Courses at the 500-level

Theories and methodologies for evaluating research findings in nursing and health care are examined. Focus is on dissemination and utilization of research findings for evidence-based practice.
3 credit hours

• graduate status in nursing or consent of M.S.N. program director

Topics covered are organizational structure, resources, current technology, informational systems, outcome measures, safety initiatives, health care policy, and ethics. The central role of the patient in health care decision making is also examined.
3 credit hours

• graduate status in nursing or consent of M.S.N. program director

Behaviors that promote change and collaboration in practice environments are examined, including concepts of leadership, communication, power, and problem solving.
3 credit hours

• graduate status in nursing or consent of M.S.N. program director

Students explore the interrelationships of human systems and the effects of illness on the individual as a whole. Concepts and patterns of alterations in physiological mechanisms and functions are identified.
3 credit hours

• graduate status in nursing or consent of M.S.N. program director

Pharmacologic agents and their clinical applications are examined. Pharmacologics, therapeutic uses, and the side effects and drug interactions of a broad variety of classes of drugs are explored as treatment modalities.
3 credit hours

• graduate status in nursing or consent of M.S.N. program director

This course assists the learner in the acquisition of advanced health assessment skills. The status of clients is determined by using the health history interview and advanced diagnostic skills.
3 credit hours

• graduate status in nursing or consent of M.S.N. graduate program director

Topics covered include statistical concepts, evaluation of health research literature, and outcome measurements. Students cannot receive credit for both NURS 507 and HED 507. (Formerly Epidemiology and Health Statistics.)
3 credit hours

• graduate status in nursing or consent of M.S.N. graduate program director

Study is made of environmental and occupational health, bioterrorism and disaster preparedness, communicable diseases, chronic diseases, and vulnerable populations.
3 credit hours

• graduate status in nursing or consent of M.S.N. graduate program director

Students develop plans for a comprehensive project in the form of research, program design, or grant preparation. Planning includes literature review and exploration of resources. (Formerly Professional Project Seminar I.)
1 credit hours

• NURS 501
• NURS 502
• NURS 503
• graduate status in nursing

Students develop advanced practice nurse competencies specific to health promotion and disease prevention of adults across the lifespan. Emphasis is on the patient sphere. (Formerly Acute Care/Critical Care I.)
3 credit hours

• NURS 505 and 506, and prior or concurrent enrollment in NURS 501, 502, 503, 504, and 530(CNS) or 540(NP)

Variables relevant to public health problems are investigated through field experience. Students demonstrate knowledge of analytic assessment and public health science skills.
6 credit hours

• NURS 508; and prior or concurrent enrollment in NURS 501, 502, 503, and 507

The scientific, ethical, legal, social, technological, and policy implications of genetics and genomics are explored, with application to interdisciplinary health care professionals.
3 credit hours

• Graduate status or consent of program director

This elective course introduces students to the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required of a nurse educator. Through classroom and clinically oriented learning activities, students gain basic competencies.
3 credit hours

Simulation theory, models, evidence-based practice, and safety provide the framework for using simulation in practice and education. Groups of students develop, implement, and revise a simulation.
3 credit hours

• Graduate status in nursing or instructor permission

Students develop knowledge of the Synergy Model required for the clinical nurse specialist practice. Model assumptions, development, and applicability to CNS practice are discussed, analyzed, and applied.
3 credit hours

• NURS 505 and 506, and prior or concurrent enrollment in NURS 501, 502, 503, 504, and 510

Students are introduced to the diagnostic framework, clinical decision making, and evidence-based resources. Focus is on developing skills in diagnostic reasoning and differential diagnosis.
3 credit hours

• NURS 505 and 506, and prior or concurrent enrollment in NURS 501, 502, 503, 504, and 510