Post-Graduate Certificate
Admissions Requirements
Specialization, Program of Study: Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, and Nursing Education
Length: 5 semesters
General Admission Requirements:
- Online application submitted via NursingCAS. View a video overview on completing NursingCAS application.
- NursingCAS application fee
- Master’s in Nursing
- Completion of a graduate course in health assessment with a grade of B or better.
- Completion of a graduate pathophysiology course with a grade of B or better.
- Completion of a graduate pharmacology course with a grade of B or better.
- Submit official transcript(s) from each post-secondary institution attended, even if no degree awarded, to NursingCAS. International transcripts must be evaluated by an accredited foreign credential service. *Visit the nursing admissions website for more information regarding international applicant requirements.
- Grade Point Average of "B" (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) or higher in previous graduate studies.
- Official copy of Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score, if international applicant. TOEFL and IELTS scores can be no more than two (2) years old. A minimum TOEFL score of 550 is required on the paper examination; minimum 250 on the computer-based examination; or, minimum 68 on the internet based examination. A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 for graduate admission is required. TOEFL or IELTS scores are not required for students who have successfully completed ENGL 1301 and 1302 (or equivalent courses) from an accredited college or university in the United States or for students who have earned a degree from an accredited college or university in the United States. TOEFL school code: 3383
- Licensure as a Registered Nurse in Texas or Compact State with multi-state privileges for the Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education (practicum experiences must be conducted in the state of Texas). For Post-Graduate Certificates in APRN tracks, must be licensed as an APRN.
- Current BLS for Healthcare Providers Certification through the American Heart Association. Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner majors will need to possess Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification through the American Heart Association.
- Current required immunizations
- Proof of Current health insurance coverage
- Clear criminal background check
- Three professional references (Submit via NursingCAS application)
- Professional goal statement/essay (Submit via Supplemental Application, not via NursingCAS application)
- Current resume or curriculum vita
- School of Nursing application fee
- Interview and admission essay
Application Deadline: See School of Nursing Admissions website
Start Term: Spring for APRN tracks; Fall for Nursing Education
Contact:
Office of Admissions
School of Nursing
UT San Antonio Health Science Center
7703 Floyd Curl Drive, MSC 7945
San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900
Phone: 210-567-0341
Toll Free: 877-235-0341
FAX 210-567-6189
https://www.uthscsa.edu/academics/nursing
Certificate Requirements and Graduation
The Post Graduate Certificate Program option is available for students who hold a master's degree in nursing and desire a Nurse Practitioner specialization in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Family, Pediatric Primary Care, Psychiatric Mental Health or Nursing Education.
For the Post Graduate Certificate in a Nurse Practitioner track, a minimum of 28 semester credit hours of upper-division and graduate courses is required. A student must achieve no less than the total number of semester credit hours for the specific track.
To complete, a student must have an overall minimum GPA of 3.0, no more than one grade of C and no incomplete grades.
Curriculum and Plans of Study
MSN-prepared nurses interested in obtaining a Post-Graduate Certificate as a Nurse Practitioner may select from three areas of specialization: (1) Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, (2) Family Nurse Practitioner, (3) Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care, and (4) Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Students can expect to take a minimum of 28 semester credit hours towards their certificate. However, total semester credit hours needed for completion is determined on a case-by-case basis once admission is offered.
MSN-prepared nurses interested in obtaining a Post Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education must complete a minimum of 15 semester credit hours towards their certificate. However, total semester credit hours needed for completion is determined on a case-by-case basis once admission is offered.
Post-Graduate Certificate students are subject to general and graduate policies of the Master’s degree program and the School of Nursing. Students who complete the certificate program are eligible to take National credentialing boards.
Nursing Education
| First Year | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall Semester | Theory | Clinical | Lab | Cont | SCH | |
| NURS 6262 | Curriculum Design and Evaluation | 2 | ||||
| NURS 6361 | Foundational Topics in Nursing Education | 3 | ||||
| NURS 6134 | Clinical Application: Curriculum Design and Evaluation | 90 | 1 | |||
| Spring Semester | ||||||
| NURS 5307 | Using Research for the Practice of Nursing | 3 | ||||
| NURS 6266 | Assessment and Evaluation in Education | 2 | ||||
| NURS 6138 | Clinical Application: Assessment and Evaluation in Education | 90 | 1 | |||
| Summer Semester | ||||||
| NURS 6264 | Teaching and Learning Strategies Across Settings | 2 | ||||
| NURS 6136 | Clinical Application: Teaching and Learning Strategies Across Settings | 90 | 1 | |||
| Total Credit Hours: | 0.0 | 270.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 15.0 | |
Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
| First Year | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Theory | Clinical | Lab | Cont | SCH | |
| NURS 6406 | AGACNP Diagnosis & Health Management I | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6340 | AGACNP Applied Acute/Critical Care Pharmacology | 3 | ||||
| NURS 6109 | AGACNP Diagnostic Tests and Clinical Procedures | 1 | ||||
| Summer Semester | ||||||
| NURS 6407 | AGACNP Diagnosis & Health Management II | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6102 | AGACNP Clinical Seminar I | 1 | ||||
| NURS 6228 | AGACNP Clinical I | 2 | ||||
| Total Credit Hours: | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 15.0 | |
| Second Year | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall Semester | Theory | Clinical | Lab | Cont | SCH | |
| NURS 6408 | AGACNP Diagnosis & Health Management III | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6326 | AGACNP Clinical II | 3 | ||||
| NURS 6103 | AGACNP Clinical Seminar II | 1 | ||||
| Spring Semester | ||||||
| NURS 6227 | Advanced Practice Nurse Role and Transition to Practice | 2 | ||||
| NURS 6434 | AGACNP Clinical III | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6107 | AGACNP Clinical Seminar III | 1 | ||||
| Total Credit Hours: | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 15.0 | |
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
| First Year | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Theory | Clinical | Lab | Cont | SCH | |
| NURS 6476 | FNP Diagnosis & Health Management I | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6333 | Women's Health Management | 3 | ||||
| NURS 6146 | FNP Diagnostic Tests and Clinical Procedures | 1 | ||||
| Summer Semester | ||||||
| NURS 6477 | FNP Diagnosis & Health Management II | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6123 | FNP Clinical Seminar I | 1 | ||||
| NURS 6231 | FNP Clinical I | 2 | ||||
| Total Credit Hours: | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 15.0 | |
| Second Year | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall Semester | Theory | Clinical | Lab | Cont | SCH | |
| NURS 6478 | FNP Diagnosis & Health Management III | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6328 | FNP Clinical II | 3 | ||||
| NURS 6126 | FNP Clinical Seminar II | 1 | ||||
| Spring Semester | ||||||
| NURS 6227 | Advanced Practice Nurse Role and Transition to Practice | 2 | ||||
| NURS 6440 | FNP Clinical III | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6127 | FNP Clinical Seminar III | 1 | ||||
| Total Credit Hours: | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 15.0 | |
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
| First Year | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Theory | Clinical | Lab | Cont | SCH | |
| NURS 6409 | PMHNP Diagnosis & Health Management I | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6336 | PMHNP Advanced Psychopharmacology | 3 | ||||
| NURS 6142 | Applied Psychotherapy for the PMHNP | 1 | ||||
| Summer Semester | ||||||
| NURS 6414 | PMHNP Diagnosis & Health Management II | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6116 | PMHNP Clinical Seminar I | 1 | ||||
| NURS 6207 | PMHNP Clinical I | 2 | ||||
| Total Credit Hours: | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 15.0 | |
| Second Year | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall Semester | Theory | Clinical | Lab | Cont | SCH | |
| NURS 6415 | PMHNP Diagnosis & Health Management III | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6327 | PMHNP Clinical II | 1 | ||||
| NURS 6117 | PMHNP Clinical Seminar II | 1 | ||||
| Spring Semester | ||||||
| NURS 6227 | Advanced Practice Nurse Role and Transition to Practice | 2 | ||||
| NURS 6459 | PMHNP Clinical III | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6118 | PMHNP Clinical Seminar III | 1 | ||||
| Total Credit Hours: | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 13.0 | |
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care (PNP-PC)
| First Year | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Theory | Clinical | Lab | Cont | SCH | |
| NURS 6402 | PNP-PC Diagnosis & Health Management I | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6332 | Special Population Pharmacology: Applied Pediatric Pharmacology PNP-PC | 3 | ||||
| NURS 6150 | PNP-PC Diagnostic Tests and Clinical Procedures | 1 | ||||
| Summer Semester | ||||||
| NURS 6403 | PNP-PC Diagnosis & Health Management II | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6131 | PNP-PC Clinical Seminar I | 1 | ||||
| NURS 6204 | PNP-PC Clinical I | 2 | ||||
| Total Credit Hours: | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 15.0 | |
| Second Year | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall Semester | Theory | Clinical | Lab | Cont | SCH | |
| NURS 6404 | PNP-PC Diagnosis & Health Management III | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6325 | PNP-PC Clinical II | 3 | ||||
| NURS 6123 | FNP Clinical Seminar I | 1 | ||||
| Spring Semester | ||||||
| NURS 6227 | Advanced Practice Nurse Role and Transition to Practice | 2 | ||||
| NURS 6433 | PNP-PC Clinical III | 4 | ||||
| NURS 6126 | FNP Clinical Seminar II | 1 | ||||
| Total Credit Hours: | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 15.0 | |
Graduate Program Policies
General Information
Information about academic progression, policies or procedures, as well as curriculum information, may be obtained from the Office for Academic Affairs.
Current Licensure as a Registered Nurse
Each graduate nursing student is required to maintain current licensure in good standing as a registered nurse in Texas, or a Compact State with multistate privileges, throughout the graduate program. Students must provide a copy of the license verification to the Office for Academic Affairs. Failure to maintain a current license in good standing or to produce proof of current licensure in good standing is grounds for dismissal from the program.
Advisement
Each student enrolled in the graduate program is assigned an advisor in the Office for Academic Affairs.
Transfer of Credit
Students may, with the approval of the Committee on Graduate Studies (COGS), transfer from another accredited institution a maximum of six semester credit hours (nine quarter hours) of graduate credit applicable to their course of study leading toward the Master of Science in Nursing.
Approval of any course for transfer, prior to registration for the course, is strongly recommended.
Approval of transfer credit requires that the student be enrolled in the graduate program. The student must complete a Request for Transfer of Credit form and submit it to the Office for Academic Affairs with an official course description from the catalog and must make certain that an official transcript, sent directly from the college or university attended, is in her/his file or request that a transcript be sent as soon as the course is completed. All courses must have been completed not more than five years before the degree is awarded. Courses in which a grade of C or less has been earned will not be accepted for transfer (see exception for students enrolled in the DNP Public Health Nurse Leader). The student may obtain additional information about materials that must be submitted with the petition from the Office for Academic Affairs.
Teaching Assistants
Opportunities are available for graduate nursing students enrolled part-time to work as teaching assistants in the School of Nursing. Interested applicants should contact the Office for Academic Affairs in the School of Nursing for additional information.
Honors
A graduate nursing student whose grade point average is 4.0 is awarded her/his degree with High Honors.
Grades and Grade Point Average
The standing of students in their work is expressed by five grades: A (above average graduate work), B (average graduate work), C (below average graduate work), D (failing graduate work), and F (failing graduate work). D and F grades are not acceptable for graduate credit. Students may also register in certain courses on a pass/fail basis, in which case the grade is recorded as either Pass (P) or Fail (F), and no letter grade is assigned.
Other symbols used in reporting the standing of students in their classes are: W=withdrawal from course; I=incomplete; IP=in progress (for selected courses); S=satisfactory; U=unsatisfactory; P=pass; F= fail; AU records an audited course. U is equivalent to a grade of F.
Courses in which a student receives a D, F, or U will not be counted toward the total number of courses and/or hours required for a graduate degree in the School of Nursing or the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. However, all grades (A to F) are included in the computation of the grade point average. In computing the grade point average, the following scale of points per semester credit hour is used:
A = 4 points (90-100)
B = 3 points (80-89)
C = 2 points (75-79)
D = 1 point (66-74)
F = 0 points (65 or below)
Note: Final numeric grades are calculated to two decimal places and rounded mathematically as follows:
- Less than 0.50 – round down to next whole number – (i.e.“89.49” would be rounded to “89”)
- 0.50 or greater – round up to next whole number – (i.e. “90.50” would be rounded to “91”)
Grading Policy for Fundamental APRN/Nurse Anesthesia Courses
Graduate Students in the MSN, BSN to DNP APRN tracks, and BSN to DNP-Nurse Anesthesia program must earn a minimum final course grade of B in the foundational APRN/Nurse Anesthesia courses. Students who receive a “C” in any of these specific courses would be considered failing. Specific courses include Advanced Pharmacology, Advanced Health Assessment, Advanced Pathophysiology, all Diagnosis and Management courses, and Special Population Pharmacology which are listed below. Students in the MSN program must earn a minimum final grade of C for all courses.
- NURS 6338-Advanced Pathophysiology
- NURS 6430-Advanced Pathophysiology
- NURS 6302-Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics
- NURS 6210-Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Reasoning
- NURS 6321-Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Reasoning
- NURS 6121-Advanced Health Assessment: Clinical Application
- NURS 6110-Advanced Health Assessment: Clinical Application
- NURS 6435-AGACNP Dx & Mgmt: Concepts and Theory 1
- NURS 6145-AGACNP Special Population Pharmacology
- NURS 6436-AGACNP Dx & Mgmt: Concepts and Theory 2
- NURS 6235-AGACNP Dx & Mgmt: Concepts & Theory 3
- NURS 6453 FNP Dx & Mgmt: Concepts & Theory 1
- NURS 6144 FNP Special Population Pharmacology
- NURS 6454 FNP Dx & Mgmt: Concepts & Theory 2
- NURS 6254 FNP Dx & Mgmt: Concepts & Theory 3
- NURS 6410 PMHNP Dx & Mgmt: Concepts & Theory 1
- NURS 6140-PMHNP Special Population Applied Psychopharmacology
- NURS 6411-PMHNP Dx & Mgmt: Concepts & Theory 2
- NURS 6219-PMHNP Dx & Mgmt: Concepts & Theory 3
- NURS 6421-PNP Dx & Mgmt: Concepts & Theory 1
- NURS 6422-PNP Dx & Mgmt: Concepts & Theory 2
- NURS 6224-PNP DX & Mgmt: Concepts & Theory 3
- NURS 6413 Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology I
- NURS 6432 Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology II
- NURS 6431 Advanced Pharmacology for Nurse Anesthesia
- NURS 6406 AGACNP Diagnosis & Health Management I
- NURS 6407 AGACNP Diagnosis & Health Management II
- NURS 6408 AGACNP Diagnosis & Health Management III
- NURS 6409 PMHNP Diagnosis & Health Management I
- NURS 6414 PMHNP Diagnosis & Health Management II
- NURS 6415 PMHNP Diagnosis & Health Management III
- NURS 6402 PNP Diagnosis & Health Management I
- NURS 6403 PNP Diagnosis & Health Management II
- NURS 6404 PNP Diagnosis & Health Management III
- NURS 6433 FNP Diagnosis & Health Management I
- NURS 6434 FNP Diagnosis & Health Management II
- NURS 6439 FNP Diagnosis & Health Management III
- NURS XXXX Acute/Critical Care Pharmacology
- NURS XXXX PNP-PC Applied Pediatric Pharmacology
- NURS XXXX Women's Health Management
- NURS XXXX PMHNP Advanced Psychoparmacology
Progression in the Graduate Program
To continue in the graduate program and maintain a status of "Good Standing" in the School of Nursing Graduate Program, a student must:
- absolve any contingencies related to program admission within the time period stated in the letter of admission, or within the first semester if not stated;
- maintain satisfactory progress (B average in first 9 hours);
- receive no more than one final grade of C in any course, except in fundamental APRN courses listed in the Grading Policy where a final grade of C results in dismissal (see Grading Policy above).
- maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of B (3.0) for all courses taken while enrolled in the graduate program.
A student who meets the above criteria is considered to be in "Good Standing" and may be referred to in such a manner for such purposes including letters of reference, proof of enrollment, and other matters of student standing in the School of Nursing and UT San Antonio Health Science Center.
Dismissal Policy and Procedure
- Definition: Dismissal is the removal of a student from the School of Nursing Graduate Program. A student who is dismissed from the graduate program may not continue in the graduate nursing program and is not eligible for readmission.
- Criteria for Dismissal from the Graduate Nursing Program includes any one of the following:
- Earning a grade of D, F, or U, in any graduate course
- Earning a grade of C in six or more credit hours of graduate coursework regardless of cumulative GPA or in two required graduate courses regardless of the number of credit hours and cumulative GPA
- Earning a final grade of C in a fundamental APRN course (see Grading Policy)
- Failure to meet the terms of professional integrity and ethical standards defined in the current University Catalog, the Texas State Board of Nursing Nurse Practice Act, the Texas State Board of Nursing Rules and Regulations and the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics. When indicated, the incident will be reported to the local law enforcement agency and/or other appropriate agencies, institutions, and/or regulatory bodies.
- Failure to notify the school of non-matriculation for two consecutive semesters (excluding summers)
- Dismissal Procedure
- A student who receives a grade of D, F, or, U in a course will be notified of his/her dismissal status by the Office for Academic Affairs.
- When a student meets criteria in provision 2 above, he or she will be dismissed from his or her program. The Associate Dean for Graduate Studies has full authority to proceed autonomously according to policy, but may choose to seek input from the Committee on Graduate Studies (COGS).
- A student who is dismissed from his or her program is not eligible to register for additional courses. If the student has already registered for subsequent courses, the student will be required to unenroll.
- Student Appeal of Dismissal
- In the event of extenuating circumstances, a student may choose to appeal dismissal from his or her program. All appeals are presented to and reviewed by the Committee on Graduate Studies (COGS).
- A request for appeal of dismissal and presentation to COGS must be sent by the student in writing to the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies within three business days of receiving the certified letter of dismissal. The student must indicate in the request if he or she wishes to bring a person outside of the School of Nursing to the meeting. If the person attending the meeting with the student is an attorney, the meeting will be held with the university attorney present. The student may also request to bring other appropriate faculty to the meeting with COGS. The Committee on Graduate Studies may request University employees or supervising clinical agency personnel attend the appeal or meet with them prior to deliberating. A review of the student’s records may also be conducted.
- The Associate Dean for Graduate Studies will notify the student, in writing via email, that her or his case will be presented to the Committee on Graduate Studies. The written communication will include the date and time of the presentation. Student presentations are limited to a maximum of 15 minutes.
- After the student presentation is concluded, and any additional information deemed appropriate to the situation is obtained, the Committee on Graduate Studies will review all information related to the criteria set forth in provision 2 for adherence to process and outcome actions. The faculty voting members of the Committee on Graduate Studies, in closed deliberation with the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies, can recommend one or more of the following actions:
- Uphold the decision to dismiss the student from the School of Nursing Graduate Program
- Amend the dismissal decision to probation in the Graduate Nursing Program per explicit terms and expectations deemed appropriate by COGS and the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies
- Reconsideration of dismissal due to adherence concerns with process; including next steps
- A written recommendation from the Chairperson of the Committee on Graduate Studies will be made to the dean of the School of Nursing.
- The final decision will be made by the dean and will be delivered to the student in writing by certified letter to the student’s address of record. A student who receives probation in the Graduate Nursing Program is not eligible to re-enroll in courses the semester immediately following the semester in which the student originally met criteria for dismissal. A student who is dismissed from the School of Nursing may not continue in the Graduate Nursing Program and is not eligible for readmission.
- In the event of extenuating circumstances, a student may choose to appeal dismissal from his or her program. All appeals are presented to and reviewed by the Committee on Graduate Studies (COGS).
Petition
Students may petition the Committee on Graduate Studies (COGS) for the consideration of relevant issues influencing program progression and/or completion. Students who wish to petition COGS should consult with the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies, and then complete the Student Petition Form that is available from the Office for Academic Affairs. Decisions regarding the petition will be communicated in writing to the students.
Petitions for reconsideration of the decision of COGS are reviewed by the dean of the School of Nursing. The dean’s decisions are final.
Repetition of a Course
Students cannot retake nursing courses for a grade in which they have already received a passing grade.
The Semester Credit Hour
The unit of measure for credit purposes is the semester credit hour. One semester credit hour is given for each one clock hour of class or one clock hour of seminar for didactic courses. Four clock hours per one semester credit hour of laboratory/practicum/computer lab experience per week, per semester is given in the Nurse Practitioner majors, Nursing Education major, Administrative Management and Clinical Nurse Leader majors and all tracks in the DNP Program. For selected sessions and summer sessions during which the class, seminar, and practicum hours are concentrated, equivalent clock hours are provided.
Examinations
Examinations must be taken on the date and time scheduled. If extenuating circumstances prevent the student from taking an examination, prior approval must be granted by the course instructor to postpone the examination. If a student misses an examination without prior approval by the instructor, a grade of F will be recorded for the examination.
Readmission
Individuals who have previously been enrolled in graduate nursing courses should complete an Application for Readmission. Transcripts from any colleges or universities attended since the time of the previous enrollment in the graduate programs must be submitted. Applicants may be requested to provide recent professional references. Proof of current licensure as a registered nurse in Texas is also required.
Individuals who have not registered in three consecutive terms, including summers, must apply for readmission unless they were previously granted official permission for leave of absence. Students who do not return from leave of absence within the three consecutive terms limit will be withdrawn from the nursing program and will have to apply for admission as a new student.
Those seeking readmission are subject to all requirements, procedures, and acceptance considerations outlined in this catalog.
Courses
NURS 6134. Clinical Application: Curriculum Design and Evaluation. 1 Credit Hour.
This practicum course provides students with experiential learning opportunities to apply curriculum design and program evaluation principles in academic and practice based settings. Students collaborate with faculty and preceptors to engage in curriculum related activities, including course development, assessment planning, and quality improvement initiatives. Practicum experiences emphasize the integration of clinical expertise with educational theory to support the development of advanced disciplinary knowledge. A portion of practicum hours includes direct care experiences, reinforcing the connection between clinical practice and curriculum relevance. Students also reflect on their evolving role as nurse educators and contribute to the advancement of nursing education through scholarly and collaborative engagement.
Prerequisites: NURS 6361 Corequisites: NURS 6262.
NURS 6136. Clinical Application: Teaching and Learning Strategies Across Settings. 1 Credit Hour.
This practicum course prepares students to serve as clinical educators across healthcare and academic settings. Emphasis is placed on the teaching learning process as a foundation for developing critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and professional competence. Students apply evidence based and theory informed teaching strategies in classroom, simulation, and clinical environments, with attention to varied learner needs and instructional contexts. A portion of practicum hours includes direct care experiences, reinforcing the connection between clinical practice and curriculum relevance. The course fosters professional identity, collaboration within healthcare and academic teams, and reflective practice through guided teaching experiences, feedback, and mentorship.
Prerequisites: NURS 6361, NURS 6262, NURS 6134, NURS 6266, and NURS 6138 Corequisites: NURS 6264.
NURS 6138. Clinical Application: Assessment and Evaluation in Education. 1 Credit Hour.
This practicum course provides students with experiential opportunities to apply assessment and evaluation strategies in academic and practice based settings. Students will implement evidence based approaches to assess learner performance across cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains and practice delivering constructive feedback to support learner development. A portion of practicum hours includes direct care experiences, reinforcing the connection between advanced nursing practice and the evaluation of clinical competence. Students will engage in reflective activities to examine the educators role in using evaluation data to inform teaching effectiveness and support professional growth.
Prerequisites: NURS 6262, NURS 6134, and NURS 6361 Corequisites: NURS 6266.
NURS 6262. Curriculum Design and Evaluation. 2 Credit Hours.
This course explores foundational principles of curriculum design, implementation, and evaluation in nursing education. Students will examine educational theories, adult learning principles, and evidence based models to inform curriculum development in academic and practice based settings. Emphasis is placed on aligning curricula with institutional missions, regulatory standards, and evolving healthcare needs. Through analysis and application, students will evaluate existing curricula, propose improvements, and reflect on the role of nurse educators in shaping educational outcomes. Students will develop strategies for program assessment, key constituent collaboration, and continuous quality improvement to support learner success and professional practice.
Prerequisites: NURS 6361 Corequisites: NURS 6134.
NURS 6264. Teaching and Learning Strategies Across Settings. 2 Credit Hours.
This course prepares nurse educators to facilitate learning across academic and practice settings by applying evidence based and theory informed teaching strategies. Emphasis is placed on fostering critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and professional competence among diverse learners. Students explore the teaching learning process through the lens of adult learning principles, domains of learning, and cultural responsiveness. The course addresses the integration of technology and informatics to support learning across academic and practice settings. Learners will examine strategies to create safe and engaging learning environments that promote learner development, interprofessional collaboration, and positive outcomes in both patient care and nursing education.
Prerequisites: NURS 6361, NURS 6262, NURS 6134, NURS 6266, and NURS 6138 Corequisites: NURS 6136.
NURS 6266. Assessment and Evaluation in Education. 2 Credit Hours.
This course prepares nurse educators to design and implement evidence-based assessment and evaluation strategies that support learner development and program improvement across academic and practice-based settings. Emphasis is placed on evaluating learning in the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains using formative and summative approaches. Students will critically appraise literature to inform assessment practices and explore methods for delivering constructive feedback that fosters learner growth and reflective practice. Through collaborative and reflective activities, students will enhance their ability to assess teaching effectiveness, support learners, and contribute to continuous quality improvement in nursing education.
Prerequisites: NURS 6262, NURS 6134, and NURS 6361 Corequisites: NURS 6138.
NURS 6361. Foundational Topics in Nursing Education. 3 Credit Hours.
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the trends and challenges that influence the development of nursing education programs in academic and practice-based settings. Students will examine key functions of the nurse educator as an agent for change, leader, role model, and advocate for high-quality learning environments. Emphasis is placed on adult learning principles, professional socialization, and the creation of supportive, ethical, and learner-centered educational experiences. Students will explore intraprofessional and interprofessional education in developing future nurses and healthcare professionals, while considering learner, organizational and system-level influences. Through reflective practice, students will develop personal teaching philosophies, engage in critical inquiry, and cultivate the attributes necessary to inspire and support diverse learners. Students will begin to develop foundational strategies for communication, leadership, and change management within complex educational systems.
NURS 5307. Using Research for the Practice of Nursing. 3 Credit Hours.
Students will delve into the critical role of research in shaping nursing practice and healthcare outcomes. This master's-level course emphasizes the interpretation, evaluation, and translation of research findings into actionable practices. Students will explore various research methodologies, analyze evidence for its relevance and application in clinical settings, and develop skills for conducting systematic reviews. Students will develop advanced competencies in evidence-based practice, leadership, and ethical considerations in nursing research.
NURS 6406. AGACNP Diagnosis & Health Management I. 4 Credit Hours.
In this course students learn the tenets of documenting and developing comprehensive inpatient management plans for acute and critically ill patients with an emphasis on disease specific management. Students integrate thorough health assessment into differential diagnoses, diagnostic reasoning, and health management plans. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, and NURS 6121.
NURS 6340. AGACNP Applied Acute/Critical Care Pharmacology. 3 Credit Hours.
This course builds upon the adult geriatric acute care nurse practitioner students advanced nursing and pharmacology knowledge to develop individualized, cost effective, safe and evidence based pharmacologic management plans for acute and complex diagnoses and assessments. Emphasis is on the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics and pharmacogenomics of comprehensive prescribing to acute, chronic and critically ill older adolescents, adult and geriatric patients. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, and NURS 6121 .
NURS 6109. AGACNP Diagnostic Tests and Clinical Procedures. 1 Credit Hour.
In this interactive clinical lab course, the students will build the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to order, interpret, and apply diagnostic testing and perform procedures. Case-based learning and simulations will be used to practice interpreting laboratory results, imaging studies, and point-of-care tests, while gaining experience performing and managing standard clinical procedures. Emphasis is placed on understanding the indications, limitations, and clinical relevance of diagnostic testing and in-office procedures. By the end of the course, the student will be prepared to integrate diagnostic data and procedural skills into comprehensive assessments of acutely/critically ill patients and treatment plans. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, and NURS 6121.
NURS 6407. AGACNP Diagnosis & Health Management II. 4 Credit Hours.
In this course students learn the tenets of providing comprehensive acute care to patients with complex, acute and chronic conditions with an emphasis on inpatient and critically ill adult patients. Students integrate thorough health assessment into differential diagnoses, diagnostic reasoning, and health management plans. Students incorporate legal, regulatory, and ethical factors into team-based, patient centered care. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, NURS 6121, and NURS 6406 Corequisites: NURS 6228, NURS 6102.
NURS 6102. AGACNP Clinical Seminar I. 1 Credit Hour.
In conjunction with the preceptorship course, this course focuses on enhancing the Adult Geriatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner students analyses and synthesis of the clinical experience to improve understanding of health promotion, diagnosis and management in the acute healthcare setting. Prerequisites: NURS 6406, NURS 6340, and NURS 6109 Corequisites: NURS 6228, NURS 6407.
NURS 6228. AGACNP Clinical I. 2 Credit Hours.
In this first of three AGACNP clinical courses, students complete 180 hours direct patient care under the direct supervision of a clinical preceptor with faculty oversight. The student develops skills in performing comprehensive health exams while using diagnostic reasoning to develop differential diagnoses and patient-centered health management plans for patients. Students integrate behavior and wellness theory and evidence-based practice guidelines for adult and geriatric patients in collaboration with interprofessional teams. Prerequisites: NURS 6406, NURS 6340, and NURS 6150 Corequisites: NURS 6102, NURS 6407.
NURS 6408. AGACNP Diagnosis & Health Management III. 4 Credit Hours.
In this course students demonstrate advanced diagnostic reasoning and decision-making skills for acute and critically ill patients. Students synthesize both physical and mental health assessments into person-centered, comprehensive health management plans using evidence-based guidance. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, NURS 6121, NURS 6406, and NURS 6407 Corequisites: NURS 6326, NURS 6103.
NURS 6326. AGACNP Clinical II. 3 Credit Hours.
In this second of three AGACNP clinical courses, students complete 270 hours direct patient care under the direct supervision of a clinical preceptor with faculty oversight. The student develops skills in performing comprehensive health exams while using diagnostic reasoning to develop differential diagnoses and patient-centered health management plans for patients. Students integrate behavior and wellness theory and evidence-based practice guidelines for adult and geriatric patients in collaboration with interprofessional teams. Prerequisites: NURS 6228, NURS 6102, NURS 6407, and NURS 6406 Corequisites: NURS 6408, NURS 6103.
NURS 6103. AGACNP Clinical Seminar II. 1 Credit Hour.
In conjunction with the preceptorship course, this course focuses on enhancing the Adult Geriatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner students analyses and synthesis of the clinical experience to improve understanding of health promotion, diagnosis and management in the acute healthcare setting. Prerequisites: NURS 6406, NURS 6407, NURS 6228, and NURS 6102 Corequisites: NURS 6326, NURS 6408.
NURS 6434. AGACNP Clinical III. 4 Credit Hours.
In this third of three AGACNP clinical courses, students complete 360 hours direct patient care under the direct supervision of a clinical preceptor with faculty oversight. The student develops skills in performing comprehensive health exams while using diagnostic reasoning to develop differential diagnoses and patient-centered health management plans for patients. Students integrate behavior and wellness theory and evidence-based practice guidelines for adult and geriatric patients in collaboration with interprofessional teams. Prerequisites: NURS 6326, NURS 6103, and NURS 6408 Corequisites: NURS 61XX AGACNP Clinical Seminar III.
NURS 6107. AGACNP Clinical Seminar III. 1 Credit Hour.
In conjunction with the preceptorship course, this course focuses on enhancing the Adult Geriatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner students analyses and synthesis of the clinical experience to improve understanding of health promotion, diagnosis and management in the acute healthcare setting. Prerequisites: NURS 6406, NURS 6407, NURS 6408, NURS 6326, and NURS 6103 Corequisites: NURS 6434.
NURS 6476. FNP Diagnosis & Health Management I. 4 Credit Hours.
In this course, students learn the tenets of providing comprehensive primary care for patients with episodic illness with an emphasis on health maintenance and wellness across the lifespan. Students integrate thorough health assessment into differential diagnoses, diagnostic reasoning, and health management plans. Students examine legal, regulatory, and ethical factors informing team-based care and quality family-centered care. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, and NURS 6121.
NURS 6333. Women's Health Management. 3 Credit Hours.
In this course students integrate comprehensive health assessments into the diagnostic reasoning process to develop holistic, evidence-based person-centered health management plans for women with an emphasis on wellness. Students focus on the primary care approach to gynecological health, reproductive health, menstrual disorders, pregnancy and postpartum care, menopause management, breast health, and preventive screenings. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, and NURS 6121.
NURS 6146. FNP Diagnostic Tests and Clinical Procedures. 1 Credit Hour.
In this interactive clinical lab course, the student will build the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to order, interpret, and apply diagnostic testing and perform procedures. Case-based learning and simulations will be used to practice interpretation of laboratory results, imaging studies, and point-of-care tests, while also gaining experience in performing and managing common clinical procedures. Emphasis is placed on understanding the indications, limitations, and clinical relevance of diagnostic testing and in-office procedures. By the end of the course, the student will be prepared to integrate diagnostic data and procedural skills into comprehensive patient assessments and treatment plans. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, and NURS 6121.
NURS 6477. FNP Diagnosis & Health Management II. 4 Credit Hours.
In this course, students learn the tenets of providing comprehensive primary care for patients with complex, chronic conditions across the lifespan with emphasis on health restoration, rehabilitation, and palliative care. Students integrate thorough health assessment into differential diagnoses, diagnostic reasoning, and health management plans. Students incorporate legal, regulatory, and ethical factors into team-based, family-centered care. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, NURS 6121, and NURS 6476 Corequisites: NURS 6231, NURS 6123.
NURS 6123. FNP Clinical Seminar I. 1 Credit Hour.
For this course, students reflect and critically analyze the FNP clinical experience through guided seminars and small group activities that promote effective communication, documentation, and ethical decision-making. Prerequisites: NURS 6476, NURS 6333, and NURS 6146 Corequisites: NURS 6231, NURS 6477.
NURS 6231. FNP Clinical I. 2 Credit Hours.
In this first of three FNP clinical courses, students complete 180 hours of direct patient care under the direct supervision of a clinical preceptor with faculty oversight. The student develops skills in performing comprehensive health exams while using diagnostic reasoning to develop differential diagnoses and person-centered health management plans for patients. Students integrate behavior and wellness theories and evidence-based practice guidelines for patients across the lifespan in collaboration with interprofessional teams. Prerequisites: NURS 6476, NURS 6333, and NURS 6146 Corequisites: NURS 6123, NURS 6477.
NURS 6478. FNP Diagnosis & Health Management III. 4 Credit Hours.
In this course students demonstrate higher-level diagnostic reasoning and decision-making skills. Students synthesize both physical and mental health assessments into patient-centered, comprehensive health management plans. Students apply theory, evidence, ethics, and equity to complex health conditions while considering non-medical drivers of health, environmental exposures, and disasters. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, NURS 6121, NURS 6476, and NURS 6477 Corequisites: NURS 6328, NURS 6126.
NURS 6328. FNP Clinical II. 3 Credit Hours.
In this second of three FNP clinical courses, students complete 270 hours of clinical practice preceptorship with faculty oversight to refine health assessment and diagnostic reasoning skills, while expanding their ability to manage more complex patients. Students exhibit professionalism and effective communication to ensure optimized care coordination. Prerequisites: NURS 6231 and NURS 6477 Corequisites: NURS 6478, NURS 6126.
NURS 6126. FNP Clinical Seminar II. 1 Credit Hour.
For this course, students reflect and critically analyze the FNP clinical experience through guided seminars and small group activities that promote role development, effective communication, and ethical decision-making. Students focus on improving their diagnostic accuracy and skills of integrating evidence into practice Prerequisites: NURS 6476, NURS 6477, NURS 6231, and NURS 6123 Corequisites: NURS 6328, NURS 6478.
NURS 6440. FNP Clinical III. 4 Credit Hours.
In this third and culminating FNP clinical course, students complete 360 hours of clinical practice preceptorship with faculty oversight. Students demonstrate holistic, comprehensive care of patients, while advocating for the wellbeing of patients, families, communities, and populations. Prerequisites: NURS 6328, NURS 6126, and NURS 6477 Corequisites: NURS 61XX FNP Clinical Seminar III.
NURS 6127. FNP Clinical Seminar III. 1 Credit Hour.
For this course, students reflect and critically analyze the FNP clinical experience through guided seminars and small group activities that promote role development, effective communication, and ethical decision-making. Students focus on advanced diagnostic reasoning, evidence-based practice and innovative care. Prerequisites: NURS 6477, NURS 6328, and NURS 6126 Corequisites: NURS 6440.
NURS 6409. PMHNP Diagnosis & Health Management I. 4 Credit Hours.
This course provides the theoretical, scientific, and professional foundations for the practice of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. Students integrate evidence from nursing, psychological, developmental, and neurobiological sciences to examine the etiologies and consequences of alterations in human behavior and mental health. Emphasis is placed on the historical evolution of psychiatric nursing, the scope and standards of the PMHNP role, and the development of comprehensive psychiatric evaluation skills, including biopsychosocial assessment, differential diagnosis, and diagnostic reasoning informed by evidence-based psychiatric diagnostic frameworks. Cultural competence, trauma-informed care, and ethical decision-making are applied to support holistic, patient-centered approaches to care across the lifespan. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, and NURS 6121.
NURS 6336. PMHNP Advanced Psychopharmacology. 3 Credit Hours.
This course offers an advanced study of psychopharmacological principles and their clinical applications in psychiatric-mental health nursing practice. Students build upon prior pharmacology knowledge to integrate neurobiological, pharmacological, and genetic foundations that inform safe and effective prescribing across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based medication selection, therapeutic monitoring, and management of adverse effects and interactions in treating psychiatric and comorbid conditions. The course explores pharmacogenetics, complementary and alternative therapies, polypharmacy, and special population considerations. Legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks guiding advanced psychiatric prescribing are examined to promote competent, patient-centered, and safe pharmacotherapeutic practice. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, and NURS 6121.
NURS 6142. Applied Psychotherapy for the PMHNP. 1 Credit Hour.
This course offers an in depth examination of psychotherapeutic principles and practices essential to advanced psychiatric mental health nursing. Students examine the historical and theoretical foundations of psychotherapy, including ethical and legal standards, as well as the professional role of the nurse psychotherapist. Emphasis is placed on therapeutic presence, rapport building, and effective communication within the therapeutic relationship. Major psychotherapy modalities, including supportive, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, interpersonal, dialectical, humanistic, family, and group approaches, are explored and applied. Theories of change and motivational frameworks are integrated to guide individualized, culturally responsive, and trauma informed interventions. The course also addresses documentation, evaluation of therapeutic outcomes, and termination processes to support professional, accountable, and evidence based psychotherapeutic practice. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, and NURS 6121.
NURS 6414. PMHNP Diagnosis & Health Management II. 4 Credit Hours.
This course builds upon foundational concepts of psychiatric mental health assessment and diagnosis by applying advanced clinical reasoning and evidence based management strategies. Emphasis is placed on analyzing complex psychiatric presentations, integrating theoretical, pharmacological, and psychotherapeutic approaches, and using ethical and professional principles to provide holistic, patient centered care throughout the lifespan. Students continue to develop diagnostic accuracy, treatment planning proficiency, and reflective decision-making skills essential for advanced psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practice. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, NURS 6121, and NURS 6409 Corequisites: NURS 6207, NURS 6116.
NURS 6116. PMHNP Clinical Seminar I. 1 Credit Hour.
In this course, students reflect upon and critically analyze their PMHNP clinical experiences, including the telepsychiatry and interprofessional collaboration simulations. Guided seminars and small group activities promote clinical reasoning, effective communication, evidence-based treatment planning, professional documentation, and ethical, patient-centered decision-making. Students synthesize insights from these experiential learning activities to enhance their competence in technology-enabled, interprofessional psychiatric and mental health care across the lifespan. Prerequisites: NURS 6409, NURS 6336, and NURS 6142 Corequisites: NURS 6207, NURS 6414.
NURS 6207. PMHNP Clinical I. 2 Credit Hours.
In the first of three PMHNP clinical courses, students complete 180 hours of direct patient care under the supervision of a clinical preceptor with faculty oversight. Students develop foundational competencies in conducting comprehensive and problem-focused psychiatric-mental health evaluations, applying diagnostic reasoning, and formulating safe, evidence-based, person-centered management plans that promote health and recovery across the lifespan. Learning experiences include telepsychiatry simulations and interprofessional collaboration exercises that foster ethical practice, effective use of technology, and interprofessional communication within team-based psychiatric and mental health care. Prerequisites: NURS 6409, NURS 6336, and NURS 6142 Corequisites: NURS 6116, NURS 6414.
NURS 6415. PMHNP Diagnosis & Health Management III. 4 Credit Hours.
This course builds upon prior diagnostic and management knowledge to integrate complex clinical reasoning, systems-based practice, and professional leadership in psychiatric and mental health care. Students critically analyze the advanced assessment and evidence-based management of complex psychiatric and comorbid conditions across diverse populations and care settings. Emphasis is placed on ethical decision-making, social responsibility, crisis management, and the influence of social determinants of health within patient-centered, recovery-oriented models of care. Students examine interprofessional collaboration and leadership roles in evolving health systems, incorporating contemporary innovations such as telepsychiatry, artificial intelligence, and integrative approaches. Through synthesis of emerging evidence, reflective practice, and systems thinking, students refine clinical judgment, advocacy, and professional identity to advance equitable, holistic, and sustainable mental health care delivery. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, NURS 6121, NURS 6409, and NURS 6414 Corequisites: NURS 6327, NURS 6117.
NURS 6327. PMHNP Clinical II. 1 Credit Hour.
In the second of three PMHNP clinical courses, students complete 270 hours of direct patient care under the supervision of a clinical preceptor with faculty oversight. Students advance their clinical reasoning and psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacologic management skills in caring for individuals and families with complex psychiatric and comorbid conditions across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on integrating evidence-based treatment approaches, promoting recovery-oriented and person-centered care, and demonstrating increased independence and accountability in clinical decision-making. Students collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to refine their professional roles, ethical practices, and holistic approach to psychiatric-mental health care. Prerequisites: NURS 6207 and NURS 6414 Corequisites: NURS 6117, NURS 6414.
NURS 6117. PMHNP Clinical Seminar II. 1 Credit Hour.
In this course, students reflect upon and critically analyze their ongoing PMHNP clinical experiences from advanced practice settings. Guided seminar discussions and small group activities foster the integration of clinical reasoning, interprofessional collaboration, evidence-based treatment planning, professional documentation, and ethical, patient-centered decision-making. Emphasis is placed on synthesizing insights from complex clinical encounters to strengthen advanced communication, clinical judgment, and leadership skills in psychiatric mental health care across the lifespan. Prerequisites: NURS 6409, NURS 6414, NURS 6207, and NURS 6116 Corequisites: NURS 6415, NURS 6459.
NURS 6459. PMHNP Clinical III. 4 Credit Hours.
In the final PMHNP clinical course, students complete 360 hours of direct patient care under the supervision of a clinical preceptor with faculty oversight. This culminating practicum provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of advanced psychiatric mental health assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and the integrated management of complex psychiatric and comorbid conditions across the lifespan. Students synthesize psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacologic interventions within evidence-based, recovery-oriented, and person-centered frameworks. Emphasis is placed on refining clinical judgment, leadership, interprofessional collaboration, and ethical decision-making to ensure readiness for independent advanced practice as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Prerequisites: NURS 6329, NURS 6117, and NURS 6415 Corequisites: NURS 6118.
NURS 6118. PMHNP Clinical Seminar III. 1 Credit Hour.
In this culminating seminar, students synthesize and critically evaluate their advanced PMHNP clinical experiences to demonstrate readiness for independent practice. Guided discussions and collaborative analysis focus on integrating psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic knowledge, refining diagnostic reasoning, and applying evidence-based, recovery-oriented, and culturally responsive approaches to complex psychiatric and mental health cases. Emphasis is placed on advanced clinical judgment, leadership, interprofessional collaboration, and reflective practice to promote quality, safety, and ethical excellence in psychiatric mental health care across the lifespan. Prerequisites: NURS 6414, NURS 6327, and NURS 6117 Corequisites: NURS 6459.
NURS 6402. PNP-PC Diagnosis & Health Management I. 4 Credit Hours.
Students will develop core competencies essential for the role of the primary care pediatric nurse practitioner. Learning will occur through case based and self directed learning. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry driven approaches to health promotion, disease prevention, comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and management of pediatric conditions. Learners will demonstrate proficiency in utilizing information and communication technologies to ensure safe, effective care delivery, with a focus on workplace safety, legal and ethical standards, interprofessional collaboration, and high quality, family centered practice. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321 and NURS 6121.
NURS 6332. Special Population Pharmacology: Applied Pediatric Pharmacology PNP-PC. 3 Credit Hours.
Students will deepen their understanding of pediatric pharmacology as they learn to design safe, cost-effective, and evidence-based medication management plans for infants, children, and adolescents facing acute and chronic health challenges. Students will explore how pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacogenomics uniquely impact drug therapy across developmental stages. Through case-based learning and clinical application, they will build the skills to confidently prescribe and manage medications for pediatric patients with acute, chronic, and mental health conditions. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, and NURS 6121.
NURS 6150. PNP-PC Diagnostic Tests and Clinical Procedures. 1 Credit Hour.
In this interactive clinical lab course, the student will build the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to order, interpret, and apply diagnostic testing and perform procedures. Case-based learning and simulations will be used to practice interpretation of laboratory results, imaging studies, and point-of-care tests, while also gaining experience in performing and managing common clinical procedures. Emphasis is placed on understanding the indications, limitations, and clinical relevance of diagnostic testing and in-office procedures. By the end of the course, the student will be prepared to integrate diagnostic data and procedural skills into comprehensive patient assessments and treatment plans. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, and NURS 6121.
NURS 6403. PNP-PC Diagnosis & Health Management II. 4 Credit Hours.
Students will build competencies essential for the role of the primary care pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) through case-based and self-directed learning. Focus areas include inquiry-based learning, health promotion and protection, assessment, and management of pediatric illness. Legal, ethical, and team-based care considerations are explored, along with workplace safety and family-centered care. PNPs will also develop skills in using information and communication technologies for safe care delivery, with attention to disaster preparedness and crisis response. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, NURS 6121, and NURS 6402 Corequisites: NURS 6204, NURS 6131.
NURS 6204. PNP-PC Clinical I. 2 Credit Hours.
In this first of three PNP clinical courses, students complete 180 hours of direct patient care under the direct supervision of a clinical preceptor with faculty oversight. The student develops skills in performing comprehensive health exams while using diagnostic reasoning to develop differential diagnoses and person-centered health management plans for patients. Students integrate behavior and wellness theories and evidence-based practice guidelines for patients across the lifespan in collaboration with interprofessional teams. Prerequisites: NURS 6402, NURS 6322, and NURS 6150 Corequisites: NURS 6131, NURS 6403.
NURS 6404. PNP-PC Diagnosis & Health Management III. 4 Credit Hours.
In this course students demonstrate higher level diagnostic reasoning and decision making skills. Students synthesize both physical and mental health assessments into patient centered, comprehensive health management plans. Students apply theory, evidence, ethics, and equity to complex health conditions while considering social determinants of health, environmental exposures, and disasters. Prerequisites: NURS 6430, NURS 6302, NURS 6321, NURS 6121, NURS 6402, and NURS 6403 Corequisites: NURS 6325, NURS 6133.
NURS 6325. PNP-PC Clinical II. 3 Credit Hours.
In this second of three PNP clinical courses, students complete 270 hours of clinical practice preceptorship with faculty oversight to refine health assessment and diagnostic reasoning skills, while expanding their ability to manage more complex patients. Students exhibit professionalism and effective communication to ensure optimized care coordination. Prerequisites: NURS 6204 and NURS 6403 Corequisites: NURS 6404, NURS 6133.
NURS 6123. FNP Clinical Seminar I. 1 Credit Hour.
For this course, students reflect and critically analyze the FNP clinical experience through guided seminars and small group activities that promote effective communication, documentation, and ethical decision-making. Prerequisites: NURS 6476, NURS 6333, and NURS 6146 Corequisites: NURS 6231, NURS 6477.
NURS 6433. PNP-PC Clinical III. 4 Credit Hours.
In this third and culminating PNP clinical course, students complete 360 hours of clinical practice preceptorship with faculty oversight. Students demonstrate holistic, comprehensive care of patients, while advocating for the wellbeing of patients, families, communities, and populations. Prerequisites: NURS 6325, NURS 6133, and NURS 6404 Corequisites: NURS 6139.
NURS 6126. FNP Clinical Seminar II. 1 Credit Hour.
For this course, students reflect and critically analyze the FNP clinical experience through guided seminars and small group activities that promote role development, effective communication, and ethical decision-making. Students focus on improving their diagnostic accuracy and skills of integrating evidence into practice Prerequisites: NURS 6476, NURS 6477, NURS 6231, and NURS 6123 Corequisites: NURS 6328, NURS 6478.




