CHRISTINE E. LYNN
COLLEGE OF NURSING
Master's and Post Graduate Programs
Link to Course Descriptions for Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Faculty:
George, S., Dean and Eminent Scholar; Krause-Parello, C., Associate Dean and Distinguished Professor; Longo, J., Interim Associate Dean; Ortega, M., Associate Dean; Aurélien-Buie, L., Assistant Dean; Broadbent, M., Interim Assistant Dean; Chadwell, K., Assistant Dean; Adenmosun, E.; Akinpelu, O.; Archer, A.; Archibald, C., Emeritus; Barry, C., Emeritus; Bertrand, H.; Blum, C., Emeritus; Borum, M.; Boykin, A., Emeritus; Brennan, M.; Brown, R.; Brown-King, C.; Bulfin, S., Emeritus; Butcher, H. K.; Chiang-Hanisko, L.; Dunphy, L., Emeritus; Edwards, K, Endowed Professor; Eggenberger, T.; Evangelista, J.; Exantus, M.; Fergile, M.; Ferguson, M.; Fisher, C.; France, N., Emeritus; Gengo, R.; Gordon, S.; Gropper, S.; Hain, D.; Haklits, R.; Harris, N.; Hawthorne, D.; Heinze, K.; Horne, C.; Jones, T.; Kaye, S.; Kelly, T.; King, B.; Koszalinski, R.; Leavitt, M. A.; Liehr, P., Emeritus; Locsin, R., Emeritus; Love, T.; Lypnik, E.; Mammah, K.; Martinez, L.; McCaffrey, R., Emeritus; Morancy, W.; Newman, D.; Palma, L.; Parker, M. E., Emeritus; PetitHomme, E.; Phillips, N.; Postell, F.; Pratt, B.; Purnell, M. J., Emeritus; Quidley-Rodriguez, N.; Ray, M., Emeritus; Rivera, A.; Shaw, H.; Sherman, R., Emeritus; Smith, M., Emeritus and Former Eminent Scholar; Snyder, S.; Suriaga, A.; Tappen, R., Eminent Scholar; Toledo, C.; Touhy, T. A., Emeritus; Wiese, L.; Williams, C., Emeritus; Wilson, C.; Winland-Brown, J., Emeritus; Wisdom-Chambers, K.
Accreditation: The baccalaureate, master's and doctor of nursing practice degree programs in nursing are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The baccalaureate program is approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing. All programs are approved as part of the University's accreditation process by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Overview of the College of Nursing
The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing is dedicated to caring: advancing the science, studying its meaning, practicing the art and living it day to day.
Through its excellent faculty and programs on the Boca Raton, Davie and Harbor Branch campuses, the College offers Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Honors in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice, Doctor of Philosophy and certificate programs to prepare nurses for practice, leadership, research and community service.
The College offers the following programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree for graduating high school students in the Freshman Direct Admit Track and an Honors in Nursing Program for Freshman Direct Admit students.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree for registered nurses with an associate degree or diploma from an ACEN- or CNEA-accredited nursing program. (ACEN-Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing; CNEA-Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation.)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree in an accelerated format to individuals with a baccalaureate degree in a discipline other than nursing.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree in a part-time format for individuals with a baccalaureate degree in a discipline other than nursing (also referred to as Working Professional B.S.N.). (Not accepting students at this time.)
- Two combined degree programs: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N) to either a master's degree with major in Artificial Intelligence or a master's degree with major in Biomedical Engineering.
- Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) degree with concentrations in Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Holistic Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator and Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership.
- Post Graduate Certificates in Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Holistic Nursing, Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership, and Nurse Educator.
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) for students with master's degrees in an area of advanced nursing practice or nursing administration, or for highly qualified Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates through the B.S.N. to D.N.P. program with concentrations in Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Highly qualified D.N.P. graduates may also pursue the D.N.P. to Ph.D. program.
- Doctor of Philosophy with a Major in Nursing (Ph.D.) degree with admission to students with B.S.N. or M.S.N. preparation. The major area of focus is research and theory development related to the phenomenon of caring.
Vision
The Florida Atlantic University Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing will be the international preeminent leader in advancing caring science through its dynamic, innovative caring-based education, research, scholarship and practices.
Mission
The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, as an integral part of Florida Atlantic University, is committed to the pursuit of higher education grounded in the arts, sciences and humanities. Faculty of the College support the University mission of teaching, research/scholarship and service within an environment that fosters inclusiveness. The College is dedicated to caring: advancing the science, studying the meaning, practicing the art and living caring day to day.
Philosophy
Nursing is a discipline of knowledge and professional practice grounded in caring. Nursing makes a unique contribution to society by nurturing the wholeness of persons and environment in caring. Caring in nursing is an intentional, mutual human process in which the nurse artistically responds with authentic presence to calls from persons to enhance well-being. Nursing occurs in nursing situations: co-created lived experiences in which the caring between nurses and persons enhances well-being. Nursing is both science and art. Nursing science is the evolving body of distinctive nursing knowledge developed through systematic inquiry and research. The art of nursing is the creative use of nursing knowledge in practice. Knowledge development and practice in nursing require the complex integration of multiple patterns of knowing. Nurses collaborate and lead interprofessional research and practice to support the health and well-being of persons inextricably connected within a diverse global society.
Persons as participants in the co-created nursing situation refers to individuals, families or communities. Persons are unique and irreducible, dynamically interconnected with others and the environment in caring relationships. The nature of being human is to be caring. Humans choose values that give meaning to living and enhance well-being. Well-being is creating and living the meaning of life. Persons are nurtured in their wholeness and well-being through caring relationships.
Beliefs about learning and environments that foster learning are grounded in our view of person, the nature of nursing and nursing knowledge and the mission of the University. Learning involves the lifelong creation of understanding through the integration of knowledge within a context of value and meaning. A supportive environment for learning is a caring environment. A caring environment is one in which all aspects of the person are respected, nurtured and celebrated. The learning environment supports faculty-student relationships that honor and value the contributions of all, and shared learning and growth.
The above fundamental beliefs concerning nursing, person and learning express our values and guide the actions of faculty as they pursue the missions of teaching, research/scholarship and service shared by the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing and Florida Atlantic University.
Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing Professional Statement
When students of nursing begin their course of study, they enter into an implied professional agreement agreeing to abide by the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Nursing Ethics and to conduct themselves in all aspects of their lives in a manner becoming a professional nurse.
The College of Nursing faculty holds a professional ethic of caring and healing, recognizing that each person's environment includes everything that surrounds an individual. Similarly, the College creates an environment that preserves the wholeness and dignity of self and others. The faculty requires self and socially responsible behavior and will not accept actions that can be perceived as hostile, threatening or unsafe to others. It is the College's expectation that students promote a positive public image of nursing. It is the College's goal, as a professional college, to build an expanding community of nursing scholars and leaders within the context of its caring-based philosophy. Safety of the person being nursed and accountability for individual actions are priorities and/or critical components/elements of a professional nursing education.
Students who do not abide by this policy will be subject to appropriate academic sanctions, which may include disciplinary action, dismissal from the College of Nursing and/or suspension or expulsion from the University.
Legislation aimed at protecting the public has made it necessary to require a Level 2 criminal background check for admission into the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing.
If upon application the background check reveals violations, students may be denied admission. If the background check reveals violations and the student is admitted, however, the student may still be denied licensure or admission to a clinical agency. Please carefully read the Clinical/Practicum Hours Requirements Clarification found here.
Enrolled students may be required to repeat one or more components of the background check process during the program, dependent upon agency regulations. Results of all components of the background check process must be on file with the College of Nursing for review before students may participate or enroll in any courses or activities that involve or require patient contact.
Random or routine drug screens may be required during the program of study by facilities where patient contact occurs or by the College if reasonable suspicion of substance use exists. Results of drug screens indicating violations of substance use may be basis for dismissal from the program. All costs related to background checks and drug screens are the responsibility of the student or applicant. It is also the student's responsibility to make sure an oath and affirmation is completed yearly from the date of the initial background check.
Bachelor's Programs
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) program leads to a B.S.N. degree, the foundation of professional nursing practice. The B.S.N. program includes three tracks:
- Freshman Direct Admit Track for graduating high school students (Honors in Nursing available in this track);
- Accelerated Track for individuals with a baccalaureate degree in another discipline;
- Part-Time Track for individuals with a baccalaureate degree in another discipline (not accepting students at this time);
- RN-B.S.N. Track for Registered Nurses with an associate degree or diploma in Nursing from an ACEN- or CNEA-accredited nursing program. (ACEN-Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing; CNEA-Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation.)
Policies for all bachelor's degree programs at FAU are available here.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program Objectives
The purpose of the undergraduate program is to advance the study, understanding and professional practice of the discipline of nursing.
The overall goal of the undergraduate curriculum is to prepare graduates whose practice of nursing nurtures the wholeness of persons through caring in nursing situations in a variety of settings.
The outcome objectives of the undergraduate program are that the graduate will be able to:
- Unfold a personal journey of coming to know and care for self as person and nurse.
- Synthesize knowledge from the sciences, arts and humanities as a foundation for generalist practice in nursing. Use nursing theories and research to guide caring-based, reflective nursing practice.
- Integrate multiple, complex patterns of knowing in coming to know persons and responding critically and reflectively to calls within nursing situations in generalist nursing practice.
- Practice ethical, safe nursing practice guided by professional standards.
- Demonstrate cultural humility within nursing situations.
- Use systematic inquiry to inform decision making, create nursing responses and evaluate outcomes.
- Demonstrate competence in using technology and information systems to promote well-being, facilitate decision making and enhance collaboration.
- Promote well-being for persons and populations across the life span in a variety of settings.
- Participate in creating caring environments that nurture wholeness.
- Participate in social and political activities that honor human dignity and advocate for equity in healthcare outcomes, local and global health policy and healthcare delivery.
- Collaborate with others as a caring leader to transform care in complex healthcare systems.
- Practice responsible stewardship of the discipline and profession, resources and environment.
Undergraduate Research Certificate
To recognize undergraduate students' excellence in undergraduate research, the Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry (OURI) has established the Undergraduate Research Certificate. Requirements for the Research Certificate include completion of 12 credits of research exposure, skill-building and intensive courses as well as dissemination of the outcomes of students' research and inquiry through a research presentation or exhibition.
Admission Deadlines
All required admission materials must be received by the deadlines posted for each B.S.N. track on the College of Nursing website. Freshman Direct Admit and Accelerated tracks enroll once per year. The RN-B.S.N. Track admits each semester (fall, spring and summer); therefore, RN-B.S.N. students may enter the program in any semester.
HEALTH HUMANITIES
UNDERGRADUATE MINOR
(Minimum of 15 credits)
The minor in Health Humanities is open to all undergraduate students at FAU. The minor is awarded upon graduation from an undergraduate program at FAU; it is not awarded independently of an undergraduate degree. For minor details click here.
Nursing
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
(Minimum of 120 credits required)
Pre-Licensure B.S.N. Program Tracks
The Pre-Licensure B.S.N. tracks lead to a baccalaureate degree in Nursing for the non-RN student. Graduates of these programs are qualified to be candidates for the NCLEX and, if successful, achieve RN licensure. The Pre-Licensure tracks are limited access. Individuals must be admitted to FAU as undecided or health students prior to being considered for admission to the Freshman Direct Admit and Accelerated tracks of the B.S.N. program. Qualified applicants will be admitted into Nursing on a space-available basis. Admission as an undecided or health student does not guarantee admission to any track in the B.S.N. program. The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing supports the University's policy of non-discrimination.
Link to Freshman Direct Admit Track
Link to Honors in Nursing Program
Link to Accelerated Track
Link to Second Degree Part-Time Track
Link to RN-B.S.N. Track
Link to Combined Programs
Application Process for Freshman Direct Admit B.S.N. Track
The Freshman Direct Admit Track is designed for currently enrolled high school seniors who are preparing to enter FAU the fall semester immediately following their May/June high school graduation of the same year. This track is available on the Boca Raton campus only. The Freshman Direct Admit Track is a four-year limited access program.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Freshmen Direct Admit Track is a full-time, four-year program (beginning in the fall semester) with Nursing courses in each of the eight semesters. This means that students take Nursing courses each semester along with the other science and general education requirements, which further means that first semester freshmen are already Nursing students. This result is in synchrony with the College of Nursing philosophy, vision and mission in that students are fully interconnected with the College from the beginning of their Nursing education through graduation.
Application to this track is a four-step process and can be found on this website. Application Review Criteria include:
- High school re-calculated GPA 3.50 on a 4.0 scale;
- ACT 25 (preferred) or SAT 1210;
- Cleared Level 2 background check and fingerprinting.
Freshman Direct Admit Track Degree Requirements
(Minimum of 120 credits required)
| Fall 1 | ||
| Anatomy and Physiology 1 | BSC 2085 | 3 |
| Anatomy and Physiology 1 Lab | BSC 2085L | 1 |
| College Writing 1 | ENC 1101 | 3 |
| College Algebra | MAC 1105 | 3 or |
| Math for Liberal Arts 1 | MGF 1106 | 3 |
| Learning Strategies and Human Development | SLS 1503 | 2 |
| Foundations of Caring in Nursing Situations | NUR 3115 | 3 |
| Total | 15 | |
| Spring 1 | ||
| Anatomy and Physiology 2 | BSC 2086 | 3 |
| Anatomy and Physiology 2 Lab | BSC 2086L | 1 |
| College Writing 2 | ENC 1102 | 3 |
| Professional Nursing Practice | NUR 3821 | 2 |
| Introductory Statistics | STA 2023 | 3 |
| General Psychology | PSY 1012 | 3 |
| Total | 15 | |
| Summer 1 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Microbiology for Health Services | MCB 2004 | 3 |
| Microbiology for Health Services Lab | MCB 2004L | 1 |
| Sociological Perspectives | SYG 1000 | 3 |
| Total | 10 | |
| Fall 2 | ||
| General Chemistry for Health Sciences | CHM 2032 | 3 |
| General Chemistry for Health Sciences Lab | CHM 2032L | 1 |
| Psychology of Human Development | DEP 3053 | 3 |
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations | NUR 3065 | 2 |
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations Lab | NUR 3065L | 1 |
| General Pathophysiology | NUR 4125 | 3 |
| Total | 13 | |
| Spring 2 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Fundamentals of Nursing Practice 1 | NUR 3026C | 2 |
| Pharmacotherapeutics | NUR 3145 | 3 |
| Food, Nutrition and Health | NUR 3183 | 3 |
| RI: Scholarship for Evidence-Based Nursing Practice | NUR 4937 | 3 |
| Total | 14 | |
| Summer 2 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Total | 3 | |
| Fall 3 | ||
| Chronic Care in Nursing Situations for Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 3262 | 3 |
| Chronic Care in Nursing Situations for Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 3262L |
2 |
| Population Health: Nursing Situations | NUR 4638 | 3 |
| Population Health: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 4638L | 1 |
| Fundamentals of Nursing Practice 2 | NUR 3029C | 2 |
| Elective chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Total | 14 | |
| Spring 3 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Nursing Care of Children: Nursing Situations | NUR 3358 | 3 |
| Nursing Care of Children: Nursing Situations In Practice | NUR 3358L | 1 |
| Maternal Newborn: Nursing Situations | NUR 3455 | 3 |
| Maternal Newborn: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 3455L | 1 |
| Elective chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Total | 14 | |
| Fall 4 | ||
| Psychiatric and Mental Health: Nursing Situations Across the Lifespan | NUR 4525 | 3 |
| Psychiatric and Mental Health: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 4525L | 1 |
| Acute Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 4716 | 3 |
| Acute Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 4716L | 2 |
| Systems, Quality and Information Technology | NUR 4079 | 3 |
| Total | 12 | |
| Spring 4 | ||
| Creating Healing Environments | NUR 3171 | 3 |
| Complex Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 4764 | 3 |
| Complex Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 4764L | 1 |
| Nursing Practice Immersion | NUR 4829L | 3 |
| Total | 10 | |
Honors in Nursing Program
(Minimum of 120 credits required)
The Honors in Nursing Program provides a highly select group of students with an enriched learning experience for high-performing students. The program focuses on the enhancement of research and communication skills required for nursing students. Nursing is now recognized as a STEM program, so students need to seek opportunities in consultation with their faculty mentors to conduct or participate in original research. The Honors in Nursing Program culminates in a completed thesis and dissemination of the student’s work.
Admission Requirements
Eligible students in the Freshman Direct Admit Track apply during their sophomore spring semester. Applicants must have a 3.5 cumulative GPA; must successfully complete NUR 4165, Nursing Research, with an “A-” or better; and submit a competitive onsite essay.
Standards for Maintaining Active Status
Students admitted to the Honors in Nursing Program must maintain high academic and ethical standards. Students may be dismissed from the program if they fail to maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 throughout the program. Students who do not maintain a GPA of 3.5 may still be able to complete the Freshman Direct Admit B.S.N. degree track. Violation of any of the following three components may be grounds for dismissal:
- The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing Professional Statement;
- American Nurses Association’s Code of Ethics; and
- FAU’s Code of Academic Integrity.
If a student withdraws due to extenuating medical circumstances, he or she may be permitted to progress upon a space available basis either in the Honors in Nursing Program or the Freshman Direct Admit B.S.N. track.
Honors-Level Enrichment
Honors-level enrichment is manifested in two challenging courses that provide meaningful, rich academic experiences: Honors Seminar in Nursing 1 (NUR 4934) and Honors Seminar in Nursing 2 (NUR 4935). During both courses students are expected to attend or participate in events offered by the College such as dissertation defenses, Sigma Theta Tau or Iota Xi presentations, doctoral capstone presentations and Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry events.
Capstone Requirement
The thesis meets the capstone requirement. RI: Honors Seminar in Nursing 3 (NUR 4936) replaces RI: Scholarship for Evidence-Based Nursing Practice (NUR 4937) with 3 variable credits. The variable credits are to be distributed over at least two semesters.
- Summer, 1 credit; fall, 1 credit; spring, 1 credit of senior year, or
- Fall, 2 credits; and spring, 1 credit of senior year.
One credit must be earned in the graduating spring semester. The student will defend both the research proposal and the final thesis. One faculty mentor (chair) and one faculty committee member will assist the student.
Honors in Nursing Program Degree Requirements
| Fall 1 | ||
| Anatomy and Physiology 1 | BSC 2085 | 3 |
| Anatomy and Physiology 1 Lab | BSC 2085L | 1 |
| College Writing 1 | ENC 1101 | 3 |
| College Algebra | MAC 1105 | 3 or |
| Math for Liberal Arts 1 | MGF 1106 | 3 |
| Learning Strategies and Human Development | SLS 1503 | 2 |
| Foundations of Caring Science in Nursing Situations | NUR 3115 | 3 |
| Total | 15 | |
| Spring 1 | ||
| Anatomy and Physiology 2 | BSC 2086 | 3 |
| Anatomy and Physiology 2 Lab | BSC 2086L | 1 |
| College Writing 2 | ENC 1102 | 3 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 1: Ethical and Legal Perspectives of Caring | NUR 4824 | 1 |
| Introductory Statistics | STA 2023 | 3 |
| General Psychology | PSY 1012 | 3 |
| Total | 14 | |
| Summer 1 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Microbiology for Health Services | MCB 2004 | 3 |
| Microbiology for Health Services Lab | MCB 2004L | 1 |
| Sociological Perspectives | SYG 1000 | 3 |
| Total | 10 | |
| Fall 2 | ||
| General Chemistry for Health Sciences | CHM 2032 | 3 |
| General Chemistry for Health Sciences Lab | CHM 2032L | 1 |
| Psychology of Human Development | DEP 3053 | 3 |
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations | NUR 3065 | 2 |
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations Lab | NUR 3065L | 1 |
| General Pathophysiology | NUR 4125 | 3 |
| Total | 13 | |
| Spring 2 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Foundations of Nursing Practice | NUR 3119C | 2 |
| Pharmacotherapeutics | NUR 3145 | 3 |
| Food, Nutrition and Health | NUR 3183 | 3 |
| Nursing Research | NUR 4165 | 3 |
| Total | 14 | |
| Summer 2 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Total | 3 | |
| Fall 3 | ||
| Chronic Care in Nursing Situations for Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 3262 | 3 |
| Chronic Care in Nursing Situations for Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 3262L |
2 |
| Population Health: Nursing Situations | NUR 4638 | 3 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 2: Designer of Caring Environments | NUR 4833 | 1 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 3: Leader/Coordinator of Caring Environments | NUR 4860 | 1 |
| Honors Seminar in Nursing 1 | NUR 4934 | 3 |
| Total | 13 | |
| Spring 3 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| The Developing Family: Nursing Situations | NUR 3465 | 4 |
| The Developing Family: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 3465L | 2 |
| Honors Seminar in Nursing 2 | NUR 4935 | 3 |
| Total | 12 | |
| Fall 4 | ||
| Psychiatric and Mental Health: Nursing Situations Across the Lifespan | NUR 4525 | 3 |
| Psychiatric and Mental Health: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 4525L | 1 |
| Acute Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 4716 | 3 |
| Acute Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 4716L | 2 |
| RI: Honors Seminar in Nursing 3 | NUR 4936 | 2 |
| Total | 11 | |
| Spring 4 | ||
| Creating Healing Environments | NUR 3171 | 3 |
| Complex Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 4764 | 3 |
| Complex Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 4764L | 1 |
| Nursing Practice Immersion | NUR 4829L | 3 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 4: Member of a Caring Profession | NUR 4861 | 1 |
| RI: Honors Seminar in Nursing 3 | NUR 4936 | 1 |
| Total | 12 | |
Application Process for the Accelerated B.S.N. Track
The Accelerated Track is available only on the Boca Raton campus. Students who have been unsuccessful in another nursing program will not be considered for admission into the program at Florida Atlantic University.
- Apply to Florida Atlantic University here. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in their bachelor's degree as calculated by the awarding institution. Post-baccalaureate classes are not included in this calculation.
- Apply to the College of Nursing by completing an application on the Nursing CAS (Centralized Application Service) website. The applicant is cautioned to note the application deadline published on the website. There are no deadline exceptions.
- Minimum requirements for review of application; applications not meeting these criteria will not be reviewed. The following courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or better by the application deadline. Successful completion of all prerequisites much have been achieved at the time of application.
Anatomy & Physiology I with Lab
Anatomy & Physiology II with Lab
Microbiology with Lab
College Algebra or equivalent
Statistics
English Composition 1
English Composition 2
Introduction to Sociology
Introduction to Psychology
Human Growth and Development through the Lifespan
Chemistry with Lab
Nutrition
Grades in the above courses constitute the prerequisite science GPA used for admission decisions. A minimum grade of "C" is required in these courses.
Admission Decision Criteria
This is a limited-access program, and the program receives many more qualified applications than available spaces. Admission decisions are based on the following:
- Cumulative undergraduate GP
- Prerequisite science GPA
- Other nursing common prerequisites GPA
- Personal interview
Other factors relevant to professional nursing may be considered. For example: graduation from an undergraduate program at FAU and prerequisite courses completed at an SUS university or equivalent university in the United States.
- All applicants will be notified of the admission decision via FAU email.
- By the date posted in the offer letter, applicants must confirm via email to the program advisor their intention to either accept or reject the preliminary admission offer, or their seat will be given to the next eligible applicant.
- Cleared Level 2 background check and fingerprinting.
Accelerated Track Degree Requirements
The Accelerated Track in the B.S.N. program is specifically designed for the student with a bachelor's degree in another field who wants to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing. A fast track to a professional nursing career, this accelerated B.S.N. is an intense four semester (15-month) program for motivated individuals looking for a challenging and stimulating career in nursing. Students in the program are required to be engaged in coursework or nursing practice experiences for a minimum of 40 hours per week. This is a limited access program. Students must complete all program prerequisites prior to beginning the accelerated program coursework. Accelerated Track requirements: 60 credits.
Prerequisite Coursework
All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually by the FAU Registrar's Office on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.
| Prerequisite Courses | ||
| Anatomy and Physiology 1 and 2 with Labs | 8 | |
| Microbiology with Lab | 4 | |
| Chemistry with Lab | 4 | |
| Nutrition | 3 | |
| College Algebra or equivalent | 3 | |
| Statistics | 3 | |
| Introduction to Sociology | 3 | |
| Introduction to Psychology | 3 | |
| Human Growth and Development through the Lifespan |
4 | |
| Accelerated Track Courses | ||
| Fall 1 | ||
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations | NUR 3065 | 2 |
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations Lab | NUR 3065L | 1 |
| Fundamentals of Nursing Practice 1 | NUR 3026C | 2 |
| Foundations of Nursing Practice | NUR 3119C | 2 |
| General Pathophysiology | NUR 4125 | 3 |
| Pharmacotherapeutics | NUR 3145 | 3 |
| Total | 14 | |
| Spring 1 | ||
| Chronic Care in Nursing Situations for Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 3262 | 3 |
| Chronic Care in Nursing Situations for Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 3262L | 2 |
| Psychiatric and Mental Health: Nursing Situations Across the Lifespan | NUR 4525 | 3 |
| Psychiatric and Mental Health: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 4525L | 1 |
| Fundamentals of Nursing Practice 2 | NUR 3029C | 2 |
| RI: Scholarship of Evidence-Based Nursing Practice | NUR 4937 | 3 |
| Professional Nursing Practice | NUR 3821 | 2 |
| Total | 16 | |
| Summer 1 | ||
| Acute Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations
|
NUR 4716 | 3 |
| Acute Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 4716L | 2 |
| Maternal Newborn: Nursing Situations | NUR 3455 | 3 |
| Maternal Newborn: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 3455L | 1 |
| Nursing Care of Children: Nursing Situations | NUR 3358 | 3 |
| Nursing Care of Children: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 3358L | 1 |
| Systems, Quality and Information Technology | NUR 4079 | 3 |
| Total | 16 | |
| Fall 2 | ||
| Creating Healing Environments | NUR 3171 | 3 |
| Management of Complex Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 4764 | 3 |
| Management of Complex Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 4764L | 1 |
| Nursing Practice Immersion | NUR 4829L | 3 |
| Population Health: Nursing Situations | NUR 4638 | 3 |
| Population Health: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 4638L | 1 |
| Total | 14 | |
| Total Credits | 60 | |
Second Degree B.S.N. Part-Time Track
(This program is on hiatus and not accepting students.)
This track is for those individuals with a degree in another discipline who are seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Using a concierge model, it serves working adults who are not able to enroll in an accelerated, full-time program. Classes and clinical experiences are designed for evenings and weekends with some online classes. Face-to-face classes and laboratory learning are offered on FAU's Davie campus with clinical practicums offered in partner hospitals in the surrounding area. For information on this concierge model, including information on student support and tuition, click here.
Application Process for the RN-B.S.N. Track
The RN-B.S.N. Track is designed for registered nurses aspiring to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Candidates must have 60 completed lower-division college credits from an accredited institution and an associate degree-accredited program in nursing (ACEN or CNEA). The RN-B.S.N. Track is offered in a distance learning format only.
Prerequisite Coursework for RN-B.S.N. Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the General Education Program) and requirements for the college and major. Lower-division requirements may be completed through the A.A. degree from any Florida public college, university or state college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution.
Students can apply for admission to the RN-B.S.N. Track before or after completion of all prerequisites
as outlined in the
Transition Guides.
All courses not approved by the Florida Statewide Course Numbering System that will be used to satisfy requirements will be evaluated individually on the basis of content and will require a catalog course description and a copy of the syllabus for assessment.
Admission Requirements
for the RN-B.S.N. Track
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 on 4.0 scale.
- Graduated from an ACEN- or CNEA-accredited nursing program.
- Current unencumbered RN license in state of residency.
- Grade of "C" or better in all required prerequisite courses.
- After preliminary acceptance, a cleared Level 2 background check and fingerprinting is required for full admission.
RN-B.S.N. Track Degree Requirements
Required lower-division prerequisite courses will be reviewed with an academic advisor. A variety of study plans are available, including three-, four-, five- and six-semester study plans. Students will choose a study plan with an advisor after admission to the B.S.N. program. The RN-B.S.N. Track is offered in a distance learning format only.
| Required Courses (FAU or community/state college) | ||
| Anatomy and Physiology 1 and 2 with Labs | 8 | |
| Microbiology with Lab | 4 | |
| Chemistry(lab not required) | 3 | |
| College Algebra or Math for Liberal Arts | 3 | |
| Statistics | 3 | |
| Nutrition | 3 | |
| English Composition 1 and 2 | 6 | |
| Introduction to Sociology | 3 | |
| Introduction to Psychology | 3 | |
| Human Growth and Development Through the Life Span | 3 | |
| General Education Program courses required by the University are described in the Degree Requirements section of this catalog. In addition, students must fulfill Gordon Rule and foreign language requirements. | ||
| Upper-Division Nursing Courses | ||
| Foundations of Caring in Nursing Situations | NUR 3115 | 3 |
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations | NUR 3065 | 2 |
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations Lab | NUR 3065L | 1 |
| Pharmacotherapeutics | NUR 3145 | 3 |
| Creating Healing Environments | NUR 3171 | 3 |
| General Pathophysiology | NUR 4125 | 3 |
| RI: Scholarship for Evidence-Based Nursing Practice (research-intensive course) | NUR 4937 | 3 |
| Population Health: Nursing Situations | NUR 4638 | 3 |
| Professional Nursing Practice | NUR 3821 | 2 |
| Systems, Quality and Information Technology | NUR 4079 | 3 |
| Nursing Practice Immersion | NUR 4829L | 3 |
| Total credits | 30 | |
| Validated credits granted at completion of nursing courses | 30 | |
Policies for Bachelor's Degree Program
Health and Other Requirements for Nursing Practice
The student who is admitted to the Pre-Licensure tracks (Freshman Direct Admit or Accelerated) must meet the following requirements annually:
- Complete the following:
- A complete background check through www.castlebranch.com is required as a condition of admission. By submitting to the background check requirement, students agree to have this information shared with all clinical agencies. Adverse findings may prevent a student from completing the required clinical experiences and graduating from the program. Students with adverse findings may contact the Florida Board of Nursing for clarification regarding the effect of the adverse events on their individual eligibility for licensure.
- FDLE and FBI Background fingerprinting.
- Submit each of the following:
- Annually submit the Oath and Affirmation waiver by one year by date of order. If this waiver expires after the due date, the student will be required at his/her expense to redo the Level 2 background check process to include the drug test and fingerprinting.
- Annually submit evidence of ongoing personal health insurance coverage for the academic year. If a student is found to have lapsed coverage, the student will be dismissed from the clinical practicum, which may jeopardize progression in their program of study.
- Proof of completion of any required immunization series must be provided to the College of Nursing by the date specified by the nursing program in which the student is enrolled.
- TB testing is done annually. Additional health requirements may be necessary for students practicing in specific clinical agencies. Affected students will be notified.
- Proof of current BLS Healthcare Provider CPR certification (CPR for Healthcare Providers must be from the American Heart Association).
- Purchase basic supplies and equipment for nursing practice experiences.
- Assume responsibility for transportation to and from all off-campus course clinical experiences.
- Assume responsibility for basic computer knowledge (Microsoft Office, FAU e-mail, email and Internet).
- Purchase learning materials required for courses. Purchase NCLEX preparation and basic tools and equipment for nursing practice experiences.
In the last semester of the curriculum, pre-license students will be required to take a comprehensive exit exam and earn a satisfactory score on the exam prior to graduation.
Failure to provide the above documentation or falsification of the same is grounds for dismissal from the College of Nursing. - Student documents must be current and complete in order to participate in any clinical practice learning experience that involves persons receiving care of any kind. Students who do not have the FBI/FDLE and Drug Screening clearance may not be able to complete the program and graduate. Students may also be asked to successfully complete clinical agency-mandated educational programs to participate in clinical learning experiences.
- Additional health requirements may be necessary for students practicing in specific clinical agencies. Affected students will be notified.
- Laptop computers are expected of students in the Nursing program.
The student who is admitted to the RN-B.S.N. Track must meet the following requirements annually:
-
Submit a copy of current unencumbered RN license.
-
Complete the following:
- A complete background check through www.castlebranch.com is required as a condition of admission. By submitting to the background check requirement, students agree to have this information shared with all clinical agencies. Adverse findings may prevent a student from completing the required clinical experiences and graduating from the program. Students with adverse findings may contact the Florida Board of Nursing for clarification regarding the effect of the adverse events on their individual eligibility for licensure.
- FDLE and FBI background fingerprinting.
- Submit each of the following:
- Annually submit the Oath and Affirmation waiver by one year by date of order. If this waiver expires after the due date, the student will be required at his/her expense to redo the Level 2 background check process to include the drug test and fingerprinting.
- Annually submit evidence of ongoing personal health insurance coverage for the academic year. If a student is found to have lapsed coverage, the student will be dismissed from the clinical practicum, which may jeopardize progression in their program of study.
- Proof of completion of any required immunization series must be provided to the College of Nursing by the date specified by the nursing program in which the student is enrolled.
- TB testing is done annually. Additional health requirements may be necessary for students practicing in specific clinical agencies. Affected students will be notified.
- Proof of current BLS Healthcare Provider CPR certification (CPR for Healthcare Providers must be from the American Heart Association).
- Purchase basic supplies and equipment for nursing practice experiences.
- Assume responsibility for transportation to and from all off-campus course clinical experiences.
- Assume responsibility for basic computer knowledge (Microsoft Office, FAU e-mail, email and Internet).
- Purchase learning materials, basic tools and equipment required for courses/requirements.
- Student documents must be current and complete in order to participate in any clinical practice learning experience that involves persons receiving care of any kind. Students who do not have the FBI/FDLE and Drug Screening clearance may not be able to complete the program and graduate. Students may also be asked to successfully complete clinical agency-mandated educational programs to participate in clinical learning experiences.
- Laptop computers are expected of students in the Nursing program.
Progression and Retention Policy
Progression and retention in the College of Nursing baccalaureate degree courses are dependent upon the student’s ability to meet established academic standards and to comply with student health, security and CPRrequirements. The following requirements are necessary for progression in the Nursing program:
- Successful completion of all nursing courses and required courses in the B.S.N. curriculum is defined as a "C" or better or a grade of satisfactory, "S."
- Freshman Direct Admit students who cannot progress following the first summer (third semester of first year) will be dismissed from the B.S.N. program.
- At any time, students not making satisfactory progress toward course objectives will be notified in writing and offered counseling to develop a plan for remediation. Failure to comply with the recommendations on this plan will result in failure of the course.
- Students may repeat only one nursing course.
- Students earning a grade of "C-" or below or an unsatisfactory, "U," in any nursing course may repeat that course only once, on a space available basis.
- A student who earns a grade of "C-" or below or an unsatisfactory, "U," in any nursing course for a second time will be dismissed from the Nursing major. Counseling relative to other majors/options will be provided.
- A student who earns a grade of "C-" or below or an unsatisfactory, "U," in any two nursing courses will be dismissed from the Nursing major. Counseling relative to other majors/options will be provided.
- Any fully admitted pre-license B.S.N. student who withdraws from a nursing course, with the exception of a filed exceptional circumstances withdrawal, is considered to be out of sequence with their cohort and must reapply to the program.
- Students who wish to return to the University after a leave of absence or re-enroll after withdrawing and have been admitted to the B.S.N. program will re-enter under the current curricular requirements. Based on demonstration of clinical skill competencies, an independent study course may be required. In addition, scheduling in clinical courses will depend on availability of clinical space.
- Students must adhere to the standards of conduct outlined in the ANA Code of Ethics, the Florida Nurse Practice Act (Statute 464.018) and FAU Regulation 4.001 Code of Academic Integrity. Students are expected to demonstrate comportment and professional behavior consistent with the College’s philosophy and conceptual framework as expressed in the College of Nursing Professional Statement. Failure to do so may result in dismissal from the program.
- Students must demonstrate safe practice in the care of clients and exercise appropriate judgment as beginning-level practitioners. Students who demonstrate unsafe behaviors in the practice setting may be removed at any time a faculty member determines the student is clinically unsafe and poses a significant risk to patients. Students removed from a clinical course for patient safety reasons will receive a grade of "F" in the course.
- Students must have on file evidence of compliance to include, but not limited to, Student Health Policy, security requirements and CPR certification prior to beginning any clinical experiences.
Dismissal Policy
A student enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program who fails to exhibit professional and caring behaviors as stated in the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing Professional Statement, fails to meet academic standards as defined in the Progression and Retention Policy, or violates a University policy may be dismissed from the Nursing program. The faculty member responsible for the nursing course in which the failure is noted or who notes unprofessional behavior will refer the student to the assistant dean. Students recommended for dismissal have the right to utilize the Student's Appeal Procedure as outlined in the Student Handbook.
A student who is dismissed from the Nursing program may petition only one time for readmission/continuation in the Nursing program through the Admission, Progression and Retention Subcommittee of the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. Readmission decisions by the subcommittee will be based on the reason for dismissal, strength of the student's record, length of time since dismissal, space availability and the student's plan to prevent recurrence of the problem that led to the dismissal.
Procedure
Students who do not meet the progression and retention requirements will be notified in writing via FAU email of the facts and circumstances, including the availability of an appeal process. Students will be notified by a program official who will offer to meet with the student (in person or via phone call). Students have 10 academic days from the date of the written notification to respond to the program official. After meeting with the program official, the student may be:
-
Placed on academic probation with a written Plan of Improvement (POI). The POI will include specific conditions designed to support individual student success. Students who do no meet conditions indicated in the POI will be recommended for dismissal.
-
Recommended for dismissal. Undergraduate student recommendations for dismissal follow the University's Suspension and Dismissal Policy.
Combined Programs
Nursing to Artificial Intelligence
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) to Master of Science (M.S.) Combined Program
(Minimum of 150 credits required)
The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing and the College of Engineering and Computer Science (COECS) offer a combined Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) and Master of Science (M.S.) with Major in Artificial Intelligence degree program. The B.S.N. degree program is completed and received from the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. Students then complete the M.S. in Artificial Intelligence in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) and receive the M.S. degree from the COECS.
Students may count up to 9 credits of approved graduate coursework (5000-level or higher) toward both their B.S.N. and M.S. degrees as long as the combined program totals a minimum of 150 credits. Other requirements follow.
- The student has met the minimum of 120 credits for the bachelor’s degree;
- The student has taken a minimum of 30 credits in 5000-level or higher courses for the master’s degree.
Students must complete the prerequisite coursework for the master’s degree while pursuing the bachelor’s degree at the College of Nursing. This combined program provides an attractive way for students to continue their graduate coursework; the undergraduate program is completed first. The combined program can be completed in approximately five years.
Admission Requirements
The GRE requirement is waived for this combined program. To be eligible for the program, baccalaureate students in the College of Nursing should:
- Have a cumulative FAU GPA of 3.25 or better at the end of their junior year. Note that the cumulative FAU GPA of at least 3.25 must be maintained until the completion of the bachelor’s degree in the College of Nursing.
- Formally apply to the combined program, completing the admissions process at least one semester prior to the beginning of the master’s portion of their program.
Students in the combined program must maintain continuous enrollment to remain in good standing. Students must also meet all degree requirements of the graduate program they have chosen, including prerequisite courses.
Degree Requirements
To be eligible for the combined B.S.N. in Nursing to M.S. in Artificial Intelligence program, students must fulfill the following requirements.
- Completion of the requirements for the B.S.N. in Nursing in the College of Nursing and other requirements stipulated by the University and College.
- Completion of all requirements for the M.S. in Artificial Intelligence in the EECS Department with either the thesis or non-thesis option.
- The following courses are taken during the B.S.N. in Nursing program.
| Introduction to Programming in Python | COP 2034 | 3 |
| Data Structures and Algorithm Analysis with Python | COP 3410 | 3 |
| Methods of Calculus | MAC 2233 | 3 |
Plan of Study for the Nursing to Artificial Intelligence Combined Program
| Fall 1 | ||
| Anatomy and Physiology 1 | BSC 2085 | 3 |
| Anatomy and Physiology 1 Lab | BSC 2085L | 1 |
| College Writing 1 | ENC 1101 | 3 |
| Methods of Calculus | MAC 2233 | 3 |
| Foundations of Caring in Nursing Situations | NUR 3115 | 3 |
| Learning Strategies and Human Development | SLS 1503 | 2 |
| Total | 15 | |
| Spring 1 | ||
| Anatomy and Physiology 2 | BSC 2086 | 3 |
| Anatomy and Physiology 2 Lab | BSC 2086L | 1 |
| College Writing 2 | ENC 1102 | 3 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 1: Ethical and Legal Perspectives of Caring | NUR 4824 | 1 |
| General Psychology | PSY 1012 | 3 |
| Introductory Statistics | STA 2023 | 3 |
| Total | 14 | |
| Summer 1 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Microbiology for Health Services | MCB 2004 | 3 |
| Microbiology for Health Services Lab | MCB 2004L | 1 |
| Sociological Perspectives | SYG 1000 | 3 |
| Total | 10 | |
| Fall 2 | ||
| General Chemistry for Health Sciences | CHM 2032 | 3 |
| General Chemistry for Health Sciences Lab | CHM 2032L | 1 |
| Psychology of Human Development | DEP 3053 | 3 |
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations | NUR 3065 | 2 |
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations Lab | NUR 3065L | 1 |
| General Pathophysiology | NUR 4125 | 3 |
| Total | 13 | |
| Spring 2 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Foundations of Nursing Practice | NUR 3119C | 2 |
| Pharmacotherapeutics | NUR 3145 | 3 |
| Food, Nutrition and Health | NUR 3183 | 3 |
| Nursing Research | NUR 4165 | 3 |
| Total | 14 | |
| Summer 2 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Total | 3 | |
| Fall 3 | ||
| Introduction to Programming in Python | COP 2034 | 3 |
| Chronic Care in Nursing Situations for Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 3262 | 3 |
| Chronic Care in Nursing Situations for Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 3262L |
2 |
| Population Health: Nursing Situations | NUR 4638 | 3 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 2: Designer of Caring Environments | NUR 4833 | 1 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 3: Leader/Coordinator of Caring Environments | NUR 4860 | 1 |
| Total | 13 | |
| Spring 3 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Data Structures and Algorithm Analysis with Python | COP 3410 | 3 |
| The Developing Family: Nursing Situations | NUR 3465 | 4 |
| The Developing Family: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 3465L | 2 |
| Total | 12 | |
| Apply to M.S. with Major in Artificial Intelligence | ||
| Fall 4 | ||
| Psychiatric and Mental Health: Nursing Situations Across the Lifespan | NUR 4525 | 3 |
| Psychiatric and Mental Health: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 4525L | 1 |
| Acute Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 4716 | 3 |
| Acute Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 4716L | 2 |
| RI: Scholarship for Evidence-Based Nursing Practice (research-intensive course) | NUR 4937 | 3 |
| Total | 12 | |
| Spring 4 | ||
| Creating Healing Environments | NUR 3171 | 3 |
| Complex Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 4764 | 3 |
| Complex Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 4764L | 1 |
| Nursing Practice Immersion | NUR 4829L | 3 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 4: Member of a Caring Profession | NUR 4861 | 1 |
| Total | 11 | |
Nursing to Biomedical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) to Master of Science (M.S.) Combined Program
(Minimum of 150 credits required)
The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing and the College of Engineering and Computer Science (COECS) offer a combined Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) and Master of Science (M.S.) with Major in Biomedical Engineering degree program. The B.S.N. degree program is completed and received from the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. Students then complete the M.S. in Biomedical Engineering in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) and receive the M.S. degree from the COECS.
Students may count up to 9 credits of approved graduate coursework (5000-level or higher) toward both their B.S.N. and M.S. degrees as long as the combined program totals a minimum of 150 credits. Other requirements follow.
- The student has met the minimum of 120 credits for the bachelor’s degree;
- The student has taken a minimum of 30 credits in 5000-level or higher courses for the master’s degree.
Students must complete the prerequisite coursework for the master’s degree while pursuing the bachelor’s degree at the College of Nursing. This combined program provides an attractive way for students to continue their graduate coursework; the undergraduate program is completed first. The combined program can be completed in approximately five years.
Admission Requirements
The GRE requirement is waived for this combined program. To be eligible for the program, baccalaureate students in the College of Nursing should:
- Have a cumulative FAU GPA of 3.25 or better at the end of their junior year. Note that the cumulative FAU GPA of at least 3.25 must be maintained until the completion of the bachelor’s degree in the College of Nursing.
- Formally apply to the combined program, completing the admissions process at least one semester prior to the beginning of the master’s portion of their program.
Students in the combined program must maintain continuous enrollment to remain in good standing. Students must also meet all degree requirements of the graduate program they have chosen, including prerequisite courses.
Degree Requirements
To be eligible for the combined B.S.N. in Nursing to M.S. in Biomedical Engineering program, students must fulfill the following requirements.
- Completion of the requirements for the B.S.N. in Nursing in the College of Nursing and other requirements stipulated by the University and College.
- Completion of all requirements for the M.S. in Biomedical Engineering in the EECS Department with either the thesis or non-thesis option.
- The following courses are taken during the B.S.N. in Nursing program.
| Introduction to Programming in Python | COP 2034 | 3 or |
| Introduction to Programming in C | COP 2220 | 3 |
| Methods of Calculus | MAC 2233 | 3 |
Plan of Study for the Nursing to Biomedical Engineering Combined Program
| Fall 1 | ||
| Anatomy and Physiology 1 | BSC 2085 | 3 |
| Anatomy and Physiology 1 Lab | BSC 2085L | 1 |
| College Writing 1 | ENC 1101 | 3 |
| Methods of Calculus | MAC 2233 | 3 |
| Foundations of Caring in Nursing Situations | NUR 3115 | 3 |
| Learning Strategies and Human Development | SLS 1503 | 2 |
| Total | 15 | |
| Spring 1 | ||
| Anatomy and Physiology 2 | BSC 2086 | 3 |
| Anatomy and Physiology 2 Lab | BSC 2086L | 1 |
| College Writing 2 | ENC 1102 | 3 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 1: Ethical and Legal Perspectives of Caring | NUR 4824 | 1 |
| General Psychology | PSY 1012 | 3 |
| Introductory Statistics | STA 2023 | 3 |
| Total | 14 | |
| Summer 1 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Microbiology for Health Services | MCB 2004 | 3 |
| Microbiology for Health Services Lab | MCB 2004L | 1 |
| Sociological Perspectives | SYG 1000 | 3 |
| Total | 10 | |
| Fall 2 | ||
| General Chemistry for Health Sciences | CHM 2032 | 3 |
| General Chemistry for Health Sciences Lab | CHM 2032L | 1 |
| Psychology of Human Development | DEP 3053 | 3 |
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations | NUR 3065 | 2 |
| Health Assessment in Nursing Situations Lab | NUR 3065L | 1 |
| General Pathophysiology | NUR 4125 | 3 |
| Total | 13 | |
| Spring 2 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Foundations of Nursing Practice | NUR 3119C | 2 |
| Pharmacotherapeutics | NUR 3145 | 3 |
| Food, Nutrition and Health | NUR 3183 | 3 |
| Nursing Research | NUR 4165 | 3 |
| Total | 14 | |
| Summer 2 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Total | 3 | |
| Fall 3 | ||
| Chronic Care in Nursing Situations for Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 3262 | 3 |
| Chronic Care in Nursing Situations for Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 3262L |
2 |
| Population Health: Nursing Situations | NUR 4638 | 3 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 2: Designer of Caring Environments | NUR 4833 | 1 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 3: Leader/Coordinator of Caring Environments | NUR 4860 | 1 |
| General Education course or elective | 3 | |
| Total | 13 | |
| Spring 3 | ||
| General Education course chosen with advisor | 3 | |
| Introduction to Programming in Python | COP 2034 | 3 or |
| Introduction to Programming in C | COP 2220 | 3 |
| The Developing Family: Nursing Situations | NUR 3465 | 4 |
| The Developing Family: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 3465L | 2 |
| Total | 12 | |
| Apply to M.S. with Major in Biomedical Engineering | ||
| Fall 4 | ||
| Psychiatric and Mental Health: Nursing Situations Across the Lifespan | NUR 4525 | 3 |
| Psychiatric and Mental Health: Nursing Situations in Practice | NUR 4525L | 1 |
| Acute Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 4716 | 3 |
| Acute Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 4716L | 2 |
| RI: Scholarship for Evidence-Based Nursing Practice (research-intensive course) | NUR 4937 | 3 |
| Total | 12 | |
| Spring 4 | ||
| Creating Healing Environments | NUR 3171 | 3 |
| Complex Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations | NUR 4764 | 3 |
| Complex Care in Nursing Situations with Adults and Aging Populations in Practice | NUR 4764L | 1 |
| Nursing Practice Immersion | NUR 4829L | 3 |
| Professional Development in Nursing 4: Member of a Caring Profession | NUR 4861 | 1 |
| Total | 11 | |
Master's and Post Graduate Programs
The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing offers the Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) and Post Graduate Certificate Programs.
Those applicants seeking a Master of Science in Nursing choose from one of the following concentrations for a program of study: Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Holistic Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, and Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership.
Completion of one of the Nurse Practitioner concentrations prepares the graduate nurse to seek certification as a nurse practitioner in the area of concentration. Upon graduation, national certification is required for authorization to practice in the advanced practice role in Florida.
Completion of the Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership concentration prepares the nurse graduate to seek advanced certification in administration.
Completion of the Nurse Educator concentration prepares the graduate to teach in a variety of educational settings and seek certification as a nurse educator.
Completion of the Advanced Holistic Nursing concentration prepares the graduate to seek advanced certification in Holistic Nursing (AHN-BC) and Health and Wellness Nursing Coaching (HWNC-BC).
All required supplementary admission materials for the Family Nurse Practitioner and the Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner concentrations must be submitted through GradCAS and received by the deadline posted on the College of Nursing website.For all other M.S.N. concentrations, all required supplementary documents must be submitted through the University application system and received by the deadline posted on the College of Nursing website.
Decisions are made only on complete application packets. Refer to the section on Admissions in this University Catalog or ja5f.k-ashizawa.com/graduate/ for complete University admissions information. Graduate admissions are competitive. Admissions decisions are made based upon the quality of the application and the number of available slots in the desired program concentration. Meeting minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission.
The number of credits allowed as a non-degree-seeking student are limited and must meet graduate program requirements of the University.
In keeping with Florida Atlantic University's philosophy as a distributed university, courses may be held on various campuses. Modes of delivery include live classes, video conference, web-assisted courses and online offerings and vary by concentration.
Depending on the concentration, full-time or part-time study may be pursued in the graduate program. Once the student is admitted to the program, an advisor is assigned to assist with planning the sequence of courses.
International students should contact the director or assistant dean at least one year prior to intended enrollment to plan the program of study.
Link to Graduate Certificate
Link to Post Graduate
Certificate Programs
Master's Program Outcomes
The purpose of the graduate program is to advance the study, understanding and practice of the discipline of nursing. The goal of this curriculum is to prepare graduates whose practice of nursing nurtures the wholeness of persons through caring in advanced practice nursing situations in a variety of settings. The graduate of the program will:
- Develop self in caring-based advanced nursing practice.
- Integrate a broad base of knowledge grounded in caring that includes theory and best evidence for advanced nursing practice.
- Integrate multiple, complex patterns of knowing in coming to know persons and creatively responding to calls within nursing situations in advanced nursing practice.
- Demonstrate accountability for ethical, safe practice and inquiry in advanced nursing practice.
- Demonstrate cultural humility within nursing situations in advanced nursing practice.
- Engage in systematic inquiry as a foundation for advanced nursing practice, healthcare delivery and the evolution of nursing as a caring science.
- Participate in the implementation of technology and information systems to promote well-being, facilitate decision making and enhance collaboration in advanced nursing practice.
- Promote well-being for persons and populations across the lifespan in advanced nursing practice.
- Promote caring environments that nurture wholeness in advanced nursing practice.
- Honor human dignity and advocate for equity in healthcare outcomes, local and global health policy and healthcare delivery in advanced nursing practice.
- Participate in the transformation of complex healthcare systems through caring leadership that facilitates intra- and interprofessional collaboration to achieve quality outcomes in advanced nursing practice.
- Promote responsible stewardship to advance the discipline and profession, preserve resources and respect the environment in advanced nursing practice.
Practicum Requirements
Prior to entering any practicum course for graduate study, students are required to submit the following documentation in the College clinical tracking system:
- Annual student health form (current within the last year);
- Proof of personal medical insurance;
- Current CPR certification (BLS);
- Signed statement to the effect that OSHA/ HIPAA/Safety requirements have been read;
- Copy of current license as a registered nurse in the state in which practicum course will be completed. All Nurse Practitioner students must be licensed in Florida.
All aforementioned data must be current throughout the program of study.
Academic Standing
Continuation in the graduate program requires a grade of "C" or above in all required nursing graduate courses and a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. For further clarification, see the Progression and Retention Policy in the
Graduate Student Handbook.
Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.)
Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Concentration
Advanced Holistic Nursing Concentration (Program suspended effective fall 2024.)
Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration
Nurse Educator Concentration
Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership Concentration
Admission Deadlines
Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner concentration applicants:
The nurse practitioner concentrations are limited access; therefore, admission is competitive and allowed only for the fall term.
Advanced Holistic Nursing, Nurse Educator, and Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership concentration applicants: Admission deadlines for fall and spring are posted on the College of Nursing website.
Admission Requirements
- Earned B.S.N. from an accredited bachelor's program in nursing.
- Minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the final 60 baccalaureate-level course credits in the B.S.N. program. Applicants with a GPA less than a 3.0 may be eligible to petition for admission into an M.S.N. program under certain circumstances.
- Basic undergraduate statistics course.
- Baccalaureate-level, upper-division nursing research course.
- Résumé or curriculum vitae (CV) presented in specified format located on the website.*
- A written essay describing the student's philosophy of nursing (275 words/one page).
- One electronic letter of recommendation requested through the GradCAS System.
- Current RN licensure to practice nursing.*
- A Level 2 (state/federal) criminal background check. (Costs are the responsibility of the applicant/student). Annual renewal by an Oath and Affirmation Statement is required.
- An interview and on-site writing sample may be required.
- Practice experience is not required but may be considered as part of the overall quality of the application.
* Submitted via GradCAS (Use 3.0 application portal.)
Guidelines for Philosophy of Nursing Statement and Reference Letter
Philosophy of Nursing
Please provide a typed, double-spaced, one-page statement of your nursing philosophy, specifically addressing:
- Your beliefs/philosophy of nursing;
- Why you are interested in pursuing a master's degree in the specific concentration you have chosen; and
Letter of Reference
The purpose of the letter of reference is to provide the graduate program with information about how colleagues and associates perceive the applicants to the Master of Science in Nursing Program. For the Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner concentrations, the letter is requested electronically through GradCAS. For the other M.S.N. concentrations, the letter is requested electronically through the FAU application portal. The letter must be from a recent place of employment. Reference letters from current students, relatives or peers will not be accepted.
Curriculum Plans for Master of Science in Nursing Concentrations
Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner - 52 credits
Provides graduates with the advanced skills and knowledge to assume the role of Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with an emphasis on responding to calls from adolescents, adults and older adults. The unique features of this program are that it is inclusive of care to culturally diverse adolescents, adults and older adults.
The Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner curriculum requires a total of 52 credits. The program generally follows a part-time format of study. The curriculum contains a minimum of 780 hours of required clinical practice. Attainment of competencies may require more than 780 hours. Placements may occur in health department clinics, private practice offices, home-health agencies, community-based health centers, hospitals, long-term care institutions and other settings providing health care to adolescents, adults and older adults.
Graduates of the Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program are eligible to sit for the Certification Examination offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
| Graduate Core Courses - 12 credits | ||
| Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring |
NGR 6110 | 3 |
| Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice Roles |
NGR 6811 | 3 |
| Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice |
NGR 6812 | 3 |
| Leadership, Policy and Finance in Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6891 | 3 |
| Direct Care Core Courses - 9 credits | ||
| Advanced Health Assessment | NGR 6002 | 2 |
| Advanced Health Assessment Lab* | NGR 6002L | 1 |
| Advanced Pathophysiology | NGR 6141 | 3 |
| Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics | NGR 6172 | 3 |
| Concentration Courses - 31 credits | ||
| Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics 2 | NGR 6176 | 3 |
| Perspectives of Aging | NGR 6251 | 3 |
| Primary Care 1: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6200 | 3 |
| Primary Care 1 Practicum: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice* | NGR 6200L | 5 |
| Women's Health: Nursing Situations in Advanced Practice | NGR 6342 | 3 |
| Primary Care 2: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6605 | 3 |
| Primary Care 2 Practicum: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice** | NGR 6605L | 4 |
| Comprehensive Care of Adolescents through Older Adults | NGR 6607 | 3 |
| Comprehensive Care of Adolescents through Older Adults Practicum** | NGR 6607L | 4 |
| Total credits | 52 | |
* Requires 180 hours (3 credits) of supervised clinical practical experience in the spring semester and requires 120 hours (2 credits) of supervised clinical practical experience in the summer semester.
** Requires 240 hours of supervised clinical practical experience.
Note: Baccalaureate-level pharmacology, pathophysiology and health assessment courses are recommended if taken more than five years from program enrollment.
Fee for Lab/Practicum Courses
All lab and nurse practitioner practicum courses incur a $150 per credit fee. The fee covers the higher cost of instruction for these courses due to lower faculty/student ratios, travel for site visits and increasing use of simulation and standardized patients. To view our full cost of attendance information page, visit http://ja5f.k-ashizawa.com/finaid/other/cost-of-attendance/.
The following courses carry this fee:
NGR 6002L, 1 credit, $150 fee
NGR 6200L (Spring), 3 credits, $450 fee
NGR 6200L (Summer), 2 credits, $300 fee
NGR 6605L, 4 credits, $600 fee
NGR 6607L, 4 credits, $600 fee
Advanced Holistic Nursing - 33 credits (Program suspended effective fall 2024.)
This 33-credit concentration advances knowledge of contemporary views of healing and holistic nursing practice grounded in caring. The Advanced Holistic Nursing (AHN) concentration courses offer content and practice in the integration of mind-body practices, manipulative body practices and energy-based healing modalities to promote health and well-being.
Students will earn an M.S.N. degree and are eligible to sit for Board Certification in Advanced Holistic Nursing (AHN-BC). The Advanced Holistic Nursing Concentration does not prepare students to enter a Nurse Practitioner role.
Applicants with a master’s degree in Nursing may earn a Post Graduate Certificate (PGC) in Advanced Holistic Nursing. A gap analysis is conducted to identify required courses and practicum hours. All PGC students must complete NGR 6110, Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring. Nurse Practitioners may be particularly interested in a PGC in Advanced Holistic Nursing.
Completely online, full- and part-time study are available. Every effort is made to accommodate the practicum needs of students in various geographic areas.
Preceptor and practicum site decisions are determined in collaboration with faculty. The practicum hours may be completed at the student’s place of employment, if appropriate, with an approved preceptor.
| Graduate Core Courses - 12 credits | ||
| Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring | NGR 6110 | 3 |
| Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice Roles |
NGR 6811 | 3 |
| Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice |
NGR 6812 | 3 |
| Leadership, Policy and Finance in Advanced Nursing Practice |
NGR 6891 | 3 |
| Direct Care Core Courses - 9 credits | ||
| Advanced Health Assessment | NGR 6002 | 2 |
| Advanced Health Assessment Lab* | NGR 6002L | 1 |
| Advanced Pathophysiology | NGR 6141 | 3 |
| Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics | NGR 6172 | 3 |
| Concentration Courses - 12 credits | ||
| Foundations of Holistic Nursing 1: Advanced Nursing Situations | NGR 6168 | 3 |
| Foundations of Holistic Nursing 2: Advanced Nursing Situations | NGR 6169 | 3 |
| Developing Expertise in Holistic Healing: Advanced Nursing Situations* |
NGR 6296L | 3 |
| Integrating Expertise in Holistic Practice: Advanced Nursing Situations* |
NGR 6297L | 3 |
| Total credits | 33 | |
* Requires 145 supervised clinical hours.
Note: Baccalaureate-level pharmacology, pathophysiology and health assessment courses are recommended if taken more than five years from program enrollment.
Fee for Lab Course
The following lab course carries a $150 per credit fee. The fee covers the higher cost of instruction due to the lower faculty/student ratio and increasing use of simulation and standardized patients. To view our full cost of attendance information page, visit http://ja5f.k-ashizawa.com/finaid/other/cost-of-attendance/.
NGR 6002L, 1 credit, $150 fee
Family Nurse Practitioner - 52 credits
Provides graduates with advanced practice role preparation, knowledge and skills in the care of children and adults across all ages within a family framework. Health promotion, disease prevention and management of common acute and chronic long-term health alterations in primary care settings are the foci of this concentration.
The Family Nurse Practitioner curriculum requires 52 credits. The program generally follows a part-time format of study. The curriculum contains a minimum of 780 hours of required clinical practice, most of which may be arranged by the student in her or his own community. Attainment of competencies may require more than 780 hours. Practicum experiences occur in health department clinics, private practice offices, HMO clinics, community-based health centers, hospital clinics and other settings providing primary health care.
Graduates of the Family Nurse Practitioner program are eligible to sit for the Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Examination offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
| Graduate Core Courses - 12 credits | ||
|
Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded |
NGR 6110 | 3 |
| Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice Roles |
NGR 6811 | 3 |
| Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice |
NGR 6812 | 3 |
| Leadership, Policy and Finance in Advanced Nursing Practice |
NGR 6891 | 3 |
| Direct Care Core Courses - 9 credits | ||
| Advanced Health Assessment | NGR 6002 | 2 |
| Advanced Health Assessment Lab | NGR 6002L | 1 |
| Advanced Pathophysiology | NGR 6141 | 3 |
| Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics | NGR 6172 | 3 |
| Concentration Courses - 31 credits | ||
| Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics 2 | NGR 6176 | 3 |
| Primary Care 1: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice |
NGR 6200 | 3 |
| Primary Care 1 Practicum: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice* |
NGR 6200L | 5 |
| Care of Children: Nursing Situations in Advanced Practice |
NGR 6301 | 3 |
| Women's Health: Nursing Situations in Advanced Practice |
NGR 6342 | 3 |
| Primary Care 2: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice |
NGR 6605 | 3 |
| Primary Care 2 Practicum: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice** |
NGR 6605L | 4 |
| Primary Care of Families: Comprehensive Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6619 | 3 |
| Primary Care of Families Practicum** | NGR 6619L | 4 |
| Total credits | 52 | |
* Requires 180 hours (3 credits) of supervised clinical practical experience in the spring semester and requires 120 hours (2 credits) of supervised clinical practical experience in the summer semester.
** Requires 240 hours of supervised clinical practical experience.
Note: Baccalaureate-level pharmacology, pathophysiology and health assessment courses are recommended if taken more than five years from program enrollment.
Fee for Lab/Practicum Courses
All lab and nurse practitioner practicum courses incur a $150 per credit fee. The fee covers the higher cost of instruction for these courses due to lower faculty/student ratios, travel for site visits and increasing use of simulation and standardized patients. To view our full cost of attendance information page, visit http://ja5f.k-ashizawa.com/finaid/other/cost-of-attendance/.
The following courses carry this fee:
NGR 6002L, 1 credit, $150 fee
NGR 6200L (Spring), 3 credits, $450 fee
NGR 6200L (Summer), 2 credits, $300 fee
NGR 6605L, 4 credits, $600 fee
NGR 6619L, 4 credits, $600 fee
Nurse Educator - 39 credits minimum
Completion of this concentration prepares students to function in new and innovative ways as nurse educators. Students choosing the Nurse Educator concentration will be able to design methods of teaching, learning and evaluation for nursing education in the classroom, online and in nursing practice/clinical settings; analyze and develop plans of study in nursing based on appropriate curricular principles; integrate caring as a theoretical model into an educational framework; apply the role of nurse educator, demonstrating successful instructional methods in the classroom, online and in nursing practice/clinical settings.
The Nurse Educator concentration requires a minimum of 39 credits. Full and part-time programs of study are available. At the completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the National League for Nursing Nurse Educator Certification.
| Core Courses - 12 credits | ||
| Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring |
NGR 6110 | 3 |
| Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice Roles |
NGR 6811 | 3 |
| Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice |
NGR 6812 | 3 |
| Leadership, Policy and Finance in Advanced Nursing Practice |
NGR 6891 | 3 |
| Direct Care Core Courses - 9 credits | ||
| Advanced Health Assessment | NGR 6002 | 2 |
| Advanced Health Assessment Lab | NGR 6002L | 1 |
| Advanced Pathophysiology | NGR 6141 | 3 |
| Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics | NGR 6172 | 3 |
| Concentration Courses - 18 credits | ||
| Creative Teaching - Learning Methods in Nursing Education |
NGR 6711 | 3 |
| Curriculum Evolution and Models in Nursing Education |
NGR 6713 | 3 |
| Evaluation in Nursing Education | NGR 6718 | 3 |
| Advanced Nursing Education Practicum | NGR 6944L | 1-3* |
| Advanced Concepts for Direct Care Nursing Situations |
NGR 6006 | 3 |
| Direct Care Focus Practicum | NGR 6006L | 3 |
| Total credits | 39 | |
* NGR 6944L may be taken one credit at a time for a total of 3 credits.
Note:
Total of 360 education practicum hours of supervised instruction. Complete background check is required and completion of Magnus requirements is necessary before start of practicum hours. Additional clinical practicum hours are required for the direct care focus practicum.
Fee for Lab Course
The following lab course carries a $150 per credit fee. The fee covers the higher cost of instruction due to the lower faculty/student ratio and increasing use of simulation and standardized patients. To view our full cost of attendance information page, visit http://ja5f.k-ashizawa.com/finaid/other/cost-of-attendance/.
NGR 6002L, 1 credit, $150 fee
Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership - 37-39 credits
This concentration Integrates the caring philosophy into organizational management. Its core and cognate courses provide study central to advanced nursing management and financial practice. Its concentration courses offer content and practice in nursing and healthcare administration and finance, relevant to primary, secondary and/or tertiary settings in rapidly changing times.
The Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership curriculum can be taken completely online, and the needs of students in other geographic areas can be accommodated for the practicum. The program requires a minimum of 37-39 credits for completion. Full- and part-time program of study options are available. The curriculum contains a minimum of 180-270 hours of required practica related to administrative and financial management in health care organizations. Students find a preceptor who mentors them throughout this portion of the curriculum. Decisions about preceptors are made with the advisor.
| Graduate Core Courses - 12 credits | ||
| Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring |
NGR 6110 | 3 |
| Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice Roles | NGR 6811 | 3 |
| Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice |
NGR 6812 | 3 |
| Leadership, Policy and Finance in Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6891 | 3 |
| Cognate Courses - 9 credits. Choose three of the following courses. | ||
| Healthcare Financing* | HSA 6175 | 3 |
| Human Resources Management* | MAN 6156 | 3 |
| Special Topics (temporary course assignment)* | HSA 6930 | 3 |
| Organizational Behavior in Healthcare* | HSA 6118 | 3 |
| Project Management* | MAN 6581 | 3 |
| Concentration Courses - 16-18 credits | ||
| Financial Administration of Nursing Systems | NGR 6722 | 3 |
| Advanced Nursing Administration Practicum 1** |
NGR 6723L | 1-2 |
| Advanced Nursing Administration Practicum 2 (4 credits split over two semesters or more) |
NGR 6724L | 1-4 |
| Leadership in Nursing Administration: Advanced Nursing Situations | NGR 6725 | 3 |
| Influencing Health Care Policy Through Nursing: Advanced Nursing Situations |
NGR 6892 | 3 |
| Nursing Informatics | NGR 6871 | 3 |
| Total credits | 37-39 | |
* Offered in the College of Business.
** May not be required for all students.
Advanced Holistic Practice and Nurse Coaching
Graduate Certificate
(Minimum of 12 credits required)
The Advanced Holistic Practice and Nurse Coaching certificate, grounded in caring, is a 12-credit graduate certificate that advances knowledge of the contemporary views of healing and holistic nursing practice. The certificate is available for non-degree-seeking students. The course content places emphasis on developing a reflective holistic practice that integrates the principles of nurse coaching and an awareness of holistic healing modalities that promote health and well-being of persons, such as mind-body practices, manipulative body practices and energy-based healing. The practicum experience requires students to evaluate holistic healthcare practices in a selected clinical setting, to identify and evaluate the patient population, their health needs and recommend holistic interventions that are meaningful to the population served. The nurse coaching content emphasizes the holistic process, self development, the nurse coaching core values, skills and competencies. Students using the holistic and caring principles demonstrate coaching competencies and skills to promote a process of change that helps clients reach their full potential. Application for the certificate may be made upon the satisfactory completion of the four courses with a minimum grade of "C."
On completion of the Advanced Holistic Practice and Nurse Coaching Certification program students are eligible to sit for the Board Certification Holistic and Nurse Coaching examination.
Admission Requirements
Students must possess these requirements:
- Earned a B.S.N. from an accredited nursing program.
- Minimum postsecondary GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Official transcripts from all prior institutions attended. Submit one set of official transcripts to FAU Graduate Admissions in the GradCAS application system.
- CV/Résumé Required Format for Résumé.
- Current RN licensure (submit copy of license or online license verification from the department of health acceptable). Students must be licensed in the state in which they will complete practlcum courses.
- A state/federal criminal background check is required for all admitted If admitted to the AHN graduate certificate program. The student MUST initiate the background check process as required before enrolling in courses. Costs are the responsibility of the applicant/student. All admissions are conditional based on the outcome of the admission background check. Background checks must be updated.
| Required Courses | ||
| Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring | NGR 6110 | 3 |
| Foundations of Holistic Nursing 1: Advanced Nursing Situations | NGR 6168 | 3 |
| Foundations of Holistic Nursing 2: Advanced Nursing Situations | NGR 6169 | 3 |
| Integrated Holistic Health, Wellness and Nursing Coaching Practicum* | NGE 6292L | 3 |
* This course includes 180 clinical hours. Students complete all clinical requirements before enrolling in the practicum and would be covered under the FAU SIP program.
Nursing
Post graduate certificates (pgc)
Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner
Advanced Holistic Nursing (Program suspended effective fall 2024.)
Family Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Educator
Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Applicants holding an earned Master of Science degree in Nursing from an accredited nursing program and who meet all M.S.N. admission requirements may choose from the following Post Graduate Certificate (PGC) Programs: Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (AGNP), Advanced Holistic Nursing (AHN), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Nurse Educator (NGRE), Nursing Administration and Financial Leadership, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
PGC programs require a minimum of 10 credits for FAU MSN graduates; a minimum of 13 credits is required for applicants from other institutions. Consideration is given to the student's former master's in Nursing program when creating the specific plan of study for the PGC. Programs may vary according to the courses the applicant has taken in the first master's program. This is not a degree-granting option. A Post Graduate Certificate is awarded upon program completion.
Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring, NGR 6110, is required of all Post Graduate Certificate students regardless of the concentration.
Any applicant for a Post Graduate Certificate must meet with the assistant dean for graduate practice programs or the concentration coordinator for initial advisement, gap analysis and program planning. Post Graduate Certificate students are admitted on a space available basis. Applicants whose gap analysis indicates 30 or more credits are needed will be advised to complete a second master's degree.
Admission Requirements for Post Graduate Certificate Programs
- Earned M.S. or M.S.N. from an accredited nursing program.
- Minimum graduate program GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Résumé or CV.
- A written essay describing the student's philosophy of nursing.
- One letter of recommendation.
- Current RN licensure to practice nursing.
- Complete Level 2 background check.
- An interview and on-site writing sample may be required.
- Practice experience is not required but may be considered as part of the overall quality of the application.
Note:
Admissions decisions are made based upon the quality of the application and the number of available slots in the desired program. Meeting the minimal admission requirements does not guarantee admission. PGC applicants submit a preliminary application along with a copy of all official academic transcripts, a current RN license, one letter of recommendation, a statement of philosophy, and a current CV or résumé to the College of Nursing. Once the College of Nursing reviews the preliminary application, applicants will be notified to complete the online non-degree FAU application.
Doctoral Programs
The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing offers a Doctor of Philosophy with Major in Nursing (Ph.D.) degree program and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) degree program. The doctoral programs are grounded in the philosophy of caring and focus on the integration and application of advanced nursing research for improved nursing practice and betterment of humankind.
The Ph.D. graduate is expected to expand application of clinical nursing knowledge and theory, enhancing the practice of the profession and directly impacting the health of clients and communities. The focus of the Ph.D. program is to prepare nurses as scholars in conducting nursing research about practice problems and creating innovative responses to practice issues.
The D.N.P. graduate is prepared for the highest level of professional practice in the discipline. The focus of the D.N.P. program is to provide innovative leadership in the nursing practice arena and to develop innovative practice models for populations in need of advanced nursing.
Alternative pathways to the doctoral degrees are available for highly qualified Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates through the B.S.N. to Ph.D. and B.S.N. to D.N.P. programs and to highly qualified Doctor of Nursing Practice graduates through the D.N.P. to Ph.D. program.
Transfer Credits
Acceptance of transfer credits from accredited institutions is dependent on the relevance of the work to the doctoral program. Transfer of credits should occur at the time of admission. The doctoral program committee will determine acceptance of transfer credits. Grades on all transfer credits must be a minimum of "B" or better (3.0 in a 4.0 grading system).
Credit Duplication
Credits used for another degree or preparatory/deficiency course credits generally may not be counted toward the credits in the doctoral program.
Time Limitations
Candidates for the doctoral degree must complete all work within a10-consecutive-year period after initial admission to the program.
Academic Standing
Continuation in the program requires satisfactory progress toward the doctoral degree. Evidence of such progress includes maintenance of a 3.25 cumulative average throughout the course of academic study. In addition, only grades of "A," "A-," "B+," "B," "B-" and "C" are acceptable in fulfilling graduate school requirements in the doctoral plan of study. Students in the doctoral program must achieve a "C" or better in each nursing course and maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 to continue in the program.
Students who do not maintain the required cumulative GPA will be placed on academic probation in the semester immediately following the semester in which the cumulative GPA drops below 3.25. Failure to regain a 3.25 cumulative average within two successive semesters following the semester in which the deficiency first occurred can result in dismissal. The faculty of the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing reserves the right to dismiss any student at any time when in its judgment the student is not making satisfactory progress toward completion of the degree.
Financial Assistance
A limited number of assistantships, stipends and tuition waivers are available for full-time students. In addition, limited financial assistance is available for students who meet the criteria. Interested students should obtain information on financial assistance from the director or program assistant of doctoral programs.
For more information regarding admissions, degree requirements and financial aid, contact the Ph.D. coordinator or D.N.P. program assistant for the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431.
Link to B.S.N. to Ph.D. Program
Link to D.N.P. Program
Link to D.N.P. to Ph.D. Program
Link to B.S.N. to D.N.P. Program
Nursing
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
(Minimum of 60 credits required)
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Ph.D. program will be for the fall semester each year. Applications must be submitted to the University's Graduate College before completing the application to the College of Nursing. Evidence of the following information is required in the admissions process:
- Master's degree with a Major in Nursing from a university or college of nursing program accredited by the National League for Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Official copies of transcripts from all post-secondary institutions of education should be sent directly to the University's Graduate College. The University will not be able to accept applications without an official unopened transcript from each institution attended since high school.
- Minimum cumulative 3.5 GPA in a nursing master's program.
- Curriculum vitae; required format available on thewebsite.
- Twoletters of recommendation from academic and professional references, one from a master's program professor holding a doctorate (see"Guidelines Regarding Letters of Reference"on the College of Nursing's website).
- An example of work that depicts a culminating scholarly product from the master's program. Examples: thesis, project, manuscript for evidenced-based research course, paper/manuscript for inquiry practicum.
- A typed statement of the applicant's goals for the doctoral degree (12-point font, double-spaced, no more than 500 words).
- Evidence of grade of "B" or better in a graduate statistics course that provides the student with a broad knowledge of statistical concepts and techniques necessary for critical consumption of research. A copy of the syllabus or official catalog course description will be required if the course was not taken at FAU.
- Satisfactory background check (a background check is required after conditional acceptance to the program).
Applicants will be required to have an interview with members of the doctoral admissions committee. Upon review of all the information about the applicant by the doctoral program committee, a decision for admission will be made and the applicant will be notified. Part-time study for the Ph.D. may be an option at the faculty's discretion.
Degree Requirements
The faculty in the College may recommend the Doctor of Philosophy with Major in Nursing degree when the student has met the following requirements:
- The candidate must complete 60 credits beyond the master's degree, to include at least 45 credits in required and approved coursework and at least 15 credits of dissertation work.
- The 45 credits of required and approved coursework prior to dissertation include 9 credits of theory core, 15 credits of research core, 6 credits of advanced statistics beyond the required prerequisite course, 9 credits in the nursing concentration core and doctoral seminars, 3 credits in cognate courses that complement the student's research focus area and 3 credits of doctoral pre-candidacy study.
- The 3 credits of cognate coursework must be approved by an advisor. These credits must be taken in another discipline focusing on dissertation-related content.
- The candidate must successfully complete the qualifying comprehensive examination at the end of all coursework during the doctoral pre-candidacy study course period. This examination will offer the student the opportunity to show synthesis of knowledge and understanding of theory, research and nursing concentration components from coursework.
- The dissertation committee for each student will oversee the development and completion of the student's dissertation. Upon successful defense and completion of the dissertation, the candidate will be awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at the next graduation ceremony.
Program Outcomes
By the completion of the Ph.D. program, graduates will be able to:
- Develop self as a researcher with a foundation in caring science.
- Evaluate theory-guided approaches to synthesize an evidence base that informs the development of caring knowledge and practice.
- Create research designs that honor the calls in nursing situations and integrate understanding gleaned from complex patterns of knowing.
- Demonstrate accountability as an ethical nurse researcher.
- Integrate cultural humility into research methods, including study design, sample selection and data collection plans.
- Lead systematic inquiry that enhances nursing practice, improves healthcare delivery and contributes to nursing science.
- Analyze available technology and information systems for use in collaborative research.
- Construct the foundation for a research program intended to promote well-being for a particular population within the context of lifespan development.
- Engage with colleagues living values expressive of caring in all endeavors, including ones where communities or research scholars convene.
- Design research that reflects value for human dignity and understanding of complex local, national and global policies that affect the lives of populations of interest.
- Establish a foundation for transforming complex healthcare systems through intra- and interdisciplinary research informed by caring science.
- Become an example of responsible stewardship by advancing the discipline through well-designed research, honoring the profession through engagement in meaningful nursing leadership activities, preserving resources and respecting the environment through everyday actions.
Ph.D. Program Curriculum Plan - 60 credits
The following courses are required for the Ph.D. program.
| Doctoral Core Courses - 39 credits | ||
| Evolution of Nursing as a Discipline and Practice | NGR 7111 | 3 |
| Philosophies of Science Grounding Nursing | NGR 7115 | 3 |
| Caring Science 1: An Essential Domain of Nursing Knowledge |
NGR 7116 | 3 |
| Caring Science 2: Developing Phenomena of Interest Within Research Focus Areas | NGR 7118 | 3 |
| Caring Science 3: Innovative Methodologies to Student Caring Science | NGR 7119 | 3 |
| Theory Development and Application in Nursing | NGR 7121 | 3 |
| Qualitative Research Methods 1 | NGR 7815 | 3 |
| Advanced Nursing Research: Applied Quantitative Design and Methods | NGR 7818 | 3 |
| Essential Statistical Methods for Nursing Science | NGR 7846 | 3 |
| Innovations in Inquiry | NGR 7853 | 3 |
| Mixed Methods in Practice-Based Research | NGR 7816 | 3 |
| Applied Advanced Statistics | NGR 7845 | 3 |
| Scholarship Practicum | NGR 7946 | 3 |
| Doctoral Cognate Courses (Choose 3 credits with advisor; see #3 under Degree Requirements) OR | ||
| Students may choose one of the following two nursing electives | ||
| Perspectives of Aging | NGR 6251 | 3 |
| Crafting the Life of Scholarship | NGR 7709 | 3 |
| Doctoral Research Courses - 18 credits; students may repeat any of these three courses | ||
| Doctoral Synthesis (Comps) | NGR 7978 | 1-3 |
| Advanced Research | NGR 7979* | 1-3 |
| Dissertation | NGR 7980* | 1-15 |
| * Note: NGR 7979 and two NGR 7980 credits must total 15. | ||
Nursing
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) to Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
(Minimum of 72 credits required)
(Maximum of 85 credits)
The B.S.N. to Ph.D. program is an alternative pathway to the Doctor of Philosophy with Major in Nursing available for highly qualified Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates. The program is streamlined, allowing students to proceed to doctoral-level courses in theory research without taking the traditional master's-level courses in these areas.
Admission Requirements
All Ph.D. program admission requirements outlined previously are necessary with the exception of a master's degree with major in Nursing. A bachelor's degree in Nursing from a program accredited by the National League for Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education is required. Transcripts must be sent to the University's Graduate College as described in the Ph.D. program's admission section.
The following are also required for admission to the B.S.N. to Ph.D. program:
- GPA of 3.5 for the B.S.N. degree.
- One reference letter from the baccalaureate program is required in addition to the others described in the Ph.D. program's admission section.
- Scholarly product from coursework completed at the B.S.N. level.
- All other Ph.D. admission requirements must be met.
Degree Requirements
The B.S.N. to Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 87 credits following the B.S.N. degree. One plan of study prepares students for an educator role. Other role preparation, such as a holistic focus, is possible but may require additional credits. The Nurse Practitioner concentration is not available to B.S.N. to Ph.D. students. Study plans will be developed with direction from the student's faculty mentor and the Ph.D. coordinator.
| Master Core Courses - 24 credits | ||
| Advanced Health Assessment | NGR 6002 | 2 |
| Advanced Health Assessment Lab | NGR 6002L | 1 |
| Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring | NGR 6110 | 3 |
| Advanced Pathophysiology | NGR 6141 | 3 |
| Creative Teaching-Learning Methods in Nursing Education | NGR 6711 | 3 |
| Curriculum Evolution and Models in Nursing Education | NGR 6713 | 3 |
| Evaluation in Nursing Education | NGR 6718 | 3 |
| Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics | NGR 6172 | 3 |
| Doctoral Core Courses - 39 credits | ||
| Evolution of Nursing as a Discipline and Practice | NGR 7111 | 3 |
| Philosophies of Science Grounding Nursing | NGR 7115 | 3 |
| Caring Science 1: An Essential Domain of Nursing Knowledge |
NGR 7116 | 3 |
| Caring Science 2: Developing Phenomena of Interest Within Research Focus Areas | NGR 7118 | 3 |
| Caring Science 3: Innovative Methodologies to Student Caring Science | NGR 7119 | 3 |
| Theory Development and Application in Nursing | NGR 7121 | 3 |
| Qualitative Research Methods 1 | NGR 7815 | 3 |
| Mixed Methods in Practice-Based Research | NGR 7816 | 3 |
| Advanced Nursing Research: Applied Quantitative Design and Methods | NGR 7818 | 3 |
| Applied Advanced Statistics | NGR 7845 | 3 |
| Essential Statistical Methods for Nursing Science | NGR 7846 | 3 |
| Innovations in Inquiry | NGR 7853 | 3 |
| Scholarship Practicum | NGR 7946 | 3 |
| Doctoral Cognate Courses - Choose 3 credits with advisor | ||
| Doctoral Course. Elective may be chosen but may result in additional credits | ||
| Crafting the Life of Scholarship | NGR 7709 | 3 |
| Doctoral Research Courses (18 credits; students may repeat any of these three courses) | ||
| Doctoral Synthesis (Comps) | NGR 7978 | 1-3 |
| Advanced Research | NGR 7979* | 1-3 |
| Dissertation | NGR 7980* | 1-15 |
| * Note: NGR 7979 and two NGR 7980 credits must total 15. | ||
Link to D.N.P. to Ph.D. Program
Link to B.S.N. to D.N.P. Program
Nursing
Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.)
(Minimum of 72 credits required)
(Maximum of 85 credits)
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program focuses on practice leadership. This program’s emphasis is the delivery of advanced practice nursing (APN) to culturally diverse populations. Graduate education in nursing occurs within the context of societal demands and needs as well as the interprofessional work environment. The Institute of Medicine (IOM, 2003) and the National Research Council of the National Academies (2005) have called for nursing education that prepares individuals for practice with interdisciplinary, information systems, quality improvement and patient safety expertise.
This program is designed for nursing leaders to develop skills in shaping and evaluating practice models in their own practice settings. The program will accept a limited number of applicants. Meeting minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission. In order to meet the need of practicing professionals, the program is designed to be a part-time program with classes offered on weekends. All classes are Web-assisted.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing recommends that students complete 1000 hours of clinical practicum hours. Clinical practice hours in the second year of study are designed to develop new practice skills and test new models of care.
Admission Requirements
D.N.P. applicants are admitted once a year in the summer. See the College of Nursing
website for application deadlines. Evidence of the following information is required in the admissions process:
- Master's degree with a Major in Nursing from a university or college of nursing program accredited by the National League for Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
- A minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA in the nursing master's program.
- Curriculum vitae or résumé; required format available on the website.
- Two letters of recommendation from academic and professional references, one from a master's program professor holding a doctorate (see guidelines on website).
- A typed statement of the applicant's goals for the doctoral degree of no more than 500 words.
- Satisfactory oral interview by members of the graduate admissions committee may be required.
- A Level 2 (state/federal) criminal background check.
- National certification in Advanced Practice Nursing Administration or as a Clinical Nurse Leader.
- Copy of current licensure in the State of Florida as a Registered Nurse.
- Complete Verification of Post-Baccalaureate Clinical and Practice Hours form.
- Basic undergraduate research and statistics course.
Note:
The D.N.P. program is designed for part-time study.
Degree Requirements
The faculty in the College may recommend the Doctor of Nursing Practice when the student has met the following requirements:
- The candidate must complete 72 graduate credits beyond the bachelor's degree. A maximum of 36 graduate credits can be transferred from another accredited college or university.
- The candidate must complete a minimum of 1000 clinical hours in graduate courses beyond the bachelor's degree.
- The candidate must complete a D.N.P. project that evaluates an innovation related to advanced practice nursing and/or administration of nursing care.
- The D.N.P. project committee for each student will oversee the development and completion of the student's project. Upon successful completion of the project, the candidate will be awarded the degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice at the next graduation ceremony.
Program Outcomes
By the completion of the D.N.P. program, graduates will be able to:
-
Develop self as a caring-based leader in advanced nursing practice.
-
Create innovative models for advanced nursing practice that are grounded in caring, best evidence and knowledge from nursing and other disciplines.
-
Integrate multiple, complex patterns of knowing in coming to know populations of persons and creatively responding to calls for leadership within nursing situations in advanced nursing practice.
-
Demonstrate leadership for developing and implementing ethical, safe practice and inquiry in advanced nursing practice.
-
Lead and mentor others in approaching populations within nursing situations with cultural humility in advanced nursing practice.
- Use methods of systematic inquiry to evaluate programs, processes and outcomes of advanced nursing
-
Evaluate design and lead in the implementation of technology and information systems to promote well-being, facilitate decision making and enhance collaboration in advanced nursing practice.
-
Create programs and health policy to promote well-being for persons and populations across the lifespan in advanced nursing practice.
-
Design and advocate for caring environments that nurture wholeness in advanced nursing practice.
-
Create personal and professional involvement in local and global health policymakers to honor human dignity and advocate for equity in healthcare outcomes, local and global health policy and healthcare delivery in advanced nursing practice.
- Lead the transformation of complex healthcare systems through caring leadership that facilitates intra- and interprofessional collaboration to achieve quality outcomes.
- Assume leadership to promote responsible stewardship to advance the discipline and profession, preserve resources and respect the environment.
D.N.P. Program Curriculum Plan
The following courses are required for the D.N.P. program.
| Doctoral Core Courses - 32-39 credits | ||
| Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6673 | 3 |
| Theoretical Grounding for Caring-Based Practice | NGR 7124 | 3 |
| Ethics and Public Policy for Promoting Health | NGR 7738 | 3 |
| Population-Based Healthcare and Health Equity | NGR 7662C | 3 |
| Introduction to Practice Management: Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 7767 | 3 |
| The Role of the Doctor of Nursing Practice as Scholar | NGR 7768 | 3 |
| Interprofessional Leadership in Healthcare | NGR 7795 | 3 |
| Translation of Evidence for Advanced Practice Nursing | NGR 7855 | 3 |
| Caring, Informatics and Technology in Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 7876 | 3 |
| Healthcare System Analysis and Quality Improvement | NGR 7895 | 3 |
| Practicum for the Doctor of Nursing Practice* | NGR 7947L | 1-3 |
| Doctor of Nursing Practice Proposal Development | NGR 7974 | 3 |
| Project Implementation, Evaluation and Dissemination* | NGR 7975C | 1-3 |
* Student must register for this course twice.
Nursing
Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) to Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
(Minimum of 60 credits required)
The D.N.P. to Ph.D. program is an alternative pathway to the Doctor of Philosophy with Major in Nursing available for highly qualified Doctor of Nursing Practice graduates.
Admission Requirements
All Ph.D. program admission requirements outlined previously are necessary. Additionally, a Doctor in Nursing Practice degree with a Major in Nursing from a university or college of nursing program accredited by the National League for Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education is required. Transcripts must be sent to the University's Graduate College as described in the Ph.D. program's admission section.
The following are also required for admission to the D.N.P. to Ph.D. program:
- GPA of 3.5 for the D.N.P. degree.
- One reference letter from the D.N.P. program is required in addition to others described in the Ph.D. program's admission section.
- Scholarly product from coursework completed at the D.N.P. level.
- All other Ph.D. admission requirements must be met.
Degree Requirements
The D.N.P. to Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 60 credits following the D.N.P. degree. One plan of study prepares students for an educator role. Other role preparation, such as a holistic focus, is possible but may require additional credits. The Nurse Practitioner concentration is not available to D.N.P. to Ph.D. students. Study plans are developed with direction from the student's faculty mentor and the Ph.D. coordinator.
The faculty in the College may recommend the Doctor of Philosophy with Major in Nursing degree when the student has met the following requirements:
- The candidate must complete 60 credits beyond the Doctor in Nursing Practice, to include at least 45 credits in required and approved coursework and at least 15 credits of dissertation work.
- The 45 credits of required and approved coursework prior to dissertation include 9 credits of theory core, 15 credits of research core, 6 credits of advanced statistics beyond the required prerequisite course, 6 credits in the nursing concentration core and doctoral seminars, 3 credits in cognate courses that complement the student's research focus area, at least 90 research practicum hours, and 3 credits of doctoral pre-candidacy study.
- D.N.P. candidates have the option to transfer in 3 credits of courseworkoutside the discipline of nursingin substitution for the required cognate course. Acourse transcript must be submitted to the Ph.D. program department for approval and an official transcript must be submitted to the Graduate College after obtaining departmental approval for the transfer credits.
- D.N.P. candidates have the option to challenge 6 credits for the courses identified in the curriculum plan below. D.N.P. candidates will register for the course to be challenged, and they will take an examination or write a paper (the challenge requirements are up to the discretion of the faculty member teaching the course). D.N.P. candidates who receive a "B" or better on the paper or in the examination will successfully complete the course challenge. The grade that candidates receive on the paper or written examination will be the grade they receive in the course.
- The 3 credits of cognate coursework must be approved by an advisor. These credits must be taken in another discipline focusing on dissertation-related content.
-
The candidate must successfully complete the qualifying comprehensive examination at the end of all coursework during the doctoral pre-candidacy study course period. This examination offers the student the opportunity to show synthesis of knowledge and understanding of theory, research and nursing concentration components from coursework.
- The dissertation committee for each student will oversee the development and completion of the student's dissertation. Upon successful defense and completion of the dissertation, the candidate will be awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at the next graduation ceremony.
D.N.P. to Ph.D. Program Curriculum Plan
The following courses are required for the D.N.P. to Ph.D. program.
| Doctoral Core Courses - 33 credits | ||
| Philosophies of Science Grounding Nursing | NGR 7115 | 3 |
| Caring Science 1: An Essential Domain of Nursing Knowledge |
NGR 7116 | 3 |
| Caring Science 2: Developing Phenomena of Interest within Research Focus Areas | NGR 7118 | 3 |
| Caring Science 3: Innovative Methodologies to Study Caring Science | NGR 7119 | 3 |
| Theory Development and Application in Nursing | NGR 7121 | 3 |
| Ethics and Public Policy for Promoting Health | NGR 7738 | 3 |
| Qualitative Research Methods 1 | NGR 7815 | 3 |
| Mixed Methods in Practice-Based Research | NGR 7816 | 3 |
| Advanced Nursing Research: Applied Quantitative Design and Methods | NGR 7818 | 3 |
| Advance Applied Statistics | NGR 7845 | 3 |
| Essential Statistical Methods for Nursing Science | NGR 7846 | 3 |
| Innovations in Inquiry | NGR 7853 | 3 |
| Scholarship Practicum | NGR 7946 | 3 |
| Doctoral Cognate Courses - Choose 3 credits with advisor; see #5 under Degree Requirements | ||
| Doctoral Research Courses (18 credits; students may repeat any of these three courses) | ||
| Doctoral Synthesis (Comps) | NGR 7978 | 1-3 |
| Advanced Research | NGR 7979* | 1-3 |
| Dissertation (taken multiple times) | NGR 7980* | 1-15 |
| * NGR 7979 and NGR 7980 credits must total 15. | ||
Note:
Students pay a fee to challenge select courses by taking an examination or by writing a paper.
Note:
Transfer students submit a transcript for evaluation and plan of study will be individualized.
Nursing
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.)
(Minimum of 72 credits required)
(Maximum of 85 credits)
The B.S.N. to D.N.P. program prepares graduates for advanced practice roles as Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioners, Family Nurse Practitioners or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners with a doctoral degree focusing on practice leadership. The emphasis of the program is the delivery of advanced practice nursing (APN) to culturally diverse populations, especially the burgeoning group of persons over 65 years old. Graduate education in nursing occurs within the context of societal demands and needs as well as the interprofessional work environment. The Institute of Medicine (IOM, 2003) and the National Research Council of the National Academies (2005) have called for nursing education that prepares individuals for practice with interdisciplinary, information systems, quality improvement and patient safety expertise.
The program is designed for nursing leaders to develop skills in shaping and evaluating practice models in their own practice settings. The program will accept a limited number of applicants. Meeting minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission. The program is designed to be completed in a full-time plan of study. Classes are offered in various formats, including online, live weekly sessions and intensive weekends.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing recommends that students complete 1000 hours of clinical practicum hours. Clinical practice hours in the second year of study are designed to develop new practice skills and test new models of care.
Admission Requirements
B.S.N. to D.N.P. applicants are admitted once a year in the summer. See the College of Nursing
websitefor application deadlines. Evidence of the following information is required in the admissions process:
- A baccalaureate degree in Nursing from an approved nursing program. B.S.N. programs will be evaluated by the Ph.D. program department on a case-by-case basis. International B.S.N. programs are not accredited by U.S. accrediting bodies.
- A minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA in the baccalaureate program is required.
- Curriculumvitae or résumé presented in specified format located on the College of Nursing website.
- Two letters of recommendation from academic and professional references, in which one is from a baccalaureate program professor holding a doctorate (guidelines located on the College of Nursing website ).
- A typed statement of the applicant’s goals for the D.N.P. degree of no more than 500 words.
- Satisfactory oral interview by members of the graduate admissions committee.
- A Level 2 (state/federal) criminal background check.
- Basic undergraduate research and statistics course.
- Current or eligible for Florida RN license.
Note:
The B.S.N. to D.N.P. program is designed for full-time study.
Degree Requirements
The faculty in the College may recommend the Doctor of Nursing Practice when the student has met the following requirements:
- The candidate must complete 72 graduate credits beyond the bachelor’s degree.
- The candidate must complete a minimum of 1000 clinical hours in graduate courses beyond the bachelor’s degree.
- The candidate must complete a D.N.P. project that evaluates an innovation related to advanced practice nursing and/or administration of nursing care.
- The D.N.P. project committee for each student will oversee the development and completion of the student’s project. Upon successful completion of the project, the candidate will be awarded the degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice.
Program Outcomes
See D.N.P. Program Outcomes listed above.
Master of Science in Nursing Option
Completion of the Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) degree is an option for all B.S.N. to D.N.P. degree-seeking students. This Master's Along the Way option allows D.N.P. students to be eligible to take the national certification exams for the advanced practice specialty area and to become licensed as advanced practice nurses prior to completing the D.N.P. degree.
Upon completion of all master's-level coursework (which occurs during semester IX of the D.N.P. curriculum), D.N.P. students are eligible for a Master of Science in Nursing degree. Students desiring the M.S.N. degree must apply for the degree during semester VIII of the D.N.P. curriculum. After the M.S.N. degree has been awarded, the D.N.P. student may then move directly into the final doctoral-level courses (semesters X and XI) to complete the D.N.P. degree.
B.S.N. to D.N.P. Program Curriculum Plan
| Doctoral Core Courses - 49 or 52 credits | ||
| Advanced Health Assessment | NGR 6002 | 2 |
| Advanced Heath Assessment Lab | NGR 6002L | 1 |
| Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring | NGR 6110 | 3 |
| Advanced Pathophysiology | NGR 6141 | 3 |
| Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics | NGR 6172 | 3 |
| Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6673 | 3 |
| Theoretical Grounding for Caring-Based Practice | NGR 7124 | 3 |
| Ethics and Public Policy for Promoting Health | NGR 7738 | 3 |
| Population-Based Healthcare and Health Equity | NGR 7662C | 3 |
| Introduction to Practice Management: Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 7767 | 3 |
| The Role of the Doctor of Nursing Practice as Scholar | NGR 7768 | 3 |
| Interprofessional Leadership in Healthcare | NGR 7795 | 3 |
| Translation of Evidence for Advanced Practice Nursing | NGR 7855 | 3 |
| Caring, Informatics and Technology in Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 7876 | 3 |
| Healthcare System Analysis and Quality Improvement | NGR 7895 | 3 |
| Practicum for the Doctor of Nursing Practice* | NGR 7947L | 1-3 |
| Doctor of Nursing Practice Proposal Development | NGR 7974 | 3 |
| Project Implementation, Evaluation and Dissemination* | NGR 7975C | 1-3 |
| *Student must register for this course twice. | ||
| Concentration: Adult/Gero Nurse Practitioner - 31 credits | ||
| Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics 2 | NGR 6176 | 3 |
| Primary Care 1: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6200 | 3 |
| Primary Care 1 Practicum: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6200L | 5 |
| Perspectives of Aging | NGR 6251 | 3 |
| Women's Health: Nursing Situations in Advanced Practice | NGR 6342 | 3 |
| Primary Care 2: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6605 | 3 |
| Primary Care 2 Practicum: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice |
NGR 6605L | 4 |
| Comprehensive Care of Adolescents through Older Adults | NGR 6607 | 3 |
| Comprehensive Care of Adolescents through Older Adults Practicum | NGR 6607L | 4 |
| Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - 31 credits | ||
| Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics 2 | NGR 6176 | 3 |
| Primary Care 1: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6200 | 3 |
| Primary Care 1 Practicum: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6200L | 5 |
| Care of Children: Nursing Situations in Advanced Practice | NGR 6301 | 3 |
| Women's Health: Nursing Situations in Advanced Practice | NGR 6342 | 3 |
| Primary Care 2: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6605 | 3 |
| Primary Care 2 Practicum: Foundations of Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6605L | 4 |
| Primary Care of Families: Comprehensive Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6619 | 3 |
| Primary Care of Families Practicum | NGR 6619L | 4 |
| Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - 25 credits | ||
| Psychopathological Disorders Across the Lifespan: Advanced Nursing Situations | NGR 6503 | 3 |
| Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Across the Lifespan: Role Synthesis in Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6505L | 4 |
| Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Across the Lifespan: Diagnosis and Medication Management in Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6507L | 2 |
| Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Across the Lifespan: Group Therapy in Advanced Nursing Situations | NGR 6508 | 3 |
| Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Across the Lifespan Practicum 2: Group Therapy in Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6508L | 3 |
| Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Across the Lifespan: Individual and Family Therapy in Advanced Nursing Situations | NGR 6509 | 3 |
| Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Across the Lifespan Practicum 1: Individual and Family Therapy in Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6509L | 4 |
| Psychopharmacology Across the Lifespan for Advanced Nursing Practice | NGR 6538 | 3 |
Information
For questions/clarification/information regarding specific programs in the College of Nursing, contact the following:
Undergraduate and Accelerated B.S.N. Programs:
Nerla Moise (nursing@k-ashizawa.com) at 561-297-6261 (Accelerated Pre-Licensure Program). Javaris Hammond (nursing@k-ashizawa.com) at 561-297-
6261
(Freshmen Direct Admit). Latchmin Harrilal (nursing@k-ashizawa.com) at 561-297- 6261 (RN- B.S.N. Program). Kyndall Mammah (kpritcha@health.k-ashizawa.com) at 561-297-6261 (Second Degree Part-Time B.S.N. -Working Professional Program).
Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) Program and Post Graduate Certificates: Dr. Katherine Chadwell (kchadwel@health.k-ashizawa.com) or Amanda Beasley (beasleya@health.k-ashizawa.com) at 561-235-1503.
Doctor of Nursing Practice Program: Dr. Debra Hain(dhain@health.k-ashizawa.com)or Joseph Lotito(lotitoj@health.k-ashizawa.com) at 561-297-1109.
Doctor of Philosophy Program: Dr. Howard Butcher (hbutcher@health.k-ashizawa.com) or Gerardo Guzman (gguzman3@health.k-ashizawa.com) at 561-297-0006.
Disclaimer
More credits may be required to accomplish nursing practice competencies, to meet changes related to curriculum or to meet required nursing practice hours for state licensure and/or national certifications.
Link to Course Descriptions for Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing