Program Objectives
The graduate program provides students with a strong foundational background of theory, research, and experiential learning in which to practice in a variety of health care systems and educational settings. Through lectures, discussions, seminars, clinical experiences, and independent study, students acquire a strong foundational background of critical thinking, therapeutic nursing interventions, and communication skills.
The Department of Nursing graduate program curriculum objectives are consistent with the American Association of College of Nursing (2011), Essentials of Masters Education for Advanced Practice Nursing. The Department of Nursing Graduate Program Curriculum objectives for FNP are consistent with the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties Domains (NONPF, 2021).
Graduates of the Master of Science in Nursing Program will be prepared to:
- Integrate knowledge from nursing and the natural and behavioral sciences for the continual improvement of nursing care across diverse settings.
- Apply critical decision-making and leadership strategies to promote high-quality, safe patient care, emphasizing ethical principles in a spirit of Christian maturity.
- Demonstrate how quality improvement methods and best evidence are utilized to improve the quality of clinical practice.
- Translate and integrate the best current evidence within the practice setting to improve patient outcomes and quality of care.
- Utilize information systems and patient care technologies in a legal and ethical manner to support health literacy and safe nursing practice.
- Advocate for policies that lead to improved health outcomes for populations and improvement of the quality of the health care system.
- Communicate effectively within nursing and inter-professional teams, fostering mutual respect and shared decision-making to achieve safe, quality patient-centered care.
- Apply best evidence in client-centered, culturally appropriate prevention and population care services to individuals and communities.
- Translate, integrate, and apply knowledge to improve patient outcomes and excellence in advanced nursing practice.