History

The School of Nursing traces its beginning to the summer of 1932 when The Catholic University of America for the first time offered a group of professional courses in nursing education. Because of the demand, the work was continued during the following academic year and in April 1933 the Board of Trustees authorized a curriculum leading to the degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing Education. The first degree was conferred in 1934. The Division of Nursing Education, which offered this program, was approved for active membership in the Association of Collegiate Schools of Nursing in June 1935. The Division of Public Health Nursing, offering a curriculum leading to the baccalaureate degree, was initiated in September 1935. In November 1935, the Board of Trustees accepted the recommendation of Bishop James Hugh Ryan that the two divisions be organized as one of the professional schools of the university. The programs of study leading to the degrees of Bachelor of Science in Nursing Education and Bachelor of Science in Public Health Nursing were approved. The school was subsequently expanded to include basic professional nursing in addition to the program for registered nurses. In 1939 the Providence Hospital School of Nursing, Washington, D.C., became the Providence Division of the School of Nursing Education and during the next decade gradually moved toward complete identification with the university. In 1949 the university assumed full responsibility for the undergraduate program.

In 1951 the degree of Master of Science in Nursing was introduced. The current program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles in a clinical specialty, with students prepared as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists and educators. A program leading to the degree Doctor of Nursing Science was initiated in 1968.

It was one of the first of its kind in the country and graduates hold major leadership positions in education, health care administration and research. In the spring of 2006, the D.N.Sc. program was converted to a Ph.D. granting program. The focus of the doctoral program remains on clinical investigation and development of expert clinicians who can assume leadership positions in many different areas.

Most recently, in 2007 the school added a Doctor of Nursing Practice, DNP, program that prepares expert clinicians and nursing leaders.

The school is recognized for its program offerings, the quality of faculty and commitment to diversity and improving the care of vulnerable populations. Graduates remain the school?s greatest strength because of leadership, knowledge, clinical expertise, and commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

All academic programs are fully accredited and approved by appropriate external review bodies.

Admission

Admission to study is open to properly qualified men and women of any race, color, religion and national or ethnic origin. Applications should be sent to the Office of Graduate Admissions, which will forward them to the School of Nursing for further processing. Inquiries may be made via the Office of Academic Affairs and Graduate Programs of the School of Nursing.

International Students

International students are welcome into our graduate programs and must be enrolled as full-time students. They must demonstrate, through the admission process, their ability to communicate effectively in English.

Prospective students from non-English-speaking nations whose previous education has not been at institutions of higher education in the United States are required to have the Educational Testing Service forward an official report of the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Applicants should have a TOEFL score of 550 (paper-based test) or 213 (computer-based test). The school may recommend that students take advantage of intensive English instruction on campus.

International students are not generally admitted to the nurse practitioner concentrations because of licensure requirements.

Master of Science in Nursing Program

Aim

The aim of the Master of Science in Nursing Program is to prepare students as advanced practice nurses, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists or educators. The purposes of the program are

1. to prepare individuals capable of moral and intellectual leadership to provide advanced practice nursing to individuals and populations across the lifespan, and

2. to develop and extend advanced practice nursing knowledge and skill through the utilization of evidenced-based practice models. The curriculum at the master’s level is also directed toward developing interest and skill in research, commitment to continual personal and professional growth and to providing leadership in the development of advanced practice nursing.

Goal

The Master of Science in Nursing builds upon baccalaureate education in nursing and prepares students for leadership roles in the fields of advanced practice nursing and/or nursing education.

Terminal Objectives

Upon completion of the M.S.N. program, the graduate will have:

1. Acquired advanced knowledge from the sciences and the humanities to support evidence-based advanced practice nursing;

2. Integrated nursing theory as the foundation for advanced practice nursing;

3. Demonstrated expertise in a selected role within a specialized area of advanced practice nursing;

4. Acquired advanced knowledge and skills to use and disseminate the findings of nursing research;

5. Acquired advanced knowledge and skills to effect optimum delivery of health care services;

6. Demonstrated ethical behavior and respect for Judeo-Christian values; and

7. Acquired a foundation for doctoral study.

Admission

Regular Admission

The Catholic University School of Nursing employs a “whole person” philosophy for evaluation of applicants for admission to the Master of Science in Nursing program.

To be considered for admission, an applicant must:

1. Have a baccalaureate degree in nursing, from a nationally accredited program or school of nursing that is comparable to that offered at The Catholic University of America School of Nursing.

2. Be a registered nurse in a state or jurisdiction of the United States, without restrictions. (D.C. licensure may be required in some programs.)

3. Have acquired some post-baccalaureate nursing experience in particular areas of practice. (The amount of experience required may vary depending on the particular field of study.) 

4. Have three letters of recommendation sent to the Office of Graduate Admissions for forwarding to the School of Nursing. At least one of these letters should be requested from the dean or chair of the baccalaureate program in nursing and at least one letter should come from current and former employment supervisors.

5. Present transcripts of undergraduate study that give evidence of academic ability. A GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is preferred, as well as an average GPA of 3.0 in the nursing major.

6. Have obtained an acceptable score on the Graduate Record Examination, GRE, within the past five years (usually a minimum of 450 each in the verbal and quantitative sections). As an alternative to the GRE, students may complete the Miller Analogy Test, MAT, within the past five years. The GRE is waived for graduates from the CUA B.S.N. program. However, all applicants applying for university scholarships or financial consideration must submit GRE scores (maximum of five years old) and must submit all materials by Feb. 1.

7. Complete a graduate-level statistics course prior to the end of the first semester of study.

8. International students from a basic program where English is not the language of instruction must achieve at least a 580 (paper-based test) or 213 (computer-based test) score on the TOEFL.

Transcripts from schools outside of the United States must be evaluated by the WES (www.wes.org) or the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools or the World Education Services (www.cgfns.org). International students may be required to take intensive English courses and/or other additional courses as recommended by the academic adviser or the dean.

Please refer to the introductory section of the Announcements book under General Information, Admissions, for information on provisional and nondegree admission.

Combined B.S.N./M.S.N. Program for Registered Nurses

The combined B.S.N./M.S.N. program is designed for registered nurses whose original preparation in nursing was received in accredited diploma or associate degree programs and who have identified the Master of Science degree as their educational goal. An option is available to complete course requirements for both the B.S.N. and M.S.N. programs. The program of study incorporates courses that meet B.S.N. degree requirements and those that fulfill M.S.N. core and specialty concentration requirements. Contact the School of Nursing for more information.

Admission to B.S.N./M.S.N. Program

Admission requirements to the B.S.N./M.S.N. program include the following: submission of high school transcript; submission of nursing school, college and university transcripts (3.0 grade point average) showing completion of 60 semester hours in non-nursing required coursework and 34 credits in nursing coursework (see Transfer Credit for RN students); current RN licensure without restrictions and eligibility for RN licensure in D.C.; two years experience since licensure; letters of recommendation from persons familiar with applicant’s academic ability and professional performance; declaration of clinical specialty and professional role area in master’s program; and acceptable score on Graduate Record Examination.

Advanced Practice Master of Science in Nursing Program

Major Areas of Specialization

Practitioner Role; Clinical Nurse Specialist Role; Blended Role Option: Family Nurse Practitioner-Community/Public Health Clinical Nurse Specialist

The M.S.N. program is based upon a tiered curriculum. The tiered approach provides quality educational experiences, while ensuring adherence to certification requirements for the various areas of specialization. First tier coursework is mandatory for all M.S.N. students. Second tier coursework consists of science, ethics and support/cognate courses, which may vary by specialty. Third tier coursework consists of clinically focused courses required for specialty practice and blended role programs.

Students choose one of the major areas of advanced practice specialization and may adopt a full- or part-time plan of study. There are three major areas of specialization: (a) those emphasizing primary care with graduates eligible for nurse practitioner roles (b) those emphasizing population-based care with graduates eligible for clinical nurse specialist roles and (c) those emphasizing blended roles. All specialty programs are designed to enable students to sit for the appropriate certification examinations.

Primary Care of Individuals (Practitioner Role)

Nurse Practitioner Options

These fields of study prepare nurse practitioners to diagnose and manage the health care needs of adults, children or families. The course sequence provides the theoretical context and the clinical experiences required to practice as a nurse practitioner and to sit for certification in the selected field of advanced practice nursing; adult, geriatric, pediatric or family. The nurse practitioner options meet the nurse practitioner program and curricular guidelines endorsed by the National Task Force on Quality for Nurse Practitioner Education and the American Nurses Credentialing Center, ANCC, a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, AANP.

Program content is congruent with Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Competencies in Specialty Areas.

Adult Nurse Practitioner, ANP

The Adult Nurse Practitioner Program prepares advanced practice nurses as primary care providers to manage the health of individuals from adolescence through old age. Emphasis is on health promotion, illness prevention and management of acute and chronic illnesses. Clinical and coursework prepare the ANP to practice independently and collaboratively with other health care professionals.

The curriculum includes a minimum of 540 hours of supervised clinical practice in a variety of settings. The ANP is prepared to provide comprehensive care in settings that include but are not limited to private practices, clinics, community health centers, hospitals, businesses, managed care organizations and governmental agencies. This program meets the nurse practitioner curriculum guidelines of the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties, NONPF, Advanced Nursing Practice, Curriculum Guidelines and Program Standards for Nurse Practitioner Education and the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Upon completion of course requirements, graduates of the master’s and post-master’s programs are eligible to sit for ANCC Nurse Practitioner and American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, AANP, Adult NP Certification Exams. (38 credits)

Family Nurse Practitioner, FNP.

The goal of the FNP program is to prepare primary care providers to work in a variety of clinical settings including private practices, clinics, community health centers, hospitals and businesses, managed care organizations and governmental agencies. Upon completion of the program, the graduate will be able to offer comprehensive, age-appropriate and age-specific quality health care that addresses the multiple needs of individuals and families across the lifespan. The curriculum includes more than 700 hours of supervised clinical practice in a variety of clinical settings. This program meets the nurse practitioner curriculum guidelines of the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties, Advanced Nursing Practice and Program Standards for Nurse Practitioner Education and the American Nurses Credentialing Center Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Criteria. Graduates are eligible for national certification through the ANCC. After successful completion of their certifying examination, graduates are eligible for licensure as an FNP in all states. (43 Credits)

Geriatric Nurse Practitioner, GNP

The Geriatric Nurse Practitioner program was designed to reflect national health care trends and to prepare nurses to serve America’s aging population. The GNP is able to assume a role as a health care provider dedicated to improving the health of the elderly. GNPs serve the elderly and their families in an extensive range of practice settings including but not limited to private practices, clinics, community health centers, hospitals, long-term care facilities and managed care organizations. GNPs focus on health maintenance and acute and chronic disease processes that are specific to the elderly and are sensitive and responsive to the complex and diverse health needs of a growing elderly population. Clinical work and coursework prepare the GNP to practice independently and collaboratively with other health care professionals.

The curriculum includes a minimum of 540 hours of supervised clinical practice in a variety of settings. Upon completion of course requirements, graduates of the master’s and post-master’s programs are eligible to sit for the ANCC and AANP Geriatric Nurse Practitioner Certification Exams. (38 Credits)

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP

This long-established program is designed to prepare pediatric nurse practitioners for advanced practice and leadership roles in the primary care of children and adolescents in a variety of settings. Students gain the knowledge and skills to practice in the traditional areas of pediatric primary care as well as have opportunities for expanded training in school-based health care, in the behavioral/mental health of children and in interdisciplinary community-based faculty practice settings. The program meets national nurse practitioner program and curricular guidelines endorsed by the National Task Force on Quality for Nurse Practitioner Education. Graduates are eligible to sit for certification by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board and the ANCC. (39 Credits)

Clinical Nurse Specialist Role

Community/Public Health Nurse Specialist Educator

This program prepares advanced practice nurse specialists in community/public health nursing to teach in associate and baccalaureate degree programs, staff development programs, community health programs, health care organizations and managed care programs. Students develop clinical and educational skills that improve community-based care of vulnerable people and reduce health disparities. The program integrates the principles of population-focused care; learning theory; teaching strategies; trans-cultural nursing; program evaluation; ethical, legal and financial dimensions of managing health disparities; and evaluation of health care outcomes in reducing disparities. Graduates are eligible for ANCC certification as public/community health clinical nurse specialists and academically eligible to sit for the NLN Certified Nurse Educator examination. (46 Credits) 

Immigrant, Refugee and Global Health Clinical Nurse Specialist

This program prepares advanced practice nurses to meet population health needs and improve access to health care, decrease barriers and reduce health disparities. Recognizing that many community/public health problems in the United States are also world health problems, the program focuses on global health and addresses the health status of immigrants and refugees, a vulnerable, growing subset of the population within the United States. The curriculum is developed around the core functions and competencies of public health nursing, and includes theoretical content and clinical experiences. Graduates are eligible to sit for the American Nurses Credentialing Center Public/Community Health Clinical Nurse Specialist certification examination. (48 credits)

Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist

This innovative program is designed to meet the needs of psychiatric-mental health populations in the community.

Graduates of this program are prepared to function as advanced practice nurses in community-based and/or school-based psychiatric-mental health settings; work with the underserved and those from diverse cultures; and work as primary mental health care providers and/or program directors. The curriculum provides flexible programming, expert multidisciplinary faculty and consultants, and excellent clinical sites to optimize learning. Graduates are eligible to sit for ANCC certification as adult or child-adolescent psychiatric mental health clinical nurse specialists. (42 credits)

Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist/Nurse Educator, CNS/EDU

The Adult Health Clinical Specialist/Nurse Educator concentration provides theoretical and practice opportunities that build upon the knowledge and experiences that students bring to the curriculum. The program of study fosters the development of advanced practice clinical skills in caring for adult populations, as well as the development of skills in the art of teaching.

The course requirements include clinical and practicum experiences supporting the clinical specialist and educator roles. Graduates of this program are prepared to function as adult health clinical specialists and nurse educators in academic or health care settings. Graduates meet eligibility requirements for CNS certification. (40 credits)

Blended Role Option

Promoting Healthy Families In Vulnerable Communities Joint FNP/Community/Public Health Clinical Specialist Program. This program prepares students for the blended role of family nurse practitioner and community/public health clinical nurse specialist. Graduates are family nurse practitioners prepared to assess, manage, treat and evaluate the health status of vulnerable individuals, families and communities. They also are community/public health clinical nurse specialists educated to plan, direct, implement and evaluate population-based, family-oriented health care in culturally sensitive ways. The curriculum, grounded in Healthy People 2010, is consistent with the core competencies of the American Public Health Association and the American Nurses Credentialing Center and meets the standards of the Association of Community Health Nurse Educators and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioners Faculties Graduates are eligible for ANCC certification as public/community health clinical nurse specialists and family nurse practitioners. (54/56 credits).

Post-Master’s Certificate Programs

Post-master’s certificate programs are offered in all areas of concentration in the Master of Science in Nursing program. The programs of study vary in length based on the background of the candidate and the requirements of the advanced practice field. A minimum of 12 credits is required.

General Degree Requirements

Coursework

A program of study is planned individually to meet the particular needs of each student, in accord with the student’s field of study and career goals. Under the adviser’s direction and with the approval of the dean, six semester hours of graduate work earned at another institution prior to initial enrollment at The Catholic University of America with a grade level of B or above may be applied toward degree requirements. Transfer of graduate work earned at another university will be considered only after the student has completed one full-time semester (or its equivalent) of graduate work at The Catholic University of America in accordance with the transfer policy of the university. Graduate courses in nursing are not open to challenge. All students are required to submit a Graduate Health Form indicating they are able to participate in clinical practice.

Grading

A grade point average of 3.0 is required for retention. In general, a grade of C is passing but marginal at the graduate level. A grade of C in clinical courses is not acceptable; students who earn C grades may repeat clinical courses once.

Residence

Students admitted to graduate study at the master’s level must complete degree requirements within five years from the date of initial enrollment. Continuous enrollment must be maintained unless a written leave of absence has been granted.

Candidacy for the Degree

To be considered for admission to candidacy for the master’s degree, the student must satisfy these requirements:

1. Complete program requirements with a grade point average of 3.0.

2. Successfully write the comprehensive examination. This examination may be taken in the semester in which it is clear to the adviser and the student that the student will complete all coursework and the thesis (for thesis students).

3. Satisfactorily complete a thesis or capstone research project.

Financial Aid

Traineeships may be available for graduate students. However, availability is dependent on funds awarded to the school.

Additional scholarship funds may be available through the university and the School of Nursing. Applicants must complete a FAFSA and have current GRE scores. Additional information is available from the Office of the Dean and via the CUA School of Nursing Web site (http://nursing.cua.edu).

Student Resources

Graduate students work with leaders, preceptors and experts in a wide variety of clinical, governmental and health-related organizations throughout the Washington metropolitan area.

Other Information

The Olivian Society is named after Sister Olivia Gowan, the first dean of the School of Nursing. During her 23 years as dean, she was recognized as an outstanding leader and pioneer in advancing nursing education throughout the United States. The Olivian Society embraces her vision and dedication through its community outreach activities, its commitment to continued learning and through activities that foster networking and professional development. Graduate students serve as the elected leaders of the Olivian Society and represent the School of Nursing in the Graduate Student Association.

Master of Science in Nursing Program

Major Areas of Specialization

First Tier Core Courses	Credits
N708 Research in Nursing: Methods & Outcomes	3
N895 Capstone Research Project	3
N701 Health Promotion	2
N661 Theoretical Foundations for Advanced Practice	2
N663 Health Care Policy, Organizations & Finance	3
N657 Advanced Health Assessment	3
N789 Advanced Practice Role Seminar	1
Second Tier Courses (Vary according to program)
Science	3-9
Ethics	3
Support/Cognate Courses	0-6

All Advanced Practice students take first tier and second tier courses. Third tier courses consists of additional coursework, which is program specific. Second and third tier coursework is described below.

Nurse Practitioner Role

Adult Nurse Practitioner Required Second Tier courses for this program	Credits
PHIL 505 Moral Issues in Health Care	3
NURS 610 Pharmacology for Advanced Nursing Practice	3
NURS 698 Pathophysiology	3
NURS 766 Family and Culture	3
Required Third Tier courses for this program
NURS 782 Management of Health Problems I	3
NURS 783 Management of Health Problems II	3
NURS 784 Nurse Practitioner Practicum I	1
NURS 785 Nurse Practitioner Practicum II	1
NURS 786 Nurse Practitioner Practicum III	1

Geriatric Nurse Practitioner

Required Second Tier courses for this program	Credits
PHIL 505 Moral Issues in Health Care	3
NURS 610 Pharmacology for Advanced Nursing Practice	3
NURS 698 Pathophysiology	3
Support course in geriatrics	3
NURS 782 Management of Health Problems I	3
NURS 783 Management of Health Problems II	3
NURS 784 Nurse Practitioner Practicum I	1
NURS 785 Nurse Practitioner Practicum II	1
NURS 786 Nurse Practitioner Practicum III	1

Family Nurse Practitioner

Required Second Tier courses for this program	Credits
PHIL 505 Moral Issues in Health Care	3
NURS 610 Pharmacology for Advanced Nursing Practice	3
NURS 698 Pathophysiology	3
NURS 766 Family and Culture	3
Required Third Tier courses for this program
NURS 735 Perinatal Health	1
NURS 780 Ped Nurse Practitioner Seminar/Practicum I	4
NURS 782 Management of Health Problems I	3
NURS 783 Management of Health Problems II	3
NURS 784 Nurse Practitioner Practicum I	1
NURS 785 Nurse Practitioner Practicum I	1
NURS 786 Nurse Practitioner Practicum III	1

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Required Second Tier courses for this program	Credits
NURS 610 Pharmacology for Advanced Nursing Practice	3
NURS 698 Pathophysiology	3
PHIL 505 Moral Issues in Health Care	3
Elective	3
Required Third Tier courses for this program
NURS 780 Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Seminar/Practicum I	4
NURS 781 Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Seminar/Practicum II	2
NURS 779 Child and Adolescents with Special Needs	1
NURS 784 Nurse Practitioner Practicum I	1
NURS 785 Nurse Practitioner Practicum II	1
NURS 786 Nurse Practitioner Practicum II I	1
or
NURS 787 Primary Care of the Newborn	1

Clinical Nurse Specialist Role

Adult Health Clinical Specialist/Nurse Educator

Required Second Tier courses for this program	Credits
PHIL 505 Moral Issues in Health Care	3
NURS 610 Pharmacology for Advanced Nursing Practice	3
NURS 698 Pathophysiology	3
Required Third Tier courses for this program
NURS 782 Management of Health Problems I	3
NURS 783 Management of Health Problems II	3
NURS 797 Clinical Nurse Specialist Practicum I	1
NURS 798 Clinical Nurse Specialist Practicum II	1
NURS 835 Program Development and Evaluation	3
NURS 836 Education Seminar and Practicum	3

Immigrant, Refugee and Global Health Clinical Nurse Specialist

Required Second Tier courses for this program	Credits
ANTH 741 Health, Society and Culture	3
NURS 664 Principles of Epidemiology	3
NURS 626 Health Policy Formulation & Analysis	3
TRS 632A Christian Social Ethics	3
NURS 686 Health Care Finance	3
NURS 687 Managing Health Information I	3
Required Third Tier courses for this program
NURS 674 Population-Based Health Care Management	1
NURS 675 Population-Based Health Care Practicum	1
NURS 676 Vulnerable Women/Families in Community	3
NURS 627 Health Policy Practicum	2
NURS 684 Global, Immigrant, & Refugee Health	3
NURS 685 Global, Immigrant, & Refugee Women & Families Practicum	2

Community/Public Health Nurse Specialist Educator

Required Second Tier courses for this program	Credits
EDUC 554 Instructional Design	3
EDUC 525 Psychology of Learning: Implications for Instructional Design	3
NURS 664 Principles of Epidemiology	3
TRS 632A Christian Social Ethics	3
Required Third Tier courses for this program
NURS 674 Population-Based Health Care Management	1
NURS 675 Population-Based Health Care Management Practicum	1
NURS 676 Vulnerable Women/Families in Community	3
NURS 677 Vulnerable Women/Families in Community Practicum	2
NURS 678 Health Care Management: Addressing Disparities	3
NURS 679 Health Care Management: Addressing Disparities Practicum	2
NURS 835 Program Development and Evaluation	3
NURS 683 Educator: Community/Public Health Practicum	2

Psychiatric–Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist (Adult or Child/Adolescent Focus)

Required Second Tier courses for this program	Credits
NURS 608 Psychopharmacology	1
NURS 610 Pharmocology for Advanced Nursing Practice	3
PSYCH 714 Introduction to Neuropsychology	3
ANTH 642 Ethnopsychology	3
PHIL 505 Moral Issues in Health care	3
Required Third Tier courses for this program
NURS 741 Bio-Behavioral Psychiatric Nursing	3
NURS 742 Mental Health of the Individual	3
NURS 743 Mental Health of the Family	3
or
NURS 756 Mental Health of the Group	3
NURS 746 Practicum in Community Mental Health I	1
NURS 747 Practicum in Community Mental Health II	2

Blended Role Option

Family Nurse Practitioner Community/Public Health Clinical Nurse Specialist

Promoting Healthy Families in Vulnerable Communities

Required Second Tier courses for this program	Credits
NURS 610 Pharmacology for Advanced Nursing Practice	3
TRS 632A Christian Social Ethics	3
NURS 698 Pathophysiology	3
NURS 766 Family and Culture	3
NURS 664 Principles of Epidemiology	3
Required Third Tier courses for this program
NURS 674 Population-Based Health Care Management	1
NURS 667 Blended Practicum I: The Family in a Community	1
NURS 676 Vulnerable Women/Families in Communities	3
NURS 668 Blended Prac II: Empowering Women in Families/Communities	1
NURS 672 Community/Public Health Practicum	2
NURS 678 Health Care Mngmt: Addressing Disparities	3
NURS 669 Blended Practicum III: Networks, Orgs, & Systems	2
NURS 735 Perinatal Health	1
NURS 782 Management of Health Problems I	3
NURS 783 Management of Health Problems II	3
NURS 780 Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Seminar/Practicum I	4

Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

Aim

The purpose of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program, D.N.P., is to prepare expert clinicians and nurse leaders.

Goal

Graduates are prepared to assume leadership positions in nursing/health care, with the ultimate goals of improving health care and the health status of people.

Terminal Objectives

Graduates will:

1. Analyze and apply scientific knowledge and skills to provide the highest level of advanced practice nursing.

2. Implement emerging science and practice innovations in health care.

3. Evaluate and initiate changes in response to social, political, economic, and ethical issues in health care and the discipline of nursing.

4. Collaborate with members of other disciplines in the design, implementation, and evaluation of programs and policies for the improvement of health care.

5. Assume leadership roles in nursing/health care.

Admission

The Catholic University School of Nursing employs a “whole person” philosophy for evaluation of applicants for admission to the D.N.P. program. The applicant’s potential for success is evaluated in a variety of ways including:

Post-Master’s D.N.P. Applicants

1. Earned baccalaureate and master’s degrees in nursing, from an accredited program or school, with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

2. GRE scores within the last five years.

3. Submission of a professional portfolio that includes:

a. Statement of reason(s) for seeking the D.N.P. degree.

b. Curriculum vitae or résumé.

c. Copy of license (as an RN and advanced practice license, if applicable) from at least one state.

d. Certification in an advanced practice specialty.

e. Narrative description of current and past clinical practice.

f. Three letters of reference (at least one from a former dean or academic adviser and at least one from a former employer).

g. Publications (if applicable).

4. A 5–10 page proposal identifying an evidence-based practice project. This may be a practice improvement issue, a clinical management problems or area of clinical research that the applicant will address while in the program. The paper should cite appropriate sources and follow APA format. In addition, the applicant must be able to identify key resources (personnel, preceptors, institutions) necessary to complete the project.

5. A graduate level statistics course completed within 5 years prior to program matriculation.

Post-Baccalaureate Applicants

1. Earned Baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited program or school, with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

2. GRE scores within the last five years.

3. Submission of a profession portfolio that includes:

a. Statement of reason for seeking the D.N.P. degree.

b. Curriculum vitae or résumé.

c. Copy of RN license from at least one state.

d. Narrative description of current and past clinical practice.

e. Three letters of reference (at least one from a former dean or academic adviser and one from current or former employer).

f. Publications (if applicable).

4. A 5-10 page proposal identifying an evidence-based practice project. This may be a practice improvement issue, a clinical management problems, or area of clinical research that the applicant will address while in the program. The paper should cite appropriate sources and follow APA format. In addition, the applicant must be able to identify key resources (personnel, preceptors, institutions) necessary to complete the project.

5. A graduate level statistics course completed within five years prior to program matriculation.

All students admitted to the program are required to submit a Graduate Health Form indicating they are able to participate in clinical practice.

General Degree Requirements

A total of 34–37 credits (which may include up to 6 transfer credits for prior coursework in the area) is required for the post-master’s D.N.P. degree. A post-baccalaureate D.N.P. entails 71–89 credits, depending on the clinical specialty chosen. Pre-requisites for the post-master’s D.N.P. include graduate level courses in: Health Policy, Bioethics, Health Promotion, and statistics.

Coursework

A program of study is planned individually to meet the particular needs of each student, in accord with the student’s field of study and career goals. Under the adviser’s direction and with the approval of the dean, six semester hours of graduate work earned at another institution prior to initial enrollment at The Catholic University of America with a grade level of B or above may be applied toward degree requirements. Transfer of graduate work earned at another university will be considered only after the student has completed one full time semester (or its equivalent) of graduate work at The Catholic University of America in accordance with the transfer policy of the university. Graduate courses in nursing are not open to challenge.

Grading

A grade point average of 3.0 is required for retention. In general, a grade of C is passing but marginal at the graduate level. A grade of C in clinical courses is not acceptable; students who earn C grades may repeat clinical courses once.

Residence

Post-masters D.N.P. students must complete course requirements within five years from the date of initial enrollment. Continuous enrollment must be maintained unless a written leave of absence has been granted.

Candidacy for the Degree

To be considered for admission to candidacy for the D.N.P. degree, the student must satisfy these requirements:

1. Complete program requirements with a grade point average of 3.0.

2. Successfully write the comprehensive examination. This examination may be taken in the semester in which it is clear to the adviser and the student that the student will complete all coursework.

3. Satisfactorily complete an evidence-based practice project.

4. Satisfactorily complete a professional portfolio (which was begun upon admission).

5. Recommendation of the academic adviser.

Post–Master’s D.N.P. Program of Study

The post-master’s D.N.P. program consists of 33–36 credits. Coursework for the D.N.P. includes:

  

D.N.P. Courses:	Credits
NURS 916 Seminal in Nursing Scholarship	1
NURS 664 Epidemiology	3
NURS 674 Population-based Health Care Management	1
NURS 729 Emerging Issues in Health	3
NURS 686 Health Care Finance	3
NURS 732 Applied Epidemiology	1
NURS 730 Evidence-Based Practice I	3
NURS 731 Evidence-Based Practice II	3
NURS 737 Advanced Practice-based Residency	4
NURS 739 D.N.P. Project Guidance	3
NURS 734 Leadership in Complex Health Care	3
2–3 Advanced Clinical Cognate Courses	6–9
Total credits required:	34–37

Twenty-four credits may be transferred from the master’s degree, if appropriate and approved.

Post–Baccalaureate D.N.P. Program of Study

Students entering at a post-baccalaureate level will complete the appropriate M.S.N. courses, with the exception of the capstone course. However, those who opt to receive an M.S.N. while enrolled in D.N.P. coursework must meet the requirements of the M.S.N. program, which includes completion of the Capstone course and passing the M.S.N. comprehensive examination.

Doctor of Philosophy Program

Aim

The purpose of the Doctor of Philosophy degree is to prepare expert clinicians as nurse scientists. Through the investigation of clinical problems, graduates contribute to the development, validation and refinement of theory and the advancement of the body of nursing knowledge.

Goal

Graduates are prepared to assume leadership positions in practice, education and research with the ultimate goal of improving health care.

Terminal Objectives

Graduates will:

1. Advance nursing knowledge through the integration, application and testing of theory;

2. Conduct research and develop evidence-based practice that supports the ongoing development of nursing science;

3. Assess the impact of social, political and ethical issues on health care and the discipline of nursing;

4. Collaborate with members of other disciplines in the design, implementation and evaluation of programs and policies for the improvement of health care; and

5. Assume leadership roles in nursing and health care.

Admission

The Catholic University School of Nursing employs a “whole person” philosophy for evaluation of applicants for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy in nursing program. The applicant’s potential for success is evaluated in a variety of ways including:

1. Possession of a baccalaureate and a master’s degree in nursing from an accredited program.

2. Submission of an official report of scores, no more than five years old, on the Graduate Record Examination.

3. Presentation of transcripts of undergraduate and graduate study that provide evidence of academic ability to complete the program and do original research. A GPA of 3.5 or higher is desired.

4. Three letters of reference (at least one from a former dean or academic adviser and at least one from a former employer).

5. A written statement of career goals and proposed area of research.

6. A copy of a recent scholarly paper, research report or publication related to clinical nursing.

In addition, if the applicant is an international student the following are also required:

1. Satisfactory completion of the TOEFL examination with a minimum score of 580 (paper based test) or 237 (computer-based test).

2. Evaluation of transcripts must be completed by the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools.

3. International students may be required to take intensive English courses and/or other additional courses as recommended by the academic adviser or dean.

4. Official documentation of funding for one year of study, including tuition and living expenses must be submitted.

See School of Nursing Web site http://nursing.cua.edu for additional admissions information.

General Degree Requirements

Coursework

Seventy semester hours beyond baccalaureate study are required for the Ph.D. degree. Students must earn a minimum of 46 semester hours in coursework during doctoral study at The Catholic University of America. Under the adviser’s direction, a maximum of 24 semester hours of master’s level coursework completed with a grade of B or higher may be applied toward the required 70 semester hours. Full- and part-time study is available.

Coursework must be completed in five years. A graduate-level statistics course that has been successfully completed in the last five years is a pre- or co-requisite to the first semester of study.

Grading

Although a grade of C is passing but marginal at the graduate level, a grade of C in clinical courses/role practica is not acceptable. Students may repeat a clinical course/role practicum once.

Residence

The minimum period of residence for the degree is three years. Work completed for the master’s degree at The Catholic University of America or its equivalent at another university of approved standing may be accepted as fulfilling one year of the minimum period of residence. The equivalent of four semesters of full-time graduate coursework toward the degree must be done in residence at this university.

Continuous enrollment in the program must be maintained unless a written authorized leave of absence has been granted by the dean. Typically, a leave of absence is limited to one academic year. The period of leave of absence is not counted as part of the time allowed for the completion of residence or other degree requirements.

Candidacy for the Degree

To be considered for admission to candidacy for the doctoral degree, the student must have satisfied these requirements:

1. Satisfactory completion of course requirements with a minimum grade point average of 3.0.

2. Recommendation of the academic adviser.

3. Successful comprehensive examination.

4. Completion of a formal application for candidacy.

Dissertation

After admission to candidacy the completion of a satisfactory dissertation involving significant and original research in nursing is required. University policies regarding the dissertation and oral examination must be followed.

Program of Study

The Ph.D. program of study consists of 70 hours, 24 of which may be transferred from master’s level work. The remaining credits are distributed among nursing science, philosophy, research and support courses. A graduate-level statistics course is a pre- or corequisite to the first semester of study.

  

Core Courses	12 credits
PHIL 601 Philosophy of Science	3
NURS 907 Theory Development	3
THEO 625 Bioethics	3
NURS 926 Health Policy	3
Research Courses	22 credits
NURS 900 Research Overview	1
EDUC 733 Advanced Statistics I: Experimental Design	3
EDUC 737 Advanced Statistics II: Applied Regression Analysis	3
NURS 908 Qualitative Research in Nursing	3
NURS 909 Quantitative Research in Nursing	3
NURS 923 Clinical Problems I: Theoretical Considerations	3
NURS 924 Clinical Problems II: Design Considerations	3
NURS 930 Seminar on Research Proposals	3
Support Courses—Courses supporting the dissertation topic (six to nine credits) and professional role educator or administrator goals (three to six credits)	12
Total	70

Twenty-four credits may be transferred from the master’s degree if appropriate and approved.

M.S.N.–Ph.D. Option

An option is available to meet the needs of baccalaureate-prepared nurses whose goal is to achieve the doctorate. Applicants must meet the admission requirements for the Ph.D. program. Programs of study are planned on an individual basis. The dissertation phase of study begins on admission to doctoral candidacy following passing the comprehensive examination. The master’s degree is awarded after successful completion of all M.S.N.-Ph.D. coursework and the doctoral comprehensive examination. If a student chooses to earn the master’s degree earlier, the comprehensive examination for the master’s degree will be taken at the end of master’s coursework.

Core Performance Standards for Mission and Progression in the School of Nursing

To complete the nursing programs, a student must complete a clinical/practicum component, which involves caring for actual patients. By accepting admission and enrolling in the School of Nursing, the student certifies that he/she has read these materials and understands the essential eligibility requirements of the program.

The Catholic University of America does not discriminate on the basis of disability. If reasonable accommodations will allow an otherwise qualified student with a disability to meet the essential eligibility requirement for participation in the nursing program, then the university will assist the student in making the reasonable accommodations. Students who would like to receive accommodations on the basis of disability will need to identify themselves for such accommodations, provide documentation of the disability and request accommodation. Please refer to The Catholic University of America Policy on Disabilities as published in the Student Handbook for further information.

Essential eligibility requirements for participation and completion by students in the nursing program minimally include the following core performance standards:

  

Ability	Standard
Intellectual	Critical thinking ability sufficient for clinical judgment
Interpersonal	Interpersonal ability sufficient to appropriately interact with individuals, families, and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds
Intrapersonal	Intrapersonal ability sufficient to manage personal and environmental stress
Communication	Communication abilities sufficient for professional interaction with others in oral, written and computer-assisted forms
Mobility	Physical abilities sufficient to move from room to room and maneuver in small spaces
Stamina	Physical and emotional ability to provide therapeutic nursing interventions consistently that are safe and effective over time
Motor Skills	Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide therapeutic nursing interventions that are safe and effective and that maintain safety and security standards
Hearing	Auditory ability sufficient to monitor, assess and respond to health needs
Visual	Visual ability sufficient to monitor, assess and respond to health needs
Tactile	Tactile ability sufficient to monitor, assess and respond to health needs
Judgmental	Mental and physical ability to make good judgments in order to maintain safety and security of patients and to behave appropriately with patients, staff, and students and supervisors.

Courses Offered

Please consult the registrar’s Web site at https://cardinalstation.cua.edu for descriptions of courses offered in the current semester.

 

NURS	Course Title
561	Aging: Holistic Perspectives on Health
570	Substance Abuse and Health
575	Human Lactation and Breastfeeding
608	Psychopharmacology
610	Pharmocology for Advanced Nursing Practice
626	Health Policy Formulation & Analysis
627	Health Policy Practicum
657	Advanced Health Assessment
661	Theoretical Foundations for Advanced Practice
663	Health Care Policy, Organizations & Finance
664	Principles of Epidemiology
667	Blended Practicum I: The Family in a Community
668	Blended Prac II: Empowering Women in Families/Communities
669	Blended Practicum III: Networks, Orgs, & Systems
672	Community/Public Health Practicum
674	Population-Based Health Care Management
675	Population-Based Health Care Practicum
676	Vulnerable Women/Families in Communities
677	Vulnerable Women/Families in Communities Practicum
678	Health Care Mngmt: Addressing Disparities
679	Health Care Mngmt: Addressing Disparities Prac
683	Educator: Comm/Public Health Practicum
684	Global, Immigrant & Refugee Health
685	Global, Immigrant & Refugee Women and Families Practicum
698	Pathophysiology
686	Health Care Finance
687	Managing Health Information
701	Health Promotion
708	Research in Nursing: Methods & Outcomes
729	Emerging Issues in Health
730	Evidence-Based Practice I
731	Evidence-Based Practice II
732	Applied Epidemiology
734	Leadership in Complex Health Care
735	Perinatal Health
737	Advanced Practice-Based Residency
739	Doctor of Nursing Practice Project Guidance
741	Bio-Behavioral Psychiatric Nursing
742	Mental Health of the Individual
743	Mental Health of the Family
746	Practicum in Community Mental Health I
747	Practicum in Community Mental Health II
756	Mental Health of the Group
766	Family and Culture
779	Child and Adolescents with Special Needs
780	Ped Nurse Practitioner Seminar/Practicum I
781	Ped Nurse Practitioner Seminar/Practicum II
782	Management of Health Problems I
783	Management of Health Problems II
784	Nurse Practitioner Practicum I
785	Nurse Practitioner Practicum II
786	Nurse Practitioner Practicum III
787	Primary Care of the Newborn
789	Advanced Practice Role Seminar
797	Clinical Nurse Specialist Practicum I
798	Clinical Nurse Specialist Practicum II
835	Program Development and Evaluation
836	Education Seminar and Practicum
895	Capstone Research Project
907	Theory Development
908	Qualitative Research in Nursing
909	Quantitative Research in Nursing
916	Seminar in Nursing Scholarship
922	Research Practicum & Seminar
923	Clinical Problems I: Theoretical Considerations
924	Clinical Problems II: Design Considerations
926	Health Policy
930	Seminar on Research Proposals
995	Master’s Thesis Guidance
996	Dissertation Guidance
997	Dissertation Guidance
998	Dissertation Guidance