The Post-Master’s Certificate, also known as the Nursing Certificate program (NURCP), offers students who hold a master’s degree in nursing an opportunity to specialize in an area of nursing not covered in their initial master’s program. Please refer to the College of Nursing Web site for information on current concentrations.
Students enter Track A or Track B (see below) depending on their educational preparation. A minimum of 15 graduate credit hours is required. Course work must be completed within three years and a 3.0 ("B") GPA is required. The program of studies is designated by the Concentration Coordinator or faculty in the specialty area, and follows the corresponding M.S.N. concentration program of studies. Information on the basic expectations for each concentration can be found on the Master of Science in Nursing Concentrations section of this Catalog. A gap analysis comparing previous work with the required courses in the M.S.N. concentration is performed, and an individualized program of studies is developed taking into consideration previous coursework, the gap analysis, recent clinical experience, and the requirements of the selected concentration. Sequencing of courses is identical to that of the M.S.N. Program of Studies for each concentration, and students must meet all concentration expected outcomes.
This track is for students who do not have an M.S.N. as a nurse practitioner or nurse midwife, or for advanced practice clinicians who desire a Post-Master’s Certificate in a non-clinical specialty (e.g. Education).
Core courses may be waived based on a review of previous master’s courses and a gap analysis of the required courses in the M.S.N. concentration. Other than core courses, all clinical core and concentration specific courses, along with the full complement of clinical hours in that concentration, must be completed. Sequencing of courses is identical to that of the M.S.N. Program of Studies for each concentration, and students must meet all concentration expected outcomes.
This track is for students who already have an M.S.N. in an advanced practice concentration, as either a nurse practitioner or a nurse midwife, and who wish to expand their practice by adding an additional population focus.
Courses
NURS 129.
Topics.
(1-3 )
An opportunity for nurses to update their knowledge and skills in nursing process in maintenance of preventive, therapeutic and restorative health care.
NURS 201.
Introduction to Nursing Concepts.
(3)
This course introduces the nursing student to the concepts of nursing practice and conceptual learning.
Corequisite: 220L and 332.
Restriction: admission to B.S.N. program.
NURS 220L.
Principles of Nursing Practice.
(4)
Introduces the nursing student to the application of concepts through clinical skills in seminar, laboratory, and/or clinical settings. Principles of communication, assessments, safety, and interventions including accurate calculation, measurement, and administration of medications are included.
Corequisite: 201 and 332.
Restriction: admission to B.S.N. program.
NURS 224.
Application of Growth and Development to Health Care.
(3)
Presentation of theories of psychosocial and biological growth and development across the life span. Stresses application of concepts to health care delivery.
NURS 229.
Topics.
(1-6 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Courses related to preparation for a career in nursing. Variety of topic courses may be offered based upon demand.
NURS 238.
Pharmacology in Nursing and the Health Professions.
(3)
This course introduces the nursing student to pharmacologic nursing practice from a conceptual approach.
Pre- or corequisite: 239 or 240.
NURS 239.
Pathophysiology I.
(3)
An introduction to human pathophysiology. The course focuses on forming a basic understanding of pathophysiology for nursing students.
Pre- or corequisite: BIOL 237.
NURS 240.
Pathophysiology II.
(3)
This course is a continuation of Pathophysiology I. The course focuses on forming a basic understanding of Pathophysiology for nursing students.
Pre- or corequisite: 239 and BIOL 238 and BIOL 248L.
Restriction: admission to B.S.N. program.
NURS 293.
Nursing Topics.
(1-6)
NURS 297.
Independent Study.
(1-3, no limit Δ)
Restriction: permission of advisor.
{Fall, Spring}
NURS 303.
Health Care Participant.
(3)
This course introduces the nursing student to the attributes of the health care participant as an individual, a family, or a community.
Prerequisite: 201 and 220L and 240 and 332.
Corequisite: 321L and 351.
NURS 321L.
Assessment and Health Promotion.
(4)
This course introduces the nursing student to the assessment of and the health promotion for the health care participant as an individual, a family, or a community. This course uses seminar, laboratory and/or clinical settings.
Prerequisite: 201 and 220L and 240 and 332.
Corequisite: 303 and 351.
NURS 322L.
Care of Patients with Chronic Conditions.
(4)
The focus of this course is to provide safe, evidence-based nursing care for patients with chronic conditions, across the lifespan in a variety of settings. This course builds upon curricular concepts; combines lab and clinical.
Prerequisite: 238 and 303 and 321L and 351.
Corequisite: 352.
NURS 329.
Topics.
(1-6 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Courses related to preparation for a career in nursing. Variety of topic courses may be offered based upon demand.
NURS 332.
Evidence-Based Practice.
(3)
This course focuses on the principles of evidence-based nursing practice. Includes identification of clinical practice problems, evaluation of available evidence, and integration of evidence with clinical expertise and patient preferences in application to practice.
Corequisite: 201 and 220L.
Restriction: admission to B.S.N. program.
NURS 340.
Advancement of Professional Nursing.
(3)
Self evaluation of nursing knowledge and professional development goals. Topics: contemporary nursing roles and issues; exploration of intellectual skills and strategies used by nurses; personal philosophy of nursing professionalism; leadership; conflict management skills. Writing intensive.
Prerequisite: (ENGL 110 or ENGL 112 or ENGL 113) and ENGL 120.
NURS 351.
Health and Illness Concepts I.
(3)
This course will focus on health and illness concepts across the lifespan, with the focus on wellness and common variations. Concepts covered are related to homeostasis/regulation, sexuality/reproductive, protection/movement and emotional processes.
Prerequisite: 201 and 220L and 240 and 332.
Corequisite: 303 and 321L.
Restriction: admission to B.S.N. program.
NURS 352.
Health and Illness Concepts II.
(3)
This course will cover health and illness concepts across the lifespan. Concepts covered are related to oxygenation and hemostasis, homeostasis and regulation, protection and movement, and cognitive and behavioral processes.
Prerequisite: 238 and 303 and 321L and 351.
Corequisite: 322L.
NURS 390.
Professional Nursing Concepts I.
(3)
This course covers foundational concepts for professional development, including selected professional attributes and care competencies.
Prerequisite: 238 and 303 and 321L and 351.
NURS 397.
Independent Study.
(1-3, no limit Δ)
Upper-division standing.
Restriction: permission of advisor.
{Fall, Spring}
NURS 401L.
Clinical Intensive I.
(4)
The first of two Level Four clinical courses in which the student will apply curricular concepts in the management of care participants with acute conditions across the lifespan. This course combines seminar, lab, and clinical.
Prerequisite: 322L and 352 and 390.
Corequisite: 402L and 453.
NURS 402L.
Clinical Intensive II.
(4)
The second of two Level Four clinical courses in which the student will apply curricular concepts in the management of care participants with acute conditions across the lifespan. This course combines seminar, lab, and clinical.
Prerequisite: 322L and 352 and 390.
Corequisite: 401L and 453.
NURS 403L.
Clinical Intensive III.
(4)
The focus of this clinical course is application of the curricular concepts in the management of care participants with complex conditions across the lifespan. This course is a combination of seminar, lab, and clinical.
Prerequisite: 401L and 402L and 453.
Pre- or corequisite: 491.
Corequisite: 419L and 454L.
NURS 419L.
Capstone.
(4 )
The synthesis, integration, and application of concepts to professional nursing practice will be applied in the final clinical course to ensure readiness to enter practice.
Prerequisite: 401L and 402L and 453.
Pre- or corequisite: 491.
Corequisite: 403L and 454L.
NURS 421.
Nurse Intern Professional Knowledge Development.
(1 to a maximum of 2 Δ)
This course will assist currently enrolled students who have secured a position as a nurse intern to increase competence in the professional role of the nurse. This seminar will examine student identified learning issues.
Restriction: admission to B.S.N. program.
NURS 422.
Nurse Intern Professional Role Development.
(1 to a maximum of 2 Δ)
This course will assist students who have secured a position as a nurse intern to increase competence in professional nursing. This seminar will examine communication problems in the current health care setting.
NURS *429.
Topics.
(1-6, no limit Δ)
{Offered upon demand}
NURS 431L.
Community Assessment.
(3)
Addresses community as client; determinants and indicators of community health. Student groups partner with communities to assess the health of a defined population and share planning for an evidence-based intervention for an identified problem.
Pre- or corequisite: 340.
NURS 441.
Evidence-Based Application of Health Assessment Skills.
(4)
Validation of core physical assessment skills is followed by development of holistic assessment strategies for clients across the lifespan. Application of evidence base and nursing judgment in selecting assessment strategies, diagnosis, and intervention planning.
Pre- or corequisite: 340.
NURS 442.
Nursing Leadership in Health Policy and Systems.
(3)
Evaluation of health care systems, processes, and practice environments. Power, politics, and health policy; professional nursing roles in improving health systems. Legal principles of documentation. Standards of care and risk management strategies. Writing intensive.
Pre- or corequisite: 340.
NURS 447L.
Family and Community Health Practicum. .
(4)
Focus on nursing roles working with families and communities as clients. Clinical experiences in case management and other community health roles will focus on understanding overall population health through contact with individuals and families.
Prerequisite: 431L.
NURS 448.
Application of Health and Illness Concepts.
(4)
Allows R.N. to B.S.N. students opportunity to explore in depth select concepts associated with an individual’s physical health and illness. Concept categories include regulation and homeostasis, oxygen and hemostasis, protection, maladaptive behavior, emotions, and cognition.
Pre- or corequisite: 340.
NURS 453.
Health and Illness Concepts III.
(4)
This course will cover health and illness concepts across the lifespan. Concepts covered are related to homeostasis/regulation, oxygenation/hemostasis, protection/movement and emotional processes.
Prerequisite: 322L and 352 and 390.
Corequisite: 401L and 402L.
NURS 454L.
Nursing Synthesis.
(3)
This course will focus on the synthesis of curricular concepts in the care of complex patients.
Prerequisite: 401L and 402L and 453.
Corequisite: 403L.
NURS 464.
Community Maternal Child Health I: Models of Care.
(1)
First of three courses. Provides clinical experiences in population-based maternity care. Emphasizes principles and practice of group-based clinical preventive services during pregnancy and infancy. Includes familiarization with key community resources for childbearing families.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
NURS 465.
Community Maternal Child Health II: Family Centered Birthing Care.
(1)
Second of three courses. Develops knowledge and skills in family-centered care. Emphasizes needs assessment, providing supportive care, and the impact of culture and socioeconomic marginalization on care and childbearing outcomes.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Prerequisite: 464.
NURS 466.
Community Maternal Child Health III: Building a Healthy Family.
(1)
Third of three courses. Develops competence in family-centered care from early postpartum through early months of infancy with an emphasis on the provision of comprehensive services for women and families following childbirth.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Prerequisite: 465.
NURS 467.
Basic Fetal Monitoring.
(2)
This course is an introduction to basic fetal monitoring skills needed by nurses in an antepartum and/or labor and birth setting.
Restriction: admission to B.S.N. program, and permission of instructor or advisor.
NURS 468.
Neonatal Resuscitation Program Provider.
(1)
The Neonatal Resuscitation Program is an international educational program that introduces the concepts and basic skills of neonatal resuscitation. NRP card issued upon successful completion.
Restriction: admission to B.S.N. program, and permission of instructor or advisor.
NURS 469.
Special Populations in Obstetrics.
(3)
Explores issues relevant to the nursing care of special obstetric populations utilizing both evidence-based practice and media resources.
Restriction: admission to B.S.N. program.
NURS 473.
End of Life Care.
(3)
Exploration of end of life care with focus on symptom management, pain management, and social, cultural and emotional issues. Themes include family, nurse as advocate, culture, and interdisciplinary care.
NURS 474.
Patient Education.
(3)
Intensive exploration of the role of nurse as educator. Review adult learning principles and application of principles to patients in clinical settings.
Restriction: permission of advisor.
NURS 476 / 576.
Critical Care Nursing.
(3)
This didactic course will introduce the student to the problems most commonly encountered in critical care units.
NURS 477.
Interdisciplinary Geriatric Care.
(3)
Assessment and care for the older adult as a team. Interprofessional case-based discussion, simulation, and team care plans for geriatric patients. In addition, students will engage in service learning addressing the needs of geriatric patients.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Restriction: admission to B.S.N. program.
NURS 478.
Care of the Veteran.
(3)
Preparation for care of the Veteran population; explores health issues and topics such as military and veteran culture, Veterans Health Administration, PTSD, traumatic brain injury, women in the military, military sexual trauma, and chemical exposures.
Prerequisite: 220L.
NURS 480.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
(3)
Explores complementary and alternative medicine in nursing, examining applications to both established Health and Illness concepts and herbology. Explores CAM in community settings and relates its cultural context to local communities and other healthcare settings.
Prerequisite: 220L
NURS 481.
Applications of Epidemiology to Community Health Problems.
(3)
Epidemiology studies distribution of disease and factors influencing this distribution. Introduces the basic methods and tools epidemiologists use to study and enhance the health of populations, as applied to both clinical and public health settings.
Prerequisite: 220L.
NURS 482.
Genetics and Genomics in Nursing, Health Care and Society.
(3)
Focuses on fundamentals of human and molecular genetics. Provides basic understanding of genetic/genomic concepts and molecular techniques applicable to genetic diagnoses and therapies. Discusses ethical, legal, social and policy issues of genetic knowledge and technology.
Prerequisite: 220L.
NURS 491.
Professional Nursing Concepts II.
(3)
This course covers policy concepts for professional nursing.
Prerequisite: 401L and 402L and 453.
NURS 497.
Independent Study.
(1-3, no limit Δ)
Restriction: permission of advisor.
{Fall, Spring}
NURS 498.
Honors Study in Nursing I.
(1 or 2, may be repeated once Δ [3])
First of two departmental honors courses. Small groups apply the scientific inquiry process to selected nursing problems. Knowledge synthesis is demonstrated by developing a community-based intervention or scholarly paper addressing the problem of interest.
Restriction: permission of advisor.
NURS 499.
Honors Study in Nursing II.
(1-3, may be repeated once Δ)
Second of two departmental honors courses. Small groups apply the scientific inquiry process to selected nursing problems. Knowledge synthesis is demonstrated by developing a community-based intervention or scholarly paper addressing the problem of interest.
Prerequisite: 498.
NURS 501.
Theoretical Foundations of Advanced Nursing.
(3)
Examines selected theories in nursing and health. Approaches to the analysis, critique and utilization of theories in nursing practice and scholarship are emphasized. Students develop and apply a theory and analysis to an area of interest.
Restriction: admission to M.S.N. program.
NURS 503.
Research in Nursing.
(3)
Provides an introduction to research methods used in nursing and health sciences to develop and evaluate research evidence relevant to clinical practice, public health, and delivery of nursing and health services.
Restriction: admission to M.S.N. program.
NURS 505.
Health Care Policy, Systems and Financing for Advanced Practice Roles.
(3)
Provides opportunity for in-depth discussion of concepts related to advanced practice. Focus in on issues affecting scope of practice, health policy, economics of health care, ethical decision making and advanced nursing roles and collaborative practice.
Restriction: admission to M.S.N. program.
NURS 508.
Human Resource Management in the Changing Healthcare Environment .
(3)
Human resource management complexities as applied to nurse leaders working in healthcare settings are examined. Employment laws, compensation models, and performance management and the effects of organizational strengths, weakness and cultural influence are studied.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
NURS 509.
Teaching in Nursing.
(3)
Focuses on development of teaching strategies to enhance learning in academic nursing education, continuing education, staff development, and client/family teaching. Students analyze educational philosophies, learning theories, educational principles, and instructional processes in nursing educational programs.
Prerequisite: 501 and 503 and 515.
NURS 510.
Curriculum Design and Program Evaluation [Educational Program Development and Evaluation].
(3)
Explores educational program development and evaluation in health related courses. Students analyze the curricular process, develop a philosophy, examine characteristics of the graduate, develop level/course objectives, and evaluate both courses and program outcomes.
Prerequisite: 501 and 503 and 509 and 515.
Corequisite: 511
NURS 511.
Assessment and Evaluation of Learning in Nursing Education.
(2)
Addresses teaching-learning strategies to assess and evaluate student learning in classroom, laboratory, clinical, and all learning domains. Evidence-based strategies will be assessed. Evaluation tools, methods, testing forms, and self-assessment tools including portfolios are reviewed.
Prerequisite: 501 and 503 and 509 and 515.
Corequisite: 510.
NURS 512.
Finance for Nurse Leaders in Contemporary Healthcare [Resources Utilization in Nursing Administration].
(3)
Focuses on issues involved in managing financial resources founded in healthcare reform. Fundamental concepts of economics and accounting are reviewed. The nurse administrator's role in fiscal stewardship and ethical and legal dilemmas are addressed.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
NURS 513.
Quality Management in a Transformative Healthcare Environment [Administration to Facilitate Quality Clinical Care].
(3)
Provides a systems approach to quality management in healthcare from theoretical, philosophical, and practice-based perspectives. The focus is on quality metrics, values, management philosophies, national recognition programs, organizational monitoring, and ethical issues in quality management.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
NURS 514.
Transforming Organizations through Healthcare Reform [Nursing Administration in Health Institutions/ Agencies].
(3)
This course focuses on understanding the forces and trends that impact health care organizational behavior. Concepts from organizational, management and nursing administrative frameworks that serve as the basis for practice are investigated.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
NURS 515.
Nurse Educator Roles and Professional Issues [Faculty Roles and Professional Issues].
(3)
Examines roles and competencies of nurse educators within the context of various educational settings and philosophical perspectives. Current political, social, cultural, ethical, and pedagogical issues affecting the nurse educator in various settings are explored.
Prerequisite: 501 and 503.
NURS 516.
Advanced Community Health Nursing I.
(2-3)
Investigation of contemporary health problems for rural and urban populations from epidemiological perspective. Emphasis on assessing communities, defining and prioritizing health problems.
Pre -or corequisite: graduate-level epidemiology course and 514.
(Three hours lab per week.)
{Offered upon demand}
NURS 517.
Advanced Community Health Nursing II.
(3)
Examines the role of nurses working with aggregates including using epidemiological methods and developing strategies for intervention and evaluation. Implementation of the refined intervention strategies is a course expectation.
Prerequisite: 516.
(Three hours lab per week.)
{Offered upon demand}
NURS 523.
Advanced Health Assessment for Nurse Educators.
(2)
Principles of health assessment throughout the lifespan; emphasizes problem-based, student-centered learning. Includes conceptual-based methodologies of biophysical and psychosocial health assessment of clients/families. Application of advanced health assessment knowledge and skills in nursing education practice.
NURS 525.
Primary Care Concepts.
(3)
This course focuses on the role of the APRN / Nurse Midwife providing primary care across the lifespan. Content includes best practices for health supervision, health promotion, disease prevention, building therapeutic relationships and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Prerequisite: 501 and 503 and 526.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in Nursing.
NURS 526.
Pathophysiology in Advanced Practice Nursing.
(3)
Application of analytical reasoning and problem solving based on pathophysiology and clinical presentations of a broad variety of diseases of children and adults across the life span.
NURS 534.
Primary Care Geriatrics.
(2)
The focus of this course is the care of elderly adults in the primary care setting. Content includes epidemiology, costs of aging, complexities of physical, neurocognitive, social and functional factors, geriatric pharmacology and common concerns.
Prerequisite: 525 and 535 and 540 and 543.
Corequisite: 536.
NURS 535.
Primary Care of Adults I [Adult Health I].
(4)
The focus of this course is the care of elderly adults in the primary care setting. Content includes epidemiology, costs of aging, complexities of physical, neurocognitive, social and functional factors, geriatric pharmacology and common concerns.
Prerequisite: 525 and 540 and 543.
NURS 536.
Primary Care of Adults II [Adult Health II].
(3)
This course focuses on assessment, diagnosis, and management of increasingly complex acute and chronic adult health care issues. Application of the scientific basis for practice, best available evidence and collaborative care are key course components.
Prerequisite: 535.
Corequisite: 534.
NURS 537.
Primary Care of Adults III.
(4)
This course focuses on the assessment and management of individuals with complex medical conditions and special populations of adults and elders. Using a problem-based approach, students interpret complex cases and devise evidence-based treatment plans.
Prerequisite: 536.
NURS 538.
Case Studies in Diagnostic Reasoning.
(1)
Focuses on refining interview skills and applying data from the focused history and physical exam to the development of differential diagnoses in primary care. Developing management plans and documentation of patient encounters is also emphasized.
Prerequisite: 539 or 540.
NURS 539.
Advanced Pediatric Health and Developmental Assessment.
(3 [4])
This course builds on basic health assessment skills and presents a systematic approach to the advanced physical and developmental assessment of children (newborns through adolescents).
Corequisite: 525.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in Nursing.
NURS 540.
Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning.
(3 [4])
Presents theoretical principles of health assessment throughout the life cycle; introduces problem-based, student-centered learning. Includes methodologies of data gathering and data analysis essential to comprehensive health assessment. Labs provide testing and integration of theory.
NURS 541.
Antepartum-Postpartum for FNP.
(1)
This course will provide students with the skills necessary to conduct antepartum/postpartum visits in primary health care settings.
Prerequisite: 526 and 540.
Pre- or corequisite: 543.
Corequisite: 548.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in Nursing.
NURS 542.
Primary Care of Pediatrics I [Ambulatory Pediatrics I].
(3 or 4 [4])
This course focuses on theories and concepts applied by nurse practitioners in the promotion of health in children with emphasis on health education, prevention, culturally and developmentally appropriate care, within the context of family.
Prerequisite: 526 and 540 and 543.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 543.
Pharmacological Principles of Clinical Therapeutics.
(3)
Course focuses on the application of advanced pharmacological and pharmacokinetic principles of drug categories commonly used in health care across the life span. Modules are completed specific to focus of major for portion of course.
NURS 544.
Antepartum and Postpartum Care.
(1-7, may be repeated once Δ)
Primary Care students study, analyze and apply concepts of management process to ante/postpartum periods. Within cultural and rural context, health maintenance preventive care and health policy throughout the life span is covered. Twelve hours lab per week.
Prerequisite: 526 and 540.
Restricted: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 546.
Primary Care of Pediatrics II [Ambulatory Pediatrics II].
(4 or 5 [4])
This course focuses on management of common primary health care problems of children birth through adolescence, and provides a framework for integrating concepts from the clinical sciences and current evidence base into diagnosis and management.
Prerequisite: 542 and 543.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 547.
Pediatric Chronic Illness/Special Needs.
(4 [5])
This course focuses on assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based management of children with chronic illness and special needs and their families. Emphasis is on primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention.
Prerequisite: 542 and 543 and 549.
Corequisite: 546.
NURS 548.
Women's Health.
(1-4, may be repeated once Δ)
Theories and concepts applied in the promotion of the health of adolescent and adult women. Clinical component is specialty-specific.
Prerequisite: 526 and 540.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in Nursing.
NURS 549.
Adolescent Health.
(3)
This course builds on basic health and developmental assessment skills and emphasizes health promotion, anticipatory guidance, and prevention of illness for adolescents. Content includes assessment and management of illnesses affecting adolescents and their families.
Prerequisite: 539.
NURS 550.
Intrapartum Care.
(1-9, may be repeated once Δ)
Management of labor and birth, triage of complications and cultural dimensions foundational to the nurse-midwifery model of intrapartum care are studied. Clinical component is specialty-specific.
Prerequisite: 526 and 540 and 544 and 548.
NURS 551.
Newborn Care.
(1-3 to a maximum of 3 Δ [1-3])
Study of the normal neonate within the cultural structure of the family. Common physiological, pathological problems and their management by nurse-midwife emphasized.
Prerequisite: 526 and 540. Clinical component is specialty-specific.
Restriction: Advanced Clinical Nursing Practice concentration students.
NURS 552.
Evidence-Based Care in Nurse Midwifery.
(1)
This course focuses on skill-building in the assessment of the quality and relevance of clinical research in obstetrics and midwifery. Evaluation of the current science base and identification of biases and weaknesses therein are required to articulate and support options in women’s health care. Current research topics are explored from historical and scientific perspectives.
Prerequisite: 544, 548.
Corequisite: 550, 551.
NURS 553.
Nurse-Midwifery Professional Practice.
(1)
This advanced class in nurse-midwifery standards of professional practice analyzes variations based upon populations, geography, practice teams and delivery systems. Historical and ethical frames are used in the analysis of clinical, organization and international issues.
NURS 554.
The Evidence Base for APRN Primary Care Practice.
(1)
The focus of this course is on analysis of clinical research in primary care practice, including identification of biases and limitations, allowing students to articulate best practices and support clinical decision-making in primary care.
Prerequisite: 535 and 542.
NURS 557.
Biophysical and Psychosocial Concepts of Health and Illness.
(4)
Biophysical and psychosocial concepts of health and illness throughout lifespan, offering a conceptual approach in health assessment and pathophysiology. Examines application in patient care delivery settings using a systems perspective in educational and clinical practice.
Prerequisite: 515 and 526 and 543.
NURS 560.
Differential Diagnosis for Advanced Practice.
(3)
Builds on content covered in advanced courses of physical assessment, pharmacology and pathophysiology. Concepts of developing differential diagnosis related to health problems in acutely, chronically, and critically ill adults (all ages) based on case studies.
Prerequisite: 566.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 561.
ACNP Applications to Practice I: Introduction to the Acutely Ill Adult.
(5)
Introductory skills and concepts of acutely ill adult patients. Evaluation and management of common disease processes of adults in the acute care setting will be included.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in Nursing.
NURS 562.
Complex Patient Analyses and Treatment.
(3)
Focuses on diagnosis and management of the most complex patients, including those with acute illness in addition to chronic illness, multiple co-morbidities, treatment complications, adverse outcomes as well as end stage disease.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 563.
ACNP Applications to Practice II: High Acuity Adult Patients.
(5)
Continued diagnosis, management, and care of the complex acute, chronic, and critically ill adult-geriatric patient.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in Nursing.
NURS 564.
Health Promotion, Protection, and Disease Prevention for Acute, Critical or Chronically Ill Adults.
(2)
This course focuses on health promotion, protection and disease prevention in the acutely ill, critical or chronically ill adult. Health promotion strategies, risk stratification, and disease prevention and protection concepts are included.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in Nursing.
NURS 566.
Advanced Diagnostic and Therapeutic Skills.
(3)
Focuses on specific skills, diagnostic and technical interventions used to diagnose, sustain or stabilize the acutely ill patient. Includes electrocardiogram interpretation, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, analysis of laboratory values, suturing, and radiological film interpretation.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 568.
ACNP Clinical Topics I.
(3 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
Covers content related to areas of advanced practice that require specialized training and skills. Student chooses from operating room R.N. first assistant, flight nursing, disaster management, or specialized acute care topics approved by the instructor.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 569.
ACNP Clinical Topics II.
(3 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
Builds on ACNP Clinical Topics I. The student continues in the chosen topic of operating room R.N. first assistant, flight nursing, disaster management, or in the specialized acute care topic approved by the instructor.
Prerequisite: 568.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 571.
Geriatric and End of Life Concepts for Advanced Nursing Practice.
(2)
Aging adults and end of life concepts. Theories of aging and knowledge of health and disease processes are applied to the physical, emotional, spiritual, and functional changes.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in Nursing.
NURS 572.
Iatrogenesis in the Elderly.
(3)
This course focuses on the hospitalized elderly patient and the prevention, identification, management, and treatment of the iatrogenic process. Ethical, legal, and psychosocial complexities will be explored.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in Nursing.
NURS 576 / 476.
Critical Care Nursing.
(3)
This didactic course will introduce the student to the problems most commonly encountered in critical care units.
NURS 591.
Graduate Problems.
(1-6, no limit Δ)
Independent study and research on a topic agreed upon by instructor and student.
Restriction: permission of advisor.
NURS 592.
Clinical Specialty Practicum.
(2)
Synthesis of advanced knowledge/skills from health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology with theoretical foundations, evidence- based practice, and health care policy. Provides experiences in identified clinical area to apply knowledge/skills under advanced health care practitioner supervision.
Prerequisite: 501 and 504 and 523 and 526 and 543.
NURS 593.
Topics.
(1-6, no limit Δ)
Specialized courses about a particular topic in nursing. A variety of topic courses are offered according to demand. Different sections indicate different topic content.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 594.
Advanced Practice Seminar.
(1)
The focus of the course is entry into practice for the advanced practice nurse.
Prerequisite: students must have completed the majority of their clinical courses specific to their concentration. Coordinators for the advance practice nursing concentrations must approve students’ admission into this course.
NURS 595.
Advanced Nursing Field Work.
(1-7, no limit Δ)
A minimum of 4 field work credits is required. Taken after core and specialty required courses in the concentration have been completed. Students enroll with faculty in specialty area. Faculty member oversees experience and monitors students progress. (3 lab hours per week, per credit.)
Restriction: permission of advisor.
NURS 596.
Professional Paper.
(1)
Scholarly, comprehensive paper written during the final semester of the course of study for completion of Plan II. Topic agreed upon with appointed professional advisor.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 597.
Applied Examination.
(1)
Comprehensive examination taken during the final term of the course of study for completion of Plan II requirements.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 599.
Nursing Thesis I.
(1-6, no limit Δ)
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Restriction: permission of advisor.
NURS 600.
Philosophical Foundations of Nursing Science [Philosophy of Science in Nursing].
(3)
Focus on ontological and epistemological foundations of nursing as a discipline. Nursing knowledge and science are explored in regard to philosophical, historical and social contexts.
Restriction: admitted to doctoral program in nursing.
NURS 601.
Theory I: Methods and Processes of Nursing Knowledge Development [Theory I: Nursing Knowledge Development].
(3)
Engagement in analysis and critique of both developmental processes and composition of concepts and theory as components of nursing disciplinary knowledge. Emphasis on components and types of theoretical constructions of concepts and theory development.
Prerequisite: 600.
NURS 602.
Theory II: Synthesis of Knowledge for Nursing Inquiry [Theory II: Substantive Nursing Knowledge].
(3)
Student will critically examine existing and evolving substantive knowledge drawn from nursing and other disciplines. Focus on analysis, critique, and synthesis of extant knowledge and theory in application to a problem in nursing knowledge.
Restriction: admitted to doctoral program in nursing.
NURS 605.
Symptom Management Science.
(3)
This course focuses on the study of symptoms and symptom management in nursing research. The emphasis is on building an understanding of the theoretical, methodological, and practical issues surrounding the study of symptoms in healthcare.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 606.
Quantitative Methods in Health Research [Quantitative Methods in Nursing Research].
(3)
Critical analysis and application of quantitative research designs and methods used to study clinical problems and health policy issues. Emphasis on survey methods and non-experimental and single group quasi-experimental designs.
Prerequisite: 620.
NURS 607.
Qualitative Methods in Health Research [Qualitative Methods in Nursing Research].
(3)
Exploration of major methodological traditions and techniques of qualitative research and their applications to knowledge development in nursing and health research.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 608.
Environments of Human Health and Nursing [Environments of Human Health].
(3)
Analysis of physical and social environments in relation to individuals, families, groups and communities. Examination of human health as an outcome of interactions with varying levels of environments.
Restriction: admitted to the College of Nursing.
NURS 609.
Family Health: Concepts, Issues and Outcomes [Family Nursing: Concepts, Issues and Outcomes].
(3)
Emphasizes the family as the unit of research. Critically analyzes factors affecting health outcomes for families and their members, with health policy implications for enhancement of family health and capacity.
Restriction: admitted to doctoral program in nursing.
NURS 611.
Rural and Cultural Health.
(3)
Rural and cultural health analyzes unique characteristics, current issues, cultural competence and future trends for professional nursing in rural environments. Learning strategies incorporate critical reflection, dialogue, analysis and synthesis of ideas, problem-solving, rural experiences and the creative expression of thought.
Restriction: admitted to doctoral program in nursing.
NURS 612.
Health Outcomes Research [Clinical Nursing Therapeutics and Outcomes].
(3)
Advanced analysis and application of quantitative research designs and methods to study patient-centered outcomes and the comparative effectiveness of therapies, health interventions, and systems of healthcare delivery.
Prerequisite: 621 and 622.
Restriction: admitted to doctoral program in nursing.
NURS 613.
Mixed Methods Research.
(3)
This course provides doctoral students with specific knowledge needed to design and implement a mixed methods research proposal, and assist students to develop critical evaluation skills to critique peer-reviewed mixed methods research reports.
Restriction: Enrollment in a UNM or NEXUS doctoral program and permission of instructor.
NURS 615.
Critical Ethnography and CBPR in Health Care Research.
(3)
Examines conceptual/philosophical traditions, foundations, characteristics, procedures, applications and contexts for health care research involving critical ethnographic and CBPR methods. Focuses on strategies for designing and implementing studies in multicultural settings and diverse populations.
Prerequisite: 607.
NURS 616.
Secondary Data in Health Research.
(3)
Introduction to the use of secondary data in health research, including practical experience in acquiring, managing, and analyzing secondary data, reporting results of analyses, and evaluating health research that uses secondary data sources.
Prerequisite: 606 and 620 and 621.
NURS 620.
Health Care Statistics I [Advanced Health Care Statistics I].
(3)
Provides the student with knowledge, skills, and practice in performing, analyzing, and interpreting quantitative data. Course content will include descriptive data analysis as well as parametric and nonparametric statistical tests of association and differences.
Restriction: admitted to doctoral program in nursing.
NURS 621.
Health Care Statistics II [Advanced Health Care Statistics II].
(3)
Provides knowledge, skills and practice analyzing and interpreting quantitative data using multivariate statistical techniques, including: multiple linear and logistic regression, factorial analysis of variance and covariance, and exploratory factor analysis.
Prerequisite: 620.
NURS 622.
Advanced Quantitative Methods.
(3)
This course focuses on advanced quantitative research design and methods, with particular focus on quasi-experimental and experimental designs. The emphasis is on emerging trends and controversies in quantitative methods.
Prerequisite: 606.
Pre- or corequisite: 621.
NURS 623.
Advanced Qualitative Methods.
(3)
Focuses on advanced techniques for qualitative research design and data analysis. Emphasis is on study of symptoms and symptom management in nursing research and on the conduct of qualitative research and emerging trends and controversies.
Prerequisite: 607.
NURS 624.
Behavioral Observation Methods.
(3)
This course will be an in-depth introduction to observational research measurement. Development of data collection strategies, inter-observer reliability and data analysis strategies will be covered.
Prerequisite: 606 and 607.
NURS 630.
Personal and Social Context of Illness.
(3)
Drawing broadly from health and social and behavior sciences, this course is an exploration into the personal and social contexts that frame the illness experience.
NURS 640.
Health Policy, Politics, and Evidence [Evidence, Health Policy, and Politics].
(3)
Politics of health policy in the U.S. Examines stakeholders' use of different types of evidence to influence policy outcomes. Emphasis on national policies, how federalist system of government affects health politics, policies, including tribal.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 641.
Health Disparities and Policy.
(3)
The course focuses on historical, structural and social determinants of racial, ethnic and socio-economic health disparities in the US. Examines research approaches to the study of health disparities and explores policy and research strategies.
Restriction: admitted to doctoral program in nursing.
NURS 642.
Applied Health Economics.
(3)
This course focuses on the concepts and methods of analysis used in health economics, with an emphasis on health care evaluation. Emphasizes the impact of health economics on patient care and health care delivery.
Restriction: admitted to graduate program in nursing.
NURS 648.
Introduction to Health Policy Field Placement.
(1)
In consultation with course faculty, Health Policy students identify field placement goals and finalize field placement arrangements, including sites and preceptors.
Prerequisite: 640 and 641.
Restriction: admission to Ph.D. in Nursing and permission of instructor.
NURS 649.
Health Policy Field Placement.
(3)
Building upon objectives from NURS 648, Health Policy, students in the health policy concentration apply knowledge from prior courses in health policy, research methods, and other areas through field placements in public or private sector settings.
Prerequisite: 640 and 641 and 642 and 648.
Restriction: admission to Ph.D. in Nursing and permission of instructor.
NURS 690.
Ph.D. Seminar.
(1-3, no limit Δ)
Specialized courses about a particular topic applicable to advanced graduate students. Different sections indicate different topic content.
NURS 691.
Independent Study.
(1-3, no limit Δ)
Intensive, directed study at the doctoral level on a specific topic or issue pertaining to nursing. The focus for this independent study, objectives, and strategies to achieve the objectives are agreed upon by instructor and student.
Restriction: admitted to doctoral program in nursing.
NURS 693.
Topics.
(1-6, no limit Δ)
Specific topics relevant to Ph.D. studies in Nursing, as identified by the course title.
Restriction: admitted to Ph.D. program in Nursing.
NURS 694.
Research Practicum.
(1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Focuses on development of skills and techniques for the conduct of research through active participation in faculty research. Emphasis on practical application of research skills and growth in knowledge related to the conduct of research.
Restriction: admitted to doctoral program in Nursing.
NURS 699.
Dissertation.
(3-9, no limit Δ)
Restriction: admitted to doctoral program in nursing.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
NURS 701.
Applied Research in Advanced Nursing Practice.
(3)
This course serves as an introduction to the research process. Students will identify and refine a research problem, conduct a review of the literature, and distinguish selected clinical research methods and related analysis strategies.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 702.
Applied Epidemiology in Advanced Nursing Practice.
(3)
Using group discussion, literature reviews, and primary and secondary data services, students will gain knowledge regarding the historical dimensions leading to health disparities, social injustice, and concepts of marginalization, poverty, race, class, and gender.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 703.
Applied Clinical Research in Advanced Nursing Practice.
(3)
This course will focus on the systematic examination and application of health-related research in relation to advanced nursing practice, including clinical practice, nursing and health care administration, community and public health, or health policy.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 705.
The Business and Policy of Practice and Their Influence on the U.S. Health Care System.
(3)
Examines U.S. healthcare system complexities with focus on major core changes and challenges affecting healthcare economics, public healthcare policy, reform, care provisions and workforce issues affecting population health, cost of care, and access to care.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 706.
Organizational Systems and Quality Management for Advanced Nursing Practice.
(3)
Advanced practice nursing student will focus on the process of quality management, improvement, and outcomes through management and coordination of care in ambulatory and in-patient organizational systems. Individual settings and system-wide performance improvement plans will be developed.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 713.
Applied Pharmacotherapeutics for APRNs.
(2)
This course expands the advanced practice nurse's ability to safely prescribe in complex clinical situations. Current and emerging knowledge is analyzed while developing appropriate pharmacotherapeutics applied to specific clinical cases. A clinical component is included.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 723.
Effective Human Resource Management in Health Care Settings.
(3)
In this course students will acquire knowledge and obtain a deeper understanding of issues related to the complex area of human resource management as it applies to the doctorally-prepared nurse working in a health care setting.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 725.
Principles of Advanced Nursing Management.
(3)
This course introduces the importance of management skills, identifies essential management skills, and presents a learning model for developing management skills. Essential management skills are organized into three categories: personal, interpersonal, and group.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 726.
Leading Organizational Change.
(3)
Integrated learning experiences explore leadership challenges in changing workplaces through on-site implementation of capstone projects. Executive leadership is discussed in context of the role of the nurse leader in promoting and managing institutional change.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 727.
Health Care Innovations and Informatics.
(3)
This course focuses on nursing informatics. Topics include: (1) introduction to the nursing informatics; (2) health care informatics applications; (3) evidence-based decision support; (4) information systems design; and (5) new opportunities and emerging trends.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 730.
Geriatric and End of Life Concepts for Advanced Nursing Practice.
(3)
This course explores the role of the Primary and Acute Care NP in caring for aging adults and clients at the end of life.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 746.
Mental Health Concepts for APRNs.
(3)
This course prepares the advanced practice nurse to support emotional and mental well-being and treat common mental health issues in primary care practice. Legal and clinical challenges in mental health care will be discussed.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 751.
Chronic and Complex Illness in Adults.
(3)
The focus of this course is on the assessment, diagnosis and management of complex and chronic illness in adults with special emphasis on the geriatric patient.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 769.
Comparative Models of Maternal and Child Health Care Delivery.
(3)
This course will compare models of maternal and child health care. Programmatic features, models of delivery, and their associated outcomes are examined.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 770.
Cultural and Complementary Healing.
(3)
Health care traditions and practices in historic New Mexico communities are explored. Students examine use and effectiveness of common complementary therapies in primary health care.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 771.
Midwifery Leadership and Change.
(1)
Midwifery students analyze the underpinnings and current issues of the midwifery profession and practice while learning to take a leadership role to facilitate change.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 784.
Pediatric Chronic and Complex Illness.
(4)
This course for advanced practice nurses focuses on the diagnosis and management of chronic and complex illness in children from birth through adolescence. Students will apply these concepts in a variety of clinical settings.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 791.
Independent Study.
(1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Specific intensive directed study at the doctoral level relevant to D.N.P. studies in Nursing.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 793.
Topics.
(1-6 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Specific topics relevant to D.N.P. studies in Nursing, as identified by the section title.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 795.
Advanced Nursing Practice Residency.
(1-10 to a maximum of 10 Δ)
This is a supervised, intensive clinical immersion which addresses the full spectrum of advanced nursing practice. Students are expected to demonstrate national D.N.P. competencies in professional health care delivery.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 796.
D.N.P. Capstone Seminar.
(1)
The D.N.P. capstone project is explored, including project concept, assessment of needed resources, assessment of need for IRB approval, and other components required for conducting the capstone project.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
NURS 797.
D.N.P. Capstone Project.
(1-8 to a maximum of 8 Δ)
In this course the student builds on the foundation of core and specialty content in the D.N.P. program to develop a rigorous project which reflects the achievement of D.N.P. program outcomes.
Restriction: admission to D.N.P. program.
