilization of research data. Students apply course concepts as they research a current problem in nursing practice, propose solutions for change, and synthesize literature that supports their proposed changes.

(5 credits)

Nurses play a critical role in the care of patients with major acute and chronic health problems. They are accountable for clinical outcomes and for promoting quality and safety in patient care through the use of information technology. Students in this course will examine their role in the evaluation of nurse-sensitive indicators, standards, and core measures to develop an evidence-based practice approach to care. Students explore the relationship of genetics and genomics to health and illness as well as infection-control issues. The nurse's role in palliative and end-of-life care and complementary and alternative therapies is also explored. Students apply course concepts and demonstrate an understanding of nursing interventions and agency policy to improve nursing practice.

Pre-requisites

• NURS 3100
• NURS 3150
• NURS 4100 or NURS 5052
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002

(5 credits)

Nurses play a critical role in the care of patients with major acute and chronic health problems. They are accountable for clinical outcomes and for promoting quality and safety in patient care through the use of information technology. Students in this course will examine their role in the evaluation of nurse-sensitive indicators, standards, and core measures to develop an evidence-based practice approach to care. Students explore the relationship of genetics and genomics to health and illness as well as infection-control issues. The nurse's role in palliative and end-of-life care and complementary and alternative therapies is also explored. Students apply course concepts and demonstrate an understanding of nursing interventions and agency policy to improve nursing practice.

Pre-requisites

• NURS 3101
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002
• NURS 3151

(7 credits)

The focus of this course is on application of theories and concepts from nursing and public health sciences in assessing health status and preventing and controlling disease in families, aggregates, and communities as clients. The use of epidemiological and community assessment techniques to examine populations at risk, health promotion, and levels of disease prevention with special emphasis on ethnically diverse and vulnerable populations are incorporated. Major local, state, and national health issues are considered, including mental health and substance abuse and related co-morbidities, re-emergence of infectious and communicable diseases, environmental and occupational health hazards, bioterrorism, emergency preparedness, and disaster response.  Practice experiences provide relevant learning opportunities in population-based health promotion in your own community.

Pre-requisites

• NURS 4005

(7 credits)

The focus of this course is on application of theories and concepts from nursing and public health sciences in assessing health status and preventing and controlling disease in families, aggregates, and communities as clients. The use of epidemiological and community assessment techniques to examine populations at risk, health promotion, and levels of disease prevention with special emphasis on ethnically diverse and vulnerable populations are incorporated. Major local, state, and national health issues are considered, including mental health and substance abuse and related co-morbidities, re-emergence of infectious and communicable diseases, environmental and occupational health hazards, bioterrorism, emergency preparedness, and disaster response.  Practice experiences provide relevant learning opportunities in population-based health promotion in your own community.

(5 credits)

Through this course, students widen their perspectives of promoting health and preventing disease as they examine health issues that transcend national borders, class, race, ethnicity, and culture. Students discuss the role of the nurse in preserving and promoting health among diverse populations as well as their role in illness prevention and health promotion, protection, and maintenance of targeted populations. They also explore principles of epidemiology and the influencing sociopolitical factors that impact health and well-being of humankind. Students engage in assignments designed to provide practical application of content on topical issues, such as infant mortality rates in the United States and abroad, infectious or communicable disease, implications of global climate change on health, among others. Finally, students consider and reflect on the nurse's role as a leader in transforming the future of the world's health.

Pre-requisites

• NURS 4010

(7 credits)

This focus of this course is on building the knowledge and key competencies essential to successful leadership and influence in an evolving healthcare delivery system. Students in this course emphasize increasing self-awareness in the context of organizational challenges and individual motivation; distinguishing leadership from management, team building, strengthening interpersonal communication, and interdisciplinary effectiveness; shaping a preferred future for nursing; translating strategic vision into action; as well as developing skills in implementing and managing organizational change. Specific learning opportunities include case studies, a battery of self-assessments and 360-degree feedback instruments, and exposure to top-level leaders in nursing and healthcare. Students' practice experiences provide relevant learning opportunities in quality improvement and leadership development in students' own practice environment.

Pre-requisites

• NURS 4015

(7 credits)

This focus of this course is on building the knowledge and key competencies essential to successful leadership and influence in an evolving healthcare delivery system. Students in this course emphasize increasing self-awareness in the context of organizational challenges and individual motivation; distinguishing leadership from management, team building, strengthening interpersonal communication, and interdisciplinary effectiveness; shaping a preferred future for nursing; translating strategic vision into action; as well as developing skills in implementing and managing organizational change. Specific learning opportunities include case studies, a battery of self-assessments and 360-degree feedback instruments, and exposure to top-level leaders in nursing and healthcare. Students' practice experiences provide relevant learning opportunities in quality improvement and leadership development in their own practice environment.

(5 credits)

Nurses are expected to engage in evidence-based practice. As scholar-practitioners, students in this course learn to use evidence in clinical decision making to promote a safe healthcare environment. Students apply course concepts as they identify a current problem in nursing practice and synthesize and evaluate literature, as well as identify changes in practice. Students analyze clinical guidelines and nurse-sensitive indicators in establishing quality and safety initiatives. Students utilize quality improvement models in promoting changes in practice.

RN-BSN Track Students Pre-requisites

• NURS 3100
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002
• NURS 3150 or NURS 3151

All Other Programs Pre-requisites

• NURS 3150

(5 credits)

Effective nurse advocacy is essential to the improvement of health in the United States. In this course, students learn about the power of advocacy through politics, policy, and professional associations. Students gain an understanding of how current issues, systems, policies, and related contexts impact advocacy. They engage in a system-level analysis of healthcare policy issues of access, equity, affordability, and social justice. Students perform healthcare policy analysis by applying research as well as legislative, regulatory, and financial processes in order to positively impact the quality and safety of nursing practice in the healthcare system. Through this course, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to be empowered to advocate for vulnerable populations and promote social justice and positive social change.

Pre-requisites

• NURS 3100

(5 credits)

5 credits

5 credits

5 credits

Students in this course will widen their perspectives related to promoting health and preventing disease as they examine health issues that transcend national borders, class, race, ethnicity, and culture. Students evaluate the role of the nurse in preserving and promoting health among diverse populations as well as the role in illness prevention and health promotion, protection, and maintenance of targeted populations. They also explore principles of epidemiology and the influencing sociopolitical factors that impact health and well-being of humankind. Students engage in assignments designed to provide practical application of content on topical issues, such as infant mortality rates in the United States and abroad, infectious or communicable disease, and implications of global climate change on health, among others. Finally, students consider and reflect on the nurse's role as a leader in promoting positive social change in transforming the health of populations in the world.

Prerequisites

• NURS 3100
• NURS 3150
• NURS 4100 or NURS 5052

5 credits

5 credits

5 credits

Students in this course focus on application of theories and concepts from nursing and public health sciences in assessing health status, preventing and controlling disease, and promoting a healthier population by working with families, aggregates, communities, and healthcare systems. Students apply system thinking by using epidemiological and community assessment techniques to examine  at-risk populations, health promotion, and levels of prevention with special emphasis on ethnically diverse and vulnerable populations. Major local, state, and national health issues are considered, including communicable disease, chronic illness, environmental and occupational health, bioterrorism, emergency and disaster preparedness and response. Practice experiences provide learning experiences in population-based health promotion by collaborating with interdisciplinary public health partners in a local community.(1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.)

Prerequisites

• NURS 3100
• NURS 3150
• NURS 4100 or NURS 5052
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002

Note: RN-BSN Track and RN-BSN-AIM Track students must complete NURS 4210 before NURS 4220.

5 credits

Students in this course focus on application of theories and concepts from nursing and public health sciences in assessing health status; preventing and controlling disease; and promoting a healthier population by working with families, aggregates, communities, and healthcare systems. Students apply systems thinking by using epidemiological and community assessment techniques to examine populations at risk, health promotion, and levels of prevention with special emphasis on ethnically diverse and vulnerable populations. Major local, state, and national health issues are considered, including communicable disease, chronic illness, environmental and occupational health, bioterrorism, emergency and disaster preparedness, and response. Practice experiences provide learning experiences in population-based health promotion by collaborating with interdisciplinary public health partners in a local community. (1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.)

Prerequisites

• NURS 3101
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002
• NURS 3151

5 credits

This course addresses the baccalaureate prepared nurse’s role in advancing population health. Students will focus on strategies to reduce health inequities, identify social determinants of health, improve health promotion, and disease prevention for culturally diverse, vulnerable populations; thereby improving the health of local, national, and global communities. Students consider the role of nursing in strengthening population health through effective collaboration across healthcare settings.  

BSN Prerequisites:

• NURS 4151

BSN AIM Prerequisites:

• NURS 5051
• NURS 5052

5 credit

5 credits

Contemporary nurses who wish to influence the current healthcare system must equip themselves with the knowledge and competencies to lead in times of pressure, constant change, and innovation. Quality Improvement science provides a rich set of tools and techniques and has been adopted by most nursing leaders. Nurses are expected to lead with quality improvement knowledge and competencies. Students in this course work toward gaining these skills by focusing on real practice problems and developing evidence-based solutions. They also learn skills and techniques in team building; strengthening interpersonal, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration; promoting meaningful use of data to gauge improvements and problem solving; translating day to day practice problems to long term strategy for organizational growth; and identify strategies to manage organizational change. Students apply course concepts through case studies. Through this practice experience, students gain professional knowledge from nursing leaders in practice the application of quality improvement science. (1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.)

Prerequisites

• NURS 3100
• NURS 3150
• NURS 4100 or NURS 5052
• STAT 3100 or PSYC 3002
• NURS 4210
• NURS 4005 

Note: RN-BSN Track and RN-BSN-AIM Track students must complete NURS 4210 before NURS 4220.

5 credits

Contemporary nurses who wish to influence the current healthcare system must equip themselves with the knowledge and competencies to lead in times of pressure, constant change, and innovation. Quality Improvement science provides a rich set of tools and techniques and has been adopted by most nursing leaders. Nurses are expected to lead with quality improvement knowledge and competencies. Students in this course work toward gaining these skills by focusing on real practice problems and developing evidence-based solutions. They also learn skills and techniques in team building; strengthening interpersonal, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration; promoting meaningful use of data to gauge improvements and problem solving; translating day to day practice problems to long term strategy for organizational growth; and identify strategies to manage organizational change. Students apply course concepts through case studies. Through this practice experience, students gain professional knowledge from nursing leaders in practice the application of quality improvement science. (1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.)

Prerequisites

• NURS 3100
• NURS 3150
• NURS 4100 or NURS 5052
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002
• NURS 4210
• NURS 4005

Note: RN-BSN Track and RN-BSN-AIM Track students must complete NURS 4210 before NURS 4220.

5 credits

Contemporary nurses who wish to influence the current healthcare system must equip themselves with the knowledge and competencies to lead in times of pressure, constant change, and innovation. Quality Improvement science provides a rich set of tools and techniques and has been adopted by most nursing leaders. Nurses are expected to lead with quality improvement knowledge and competencies. Students in this course work toward gaining these skills by focusing on real practice problems and developing evidence-based solutions. They also learn skills and techniques in team building; strengthening interpersonal, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration; promoting meaningful use of data to gauge improvements and problem solving; translating day to day practice problems to long term strategy for organizational growth; and identify strategies to manage organizational change. Students apply course concepts through case studies. Through this practice experience, students gain professional knowledge from nursing leaders in practice the application of quality improvement science. (1 credit of practicum equates to 72 clock hours of student practice experience hours.)

Prerequisites

• NURS 3101
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002
• NURS 3151
• NURS 4211
• NURS 4006

5 credits

The Capstone course provides students an opportunity to apply previously learned knowledge and skills with their baccalaureate education in the identification and implementation of a scholarly nursing project. Students will complete 100 hours in a clinical practice setting and develop an evidence-based, patient-centered nursing project focused on a health care environment of their choosing. This course will culminate with a presentation of their project to peers and others in the practice and academic community. 

BSN Prerequisites:

• NURS 4106
• NURS 4110
• NURS 4212

BSN AIM Prerequisites:

• NURS 4106
• NURS 5050
• NURS 4212

5 credits

5 credits

In today's rapidly changing healthcare delivery system, decisions made within the political arena impact the future of health delivery systems, healthcare professionals, and the populations they serve. In this course, students examine the policy process and its impact on healthcare delivery, cost, quality, and access. Students examine the importance of getting healthcare issues on federal and state agenda, investigate governmental response through legislation and regulation, and identify where they can advocate for positive outcomes in program/policy design, implementation, and evaluation. Global health issues are examined for their relevance and impact on the development of the nurse advocate. Through discussions, reflection, case studies, and the application of professional communications techniques as political tactics to influence policy outcomes, students demonstrate integration of policy decision-making into professional nurse practice for the benefit of individuals and populations.

RN-BSN-AIM Track Students

Prerequisites

• NURS 3021
• NURS 3025
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002

Note: 11-week graduate course.

5 credits

Nursing informatics is essential to the provision of effective and efficient care. This course examines nursing informatics as a nursing competency and a nursing specialty. Students examine the role of the nurse informaticist in current practices related to the collection, access, and use of health information and knowledge, as well as the implementation of clinical systems. Through this course, students gain an understanding of how informatics is used to improve advanced nursing practice and healthcare outcomes across organizations, public health, and consumer health settings.

Prerequisites

• NURS 3021
• NURS 3025 (may be concurrent)

Note: 11-week graduate course.

5 credits

Nurses base practice on sound and tested evidence to ensure the safety, high quality, and cost-effectiveness of patient care. This course provides students the opportunity to gain a better understanding of evidence-based practice (EBP) and how it interacts and aligns with research and quality improvement. Students will examine how to use databases to discover evidence and how to apply their knowledge of research methodologies to critically appraise literature. They will also examine opportunities to strengthen their synthesis and integration skills to determine whether a change in practice is needed, based on a body of evidence. Through exploration of implementation, evaluation, and dissemination strategies, students will explore the intricacies of leading and mentoring change within an organization to enhance nursing practice.

Prerequisites

• NURS 3021
• NURS 3025
• STAT 3001 or PSYC 3002

Note: 11-week graduate course.

4 semester credits

Students in this course are provided with an introductory understanding of elementary statistics for social scientists as well as an introduction to social science research. Statistical methods include computation and analysis of frequency distributions, measures of central tendency, understanding of basic probability, and understanding of the normal curve, as well as conceptual understanding of effect sizes, probability value, and the correlation coefficient. Research methods include understanding basic language associated with research, such as the difference between theory and hypothesis, the nature of variables, and different research designs. Students learn to read research critically.

Note: This course is for semester-based master's level students.

1 credit

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students receive a foundation for the student's academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. Course assignments focus on the practical application of writing and critical-thinking skills and the integration of professional practice with professional and academic excellence as they relate to practice in nursing.  

3 credits

Students will receive a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. Course assignments introduce students to resources that support success, development of graduate-level writing skills and use of APA Style, academic integrity, and the creation of a professional development plan based on each student's chosen specialization. Additionally, information and requirements for the MSN Practicum are introduced.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): RN Track Prerequisites

• NURS 4221

All Other Programs Prerequisites

• None

3 credits

Students will receive a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. Course assignments introduce students to resources that support success, development of graduate-level writing skills and use of APA Style, academic integrity, and the creation of a professional development plan based on each student's chosen specialization. Additionally, information and requirements for the MSN Practicum are introduced.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): RN Track Prerequisites

• NURS 4221

All Other Programs Prerequisites

• None

3 credits

In this course students are introduced to Walden University and online learning. Students explore strategies for the successful participation in an online curriculum. Students also will receive a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. Course assignments introduce students to resources that support success, development of graduate-level writing skills and use of APA Style, academic integrity, and the creation of a professional development plan based on each student's chosen specialization.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): RN Track

Prerequisites

• NURS 4221

All Other Programs

Prerequisites

• None

Note: This version of NURS 6003 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.

5 credits

In today's rapidly changing healthcare delivery system, decisions made within the political arena impact the future of health delivery systems, healthcare professionals, and the populations they serve. In this course, students examine the policy process and its impact on healthcare delivery, cost, quality, and access. Students examine the importance of getting healthcare issues on federal and state agenda, investigate governmental response through legislation and regulation, and identify where they can advocate for positive outcomes in program/policy design, implementation, and evaluation. Global health issues are examined for their relevance and impact on the development of the nurse advocate. Through discussions, reflection, case studies, and the application of professional communications techniques as political tactics to influence policy outcomes, students demonstrate integration of policy decision-making into professional nurse practice for the benefit of individuals and populations.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N

MSN Other Specializations

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

5 credits

In today's rapidly changing healthcare delivery system, decisions made within the political arena impact the future of health delivery systems, healthcare professionals, and the populations they serve. In this course, students examine the policy process and its impact on healthcare delivery, cost, quality, and access. Students examine the importance of getting healthcare issues on federal and state agendas, investigate governmental response through legislation and regulation, and identify where they can advocate for positive outcomes in program/policy design, implementation, and evaluation. Global health issues are examined for their relevance and impact on the development of the nurse advocate. Through discussions, reflection, case studies, and the application of professional communications techniques as political tactics to influence policy outcomes, students demonstrate integration of policy decision-making into professional nurse practice for the benefit of individuals and populations.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

Note: This version of NURS 6050 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.

5 credits

Nursing informatics is essential to the provision of effective and efficient care. This course examines nursing informatics as a nursing competency and a nursing specialty. Students examine the role of the nurse informaticist in current practices related to the collection, access, and use of health information and knowledge, as well as the implementation of clinical systems. Through this course, students gain an understanding of how informatics is used to improve advanced nursing practice and healthcare outcomes across organizations, public health, and consumer health settings.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N

MSN Other Specializations

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

5 credits

Nursing informatics is essential to the provision of effective and efficient care. Students in this course examine nursing informatics as a nursing competency and a nursing specialty. Students examine the role of the nurse informaticist in current practices related to the collection, access, and use of health information and knowledge, as well as the implementation of clinical systems. Through this course, students gain an understanding of how informatics is used to improve advanced nursing practice and healthcare outcomes across organizations, public health, and consumer health settings.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

Note: This version of NURS 6051 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.

5 credits

Nurses base practice on sound and tested evidence to ensure the safety, high quality, and cost-effectiveness of patient care. This course provides students the opportunity to gain a better understanding of evidence-based practice (EBP) and how it interacts and aligns with research and quality improvement. Students will examine how to use databases to discover evidence and how to apply their knowledge of research methodologies to critically appraise literature. They will also examine opportunities to strengthen their synthesis and integration skills to determine whether a change in practice is needed, based on a body of evidence. Through exploration of implementation, evaluation, and dissemination strategies, students will explore the intricacies of leading and mentoring change within an organization to enhance nursing practice.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N

MSN Other Specializations

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

5 credits

Nurses base practice on sound and tested evidence to ensure the safety, high quality, and cost-effectiveness of patient care. This course provides students the opportunity to gain a better understanding of evidence-based practice (EBP) and how it interacts and aligns with research and quality improvement. Students examine how to use databases to discover evidence and how to apply their knowledge of research methodologies to critically appraise literature. They also examine opportunities to strengthen their synthesis and integration skills to determine whether a change in practice is needed, based on a body of evidence. Through exploration of implementation, evaluation, and dissemination strategies, students explore the intricacies of leading and mentoring change within an organization to enhance nursing practice.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

Note: This version of NURS 6052 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.

5 credits

Students in this course will develop leadership skills to transform nursing and adapt organizations in response to the turbulent healthcare environment. They will develop and apply theory-based leadership competencies to create the organizational cultures needed to achieve quality patient outcomes. Students will also explore evidence-based strategies to create healthy work environments that empower nurses and build collaborative interprofessional teams.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Specializations

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002N or NURS 6003N

MSN Other Specializations

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

5 credits

Students in this course develop leadership skills to transform nursing and adapt organizations in response to the turbulent healthcare environment. They develop and apply theory-based leadership competencies to create the organizational cultures needed to achieve quality patient outcomes. Students also explore evidence-based strategies to create healthy work environments that empower nurses and build collaborative interprofessional teams.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

Note: This version of NURS 6053 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.

4 semester credits

The primary goal of leaders in nursing is to achieve excellence in the delivery of patient services. In this course, students work toward gaining the knowledge and skills required to lead and manage in the nursing profession. They examine organizational, managerial, and leadership theories, and they discuss standards of practice for nursing administration. They also examine roles and responsibilities, quality improvements, strategic planning and management, regulations, and the function of information systems. Students observe practical applications in nursing administration through field experiences in practice settings. They also sharpen writing and critical-thinking skills through application-based writing assignments, such as a business plan proposal, journal entries, and a reflection from the perspective of a nurse administrator.

5 credits

This course sets the foundational stage for the Nurse Executive specialty track. Students focus on theoretical and practical aspects of leadership in healthcare contexts, and they discuss professional standards of practice for nursing leadership. They explore components of the redesign or reformation of healthcare delivery and performance. Through this course, students synthesize the responsibilities of the nurse leader in the achievement of healthcare outcomes.

MSN Nurse Executive Specialization

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
• NURS 6050
• NURS 6051
• NURS 6052
• NURS 6053 (may be concurrent)

Post-Master's Certificate in Nurse Executive

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

4 semester credits

In this course, students explore applications of financial principles in developing, budgeting, and managing resources. Students analyze budgeting processes used in healthcare settings, budgeting models and information systems, nurse administrator responsibilities in finance and budgeting, and the impact of private and public policies. They also examine budget and resource decisions that contribute to the achievement of organizational and nursing service outcomes. Students engage in field experiences in which they observe individuals in practice settings who are involved in key financial activities. Additionally, students gain hands-on experience developing financial elements of a business plan for an organization, including a financial statement, revenue and volume projections, reimbursement codes and rates, among others.

5 credits

Students in this course examine the fundamentals of finance and economics in healthcare delivery. They explore different ways to analyze financial data and interpret the results of those analyses. They explore budgeting and financial management tools in the context of the nurse leader's role in the management of operational and capital resources. They examine the influence of policies and budgetary assumptions on the provision of health services. Students also explore budget and resource decisions contributing to the achievement of organizational outcomes within the context of providing efficient and cost-effective quality care.

4 semester credits

One of the most important skills in the healthcare industry is the ability to manage the individuals who provide service and deliver care. Students in this course examine the roles and responsibilities of nurse administrators in human resource management. They explore and discuss current legal, ethical, professional, and practice policies and standards as well as the role of technology to support human resource functions. They also examine strategies that support positive organizational and nursing-service goals. Additionally, students observe human resource administrators within a healthcare organization to observe how they provide support to employees and align responsibilities to the strategic goals of the organization. Students use course concepts and knowledge gained from field experiences to complete various practical-application assignments.

5 credits

Nursing leadership is grounded firmly in managing our most important resource—human capital. In this course, students address nurse executives' role and responsibilities in human resource management. Students explore recruitment and selection of human resources while ensuring current legal, ethical, professional, and practice systems and procedures align with organizational strategies, outcomes, policies and standards. They consider how to apply technology to support human resource functions. Additionally, students examine strategies to support positive organizational and nursing service goals. They also have the opportunity to gain an understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusion, staff engagement, and empowerment, as well as creating collaborative and supportive partnerships within organizations.

5 credits

This course will examine health care quality assurance and risk management and the methods that are utilized to achieve improvements in health care organizations. Topics will include: the link between patient safety and legal and regulatory compliance; the role of accreditation organization requirements in patient safety; evidenced-based outcomes and standards of care; the development and archiving of reports, data and device evidence in medical error situations; and managing patient safety compliance through credentialing of health care professionals.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6201
• NURS 6211
• NURS 6221
• NURS 6231
• NURS 6241

5 credits

This course will cover compliance regulations resulting from federal and state laws governing health care in various settings. Students will learn the essential elements of an effective compliance program and how to implement them. Topics will include: setting up and maintaining a compliance program, the role of the health care compliance officer, investigating, reporting, enforcement and discipline, and ethics in compliance management.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6201
• NURS 6211
• NURS 6221
• NURS 6231
• NURS 6241

5 credits

In this course, students will consider the evolution of the U.S. healthcare system and health policy. Topics covered include current challenges in the delivery of healthcare and the future of the healthcare system. Perspectives for analyzing health and healthcare will be introduced with a focus on advocacy, activism, workplace influences, and the impact of technologies on healthcare, variations in medical practice, and quality of healthcare delivery.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6050

5 credits

This course serves as an introduction to major health policy issues and examines the role of government in the health care system. The course will focus on the role of policy analysis in the formation and implementation of national and local health policy and the policy implications of how government pays for care. The role of the legal system with respect to adverse medical outcomes, economic rights, and individual rights is discussed. Proposals for health policy reform at the national and local level will be examined including potential reforms of Medicare and Medicaid. An overview of health program analysis and evaluation will also be discussed.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6201
• NURS 6211
• NURS 6221
• NURS 6231
• NURS 6241

4 semester credits

Students in this course use a case study approach to synthesize and apply knowledge to a current nursing practice issue. Through a collaborative case study project, students use a variety of administrative strategies to achieve positive patient care delivery outcomes. They develop a comprehensive plan in the context of current nursing-service challenges, analyze and explicate a case study, and provide strategic recommendations that address the issues and challenges presented in the case. Building their professional portfolio, students apply leadership and management theory and strategy to the design of their own case study created for use as a leadership development exercise. Students also review the work of their peers, share perspectives, and provide feedback.

5 credits

The development of leadership strategies and competencies that support the healthcare organizational delivery of quality care is imperative to quality outcomes within healthcare systems. In this course, students use a systems approach to explore structures, processes, and outcomes that impact healthcare quality and ultimately improve patient experience and outcomes. Students learn how interdisciplinary collaboration is important to the development of quality and safety. Engaging in conceptual and application-based assignments, students focus on clinical and service quality planning and improvement initiatives; models, tools, and innovations for process improvement; and the importance and use of metrics in daily operations.

5 credits

Nurse leaders in healthcare organizations must be aware of and integrate strategic organizational goals. Students in this course use an interdisciplinary case study approach to address unmet organizational and/or professional needs through strategic planning processes. Students apply organizational, behavioral, political, leadership, and management knowledge and theory to planning, implementing, and evaluating strategically planned change. Through these applications, students learn to use a variety of administrative strategies within the context of supportive and collaborative interdisciplinary relationships to achieve desired health care outcomes that effect positive social change in patient and professional communities.

5 credits

The educational environment in higher education and health care settings is influenced by social, economic, regulatory, and technological transformations. Students in this course learn the theoretical foundations that drive curriculum development, assessment, and evaluation. They also focus on curriculum components, which include societal, professional, and educational trends that affect nursing education curricula.

MSN Nursing Education Specialization

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
• NURS 6050
• NURS 6051
• NURS 6052
• NURS 6053

Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

3 semester credits

A wide array of factors, including social, economic, regulatory, and technological transformations, impact the current educational environment. Therefore, nursing education curricula must be relevant and meet the health and nursing needs of society. Students in this course learn about curriculum development and the many processes that contribute to it. They explore the philosophical foundations of curriculum development; curriculum components; societal, professional, and educational trends; frameworks, competencies, and outcomes; organizational constraints; and selection of learning activities. Students also define the processes of curriculum assessment and evaluation in the context of program, course, and student outcomes. They apply course concepts and theory to the development of a syllabus or course outline. Through this course, students work toward attaining the skills required to develop curricula that address the nursing needs of society, support standards of practice, and prepare graduates for practice in diverse settings.

5 credits

In this course, students explore how to plan instruction on a nursing topic, creating and adapting meaningful lessons and assessment/evaluation strategies for multiple learning environments and learner characteristics. Considering the diverse learning needs and ethical considerations of different learner groups (e.g., nursing students, staff, and patients/caregivers), students examine how to effectively integrate technology tools and develop lessons encompassing those needs. Students also explore evaluation strategies and outcome measurements related to their chosen topic and how technology can assist. A final project involves adapting a face-to-face lesson for a digital learning environment. Throughout the course, students apply innovative teaching approaches for effective nursing education.

MSN Nursing Education Specialization

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
• NURS 6050
• NURS 6051
• NURS 6052
• NURS 6053

Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 OR NURS 6003

4 semester credits

The goal of nurses, in all settings, is to be effective educators who guide and facilitate learning and contribute to the educational goals of the organizations in which they work. Students in this course explore the significance of the educator role as it applies to diverse settings, and they assess associated responsibilities and relationships. They examine concepts related to being change agents and leaders, role socialization, legal and ethical expectations, and professional development. They also explore and discuss nurse educator responsibilities, such as balancing role demands, using evidence to improve teaching, promoting scholarship related to teaching, developing partnerships, and engaging in collaboration and advocacy. Using knowledge gained in previous courses as well as concepts presented in this course, students demonstrate their understanding through various application-based exercises. They also observe the role of a nurse educator in a practice setting and record their learning experiences through journal assignments.

5 credits: 4 credits didactic, 1 credits practicum

In today's complex health care arena, and with increased patient acuity, there is a continuing need for highly–skilled nurses at the patient point of care. Nurse educators must possess advanced clinical knowledge to teach complex clinical content effectively. Nursing education students are expected to advance their clinical knowledge in a selected specialty to prepare them to fulfill the role of the nurse educator.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6380

5 credits: 4 credits didactic, 1 credit practicum

Nursing education students in this course explore the roles of the nurse educator, including staff developers, patient educators, and academic educators. Through the Practicum Experience, students translate and apply theoretical principles from their clinical specialty and teaching practices in implementing the educator role. Students will develop an appreciation for the complexities of the role of the educator and the challenges inherent to that role.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6370
• NURS 6321
• NURS 6331
• NURS 6341 (may be concurrent)

5 credits

In this course, students develop basic skills that are used by Nursing Professional Development Practitioners and Academic Nurse Educators in practice and academic environments, respectively. Foundational theories of learning are covered as they are applied to the Nursing Professional Development Practitioner and Academic Nurse Educator roles. An overview of the educational design process is examined. Standards and competencies for Nursing Professional Development Practitioners, Academic Nurse Educators, and Academic Clinical Nurse Educators are explored as well as concepts of organizational alignment and leadership.

MSN Nursing Education Specialization

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
• NURS 6050
• NURS 6051
• NURS 6052
• NURS 6053

Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

5 credits

Nurse educators must have advanced mastery of health assessment, and advanced knowledge of pathophysiology and drug therapy that relate to development of educational strategies and nursing care of patient groups across the lifespan. This course builds on previous knowledge by integrating advanced concepts of pathophysiological processes, pharmacology, and health assessment skills as they apply to clinical reasoning for advanced nursing practice that lead to favorable patient care outcomes. Students apply the knowledge gained to specific real-world clinical cases for improvement of patient outcomes.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
• NURS 6050
• NURS 6051
• NURS 6052
• NURS 6053

5 credits

Nurse educators must have advanced mastery of health assessment, and advanced knowledge of pathophysiology and drug therapy that relate to development of educational strategies and nursing care of patient groups across the lifespan. This Area of Expertise builds on previous knowledge by integrating advanced concepts of pathophysiological processes, pharmacology, and health assessment skills as they apply to clinical reasoning for advanced nursing practice that lead to favorable patient care outcomes. Students apply the knowledge gained to specific real-world clinical cases for improvement of patient outcomes.

Note: This version of NURS 6380 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.

5 credits

Nursing informatics is a rapidly evolving discipline that impacts all areas of nursing practice. Students in this course establish foundational knowledge for understanding and practicing nursing informatics in healthcare settings. Students increase their awareness of the innovative ways the informatics discipline is helping transform healthcare policies and procedures by appraising the many roles of nurse informaticists. Students explore models and theories that support nursing informatics and examine the use of information technology in support of decisions that promote safety and quality in patient-centered care. They also differentiate concerns about information protection and system integrity. Using concepts learned in the course, students engage in assignments through which they focus on healthcare applications, thus acquiring necessary skills to improve the management of healthcare through nursing informatics practice.

MSN Nursing Informatics Specialization

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
• NURS 6050
• NURS 6051
• NURS 6052
• NURS 6053

Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Informatics

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

4 semester credits

Healthcare professionals must have the knowledge and skills to make data-based decisions that lead to effective practice and improved patient care. Students in this course examine database systems as a foundation for studying concepts of data modeling, techniques of data definition, and data manipulation. They explore concepts of information and knowledge management with emphasis on application to the practice setting. Students discuss a variety of topics, such as information management in practice, data modeling, maximizing database performance, and human error in decision making, among others. They also engage in an integrative, collaborative project through which they investigate a current nursing or healthcare issue, plan and build a relational database to address the issue, and assess and provide feedback on plans presented by peers.

5 credits

Effectively managing healthcare data is essential to the practice of nursing informatics. In this course, students examine database systems including the concept of data modeling and techniques of data definition, data manipulation, and data analytics and visualization. Students explore concepts of information and knowledge management in the healthcare practice setting, including issues related to Big Data. Course assignments provide students with the opportunity to build essential skills to manage the lifecycle of data from how it is captured to how it is managed, stored, interpreted, and applied. Through this course, students have the opportunity to gain the skills needed to make informed decisions related to data management and the translation of data to improve patient care.

4 semester credits

Nurse informaticians must understand the flow of nursing work to develop information systems that provide effective support and usability. In this course, students examine the analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation of electronic information systems in healthcare. They compare, contrast, and critique methods of systems design and devote special attention to workflow modeling. They also engage in a variety of assignments to gain an understanding of the various workflow issues that impact the role of a nurse informatician, such as observing or interviewing healthcare professionals, developing a needs assessment plan, creating a model of a problematic workflow, and redesigning the workflow using a case approach.

5 credits

Nurses are at the center of care coordination for patients, and informatics nurses are central to the design and development of information systems that support workflow in nursing practice. This course examines the analysis, design, development, and implementation of electronic information systems in health care. Students compare, contrast, and critique methods of system design. Course assignments focus on workflow modeling in systems design, including assessment of current-state workflow and design of future-state workflow. Through this course, students have the opportunity to apply workflow design best practices to support the implementation and optimization of electronic health records.

4 semester credits

The field of health informatics requires leaders who have the knowledge and skill to oversee all types of projects, from product or service conception through delivery to stakeholders; such knowledge requires an understanding of multiple core areas of management, such as scope, time, and quality management, among others. Students in this course explore the theory and practice of how to manage health information technology projects. Students learn how to plan, schedule, and control healthcare informatics projects. They consider hypothetical scenarios and professional experiences as they discuss project management specifics, such as managing risk, controlling changes in scope, and handling budget issues. Students use project management software to build a project schedule, and they engage in an integrative team project scenario, including all the major elements and challenges of a healthcare informatics project in the real world.

5 credits

Project management is the foundation of healthcare information technology and the implementation of electronic health records. In this course, students learn the foundational principles of health information technology project management and apply it to real-world experiences. Using project management software, students create a project management plan and schedule, and they control and close tasks related to a health informatics project. Through projects and applications, students build skills and confidence that support the implementation of healthcare information technology to improve the quality of care and patient outcomes.

5 credits

Healthcare policy, including the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (2009) and Meaningful Use demand that electronic documentation systems are interoperable, integrated, and effective. In this course, students explore the history, process, and methodology in evaluation of healthcare informatics. Through discussion of real-world practice that includes public health and community-based settings, students evaluate the impact of the implementation of information technology throughout the organization. Students create a plan for systems evaluation. Through individual applications, they build skills and confidence that support collaborative, interdisciplinary system evaluation plans to improve the effectiveness of care.

5 credits: 2 credits didactic; 3 credits practicum

Students in this course apply the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) curriculum experience by translating knowledge into practice through participation in professional activities and the development of a culminating project. Students apply theory, principles, and concepts related to their area of specialization in order to enhance nursing practice and promote positive social change.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6401
• NURS 6412
• NURS 6421
• NURS 6441
• NURS 6451

3 semester credits

Students in the practicum are provided with the opportunity to engage in a supervised experience that integrates theory and research with practice. With guidance and support from their preceptor and instructor, students apply theory to better understand a specialization role in the context of an organization, formulate and achieve individualized learning objectives, and initiate a project conceptualized in collaboration with their preceptor in agreement with the instructor. The practicum (NURS 6500 and NURS 6510) requires a minimum of 125 total hours, which students record in their time log. Students also complete a cumulative journal in which they provide evidence-based or theory-based analyses of activities, issues, or problems that occur during their experience.

5 credits

Advanced practice nurses must be equipped with an in-depth understanding of pathophysiological disease processes across the lifespan. In this course, students focus on understanding the bio-physiological processes, the deviations from these processes, and an in-depth examination of the scientific concepts related to the biology of disease processes. Advanced practice nursing students build on their knowledge of normal organ systems functioning to help organ systems return to optimal homeostasis. Through knowledge of pathophysiological disease processes, students synthesize the information needed to develop appropriate treatment plans for patients across the life span. Students explore a variety of topics regarding organ system diseases.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003

3 semester credits

This course is a continuation of students' practicum experience and coursework started in NURS 6500. Students bring closure to their work on real-world problems, which they developed with their preceptors earlier in their experience. They also evaluate and complete their practicum project and present it to their work site and in the online classroom. The practicum (NURS 6500 and NURS 6510) requires a minimum of 125 total hours, which students record in their time log. Students continue work on their cumulative journal, which provides evidence-based or theory-based analyses of activities, issues, or problems that occur during their experience.

5 credits

The physical and emotional well-being of patients and families can be complex and multifaceted. Advanced practice nurses need to have the knowledge and ability to provide safe, competent, and comprehensive physical health assessments. Students in this course focus on concepts and skills to assess patients across the lifespan. They learn to use diagnostic reasoning, advanced communication, and physical assessment skills to identify changes in health patterns. Students also will explore preventative health through risk evaluation of healthy individuals as a central theme of clinical practice in addition to the assessment of patients with acute and chronic health problems. The advanced skills of reading 12 Lead EKGs, and interpreting X-rays will be covered. Course assignments emphasize risk assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and evidence-based assessment across the lifespan.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6521

5 credits

A solid foundation in the concepts and principles of drug therapy across the lifespan is essential to the work of advanced practice nurses. This course applies the advanced principles of pharmacology, including pharmacogenomics, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics, by analysis of common drug classes prescribed by advanced practice nurses across the life span. Factors influencing successful therapy, such as effectiveness, safety, acceptability, cost, genetic/environmental influences, complementary regimens, and patient behaviors are considered. Through this course, students prepare to examine complex decisions in the management and treatment of selected acute and chronic diseases across the life span through pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic agents. Advanced practice nursing students will have a more in-depth understanding of drug legislation and regulation for prescribing drugs.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6501

5 credits

In this course, students learn how nurse practitioners master the art and science of clinical decision making among adult populations across the lifespan. Students focus on the diagnosis and management of primary healthcare needs and problems of the adult, elderly, and frail elderly. They engage in a variety of course assignments that focus on physical and behavioral disease processes central to diagnosing illnesses as well as planning, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic treatment programs for acute illnesses commonly encountered in a primary healthcare setting. Students gain confidence in clinical experiences in a primary healthcare setting where they learn to plan, implement, and evaluate therapeutic regimens for adult patients with common acute and chronic illnesses.

5 credits

The frail elderly are a subpopulation characterized by the decline in functional ability to meet the basic activities of daily living. In this course, students focus on the complex health care and management needs of the frail elderly by advanced nurse practitioners in community settings. Students learn to plan, implement, and evaluate therapeutic regimens through the analysis of case studies and the actual care of frail elderly in various settings. Additionally, students examine content related to end-of-life care and caregiver issues to gain the knowledge and sensibilities needed to implement positive change for the quality of life available to this vulnerable population.

5 credits

How can a nurse practitioner master the art and science of clinical decision making among pediatric populations? This course provides students with the opportunity to answer this question as they examine content related to the primary healthcare of children and adolescents while focusing on growth and development, health promotion, and common primary care health problems. Students learn how to identify, diagnose, and manage these problems. They also gain confidence in clinical experience in a primary healthcare setting that provides opportunities to assess, diagnose, plan, implement, and evaluate therapeutic regimens for acute and chronic illnesses commonly found in children and adolescents.

5 credits

The complex assessment and care of patients in the hospital setting will require advanced practice nurses to obtain the specialized skills necessary to provide quality care for patients in these acute care settings. This course is designed to prepare students to provide care for acute, chronic, and critically ill patients. Students in this course will be introduced to the role of the advanced practice nurse, while gaining confidence in caring for patients. Through course assignments and clinical practice in the acute care setting, students will plan, implement, and evaluate care for patients. Students will also increase their knowledge of pharmacologic management of hospitalized patients, while applying knowledge gained through previous coursework.

5 credits

How can a nurse practitioner decide what is important to focus on in a 15–30 minute appointment with a woman seeking primary, prenatal, or postpartum care? Students in this course gain opportunities to teach and promote wellness in women through the process of screening for common gynecological disorders, normal pregnancy, and other common health conditions that impact women's health. Students learn to analyze data to interpret results for the benefit of women seeking assistance with planning healthy lifestyle behaviors. They also gain clinical experience in a primary healthcare setting that provides opportunities to increase competence in diagnosis, treatment, referrals, or follow-up care with a concentration on improving patient outcomes.

5 credits

Students in this course will advance their clinical competence in the care of medical and surgical patients in acute care settings. Through clinical practice, students will build confidence as they begin the transition from student to advanced practice nurse. Classroom activities and case studies will enable students to explore resources and support systems available to acutely ill adolescents, adults, and older adults. Clinical experiences in hospital settings will provide students with the continued opportunity to develop, implement, and evaluate treatment plans for patients with complex acute, critical, and chronic illness. The application of knowledge in the management of medical and surgical patients and the collaboration between the advanced practice nurse and the patient, family, and multidisciplinary healthcare team are emphasized.

5 credits

Students in this synthesis course focus on clinical competence in primary care settings by building on knowledge and skills gained in previous courses. Through clinical practice, students build confidence as they begin the transition from the role of registered nurse to that of advanced practice nurse. Classroom activities and case studies enable students to explore the salient advanced practice nursing issues involved in the delivery of safe, competent, high-quality, cost-effective care of patients in a dynamic healthcare system. Through clinical experiences in primary care settings, students have the continued opportunity to develop, implement, and evaluate management plans for patients with complex health conditions. The application of knowledge in the management of clients and collaboration among the advanced practice nurse and the client, family, and interprofessional healthcare team are emphasized.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6501
• NURS 6512
• NURS 6521
• NURS 6531
• NURS 6540 or NURS 6541
• NURS 6551

Note: This course requires a minimum of 144 practicum hours and must be the last course in the curriculum.

5 credits

Students in this synthesis course will focus on clinical competence in primary care settings by building on knowledge and skills gained in previous courses. Through clinical practice students will build confidence as they begin the transition from the role of registered nurse to advanced practice nurse. Classroom activities and case studies will enable students to explore the salient advanced practice nursing issues involved in the delivery of safe, competent, quality and cost-effective care of patients in a dynamic healthcare system. Clinical experiences in primary care settings will provide students with the continued opportunity to develop, implement, and evaluate management plans for patients with complex health conditions. The application of knowledge in the management of clients and collaboration between the advanced practice nurse and the client, family, and interprofessional healthcare team are emphasized.

5 credits: 3 credits didactic, 2 credits practicum

Students in this course apply the MSN curriculum experience by translating knowledge into practice through participation in professional activities and the development of a culminating project. Students apply theory, principles, and concepts related to their area of specialization in order to enhance nursing practice and promote positive social change.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6201
• NURS 6211
• NURS 6221
• NURS 6231
• NURS 6241

5 credits

Students in this course apply the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) curriculum experience by translating knowledge into practice through participation in professional activities and the development of a culminating project. Students apply theory, principles, and concepts related to their area of specialization in order to enhance nursing practice and promote positive social change.

Note: This version of NURS 6600 is only available as part of specific competency-based Tempo Learning® programs.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6201
• NURS 6211
• NURS 6221
• NURS 6231
• NURS 6241

5 credits

At times, psychotherapy is not enough to alleviate the emotional difficulties that some patients face. To that end, psychopharmacologic approaches are needed. Psychiatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) must have a strong basis in psychopharmacology, extending from a prior education in pharmacology, to make appropriate medication choices for their patients. Learners in this course consider psychopharmacologic approaches to major behavioral health disorders including but not limited to major depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, as well as psychotic disorders. Learners explore key considerations associated with medication selection, monitoring efficacy, and long-term management.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6501N
• NURS 6521N
• NURS 6512N

5 credits

Advanced practice nurses frequently apply epidemiologic concepts to inform evidence-based practice. Students in this course are provided with an overview of epidemiologic methods in the study of the distribution and etiology of disease and health-related conditions in human populations. Students examine select population health issues such as chronic and infectious diseases and effects of disasters and emergencies. Throughout this course, students gain a deeper understanding of the various research designs and methodologies professionals use in epidemiologic research and their relevance to population-based nursing practice. Consideration is given to study designs, primary and secondary data sources, epidemiologic measures, sources of error, and ethical issues relevant to research. Students apply epidemiologic methods to the development of a program proposal for a population health issue.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6002 or NURS 6003
• PUBH 6127
• NURS 6051
• NURS 6052
• NURS 6053

5 credits

Public health nursing is shaped by social, behavioral, cultural, and demographic factors that impact health care at multiple levels. In this course, students will develop an understanding of the history of public health and public health nursing, public health law and ethics, system infrastructure, and issues related to health equity and health disparities. Students will analyze theories and research that will assist them to understand the social determinants of health and develop models to assess and deliver health care to populations to promote a culture of health.

Prerequisites

• All core courses

5 credits: 2 credits didactic, 3 credits practicum

In this course students will continue to develop specialized knowledge and skills in advanced public health nursing (PHN) and the delivery of population health care within the context of inter-professional practice. Students will gain a greater understanding of the use of data in planning interventions, evidence-based public health, and the role of advocacy for policy and social change. The focus of the course will be on the assessment and development of culturally-competent interventions targeted at community and population levels through a practicum experience.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6710
• PUBH 6034
• NURS 6700

5 credits: 3 credits didactic, 2 credits practicum

The development of leadership strategies that supports the public health care system delivery of population health is imperative to quality outcomes. This course addresses the application of principles of leadership and management in a public health setting. And the skills needed for nurses to provide effective leadership across agency partnerships at the community, state, national, and international levels. A special focus will be placed on developing collaborative partnerships, systems thinking, evidence-based decision-making, organizational problem-solving, public health finance, professional accreditation, emergency preparedness, and global health competencies. Students will complete a practicum with a public health-related agency focused on program evaluation and the use of management and leadership skills.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6720
• PUBH 6475

5 credits

This introductory course, designed for pediatric advanced practice nurses, introduces students to pediatric development and behavior. The course focuses on developmental and behavioral milestones, family systems, parenting styles, screening, surveillance, and assessment of infants, children, and adolescents. Management strategies, referral options as well as legal, ethical, and policy issues are discussed for children with normal development and behavior. The course also focuses on strategies for promoting wellness through anticipatory guidance of the child and family at each stage of development.

Prerequisites

• NURS 6501
• NURS 6512
• NURS 6521

1 credit

Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and are provided with a foundation for professional development in doctoral nursing practice. Students learn professional standards and end-of-program expectations, and they explore the role of the scholar-practitioner as one who effects positive social change. They engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of professional writing, critical-thinking skills, and the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students also explore the essentials of being a Walden doctoral student, relevant professional and specialty standards of doctoral-level nursing, intra- and interprofessional collaboration, and the process of the DNP scholarly project.

1 credit

Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and are provided with a foundation for professional development in doctoral nursing practice. Students learn professional standards and end-of-program expectations, and they explore the role of the scholar-practitioner as one who effects positive social change. They engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of professional writing, critical-thinking skills, and the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students also explore the essentials of being a Walden doctoral student, relevant professional and specialty standards of doctoral-level nursing, intra- and interprofessional collaboration, and the process of the PhD dissertation.

5 credits

Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and engage in course assessments focused on the practical application of scholarly writing, critical-thinking skills, and the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students explore the role of the DNP, as a member of communities of practice, using intra- and interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence to identify needed practice changes that will impact social change and the social determinants of health. Students also explore relevant professional standards and the ethics of doctoral-level nursing practice and the process of the DNP Practicum and Project.

1 credit

Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and are provided with a foundation for professional development as a PhD scholar practitioner. Students learn professional standards and end-of-program expectations and explore the role of the scholar-practitioner as one who effects positive social change. They engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of professional writing, critical-thinking skills, research, and the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students also explore the essentials of being a Walden doctoral student, relevant professional and specialty standards of doctoral-level nursing, intra- and interprofessional collaboration, and the process of the PhD dissertation.

5 credits

Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and engage in course assessments focused on the practical application of scholarly writing, critical-thinking skills, and the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students explore the role of the DNP, as a member of communities of practice, using intra- and interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence to identify needed practice changes that will impact social change and the social determinants of health. Students also explore relevant professional standards and the ethics of doctoral-level nursing practice and the process of the DNP Practicum and Project.

5 credits

In this course, students examine economic, financial, and political factors influencing the delivery of healthcare, and consider policy reform through legal, regulatory, ethical, societal, and organizational contexts. They examine the political and policy process, including agenda setting, stakeholder analysis, and application of policy analysis frameworks. Students also explore the importance of interprofessional collaboration in improving health outcomes through the policy process and advocacy for development and implementation of nursing and healthcare policies in organizations at the local, state, national, and international levels. Students engage in written analyses through which they develop new policies and/or critically evaluate existing policies though policy analysis frameworks.  

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Prerequisites

• NURS 8002 or NURS 8006

All Other Programs Prerequisites

• NURS 8000 or NURS 8003

5 credits

In this course, students focus on the integration of scientific, philosophical, and theoretical concepts as the basis for the highest level of nursing practice. They examine the scientific underpinnings for nursing practice, including biobehavioral, pathophysiological, psychosocial, and environmental sciences, and they explore the interrelationship among knowledge, research, and practice. Students also explore and discuss clinical inquiry, ethical issues, and models of evidence-based practice. Considering various philosophies, students describe their own philosophy of nursing. They also apply course concepts to a variety of practical assignments, including a literature review, concept map, and evaluation of current clinical practice problems, among others.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Prerequisites

• NURS 8000 or NURS 8000A or NURS 8000C or NURS 8000F or NURS 8000S

PhD in Nursing

Prerequisites

• NURS 8001N

5 credits

In this course, students focus on the integration of scientific, philosophical, and theoretical concepts as the basis for the highest level of nursing practice. They examine the scientific underpinnings for nursing knowledge development, including major theoretical frameworks and the interrelated concepts that inform nursing knowledge, research, and practice. Students explore scientific inquiry and ethical issues related to research. Considering various philosophical worldviews, students describe their own philosophy of nursing and research. They apply course concepts to a variety of assignments designed to prepare for their dissertation research.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8003

5 credits

In this course, students focus on the integration of scientific, philosophical, and theoretical concepts as the basis for the highest level of nursing practice. They examine the scientific underpinnings for nursing practice, including middle range nursing and interdisciplinary theories, and they explore the interrelationship among knowledge, research, and practice. Students also explore clinical inquiry, models of evidence-based practice, implementation science, and translation of evidence for practice change and quality improvement. Students explore their role as a DNP-prepared nurse in the translation of evidence to promote social change and address Social Determinants of Health (SDOH). Students utilize Johns Hopkins Translation of Evidence Tools to address a gap in practice and to appraise and synthesize evidence. Students also develop their own personal philosophy of nursing practice.  

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Prerequisites

• NURS 8002 or NURS 8006 (may be concurrent)

5 credits

Students in this course focus on the integration of scientific, philosophical, and theoretical concepts as the basis for the highest level of nursing practice. The scientific underpinnings for nursing practice including biobehavioral, pathophysiological, psychosocial, and environmental sciences are examined. The interrelationship among knowledge, research, and practice is explored. Clinical inquiry, ethical issues, and models of evidence-based practice are presented.

5 credits

The focus of this course is to integrate and extend the Doctor of Nursing Practice student's skills and knowledge of research methods to read, interpret and evaluate research studies. Essential topics will include overview of research concepts and the research process; quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research methods and designs, including data collection, data analysis and interpretation techniques; ethical issues in research; and utilizing research findings to guide practice. Basic statistics will be reviewed, including the appropriate use of various statistics, underlying assumptions of the procedures, and the interpretation of results generated from statistical software. An analysis of how research designs and methods support the research process for the translation of evidence into clinical practice will also be examined.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8002 or NURS 8002A or NURS 8002C or NURS 8002F or NURS 8002S or NURS 8006 or NURS 8006A or NURS 8006C or NURS 8006F or NURS 8006S

5 credits

When used effectively, information technology can support generation of new knowledge and emerging information technologies. In this course, students examine the critical appraisal and use of information technology in advanced nursing practice. Students work to gain the skills and knowledge needed to research, develop, process, integrate, and manage data, communication and information systems, and programs through technology resources in consumer, clinical, and public health settings. Students engage in a variety of discussions and assignments designed to provide practical application of content on topics including retrieval and critical analysis of digital data and emerging technology to support healthcare quality improvement; electronic health records integration and evaluation; and web-based learning and intervention tools to support and improve patient care. They also explore ethical, regulatory, and legal issues as well as the healthcare standards and principles for selecting and evaluating information systems and patient care technology that effects positive social change. They engage in course assessments focused on the practical application of scholarly writing, critical-thinking skills, and the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students also explore the essentials of being a Walden doctoral student, relevant professional and specialty standards of doctoral-level nursing practice, intra- and interprofessional collaboration, and the process of the DNP Doctoral Project/dissertation.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8002 or NURS 8006

5 credits

The focus of this course is to integrate and extend the Doctor of Nursing Practice student’s skills and knowledge of research methods to read, interpret and evaluate the evidence from research studies to differentiate between research, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice. Essential topics will include overview of research concepts and the research process; quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research methods and designs, including data collection, data analysis and interpretation techniques; ethical issues in research; and utilizing research findings to guide practice. Basic statistics will be reviewed, including the appropriate use of various statistics, underlying assumptions of the procedures, and the interpretation of results generated from statistical software. An analysis of how research designs and methods support the research process for the translation of evidence into clinical practice will also be examined.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8002 or NURS 8006

5 credits

Students in this course focus on the sufficient formal and informal learning experiences to build scientific depth in an identified area of study. Students gain the competencies to critique, utilize, and integrate different theoretical and scientific perspectives for the conduct of research, including team science, to generate new ideas based on a critical evaluation of existing knowledge. Attention is given to integration of the components of scholarship, research, teaching, mentoring, and service to the profession gained from understanding the theoretical/scientific underpinnings of nursing and other disciplines.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8003
• NURS 8112

5 credits

The focus of this course is on the development of leadership strategies and competencies to support healthcare and organizational quality delivery of care. Emphasis is placed on a systems approach exploring the organizational structures, which impact healthcare quality performance and, ultimately, patient outcomes. Using macro (enterprise-wide) and micro (individual and team performance) perspectives, students examine the leadership roles, which define, develop, and support decisions effecting quality strategies. In this course, students address how key organizational theories, principles, and concepts relate to achieving the effective and efficient delivery of safe healthcare services. Through the development of a quality program initiative, students demonstrate an understanding of the impact an initiative has on organizational structure, its environment, and the system's leadership.

5 credits

The focus of this course is the development of leadership competencies and strategies to support organizational and systems leadership for continuous improvement in health outcomes and the delivery of quality care. Emphasis will be on understanding the challenges and complexity in the healthcare system and the development of skills and knowledge to lead, manage, evaluate, and innovate to transform the healthcare environment. Essential topics will include leadership for change and transformation, quality improvement tools and methods, safety principles, and project management.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8003: Foundations and Essentials in Nursing
• NURS 8112: Theoretical and Scientific Foundations for Nursing Research

5 credits

The focus of this course is the development of leadership competencies and strategies to support organizational and systems leadership for continuous improvement in health outcomes and the delivery of quality care. Emphasis is on understanding the challenges and complexity in the healthcare system and the development of skills and knowledge to lead, manage, evaluate, and innovate to transform the healthcare environment. Essential topics include leadership for change and transformation, quality improvement tools and methods, safety principles, and project management.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8002 or NURS 8002A or NURS 8002C or NURS 8002F or NURS 8002S or NURS 8006 or NURS 8006A or NURS 8006C or NURS 8006F or NURS 8006S
• NURS 8114 or NURS 8114A or NURS 8114C or NURS 8114F or NURS 8114S

5 credits

Advanced practice nurses frequently apply epidemiologic concepts to inform evidence-based practice. Students in this course are provided with an overview of epidemiologic methods in the study of the distribution and etiology of disease and health-related conditions in human populations. Students examine select population health issues such as chronic and infectious diseases and effects of disasters and emergencies. Throughout this course, students gain a deeper understanding of the various research designs and methodologies professionals use in epidemiologic research and their relevance to population-based nursing practice. Consideration is given to study designs, primary and secondary data sources, epidemiologic measures, sources of error, and ethical issues relevant to research. Students apply epidemiologic methods to the development of a program proposal for a population health issue.

5 credits

The focus of this course is the development of leadership competencies and strategies to support organizational and systems leadership for continuous improvement in health outcomes and the delivery of quality care. Emphasis will be on understanding the challenges and complexity in the healthcare system and the development of skills and knowledge to lead, manage, evaluate, and innovate to transform the healthcare environment. Essential topics will include leadership for change and transformation, quality improvement tools and methods, safety principles, and project management.  Students complete a minimum of 80 practicum hours.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8002 or NURS 8006
• NURS 8114
• NURS 8211

5 credits

In this course, students focus on the competencies required of the healthcare professional in planning for the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of health promotion and disease prevention initiatives. They explore and discuss strategic approaches to planning, implementation, and evaluation, including cost-benefit analysis.

Note: This is a 5-credits course (4 didactic credits, 1 clinical credits). Clinical hours have a 1:6 ratio (credit/clinical), resulting in 72 clinical hours.

5 credits

A scholarly inquiry of key concepts in nursing is presented in this course. Students analyze best practices and evolving issues in their nursing areas of practice. They explore advanced specialty practice problems through a guided initial review of literature. Students develop a program or project to address clinical/practice questions under the guidance of an approved clinical mentor. Students generate an evidence-based practice question and develop and implement an intervention within the practicum setting. Students disseminate the project plan and results at the practicum site.

Note: This is a 5-credits course (4 didactic credits, 1 clinical credits). Clinical hours have a 1:6 ratio (credit/clinical), resulting in 72 clinical hours.

3 credits

In this DNP practicum course, students focus on planning and implementing an evidence-based practice program/project designed to address their clinical/practice questions; students complete work under the guidance of an approved practicum mentor. Students generate practicum journals and discussion content that drill down to the evidence-based change project related to their clinical/practice question and resulting findings, conclusions, and recommendations.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8110 or NURS 8110A or NURS 8110C or NURS 8110F or NURS 8110S
• NURS 8200 or NURS 8200A or NURS 8200C or NURS 8200F or NURS 8200S
• NURS 8210 or NURS 8210A or NURS 8210C or NURS 8210F or NURS 8210S
• NURS 8300 or NURS 8300A or NURS 8300C or NURS 8300F or NURS 8300S

Note: This 3-credits practicum course has a 1:6 ratio of credit to clinical hours, resulting in 216 clinical hours.

5 credits

In this DNP practicum course, students will create individualized objectives in their specific area of interest. Students will identify a clinical or administrative question, generate evidence, and develop a plan to translate evidence into practice. The course will focus on problem identification and planning at the practice, organization or system level. Students will complete work under the guidance of an approved clinical mentor. Students will generate a practicum portfolio that drills down to the evidence regarding their clinical/administrative question and resulting findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Students complete the practicum journal requirements throughout the course. Students will complete a self-evaluation and reflect on their personal growth in their specific area of interest.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8002 or NURS 8002A or NURS 8002C or NURS 8002F or NURS 8002S or NURS 8006 or NURS 8006A or NURS 8006C or NURS 8006F or NURS 8006S
• NURS 8114 or NURS 8114A or NURS 8114C or NURS 8114F or NURS 8114S
• NURS 8201 or NURS 8201A or NURS 8201C or NURS 8201F or NURS 8201S
• NURS 8302 or NURS 8302A or NURS 8302C or NURS 8302F or NURS 8302K or NURS 8302M or NURS 8302S or NURS 8302W

Note: These 2 credits of practicum hours have a 1:80 ratio of credit to practicum hours, resulting in 160 practicum hours.

5 credits

In this DNP practicum course, students will create individualized objectives to continue completing the gap in practice activities identified in NURS 8502. Students will implement gap in practice activities, monitor, measure, evaluate outcomes, and disseminate results back to the organization. The course will focus on the continuation of the evidence-based practice problem identified in NURS 8502. Students will complete work under the guidance of an approved clinical mentor. Students will generate a practicum portfolio that drills down to the evidence regarding their clinical/administrative question and resulting findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Students complete the practicum journal requirements throughout the course. Students will complete a self-evaluation and reflect on their personal growth in their specific area of interest.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8502

Note: This 2-credit practicum course has a 1:80 ratio of credit to practicum hours, resulting in 160 practicum hours.

5 credits

In this DNP practicum course, students will create individualized objectives for nursing leadership. Students will identify a clinical or administrative question, generate evidence, and develop a plan to translate evidence into practice. The course will focus on, implementing and evaluating the outcome at the practice, organization, or system level. Students will complete work under the guidance of an approved clinical mentor. Students will generate a practicum portfolio that drills down to the evidence regarding their clinical/administrative question and resulting findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Students complete the practicum journal requirements throughout the course. Students will complete a self-evaluation and reflect on their personal growth in their specific area of interest.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8002 or NURS 8002A or NURS 8002C or NURS 8002F or NURS 8002S or NURS 8006 or NURS 8006A or NURS 8006C or NURS 8006F or NURS 8006S
• NURS 8114 or NURS 8114A or NURS 8114C or NURS 8114F or NURS 8114S
• NURS 8201 or NURS 8201A or NURS 8201C or NURS 8201F or NURS or 8201S
• NURS 8302 or NURS 8302A or NURS 8302C or NURS 8302F or NURS 8302K or NURS 8302M or NURS 8302S or NURS 8302W

Note: These 2 credits of practicum hours have a 1:80 ratio of credit to practicum hours, resulting in 160 practicum hours.

5 credits

In this DNP practicum course, students will create individualized objectives to continue completing the gap in practice activities identified in NURS 8504. Students will implement gap in practice activities, monitor, measure, evaluate outcomes, and disseminate results back to the organization. The course will focus on the continuation of the evidence-based practice problem identified in NURS 8504. Students will complete work under the guidance of an approved clinical mentor. Students will generate a practicum portfolio that drills down to the evidence regarding their clinical/administrative question and resulting findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Students complete the practicum journal requirements throughout the course. Students will complete a self-evaluation and reflect on their personal growth in their specific area of interest.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8504

Note: This 2-credit practicum course has a 1:80 ratio of credit to practicum hours, resulting in 160 practicum hours.

3 credits

The focus of this DNP practicum course is on the evaluation of an evidence-based health project relevant to aggregate, systems, or organizational levels of healthcare. In addition, students develop and plan for the dissemination of a scholarly product generated by that project to a wider community of scholar-practitioners. Students work with an approved practicum mentor to generate practicum evidence and complete practicum journal requirements, and the evidence-based project, demonstrating the use of leadership skills and advanced nursing practice knowledge to promote quality improvement, improve health outcomes, and inform healthcare policy. Students in the DNP practicum course are provided with the opportunity to reflect on self-evaluation, professional growth, and postgraduation plans.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8500 or NURS 8500A or NURS 8500C or NURS 8500F or NURS 8500K or NURS 8500M or NURS 8500S

Note: This 3-credit practicum course has a 1:6 ratio of credit to practicum hours, resulting in 216 practicum hours.

5 credits

This course focuses on the development of leadership competencies and strategies to support organizational and systems leadership for continuous improvement in health outcomes and quality care delivery. Emphasis will be on the American Organization of Nurse Leaders (AONL) Core Competencies to understand the issues challenging the healthcare system and the development of skills and knowledge to lead, manage, evaluate, and innovate to transform the healthcare environment. Essential topics will include communication and relationship management, business skills and principles, professionalism, and knowledge of the healthcare environment.  Students will continue to engage with the practicum site to address their identified gap in practice or practice change through the project management focused DNP project. Students will evaluate practicum activities using The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Practice.  Students complete a minimum of 160 practicum hours.

Prerequisite

• NURS 8312

5 credits

This course focuses on the continuation of the practicum and DNP project course activities completed in NURS 8312 and NURS 8512. Students develop practicum and DNP project objectives focusing on the implementation, evaluation and dissemination phases of the Translation of Evidence project management focused DNP project. Emphasis continues on the American Organization of Nurse Leaders (AONL) Core Competencies as students explore leadership challenges and responsibilities with individuals and the organization related to change processes. Students will evaluate practicum activities using The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Practice. Students assess their role and responsibilities as DNP prepared future healthcare professionals.  Students complete a minimum of 160 practicum hours.

Prerequisite

• NURS 8512

5 credits

In this DNP practicum course, students work with the course faculty and organization preceptor to create individualized learning objectives aligned with their executive leadership focus. Students will generate practicum journals aligning their activities with their learning objectives and the DNP Essentials. Students will complete a self-evaluation and reflect on their personal growth in their executive leadership. Students will confirm the proposed gap in practice identified in NURS 8312 with the course faculty and preceptor. Students will complete phases 1 and 2 (design and plan) of the project management focused DNP project.  Students complete a minimum of 160 practicum hours.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8312

5 credits

This course focuses on the continuation of the practicum and DNP project course activities completed in NURS 8312 and NURS 8514. Students develop practicum and DNP project objectives focusing on the implementation, evaluation and dissemination phases of the Translation of Evidence project management focused DNP project. Emphasis continues on the American Organization of Nurse Leaders (AONL) Nurse Executive Competencies as students explore executive leadership challenges and responsibilities with individuals and the organization related to change processes. Students will evaluate practicum activities using The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Practice. Students assess their role and responsibilities as DNP prepared future healthcare professionals.  Students complete a minimum of 160 practicum hours.

Prerequisite

• NURS 8514

5 credits

This course will build skills in the transition to doctoral level faculty roles. Students can gain competencies in identifying future career trajectories, scholarly interests, and collaboration skills to contribute to new knowledge development, dissemination, and implementation of evidence in one's field. Integrating multiple trends in nursing and team science, the role of a progressively developed professor will be discussed, critiqued, and synthesized. Students will use self-awareness and reflection to prepare an individual development plan (IDP) that leads to success in exemplary teaching methods, mentorship, scholarship, service, and lifelong learning. Readings and guided discussions provide a lens to view trends and emerging interest areas to guide students' preparation of an IDP and scholarly interest concept analysis.

5 credits

Curricula and courses have enduring frameworks, yet the content and processes for teaching nursing require continuous change as technology innovates and the science of disease management and prevention evolves. In this course, students prepare for their work as curriculum change leaders and advocates to ensure nursing education meets the requirements and challenges of today's and tomorrow's healthcare needs. Course content and activities apply research processes and strategies that PhD students have mastered in previous courses for their dissertation work. Students begin by examining core competencies for nurse educators and evaluating their individual capacity in competencies with particular relevance to curriculum change leadership. They develop a theoretical framework for curriculum change; complete a literature review on a recommended national goal for transforming nursing education; explore trends with implications for nursing curriculum and educators; promote interprofessional collaboration by writing an article for publication; and create a concept map as a visual representation of the evaluation process, including as a catalyst for curriculum change. Through weekly Discussions and Blogs, students replicate the collaboration and debate between nursing faculty and demonstrate their potential as nurse educators to be agents of positive social change.

5 credits

In this course, students will critically analyze nursing education teaching and learning theories, teaching strategies in classroom and clinical settings, in face-to-face and online environments, and how these strategies relate to the learning and development of desired outcomes in nursing education. Students will also apply the research process to analyze cultural competence for their professional role and how to address the needs of diverse learners to foster intercultural learning in a variety of educational settings. Students' primary Assignment will involve designing of a BSN-level nursing course.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8003 or NURS 8006 or NURS 8006A or NURS 8006C or NURS 8006F or NURS 8006S
• NURS 8112
• NURS 8250N

5 credits

In this course, students will explore the technical landscape of modern nursing practice, the factors impacting the push to integrate informatics competencies as foundational practice concepts, and how to best function in the domain where technology education and traditional nursing education form partnerships for instruction. Students will investigate emerging technologies and care models that may impact their general approach to education, as well as the role of technology in those models. Upon successful completion of the course, students will possess the proficiencies and professional dispositions required to educate—and meet the global demand for—technology-savvy nurses from the start of nursing school through their evolution to an expert-level clinician.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8003
• NURS 8112
• NURS 8250N

5 credits

The focus of this course is on the preparation for the dissertation phase of training. In this course, students identify a dissertation topic and potential dissertation committee members; begin to conduct a literature review; develop a problem statement and research questions; and evaluate research designs, methods, and types of analyses to use for their dissertation. Students also complete their initial premise in this course and an annotated outline of their prospectus.

Prerequisites

• RSCH 8310N

1 credit

The purpose of this course is to provide students with the opportunity to complete additional practicum hours to fulfill the 1,000-hour requirement of the DNP. Students may take the NURS 8600 - DNP Field Experience course up to six times, based on practicum hours attained prior to DNP admission. Students generate practicum portfolio evidence. In this 1-credits practicum course, there is a 1:6 ratio of credit to practicum hours, resulting in 72 practicum hours.

1 credit

The purpose of this course is to provide students with the opportunity to complete additional practicum hours to fulfill the minimum 1,000-hour requirement of the DNP. Students may take the DNP Field Experience course up to eight times based on practicum hours attained prior to DNP admission. Students generate practicum portfolio evidence.

This 1-credit practicum course has a 1:8 ratio of credit to practicum hours resulting in 80 practicum hours.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8002 or NURS 8002A or NURS 8002C or NURS 8002F or NURS 8002S or NURS 8006 or NURS 8006A or NURS 8006C or NURS 8006F or NURS 8006S

0 credits

The purpose of this course is to serve as a platform for ongoing communication between students and their DNP Project Committee chairs and a repository for drafts and documentation related to the DNP project. Students will be assigned to sections of NURS 8700 based on their DNP Project Committee chair, which will support communication between students who are working on their DNP projects with common faculty chairs in an ongoing collaborative learning community.

3 credits per term as needed to complete the DNP Project.

The purpose of this course is to serve as a platform for ongoing communication between students and their DNP Project Committee chairs and a repository for drafts and documentation related to the DNP project. Students will be assigned to sections of NURS 8701 based on their DNP Project Committee chair, which will support communication between students who are working on their DNP projects with common faculty chairs in an ongoing collaborative learning community.

Students take this course for a minimum of four quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their doctoral project with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.

To complete a doctoral project, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their doctoral project on ProQuest before their degree is conferred.

0 credits

The purpose of this course is to serve as a platform for ongoing development, mentoring, and communication between students and their faculty advisor for the DNP Project. This course supports the required approval process for the DNP Project, including serving as a repository for drafts and final, approved documentation related to the DNP Project. Students will be assigned to sections of NURS 8702 with their faculty advisor. The student and faculty advisor will establish an ongoing, collaborative learning community that will support development and communication for the completion of the DNP Project. Note: This course must be taken as a companion course throughout the program of study until the project is completed.  This course cannot be taken by itself.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8002/8006
• NURS 8114
• NURS 8201
• NURS 8302

3 credits per term as needed to complete the DNP Project

The purpose of this course is to serve as a platform for ongoing development, mentoring, and communication between students and their faculty advisor for the DNP Project. This course supports the required approval process for the DNP Project, including serving as a repository for drafts and final, approved documentation related to the DNP Project. Students will be assigned to sections of NURS 8703 with their faculty advisor. The student and faculty advisor will establish an ongoing, collaborative learning community that will support development and communication for the completion of the DNP Project.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8002
• NURS 8114
• NURS 8201
• NURS 8302
• NURS 8310
• NURS 8210
• NURS 8100
• NURS 8502 and NURS 8503 or NURS 8504 and  NURS 8505

Note: Students are automatically enrolled in this course each term while completing the DNP project after they have completed all other course requirements for the DNP program of study.

1 credit

Seminar I gets students prepared for the dissertation process. Students are introduced to the Doctoral Degree Coach, helpful dissertation resources, time management strategies, and potential topics relevant to their field of study. Students also examine exemplar dissertations to better understand the journey they will be undertaking.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8003
• NURS 8112

1 credit

Seminar II represents the preboarding phase of the journey. Students learn how to use the library, develop doctoral-level writing strategies, and write a literature review. Students also examine how social problems drive scientific inquiry.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8710
• RSCH 8110

1 credit

Seminar III has students take off into developing critical elements of a scientific study. Students distinguish the characteristics of strong quantitative and qualitative research questions and evaluate conceptual and theoretical frameworks with respect to their alignment with a study. Students will engage in an iterative process of developing research questions through peer review and feedback.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8720
• NURS 8250

1 credit

Seminar IV on the Journey to the Community of Scholars has students fly towards completing their prospectus by developing methods appropriate to answer a research question as well as explain the nature and significance of a scientific study. Students evaluate how to align various elements of a scientific study and ensure ethical concerns are addressed. Students end this course with a solid draft of their prospectus.   

Prerequisites

• NURS 8730

1 credit

Doctoral Seminar V has students focus on creating a finalized, complete draft of their Prospectus Form to be submitted for formal approval after entering the Capstone Phase. As part of their efforts in this course, students will receive and implement a final round of feedback from their peers and instructor. The feedback they receive from their instructor will be the result of a comprehensive review and it will help them strengthen their prospectus further than they thought possible. Students will also deliver an asynchronous presentation of their proposed study. Finally, they will work on an academic portfolio and a career plan. All of these activities are designed to support successful transition to the Capstone Phase of the journey.

Prerequisites

• NURS 8740
• RESI 8402
• RSCH 8210
• RSCH 8310

5 credits per term for a minimum of 4 quarters until completion

In this course, doctoral students have the opportunity to integrate their program of study into an in-depth exploration of an interest area that includes the completion of a research study. Students complete the dissertation independently, with the guidance of a dissertation supervisory committee chair and committee members, in a learning platform classroom in which weekly participation is required. Students complete a prospectus, proposal, Institutional Review Board application, and dissertation.

Students take this course for a minimum of four quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.

To complete a dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the Dissertation Guidebook.

Prerequisites

• RESI 8403N and all coursework