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Nursing (Undergraduate)

The Nursing curriculum is carefully designed to integrate professional education with liberal arts and sciences. The program accommodates students beginning their education in nursing as well as students eligible for advanced placement. Graduates are prepared to provide nursing care in hospital and community health settings where beginning professional competence is expected.

The Nursing Programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nurse Education (CCNE) (https://www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE) and are fully approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing, and the Missouri State Board of Nursing.

In accordance with Missouri requirements (Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 335.046; 20 CSR 2200-4.020,1D) completion of the Graceland BSN degree does not guarantee eligibility to write the licensure examination since all applicants must be approved by the Board and have completed at least the high school course of study, or the equivalent thereof as determined by the State Board of Education, as well as the basic professional curriculum at Graceland. A complete copy of the State of Missouri Nursing Practice Act 335.066 can be obtained from the Missouri State Board of Nursing. A resource for information regarding tuition, fees, and length of program is: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.

The Undergraduate Curriculum

Successful achievement in the humanities is basic to understanding the whole person and his/her response in health and illness. The well-prepared high school student usually spends four academic years completing the requirements for the Nursing major. The freshman and sophomore years are spent on the Lamoni campus, where the student enrolls in supporting science and humanities courses.* The nursing courses are taught on the Independence Campus in Independence, Missouri. The first three nursing courses are taught the summer before the junior year. Students will go to a variety of health care agencies for hands-on clinical experience while simultaneously completing the general education and Nursing major requirements.

*Transfer students may take these courses at other colleges.

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Undergraduate Admission

Application for admission into the nursing program is evaluated on the basis of academic scholarship, writing ability, potential for success, references, and professionalism.

Admission to the major is competitive and is based on overall ranking. To be considered for admission, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Admission to Graceland University.
  2. Indication of potential for academic success.
    1. Minimum of 2.75 cumulative or pre-requisite grade point average (GPA).
    2. Minimum grade of “C” in each course required for the major. Pass/fail options are not permitted in the required courses for the nursing major.
    3. Pre-licensure BSN Program:
      Science courses must have been completed within the last 10 years.
      – Chemistry
      – Anatomy and Physiology
      – Microbiology
      – Nutrition
      RN-BSN Program:
      – Science courses may have been completed with an unlimited timeframe.
    4. Prior to enrollment in the spring semester of the sophomore year, the applicant must have completed the following courses with a minimum number of hours listed and a minimum grade of “C” in each course:
      1. Introduction to Chemistry with evidence of inorganic, organic and biochemistry components. (3 s.h.)
        *Waive for students who earn a minimum score of 4 in Advanced Placement or IB high school course exams.
      2. Anatomy and Physiology with lab for all transfer students (6 s.h.)
        * BIOL3420 Human Anatomy and BIOL3440 Human Physiology will be required for all current Graceland students (8 s.h.)
      3. Microbiology with lab (4 s.h.)
      4. College level mathematics course from the following: MATH1280 College Algebra (3 s.h.) or MATH2350 Discrete Mathematics (3 s.h.) or MATH1510 Calculus I (4 s.h.)
    5. Successful completion (with a minimum number of hours listed and a minimum grade of C in each course) by the end of the spring semester the sophomore year:
      1. Introduction to Psychology (3 s.h.)
      2. Developmental Psychology (3 s.h.)
      3. Introduction to Sociology or Cultural Anthropology (3 s.h.)
      4. Nutrition (3 s.h.)
      5. Introduction to Statistics (3 s.h.)
      6. *BIOL3420 Human Anatomy and BIOL3440 Human Physiology (8 s.h.) will be required for all current Graceland students.
      7. Introduction to Philosophy or other acceptable philosophy course.
        1. Acceptable GU courses include: PHIL1100 Philosophy of Death and Dying, PHIL1120 Basic Ethics, PHIL2300 Basic Issues in Philosophy, PHIL2520 Medical Ethics and PHIL3100 World Philosophies and Religions.
        2. Acceptable MCC courses include: PHIL100 Introduction to Philosophy and PHIL102 World Philosophy.
        3. Courses not listed above will be accepted on a case-by-case matter.
      8. Medical Terminology (2 s.h.)
    6. Prior to beginning the first nursing classes at Graceland, students applying must present a minimum of 60 s.h. of acceptable college work from an accredited college, including the courses listed previously in this section.
    7. Minimum acceptable score on all required admission examinations.
  3. Nursing essay including personal statement of goals.
  4. Two reference letters from an academic and occupational source (two academic references may be used if applicant has never held a job).
  5. Personal interview.
  6. Any RN-BSN student whose GPA falls in the range of 2.0 to 2.494 may be conditionally accepted to the major and allowed to take 12 s.h. of nursing courses. Students can continue in the program if they achieve a GPA of 2.50 (2.495) or better on those courses.
  7. 2.5(5) from the Iowa Administrative Code, chapter 2, nursing educational programs: Nursing courses with a clinical component may not be taken by a person:
    1. who has been denied licensure by the board,
    2. whose license is currently suspended, surrendered or revoked in any United States jurisdiction,
    3. whose license/registration is currently suspended, surrendered or revoked in another country due to disciplinary action.
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Early Decision Option Program of Study

Students can apply for the Early Decision Option Program of Study following their junior year of high school. Students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and want to pursue a professional career in nursing may apply for early acceptance into the nursing program. Admission into this program is competitive.

The requirements for application include:

  1. ACT of 24 or better (or SAT combined score of 1650)
  2. Completion of college bound high school graduation requirements with a B or greater.
    Requirements include:

    1. 4 units of English/language arts
    2. 3 units of math
    3. 3 units of science
    4. 3 units of social studies
  3. Maintain a 3.0 GPA on current coursework in high school
  4. Submit two reference letters from an academic and employment source (two academic references may be used).
  5. Submit an essay describing why you want to enter the profession of nursing and why you should be chosen for this program

Once accepted into the program, the progression requirements include:

  1. Maintain a 3.0 on all college coursework (must obtain a C grade or better in all courses)
  2. Follow suggested program of study
  3. Send updated transcript following the end of each semester (unless attending GU)
  4. Earn an acceptable score on all required admission examinations

 

Graduation Requirements

To qualify for graduation, each degree candidate must have:

  • Completed sufficient credit to total 120 semester hours.
  • Successfully completed all upper division (junior and senior level) semester hours.
  • Completed the University’s general education requirements.
  • Earned a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 on all work and at least a 2.0 GPA in major.
  • Fulfilled all financial obligations to Graceland University.
  • Filed an application for graduation with the Office of the Registrar at least six months prior to anticipated graduation date.

School of Nursing requests that the audit be completed spring of the junior year to ensure all requirements except for nursing have been met prior to the start of the senior year.

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Academic Policies for the Nursing Major

  1. Student whose cumulative grade point average falls below 2.00 will be placed on academic probation and be subject to review by the Undergraduate Student Affairs Committee.
  2. A minimum grade of “C” must be earned in all nursing courses and in all supporting required courses. Students may be allowed to repeat or withdraw from a course one time. Students will be dismissed after failing the same nursing course two times. A student who earns a “D” or “F” in a second nursing course will be dismissed from the program.
  3. Students may not move to another clinical nursing level until the current one is satisfactorily completed.
  4. Non-academic dismissal:
    1. The Undergraduate Student Affairs Committee on behalf of the nursing faculty reserves the right to dismiss any student from the program whose health, professional conduct, theoretical, and/or clinical performance or conduct demonstrates an inability to continue preparation for a career in nursing. This may include violation of the academic integrity policy or breech of confidentiality.

 

Added Requirements

Nursing education maintains a close relationship with nursing practice. Students will be expected to meet additional requirements and expenses related to health examinations and immunizations, uniforms, transportation to clinical agencies, and liability insurance while enrolled in the junior and senior clinical nursing courses. Each student in the third and fourth year of the Nursing major needs to have their own reliable transportation. Specific information about these matters can be obtained from the School of Nursing.

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  • BSN Degree - Nursing Major (Beginning Professional Students)

    In addition to the essential education requirements, beginning professional students majoring in Nursing must complete a concentration of 59.5 semester hours of professional Nursing courses and 38 semester hours of supporting course work. The minimum total of semester hours required for graduation in Nursing is 120.

    Required Nursing Courses:

    Required Supporting Courses:

    Courses Offered
    • ATHT2500Medical Terminology
      ATHT2500 Medical Terminology - 2 s.h.

      A self-study, programmed-based opportunity to learn and understand medical terminology.

    • BIOL2360Microbiology with Lab
      BIOL2360 Microbiology with Lab - 4 s.h.

      Students will learn about immunology, bacteriology, mycology, and virology. Emphasis will be placed on the cellular mechanism and role of microbial pathogens (bacteria) and agents (viruses, prions) affecting human health and how they are treated. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: BIOL2100 or instructor's consent.

    • BIOL3420Human Anatomy with Lab
      BIOL3420 Human Anatomy with Lab - 4 s.h.

      A study of gross human anatomy utilizing charts, three dimensional models, computer simulations, and dissection of mammalian animals. The course will discuss regional and surface anatomy to establish the relationships of the various organ systems of the body. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL2100 or PHED1500.

    • BIOL3440Human Physiology with Lab
      BIOL3440 Human Physiology with Lab - 4 s.h.

      A systems oriented study of the function of the human body on the cellular, tissue, organ, and organ-system levels with an emphasis on medical physiology. Laboratory includes computer simulations and use of Biopac equipment. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL3420 (grade of C or better strongly recommended) and one semester of chemistry or BIOL2100.

    • HLTH2560Nutrition
      HLTH2560 Nutrition - 3 s.h.

      A study the principles of nutrition as it relates to health, exercise, sports and disease. Students will be presented with applied content that includes research-based guidelines meant to help students differentiate between nutrition recommendations that are backed by science and the overabundance of false and misleading information.

    • MATH1280College Algebra
      MATH1280 College Algebra - 3 s.h.

      Solutions of polynomial, rational and radical equations, systems of equations, matrices, sequences, series, functions, exponentials. Prerequisite: 2 years high school algebra. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

    • MATH1310Mathematical Concepts
      MATH1310 Mathematical Concepts - 3 s.h.

      A systematic development of whole number systems, geometry, set theory, counting, measurement, and algebra. Prerequisite: 1 year high school algebra; geometry recommended. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

    • NURS2420Introduction to Nursing
      NURS2420 Introduction to Nursing - 3 s.h.

      Introduces the roles and responsibilities of professional nursing. Introduces students to the historical, economic, political and legal/ethical trends in nursing. Introduces concepts necessary for scholarly writing using APA formatting.

    • NURS2460Health Assessment
      NURS2460 Health Assessment - 4 s.h.

      Focuses on learning foundational assessment skills. Systematic holistic nursing process approach to health history and physical examination for the purpose of differentiating normal from abnormal states of health and critical assessment of client needs. Application of concepts are facilitated in the laboratory experience. (For on campus BSN-RN students only.) Prerequisite: NURS2010.

    • NURS2470Informatics for Health Care
      NURS2470 Informatics for Health Care - 2 s.h.

      An introduction to the basic concepts and skills associated with the use of technology as it relates to nursing and electronic healthcare systems. The content will provide a conceptual foundation and hands-on exposure to the use of information management in nursing which is necessary in providing quality patient care.

    • NURS3120Fundamentals of Health Care
      NURS3120 Fundamentals of Health Care - 4 s.h.

      Introduction to basic concepts and psychomotor skills necessary to provide therapeutic interventions for individual clients. Laboratory and clinical experience provided. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    • NURS3160Evidence Based Practice
      NURS3160 Evidence Based Practice - 2-3 s.h.

      Study of the evidence-based practice research process to develop informed consumers of nursing research. Exploration of the application of the research evidence to the health care environment. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    • NURS3250Adult Health Care I
      NURS3250 Adult Health Care I - 4 s.h.

      Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing basic nursing care to clients and their families. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    • NURS3260NURS3260 Adult Health Care II
      NURS3260 NURS3260 Adult Health Care II - 4 s.h.

      Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing family centered nursing care to individuals and groups of clients. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    • NURS3270Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care
      NURS3270 Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care - 4 s.h.

      Emphasis on promotion of healthy individual and family system responses to psychosocial stressors (violence, poverty, substance abuse). Psychopathology will be explored with opportunities to practice primary, secondary, and tertiary nursing interventions in the clinical setting. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    • NURS3440Pathophysiology
      NURS3440 Pathophysiology - 3 s.h.

      Study of the concepts and altered processes of organs, cells, and biochemical functions of the systems related to homeostasis, neural control and integration. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    • NURS3451Pharmacology I
      NURS3451 Pharmacology I - 3 s.h.

      Introduces students to the principles of pharmacology and their application to nursing. Emphasizes drug classifications of pharmacological agents, their actions, side effects, uses and nursing responsibilities regarding administration and basic calculations of medication administration for all routes of administration. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    • NURS3452Pharmacology II
      NURS3452 Pharmacology II - 2 s.h.

      Continues investigation of pharmacology with specific medications that are seen in the clinical setting from the various drug classifications and medications used in advanced adult health settings. Drug calculations include those for the critical care setting and those using the intravenous route.

    • NURS4170Manager of Patient Care
      NURS4170 Manager of Patient Care - 3 s.h.

      Discusses management of patient care in a clinical setting in the capacity of unit manager, charge nurse and patient care coordinator. Focuses on knowledge, skills, abilities, and resources required to lead an interdisciplinary team to achieve excellence and high quality outcomes. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

    • NURS4230Care of the Mother and Child
      NURS4230 Care of the Mother and Child - 4 s.h.

      This course focuses on holistic approach to acute illnesses and health promotion of culturally diverse women, children (birth through adolescence) and families throughout their lifespans. Emphasis is placed on providing a culturally sensitive and holistic approach to health promotion and intervention in the care of newly formed families moving from preconception through the neonatal period. Additionally, emphasis is placed on quality of care, safety and developmental stages of childhood and appropriate nursing interventions in the home and acute care settings. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 3452, 4340.

    • NURS4260Critical Care Nursing
      NURS4260 Critical Care Nursing - 4 s.h.

      Emphasis on the key concepts required to deliver care to clients and their families during severe physiological stress. Importance placed on critical thinking to analyze the relationship between multidimensional stressors in the midst of critical illness. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    • NURS4340Community Health Care
      NURS4340 Community Health Care - 3.5 s.h.

      Focuses on community/public health issues with the family and community as clients, including community assessment and the examination of a variety of core concepts in the practice of community/public health nursing. Topics include epidemiology, community focused health promotion, and prevention within a sociopolitical environment. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    • NURS4390Capstone Practicum
      NURS4390 Capstone Practicum - 8 s.h.

      Emphasis on advanced cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills and therapeutic communication in the care of clients and families in acute-care settings. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    • NURS4480Trends and Issues
      NURS4480 Trends and Issues - 2 s.h.

      Examines the social, cultural, political, legal, economic, and ethical issues that surround the practice of professional nursing. Explores the concepts that prepare the graduate for entry into the professional role. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

    • PHIL1120Basic Ethics (also RELG1120)
      PHIL1120 Basic Ethics (also RELG1120) - 3 s.h.

      Introduction to basic ways of thinking and acting ethically. Examines basic ethical theories, both religious and philosophical, but focuses on practical, daily application of sound values and ethical consciousness.

    • PHIL2300Basic Issues in Philosophy
      PHIL2300 Basic Issues in Philosophy - 3 s.h.

      An introduction to some of the traditional theories of knowledge, reality, and value, and an interpretation of their relevance to the modern world.

    • PHIL2520Medical Ethics
      PHIL2520 Medical Ethics - 3 s.h.

      An exploration of contemporary ethical issues in modern medicine. The course will begin with an introduction to ethical theories and principles, and then apply these to specific problems in health care.

    • PHIL3100World Philosophies & Religion: Great Texts (also RELG3100)
      PHIL3100 World Philosophies & Religion: Great Texts (also RELG3100) - 3 s.h.

      A reading of great texts in world philosophies and religions; E.g., The Qur'an (Islam), The Upanishads and The Bhagavad Gita (Hinduism), The Dhammapada (Buddhism), The Analects of Confucius and Tao Te Ching (Confucianism), the Bible, and other works by important religious/philosophical thinkers, old and new.

    • PSYC1300Introductory Psychology
      PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

      An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

    • PSYC2250Developmental Psychology
      PSYC2250 Developmental Psychology - 3 s.h.

      The study of human development over the entire lifespan. Focus is on the interaction of physical, intellectual, social, and emotional aspects of development. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences

    • SOCI1300Introduction to Sociology
      SOCI1300 Introduction to Sociology - 3 s.h.

      Introduction to the perspective of sociology, its basic concepts and principles and an overview of the field.Includes study of social classes, sex roles, crime and deviance, socialization, social movements and others. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace

    • SOCI1350Cultural Anthropology
      SOCI1350 Cultural Anthropology - 3 s.h.

      Survey and analysis of diverse cultural patterns. +This course is only offered every other year.

    ATHT2500Medical Terminology BIOL2360Microbiology with Lab BIOL3420Human Anatomy with Lab BIOL3440Human Physiology with Lab HLTH2560Nutrition MATH1280College Algebra MATH1310Mathematical Concepts NURS2420Introduction to Nursing NURS2460Health Assessment NURS2470Informatics for Health Care NURS3120Fundamentals of Health Care NURS3160Evidence Based Practice NURS3250Adult Health Care I NURS3260NURS3260 Adult Health Care II NURS3270Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care NURS3440Pathophysiology NURS3451Pharmacology I NURS3452Pharmacology II NURS4170Manager of Patient Care NURS4230Care of the Mother and Child NURS4260Critical Care Nursing NURS4340Community Health Care NURS4390Capstone Practicum NURS4480Trends and Issues PHIL1120Basic Ethics (also RELG1120) PHIL2300Basic Issues in Philosophy PHIL2520Medical Ethics PHIL3100World Philosophies & Religion: Great Texts (also RELG3100) PSYC1300Introductory Psychology PSYC2250Developmental Psychology SOCI1300Introduction to Sociology SOCI1350Cultural Anthropology
    Course Descriptions
    ATHT2500 Medical Terminology - 2 s.h.

    A self-study, programmed-based opportunity to learn and understand medical terminology.

    BIOL2360 Microbiology with Lab - 4 s.h.

    Students will learn about immunology, bacteriology, mycology, and virology. Emphasis will be placed on the cellular mechanism and role of microbial pathogens (bacteria) and agents (viruses, prions) affecting human health and how they are treated. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: BIOL2100 or instructor's consent.

    BIOL3420 Human Anatomy with Lab - 4 s.h.

    A study of gross human anatomy utilizing charts, three dimensional models, computer simulations, and dissection of mammalian animals. The course will discuss regional and surface anatomy to establish the relationships of the various organ systems of the body. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL2100 or PHED1500.

    BIOL3440 Human Physiology with Lab - 4 s.h.

    A systems oriented study of the function of the human body on the cellular, tissue, organ, and organ-system levels with an emphasis on medical physiology. Laboratory includes computer simulations and use of Biopac equipment. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL3420 (grade of C or better strongly recommended) and one semester of chemistry or BIOL2100.

    HLTH2560 Nutrition - 3 s.h.

    A study the principles of nutrition as it relates to health, exercise, sports and disease. Students will be presented with applied content that includes research-based guidelines meant to help students differentiate between nutrition recommendations that are backed by science and the overabundance of false and misleading information.

    MATH1280 College Algebra - 3 s.h.

    Solutions of polynomial, rational and radical equations, systems of equations, matrices, sequences, series, functions, exponentials. Prerequisite: 2 years high school algebra. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

    MATH1310 Mathematical Concepts - 3 s.h.

    A systematic development of whole number systems, geometry, set theory, counting, measurement, and algebra. Prerequisite: 1 year high school algebra; geometry recommended. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.

    NURS2420 Introduction to Nursing - 3 s.h.

    Introduces the roles and responsibilities of professional nursing. Introduces students to the historical, economic, political and legal/ethical trends in nursing. Introduces concepts necessary for scholarly writing using APA formatting.

    NURS2460 Health Assessment - 4 s.h.

    Focuses on learning foundational assessment skills. Systematic holistic nursing process approach to health history and physical examination for the purpose of differentiating normal from abnormal states of health and critical assessment of client needs. Application of concepts are facilitated in the laboratory experience. (For on campus BSN-RN students only.) Prerequisite: NURS2010.

    NURS2470 Informatics for Health Care - 2 s.h.

    An introduction to the basic concepts and skills associated with the use of technology as it relates to nursing and electronic healthcare systems. The content will provide a conceptual foundation and hands-on exposure to the use of information management in nursing which is necessary in providing quality patient care.

    NURS3120 Fundamentals of Health Care - 4 s.h.

    Introduction to basic concepts and psychomotor skills necessary to provide therapeutic interventions for individual clients. Laboratory and clinical experience provided. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    NURS3160 Evidence Based Practice - 2-3 s.h.

    Study of the evidence-based practice research process to develop informed consumers of nursing research. Exploration of the application of the research evidence to the health care environment. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    NURS3250 Adult Health Care I - 4 s.h.

    Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing basic nursing care to clients and their families. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    NURS3260 NURS3260 Adult Health Care II - 4 s.h.

    Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing family centered nursing care to individuals and groups of clients. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    NURS3270 Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care - 4 s.h.

    Emphasis on promotion of healthy individual and family system responses to psychosocial stressors (violence, poverty, substance abuse). Psychopathology will be explored with opportunities to practice primary, secondary, and tertiary nursing interventions in the clinical setting. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    NURS3440 Pathophysiology - 3 s.h.

    Study of the concepts and altered processes of organs, cells, and biochemical functions of the systems related to homeostasis, neural control and integration. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    NURS3451 Pharmacology I - 3 s.h.

    Introduces students to the principles of pharmacology and their application to nursing. Emphasizes drug classifications of pharmacological agents, their actions, side effects, uses and nursing responsibilities regarding administration and basic calculations of medication administration for all routes of administration. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    NURS3452 Pharmacology II - 2 s.h.

    Continues investigation of pharmacology with specific medications that are seen in the clinical setting from the various drug classifications and medications used in advanced adult health settings. Drug calculations include those for the critical care setting and those using the intravenous route.

    NURS4170 Manager of Patient Care - 3 s.h.

    Discusses management of patient care in a clinical setting in the capacity of unit manager, charge nurse and patient care coordinator. Focuses on knowledge, skills, abilities, and resources required to lead an interdisciplinary team to achieve excellence and high quality outcomes. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

    NURS4230 Care of the Mother and Child - 4 s.h.

    This course focuses on holistic approach to acute illnesses and health promotion of culturally diverse women, children (birth through adolescence) and families throughout their lifespans. Emphasis is placed on providing a culturally sensitive and holistic approach to health promotion and intervention in the care of newly formed families moving from preconception through the neonatal period. Additionally, emphasis is placed on quality of care, safety and developmental stages of childhood and appropriate nursing interventions in the home and acute care settings. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 3452, 4340.

    NURS4260 Critical Care Nursing - 4 s.h.

    Emphasis on the key concepts required to deliver care to clients and their families during severe physiological stress. Importance placed on critical thinking to analyze the relationship between multidimensional stressors in the midst of critical illness. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    NURS4340 Community Health Care - 3.5 s.h.

    Focuses on community/public health issues with the family and community as clients, including community assessment and the examination of a variety of core concepts in the practice of community/public health nursing. Topics include epidemiology, community focused health promotion, and prevention within a sociopolitical environment. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    NURS4390 Capstone Practicum - 8 s.h.

    Emphasis on advanced cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills and therapeutic communication in the care of clients and families in acute-care settings. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    NURS4480 Trends and Issues - 2 s.h.

    Examines the social, cultural, political, legal, economic, and ethical issues that surround the practice of professional nursing. Explores the concepts that prepare the graduate for entry into the professional role. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

    PHIL1120 Basic Ethics (also RELG1120) - 3 s.h.

    Introduction to basic ways of thinking and acting ethically. Examines basic ethical theories, both religious and philosophical, but focuses on practical, daily application of sound values and ethical consciousness.

    PHIL2300 Basic Issues in Philosophy - 3 s.h.

    An introduction to some of the traditional theories of knowledge, reality, and value, and an interpretation of their relevance to the modern world.

    PHIL2520 Medical Ethics - 3 s.h.

    An exploration of contemporary ethical issues in modern medicine. The course will begin with an introduction to ethical theories and principles, and then apply these to specific problems in health care.

    PHIL3100 World Philosophies & Religion: Great Texts (also RELG3100) - 3 s.h.

    A reading of great texts in world philosophies and religions; E.g., The Qur'an (Islam), The Upanishads and The Bhagavad Gita (Hinduism), The Dhammapada (Buddhism), The Analects of Confucius and Tao Te Ching (Confucianism), the Bible, and other works by important religious/philosophical thinkers, old and new.

    PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

    An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

    PSYC2250 Developmental Psychology - 3 s.h.

    The study of human development over the entire lifespan. Focus is on the interaction of physical, intellectual, social, and emotional aspects of development. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences

    SOCI1300 Introduction to Sociology - 3 s.h.

    Introduction to the perspective of sociology, its basic concepts and principles and an overview of the field.Includes study of social classes, sex roles, crime and deviance, socialization, social movements and others. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace

    SOCI1350 Cultural Anthropology - 3 s.h.

    Survey and analysis of diverse cultural patterns. +This course is only offered every other year.

  • BSN Degree - Nursing Major (RN-BSN Students)

    Registered Nurses looking for online BSN programs have several advanced placement options. Recent graduates of Iowa schools approved to participate in the Iowa Articulation Program may receive 64 s.h. of credit upon admission to Graceland. Students may also receive 64 s.h. of credit after successfully completing three Iowa Articulation courses that are offered at various community colleges in the state. Students from out of state may receive 28 s.h. of upper division escrow credit upon successful completion of NURS3460 Professionalism in Nursing and payment of recording fees for upper division courses. For complete information see School of Nursing brochure “articulation options”.

    The following required nursing courses will be met by the Iowa Articulation Program or escrow credit:

    Nursing courses required to be taken at Graceland:

    Required Supporting Courses:

    Courses Offered
    • BIOL2350Introduction to Microbiology
      BIOL2350 Introduction to Microbiology - 4 s.h.

      Students will learn about immunology, bacteriology, mycology, and virology. Emphasis will be placed on the cellular mechanisms and role of microbial pathogens (bacteria) and agents (viruses, prions) affecting human health and how they are treated. Credit is not allowed for this course and BIOL2360. Prerequisites: CHEM1330 or BIOL2100 or instructors consent or enrollment in the RN to BSN program.

    • BIOL3420Human Anatomy with Lab
      BIOL3420 Human Anatomy with Lab - 4 s.h.

      A study of gross human anatomy utilizing charts, three dimensional models, computer simulations, and dissection of mammalian animals. The course will discuss regional and surface anatomy to establish the relationships of the various organ systems of the body. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL2100 or PHED1500.

    • BIOL3440Human Physiology with Lab
      BIOL3440 Human Physiology with Lab - 4 s.h.

      A systems oriented study of the function of the human body on the cellular, tissue, organ, and organ-system levels with an emphasis on medical physiology. Laboratory includes computer simulations and use of Biopac equipment. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL3420 (grade of C or better strongly recommended) and one semester of chemistry or BIOL2100.

    • HLTH2560Nutrition
      HLTH2560 Nutrition - 3 s.h.

      A study the principles of nutrition as it relates to health, exercise, sports and disease. Students will be presented with applied content that includes research-based guidelines meant to help students differentiate between nutrition recommendations that are backed by science and the overabundance of false and misleading information.

    • NURS2420Introduction to Nursing
      NURS2420 Introduction to Nursing - 3 s.h.

      Introduces the roles and responsibilities of professional nursing. Introduces students to the historical, economic, political and legal/ethical trends in nursing. Introduces concepts necessary for scholarly writing using APA formatting.

    • NURS3110Health Assessment for the Practicing Nurse
      NURS3110 Health Assessment for the Practicing Nurse - 3 s.h.

      Focuses on expanding assessment skills in current professional role. Systematic holistic nursing process approach to health history and physical examination for the purpose of differentiating normal from abnormal states of health and critical assessment of client needs in acute care and community settings. Application of concepts are facilitated in the virtual learning environment. (For online RN-BSN students only.)

    • NURS3120Fundamentals of Health Care
      NURS3120 Fundamentals of Health Care - 4 s.h.

      Introduction to basic concepts and psychomotor skills necessary to provide therapeutic interventions for individual clients. Laboratory and clinical experience provided. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    • NURS3160Evidence Based Practice
      NURS3160 Evidence Based Practice - 2-3 s.h.

      Study of the evidence-based practice research process to develop informed consumers of nursing research. Exploration of the application of the research evidence to the health care environment. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    • NURS3250Adult Health Care I
      NURS3250 Adult Health Care I - 4 s.h.

      Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing basic nursing care to clients and their families. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    • NURS3260NURS3260 Adult Health Care II
      NURS3260 NURS3260 Adult Health Care II - 4 s.h.

      Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing family centered nursing care to individuals and groups of clients. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    • NURS3270Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care
      NURS3270 Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care - 4 s.h.

      Emphasis on promotion of healthy individual and family system responses to psychosocial stressors (violence, poverty, substance abuse). Psychopathology will be explored with opportunities to practice primary, secondary, and tertiary nursing interventions in the clinical setting. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    • NURS3430Pathophysiology and Related Pharmacology
      NURS3430 Pathophysiology and Related Pharmacology - 3 s.h.

      Study of the concepts and altered processes of organs, cells, and biochemical functions of systems related to homeostasis, neural control and integration. Related pharmacology with application of principles to nursing practice will be integrated throughout.

    • NURS3460Professionalism in Nursing
      NURS3460 Professionalism in Nursing - 3 s.h.

      A transitional course to prepare the RN student for entry into baccalaureate nursing and continuing socialization into the profession. Exploration of major curricular and historical concepts. Prerequisite: Nursing major with junior standing.

    • NURS4160Leadership Roles in Nursing
      NURS4160 Leadership Roles in Nursing - 3 s.h.

      Examination of leadership, management, role, and change theories. Emphasis on acquiring the knowledge, skills, abilities, and resources required to lead an interdisciplinary team to achieve excellence and high quality outcomes. Prerequisites: Junior level nursing courses.

    • NURS4220Maternal and Newborn Care
      NURS4220 Maternal and Newborn Care - 4 s.h.

      Study of women's health across the lifespan with an emphasis on maternity/newborn care. Employs holistic approach to health promotion and intervention. Prerequisites: Junior level nursing courses. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

    • NURS4240Pediatric Nursing
      NURS4240 Pediatric Nursing - 4 s.h.

      NURS4240 Pediatric Nursing 4 s.h. Investigates a holistic, family focus on acute illness and health promotion for pediatric patients from birth through adolescence. An emphasis on developmental stages of childhood and nursing interventions within the home and acute care settings and the impact of societal and family decisions on childhood growth and development. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    • NURS4280Global Health and Policy Issues
      NURS4280 Global Health and Policy Issues - 3 s.h.

      The course focuses on an analysis of the forces shaping our community and global health patterns. Drawing on multidisciplinary sources, this course explores the impact of these global processes as they manifest in the health of our own and other societies. Emphasis is placed on analysis of the broad cultural, environmental, social-economic, and political systems that contribute to health status and outcomes, health policies, and health care delivery around the world.

    • NURS4350Population Health Nursing
      NURS4350 Population Health Nursing - 3 s.h.

      NURS4350 Population Health Nursing 3 s.h. Emphasis on the community as client and population groups within the community, including a comprehensive community assessment, the exploration of epidemiology, disaster nursing, community-focused health promotion, and prevention within sociopolitical environment.

    • NURS4411Informatics for the Practicing Nurse
      NURS4411 Informatics for the Practicing Nurse - 2 s.h.

      This course builds on a basic understanding of technology as it relates to nursing and electronic healthcare systems. The content will prepare students to effectively and efficiently use technology to identify and manage health care information and data.

    • NURS4420Current Issues in Healthcare
      NURS4420 Current Issues in Healthcare - 2 s.h.

      Continuing exploration of current health care issues facing the nursing profession using a critical thinking process designed to move the RN student into the professional baccalaureate role for practice in the 21st century. Prerequisites: Nursing major with senior standing and NURS3460.

    • NURS4460Senior Capstone
      NURS4460 Senior Capstone - 3 s.h.

      Synthesize new knowledge with past knowledge and skills to provide a higher level of indirect and/or direct care to clients in a variety of health care environments. Integrate knowledge from prior courses to develop, implement, and evaluate a project with the intention of improving health outcomes for individuals, families, groups, communities, or populations. Prerequisite: NURS4160.

    • PSYC1300Introductory Psychology
      PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

      An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

    • PSYC2250Developmental Psychology
      PSYC2250 Developmental Psychology - 3 s.h.

      The study of human development over the entire lifespan. Focus is on the interaction of physical, intellectual, social, and emotional aspects of development. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences

    • SOCI1300Introduction to Sociology
      SOCI1300 Introduction to Sociology - 3 s.h.

      Introduction to the perspective of sociology, its basic concepts and principles and an overview of the field.Includes study of social classes, sex roles, crime and deviance, socialization, social movements and others. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace

    • SOCI1350Cultural Anthropology
      SOCI1350 Cultural Anthropology - 3 s.h.

      Survey and analysis of diverse cultural patterns. +This course is only offered every other year.

    BIOL2350Introduction to Microbiology BIOL3420Human Anatomy with Lab BIOL3440Human Physiology with Lab HLTH2560Nutrition NURS2420Introduction to Nursing NURS3110Health Assessment for the Practicing Nurse NURS3120Fundamentals of Health Care NURS3160Evidence Based Practice NURS3250Adult Health Care I NURS3260NURS3260 Adult Health Care II NURS3270Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care NURS3430Pathophysiology and Related Pharmacology NURS3460Professionalism in Nursing NURS4160Leadership Roles in Nursing NURS4220Maternal and Newborn Care NURS4240Pediatric Nursing NURS4280Global Health and Policy Issues NURS4350Population Health Nursing NURS4411Informatics for the Practicing Nurse NURS4420Current Issues in Healthcare NURS4460Senior Capstone PSYC1300Introductory Psychology PSYC2250Developmental Psychology SOCI1300Introduction to Sociology SOCI1350Cultural Anthropology
    Course Descriptions
    BIOL2350 Introduction to Microbiology - 4 s.h.

    Students will learn about immunology, bacteriology, mycology, and virology. Emphasis will be placed on the cellular mechanisms and role of microbial pathogens (bacteria) and agents (viruses, prions) affecting human health and how they are treated. Credit is not allowed for this course and BIOL2360. Prerequisites: CHEM1330 or BIOL2100 or instructors consent or enrollment in the RN to BSN program.

    BIOL3420 Human Anatomy with Lab - 4 s.h.

    A study of gross human anatomy utilizing charts, three dimensional models, computer simulations, and dissection of mammalian animals. The course will discuss regional and surface anatomy to establish the relationships of the various organ systems of the body. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL2100 or PHED1500.

    BIOL3440 Human Physiology with Lab - 4 s.h.

    A systems oriented study of the function of the human body on the cellular, tissue, organ, and organ-system levels with an emphasis on medical physiology. Laboratory includes computer simulations and use of Biopac equipment. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL3420 (grade of C or better strongly recommended) and one semester of chemistry or BIOL2100.

    HLTH2560 Nutrition - 3 s.h.

    A study the principles of nutrition as it relates to health, exercise, sports and disease. Students will be presented with applied content that includes research-based guidelines meant to help students differentiate between nutrition recommendations that are backed by science and the overabundance of false and misleading information.

    NURS2420 Introduction to Nursing - 3 s.h.

    Introduces the roles and responsibilities of professional nursing. Introduces students to the historical, economic, political and legal/ethical trends in nursing. Introduces concepts necessary for scholarly writing using APA formatting.

    NURS3110 Health Assessment for the Practicing Nurse - 3 s.h.

    Focuses on expanding assessment skills in current professional role. Systematic holistic nursing process approach to health history and physical examination for the purpose of differentiating normal from abnormal states of health and critical assessment of client needs in acute care and community settings. Application of concepts are facilitated in the virtual learning environment. (For online RN-BSN students only.)

    NURS3120 Fundamentals of Health Care - 4 s.h.

    Introduction to basic concepts and psychomotor skills necessary to provide therapeutic interventions for individual clients. Laboratory and clinical experience provided. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    NURS3160 Evidence Based Practice - 2-3 s.h.

    Study of the evidence-based practice research process to develop informed consumers of nursing research. Exploration of the application of the research evidence to the health care environment. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    NURS3250 Adult Health Care I - 4 s.h.

    Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing basic nursing care to clients and their families. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    NURS3260 NURS3260 Adult Health Care II - 4 s.h.

    Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing family centered nursing care to individuals and groups of clients. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    NURS3270 Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care - 4 s.h.

    Emphasis on promotion of healthy individual and family system responses to psychosocial stressors (violence, poverty, substance abuse). Psychopathology will be explored with opportunities to practice primary, secondary, and tertiary nursing interventions in the clinical setting. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    NURS3430 Pathophysiology and Related Pharmacology - 3 s.h.

    Study of the concepts and altered processes of organs, cells, and biochemical functions of systems related to homeostasis, neural control and integration. Related pharmacology with application of principles to nursing practice will be integrated throughout.

    NURS3460 Professionalism in Nursing - 3 s.h.

    A transitional course to prepare the RN student for entry into baccalaureate nursing and continuing socialization into the profession. Exploration of major curricular and historical concepts. Prerequisite: Nursing major with junior standing.

    NURS4160 Leadership Roles in Nursing - 3 s.h.

    Examination of leadership, management, role, and change theories. Emphasis on acquiring the knowledge, skills, abilities, and resources required to lead an interdisciplinary team to achieve excellence and high quality outcomes. Prerequisites: Junior level nursing courses.

    NURS4220 Maternal and Newborn Care - 4 s.h.

    Study of women's health across the lifespan with an emphasis on maternity/newborn care. Employs holistic approach to health promotion and intervention. Prerequisites: Junior level nursing courses. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

    NURS4240 Pediatric Nursing - 4 s.h.

    NURS4240 Pediatric Nursing 4 s.h. Investigates a holistic, family focus on acute illness and health promotion for pediatric patients from birth through adolescence. An emphasis on developmental stages of childhood and nursing interventions within the home and acute care settings and the impact of societal and family decisions on childhood growth and development. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    NURS4280 Global Health and Policy Issues - 3 s.h.

    The course focuses on an analysis of the forces shaping our community and global health patterns. Drawing on multidisciplinary sources, this course explores the impact of these global processes as they manifest in the health of our own and other societies. Emphasis is placed on analysis of the broad cultural, environmental, social-economic, and political systems that contribute to health status and outcomes, health policies, and health care delivery around the world.

    NURS4350 Population Health Nursing - 3 s.h.

    NURS4350 Population Health Nursing 3 s.h. Emphasis on the community as client and population groups within the community, including a comprehensive community assessment, the exploration of epidemiology, disaster nursing, community-focused health promotion, and prevention within sociopolitical environment.

    NURS4411 Informatics for the Practicing Nurse - 2 s.h.

    This course builds on a basic understanding of technology as it relates to nursing and electronic healthcare systems. The content will prepare students to effectively and efficiently use technology to identify and manage health care information and data.

    NURS4420 Current Issues in Healthcare - 2 s.h.

    Continuing exploration of current health care issues facing the nursing profession using a critical thinking process designed to move the RN student into the professional baccalaureate role for practice in the 21st century. Prerequisites: Nursing major with senior standing and NURS3460.

    NURS4460 Senior Capstone - 3 s.h.

    Synthesize new knowledge with past knowledge and skills to provide a higher level of indirect and/or direct care to clients in a variety of health care environments. Integrate knowledge from prior courses to develop, implement, and evaluate a project with the intention of improving health outcomes for individuals, families, groups, communities, or populations. Prerequisite: NURS4160.

    PSYC1300 Introductory Psychology - 3 s.h.

    An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.

    PSYC2250 Developmental Psychology - 3 s.h.

    The study of human development over the entire lifespan. Focus is on the interaction of physical, intellectual, social, and emotional aspects of development. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences

    SOCI1300 Introduction to Sociology - 3 s.h.

    Introduction to the perspective of sociology, its basic concepts and principles and an overview of the field.Includes study of social classes, sex roles, crime and deviance, socialization, social movements and others. ELO5 Social Science - Equality, ELO5 Social Science - Equality and Peace

    SOCI1350 Cultural Anthropology - 3 s.h.

    Survey and analysis of diverse cultural patterns. +This course is only offered every other year.

  • Course List - Nursing (Undergraduate) Non-Clinical Course Offerings
    Courses Offered
    • NURS1100Exploring the Nursing Profession
      NURS1100 Exploring the Nursing Profession - 1 s.h.

      In this course, students pursuing a major in nursing will explore roles in the nursing profession, integration of pre-requisite coursework into nursing, and develop a personalized success plan to become a registered nurse.

    • NURS2000Individual Study
      NURS2000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    • NURS2420Introduction to Nursing
      NURS2420 Introduction to Nursing - 3 s.h.

      Introduces the roles and responsibilities of professional nursing. Introduces students to the historical, economic, political and legal/ethical trends in nursing. Introduces concepts necessary for scholarly writing using APA formatting.

    • NURS2460Health Assessment
      NURS2460 Health Assessment - 4 s.h.

      Focuses on learning foundational assessment skills. Systematic holistic nursing process approach to health history and physical examination for the purpose of differentiating normal from abnormal states of health and critical assessment of client needs. Application of concepts are facilitated in the laboratory experience. (For on campus BSN-RN students only.) Prerequisite: NURS2010.

    • NURS2470Informatics for Health Care
      NURS2470 Informatics for Health Care - 2 s.h.

      An introduction to the basic concepts and skills associated with the use of technology as it relates to nursing and electronic healthcare systems. The content will provide a conceptual foundation and hands-on exposure to the use of information management in nursing which is necessary in providing quality patient care.

    • NURS3000Individual Study
      NURS3000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    • NURS3010Transcultural Health Experience
      NURS3010 Transcultural Health Experience - 3 s.h.

      The focus of this course is to provide the student with tools to improve the health status of a vulnerable population. Students will apply transcultural concepts and principles of global health at the local, national, or international level. Depending on the specific area the student is working in, experiences may include individual and small group teaching, primary care support services, promotion of hygiene principles with modifications to the local culture, community assessment and interventions, or intensive language acquisition. An international multi-day and/or overnight experience may be required.

    • NURS3110Health Assessment for the Practicing Nurse
      NURS3110 Health Assessment for the Practicing Nurse - 3 s.h.

      Focuses on expanding assessment skills in current professional role. Systematic holistic nursing process approach to health history and physical examination for the purpose of differentiating normal from abnormal states of health and critical assessment of client needs in acute care and community settings. Application of concepts are facilitated in the virtual learning environment. (For online RN-BSN students only.)

    • NURS3120Fundamentals of Health Care
      NURS3120 Fundamentals of Health Care - 4 s.h.

      Introduction to basic concepts and psychomotor skills necessary to provide therapeutic interventions for individual clients. Laboratory and clinical experience provided. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    • NURS3160Evidence Based Practice
      NURS3160 Evidence Based Practice - 2-3 s.h.

      Study of the evidence-based practice research process to develop informed consumers of nursing research. Exploration of the application of the research evidence to the health care environment. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    • NURS3430Pathophysiology and Related Pharmacology
      NURS3430 Pathophysiology and Related Pharmacology - 3 s.h.

      Study of the concepts and altered processes of organs, cells, and biochemical functions of systems related to homeostasis, neural control and integration. Related pharmacology with application of principles to nursing practice will be integrated throughout.

    • NURS3440Pathophysiology
      NURS3440 Pathophysiology - 3 s.h.

      Study of the concepts and altered processes of organs, cells, and biochemical functions of the systems related to homeostasis, neural control and integration. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    • NURS3451Pharmacology I
      NURS3451 Pharmacology I - 3 s.h.

      Introduces students to the principles of pharmacology and their application to nursing. Emphasizes drug classifications of pharmacological agents, their actions, side effects, uses and nursing responsibilities regarding administration and basic calculations of medication administration for all routes of administration. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    • NURS3452Pharmacology II
      NURS3452 Pharmacology II - 2 s.h.

      Continues investigation of pharmacology with specific medications that are seen in the clinical setting from the various drug classifications and medications used in advanced adult health settings. Drug calculations include those for the critical care setting and those using the intravenous route.

    • NURS3460Professionalism in Nursing
      NURS3460 Professionalism in Nursing - 3 s.h.

      A transitional course to prepare the RN student for entry into baccalaureate nursing and continuing socialization into the profession. Exploration of major curricular and historical concepts. Prerequisite: Nursing major with junior standing.

    • NURS3900Topics in Nursing
      NURS3900 Topics in Nursing - 1-3 s.h.

      An in-depth study of a specific, timely topic in nursing. May be repeated for credit when the topic varies.

    • NURS4000Individual Study
      NURS4000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    • NURS4280Global Health and Policy Issues
      NURS4280 Global Health and Policy Issues - 3 s.h.

      The course focuses on an analysis of the forces shaping our community and global health patterns. Drawing on multidisciplinary sources, this course explores the impact of these global processes as they manifest in the health of our own and other societies. Emphasis is placed on analysis of the broad cultural, environmental, social-economic, and political systems that contribute to health status and outcomes, health policies, and health care delivery around the world.

    • NURS4420Current Issues in Healthcare
      NURS4420 Current Issues in Healthcare - 2 s.h.

      Continuing exploration of current health care issues facing the nursing profession using a critical thinking process designed to move the RN student into the professional baccalaureate role for practice in the 21st century. Prerequisites: Nursing major with senior standing and NURS3460.

    • NURS4480Trends and Issues
      NURS4480 Trends and Issues - 2 s.h.

      Examines the social, cultural, political, legal, economic, and ethical issues that surround the practice of professional nursing. Explores the concepts that prepare the graduate for entry into the professional role. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

    NURS1100Exploring the Nursing Profession NURS2000Individual Study NURS2420Introduction to Nursing NURS2460Health Assessment NURS2470Informatics for Health Care NURS3000Individual Study NURS3010Transcultural Health Experience NURS3110Health Assessment for the Practicing Nurse NURS3120Fundamentals of Health Care NURS3160Evidence Based Practice NURS3430Pathophysiology and Related Pharmacology NURS3440Pathophysiology NURS3451Pharmacology I NURS3452Pharmacology II NURS3460Professionalism in Nursing NURS3900Topics in Nursing NURS4000Individual Study NURS4280Global Health and Policy Issues NURS4420Current Issues in Healthcare NURS4480Trends and Issues
    Course Descriptions
    NURS1100 Exploring the Nursing Profession - 1 s.h.

    In this course, students pursuing a major in nursing will explore roles in the nursing profession, integration of pre-requisite coursework into nursing, and develop a personalized success plan to become a registered nurse.

    NURS2000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    NURS2420 Introduction to Nursing - 3 s.h.

    Introduces the roles and responsibilities of professional nursing. Introduces students to the historical, economic, political and legal/ethical trends in nursing. Introduces concepts necessary for scholarly writing using APA formatting.

    NURS2460 Health Assessment - 4 s.h.

    Focuses on learning foundational assessment skills. Systematic holistic nursing process approach to health history and physical examination for the purpose of differentiating normal from abnormal states of health and critical assessment of client needs. Application of concepts are facilitated in the laboratory experience. (For on campus BSN-RN students only.) Prerequisite: NURS2010.

    NURS2470 Informatics for Health Care - 2 s.h.

    An introduction to the basic concepts and skills associated with the use of technology as it relates to nursing and electronic healthcare systems. The content will provide a conceptual foundation and hands-on exposure to the use of information management in nursing which is necessary in providing quality patient care.

    NURS3000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    NURS3010 Transcultural Health Experience - 3 s.h.

    The focus of this course is to provide the student with tools to improve the health status of a vulnerable population. Students will apply transcultural concepts and principles of global health at the local, national, or international level. Depending on the specific area the student is working in, experiences may include individual and small group teaching, primary care support services, promotion of hygiene principles with modifications to the local culture, community assessment and interventions, or intensive language acquisition. An international multi-day and/or overnight experience may be required.

    NURS3110 Health Assessment for the Practicing Nurse - 3 s.h.

    Focuses on expanding assessment skills in current professional role. Systematic holistic nursing process approach to health history and physical examination for the purpose of differentiating normal from abnormal states of health and critical assessment of client needs in acute care and community settings. Application of concepts are facilitated in the virtual learning environment. (For online RN-BSN students only.)

    NURS3120 Fundamentals of Health Care - 4 s.h.

    Introduction to basic concepts and psychomotor skills necessary to provide therapeutic interventions for individual clients. Laboratory and clinical experience provided. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    NURS3160 Evidence Based Practice - 2-3 s.h.

    Study of the evidence-based practice research process to develop informed consumers of nursing research. Exploration of the application of the research evidence to the health care environment. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    NURS3430 Pathophysiology and Related Pharmacology - 3 s.h.

    Study of the concepts and altered processes of organs, cells, and biochemical functions of systems related to homeostasis, neural control and integration. Related pharmacology with application of principles to nursing practice will be integrated throughout.

    NURS3440 Pathophysiology - 3 s.h.

    Study of the concepts and altered processes of organs, cells, and biochemical functions of the systems related to homeostasis, neural control and integration. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    NURS3451 Pharmacology I - 3 s.h.

    Introduces students to the principles of pharmacology and their application to nursing. Emphasizes drug classifications of pharmacological agents, their actions, side effects, uses and nursing responsibilities regarding administration and basic calculations of medication administration for all routes of administration. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    NURS3452 Pharmacology II - 2 s.h.

    Continues investigation of pharmacology with specific medications that are seen in the clinical setting from the various drug classifications and medications used in advanced adult health settings. Drug calculations include those for the critical care setting and those using the intravenous route.

    NURS3460 Professionalism in Nursing - 3 s.h.

    A transitional course to prepare the RN student for entry into baccalaureate nursing and continuing socialization into the profession. Exploration of major curricular and historical concepts. Prerequisite: Nursing major with junior standing.

    NURS3900 Topics in Nursing - 1-3 s.h.

    An in-depth study of a specific, timely topic in nursing. May be repeated for credit when the topic varies.

    NURS4000 Individual Study - 1-3 s.h.
    NURS4280 Global Health and Policy Issues - 3 s.h.

    The course focuses on an analysis of the forces shaping our community and global health patterns. Drawing on multidisciplinary sources, this course explores the impact of these global processes as they manifest in the health of our own and other societies. Emphasis is placed on analysis of the broad cultural, environmental, social-economic, and political systems that contribute to health status and outcomes, health policies, and health care delivery around the world.

    NURS4420 Current Issues in Healthcare - 2 s.h.

    Continuing exploration of current health care issues facing the nursing profession using a critical thinking process designed to move the RN student into the professional baccalaureate role for practice in the 21st century. Prerequisites: Nursing major with senior standing and NURS3460.

    NURS4480 Trends and Issues - 2 s.h.

    Examines the social, cultural, political, legal, economic, and ethical issues that surround the practice of professional nursing. Explores the concepts that prepare the graduate for entry into the professional role. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

  • Course List - Nursing (Undergraduate) Clinical Course Offerings

    Each of the following clinical course offerings provides students practical opportunity to utilize components of the nursing process in a caring, professional way; to promote positive adaptation of families and individuals with specific health needs; and to function as a member of a health care team that utilizes research findings and scientific rational in planning and implementing nursing action.

    Courses Offered
    • NURS3250Adult Health Care I
      NURS3250 Adult Health Care I - 4 s.h.

      Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing basic nursing care to clients and their families. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    • NURS3260NURS3260 Adult Health Care II
      NURS3260 NURS3260 Adult Health Care II - 4 s.h.

      Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing family centered nursing care to individuals and groups of clients. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    • NURS3270Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care
      NURS3270 Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care - 4 s.h.

      Emphasis on promotion of healthy individual and family system responses to psychosocial stressors (violence, poverty, substance abuse). Psychopathology will be explored with opportunities to practice primary, secondary, and tertiary nursing interventions in the clinical setting. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    • NURS4160Leadership Roles in Nursing
      NURS4160 Leadership Roles in Nursing - 3 s.h.

      Examination of leadership, management, role, and change theories. Emphasis on acquiring the knowledge, skills, abilities, and resources required to lead an interdisciplinary team to achieve excellence and high quality outcomes. Prerequisites: Junior level nursing courses.

    • NURS4170Manager of Patient Care
      NURS4170 Manager of Patient Care - 3 s.h.

      Discusses management of patient care in a clinical setting in the capacity of unit manager, charge nurse and patient care coordinator. Focuses on knowledge, skills, abilities, and resources required to lead an interdisciplinary team to achieve excellence and high quality outcomes. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

    • NURS4220Maternal and Newborn Care
      NURS4220 Maternal and Newborn Care - 4 s.h.

      Study of women's health across the lifespan with an emphasis on maternity/newborn care. Employs holistic approach to health promotion and intervention. Prerequisites: Junior level nursing courses. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

    • NURS4230Care of the Mother and Child
      NURS4230 Care of the Mother and Child - 4 s.h.

      This course focuses on holistic approach to acute illnesses and health promotion of culturally diverse women, children (birth through adolescence) and families throughout their lifespans. Emphasis is placed on providing a culturally sensitive and holistic approach to health promotion and intervention in the care of newly formed families moving from preconception through the neonatal period. Additionally, emphasis is placed on quality of care, safety and developmental stages of childhood and appropriate nursing interventions in the home and acute care settings. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 3452, 4340.

    • NURS4240Pediatric Nursing
      NURS4240 Pediatric Nursing - 4 s.h.

      NURS4240 Pediatric Nursing 4 s.h. Investigates a holistic, family focus on acute illness and health promotion for pediatric patients from birth through adolescence. An emphasis on developmental stages of childhood and nursing interventions within the home and acute care settings and the impact of societal and family decisions on childhood growth and development. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    • NURS4260Critical Care Nursing
      NURS4260 Critical Care Nursing - 4 s.h.

      Emphasis on the key concepts required to deliver care to clients and their families during severe physiological stress. Importance placed on critical thinking to analyze the relationship between multidimensional stressors in the midst of critical illness. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    • NURS4340Community Health Care
      NURS4340 Community Health Care - 3.5 s.h.

      Focuses on community/public health issues with the family and community as clients, including community assessment and the examination of a variety of core concepts in the practice of community/public health nursing. Topics include epidemiology, community focused health promotion, and prevention within a sociopolitical environment. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    • NURS4350Population Health Nursing
      NURS4350 Population Health Nursing - 3 s.h.

      NURS4350 Population Health Nursing 3 s.h. Emphasis on the community as client and population groups within the community, including a comprehensive community assessment, the exploration of epidemiology, disaster nursing, community-focused health promotion, and prevention within sociopolitical environment.

    • NURS4390Capstone Practicum
      NURS4390 Capstone Practicum - 8 s.h.

      Emphasis on advanced cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills and therapeutic communication in the care of clients and families in acute-care settings. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    • NURS4411Informatics for the Practicing Nurse
      NURS4411 Informatics for the Practicing Nurse - 2 s.h.

      This course builds on a basic understanding of technology as it relates to nursing and electronic healthcare systems. The content will prepare students to effectively and efficiently use technology to identify and manage health care information and data.

    • NURS4460Senior Capstone
      NURS4460 Senior Capstone - 3 s.h.

      Synthesize new knowledge with past knowledge and skills to provide a higher level of indirect and/or direct care to clients in a variety of health care environments. Integrate knowledge from prior courses to develop, implement, and evaluate a project with the intention of improving health outcomes for individuals, families, groups, communities, or populations. Prerequisite: NURS4160.

    NURS3250Adult Health Care I NURS3260NURS3260 Adult Health Care II NURS3270Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care NURS4160Leadership Roles in Nursing NURS4170Manager of Patient Care NURS4220Maternal and Newborn Care NURS4230Care of the Mother and Child NURS4240Pediatric Nursing NURS4260Critical Care Nursing NURS4340Community Health Care NURS4350Population Health Nursing NURS4390Capstone Practicum NURS4411Informatics for the Practicing Nurse NURS4460Senior Capstone
    Course Descriptions
    NURS3250 Adult Health Care I - 4 s.h.

    Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing basic nursing care to clients and their families. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    NURS3260 NURS3260 Adult Health Care II - 4 s.h.

    Focus on the development of abilities to manage the care of adults, at various life stages, in a variety of health care settings. Emphasis on person-centered communication and application of cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in providing family centered nursing care to individuals and groups of clients. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    NURS3270 Psychosocial Aspects of Client Care - 4 s.h.

    Emphasis on promotion of healthy individual and family system responses to psychosocial stressors (violence, poverty, substance abuse). Psychopathology will be explored with opportunities to practice primary, secondary, and tertiary nursing interventions in the clinical setting. Prerequisites: NURS2420, 2460, 2470.

    NURS4160 Leadership Roles in Nursing - 3 s.h.

    Examination of leadership, management, role, and change theories. Emphasis on acquiring the knowledge, skills, abilities, and resources required to lead an interdisciplinary team to achieve excellence and high quality outcomes. Prerequisites: Junior level nursing courses.

    NURS4170 Manager of Patient Care - 3 s.h.

    Discusses management of patient care in a clinical setting in the capacity of unit manager, charge nurse and patient care coordinator. Focuses on knowledge, skills, abilities, and resources required to lead an interdisciplinary team to achieve excellence and high quality outcomes. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

    NURS4220 Maternal and Newborn Care - 4 s.h.

    Study of women's health across the lifespan with an emphasis on maternity/newborn care. Employs holistic approach to health promotion and intervention. Prerequisites: Junior level nursing courses. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 4340.

    NURS4230 Care of the Mother and Child - 4 s.h.

    This course focuses on holistic approach to acute illnesses and health promotion of culturally diverse women, children (birth through adolescence) and families throughout their lifespans. Emphasis is placed on providing a culturally sensitive and holistic approach to health promotion and intervention in the care of newly formed families moving from preconception through the neonatal period. Additionally, emphasis is placed on quality of care, safety and developmental stages of childhood and appropriate nursing interventions in the home and acute care settings. Prerequisites: NURS3160, 3250, 3260, 3452, 4340.

    NURS4240 Pediatric Nursing - 4 s.h.

    NURS4240 Pediatric Nursing 4 s.h. Investigates a holistic, family focus on acute illness and health promotion for pediatric patients from birth through adolescence. An emphasis on developmental stages of childhood and nursing interventions within the home and acute care settings and the impact of societal and family decisions on childhood growth and development. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    NURS4260 Critical Care Nursing - 4 s.h.

    Emphasis on the key concepts required to deliver care to clients and their families during severe physiological stress. Importance placed on critical thinking to analyze the relationship between multidimensional stressors in the midst of critical illness. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    NURS4340 Community Health Care - 3.5 s.h.

    Focuses on community/public health issues with the family and community as clients, including community assessment and the examination of a variety of core concepts in the practice of community/public health nursing. Topics include epidemiology, community focused health promotion, and prevention within a sociopolitical environment. Prerequisites: NURS3120, 3270, 3440, 3451.

    NURS4350 Population Health Nursing - 3 s.h.

    NURS4350 Population Health Nursing 3 s.h. Emphasis on the community as client and population groups within the community, including a comprehensive community assessment, the exploration of epidemiology, disaster nursing, community-focused health promotion, and prevention within sociopolitical environment.

    NURS4390 Capstone Practicum - 8 s.h.

    Emphasis on advanced cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills and therapeutic communication in the care of clients and families in acute-care settings. Prerequisites: NURS4170, 4220, 4480.

    NURS4411 Informatics for the Practicing Nurse - 2 s.h.

    This course builds on a basic understanding of technology as it relates to nursing and electronic healthcare systems. The content will prepare students to effectively and efficiently use technology to identify and manage health care information and data.

    NURS4460 Senior Capstone - 3 s.h.

    Synthesize new knowledge with past knowledge and skills to provide a higher level of indirect and/or direct care to clients in a variety of health care environments. Integrate knowledge from prior courses to develop, implement, and evaluate a project with the intention of improving health outcomes for individuals, families, groups, communities, or populations. Prerequisite: NURS4160.

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