Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing

Accreditation: The baccalaureate, master of science 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. The College is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2010. In 2006, the College moved to a new, state-of-the-art building on the Boca Raton campus.

Through its excellent faculty and programs on the Boca Raton, Davie and Treasure Coast campuses, the College offers Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, 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:

1. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree in a traditional format for qualified junior students.

2. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree for registered nurses with associate degrees.

3. 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.

4. The combined Bachelor of Science in Nursing/Master of Science with Major in Nursing (B.S.N./M.S.) program for RNs who want to pursue both degrees seamlessly.

5. Master of Science with a Major in Nursing (M.S.) degree with tracks in: a) Administrative and Financial Leadership in Nursing and Health Care b) Adult Nurse Practitioner c) Advanced Holistic Nursing d) Clinical Nurse Leader e) Family Nurse Practitioner f) Gerontological Nurse Practitioner g) Individualized Track and h) Nurse Educator. Post master’s certificate programs are offered in all nurse practitioner, administration, advanced holistic and nursing education areas.

6. Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) for students with master’s degrees in an area of advanced nursing practice or nursing administration.

7. Doctor of Philosophy with a Major in Nursing (Ph.D.) degree with admission to students with B.S.N. or M.S. preparation. The major area of focus is research and theory development related to the phenomenon of caring.

Vision
The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing's vision is to advance the body of caring knowledge in nursing through education, practice, research, and scholarship to transform care locally, nationally and globally.

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. The College faculty supports the University mission of education, scholarship and service. Faculty members are dedicated to:

1. Offering innovative approaches to nursing education within a caring philosophy.

2. Knowing self, students and colleagues as caring persons.

3. Creating a context for learning that respects, nurtures and celebrates the interconnectedness of person and environment.

4. Preparing nurses to deliver exemplary health care within a multicultural society through scholarly activities and research that advances knowledge of the discipline.

5. Preparing nurses to respond to the health care needs of individuals, families and communities in urban and rural underserved areas.

6. Preparing nurses to critically analyze and creatively respond to emerging health care challenges.

7. Advancing the understanding of caring as unique in nursing.

8. Building transdisciplinary, international and global linkages to enhance and humanize health care.

Philosophy
Nursing is a discipline of knowledge and a field of professional practice grounded in caring. Scholarship and practice in nursing require creative integration of multiple ways of knowing. Nursing makes a unique contribution because of its special focus: nurturing the wholeness of persons and environment through caring. Caring in nursing is a mutual human process in which the nurse artistically responds with authentic presence to calls from clients. The experience of nursing takes place in nursing situations: lived experiences in which the caring between the nurse and client fosters well-being within a cocreative experience. Nurses participate with members of other disciplines to advance human understanding to enhance personal and societal living within a global environment.

Person is viewed as a unique individual dynamically interconnected with others and the environment in caring relationships. The nature of being human is to be caring. Humans choose values, culturally derived, that give meaning to living and enhance well-being. Well-being is creating and living the meaning of life. The well-being and wholeness of persons, families, groups, communities and societies are nurtured through caring relationships.

Beliefs about learning and environments that foster learning are derived from an understanding of person, the nature of nursing and nursing knowledge and the mission of the 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 human person are respected, nurtured and celebrated. The learning environment emphasizes collegial relationships with faculty and students.

The above fundamental beliefs concerning person, nursing and learning express the College’s values and guide the endeavors of its faculty.

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 hopes to create an environment that nurtures the wholeness and dignity of self and others. The faculty encourages 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 (or critical components) of a professional nursing education.

Students who do not abide by this policy will be subject to appropriate academic sanctions, which may include dismissal from the College of Nursing and/or disciplinary action, which may include suspension or expulsion from the University.

Legislation aimed at protecting the public has made it necessary to require a background check for all admitted to the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. This check includes the Level II Criminal Background Check (Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Federal Bureau of Investigation) and an additional background check required by agencies with whom the College partners for student nursing practice experiences. The College of Nursing has asked a firm used by many national nursing schools and colleges to coordinate the background check process. 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. Such courses or activities may be required to complete the degree or certificate program of study for graduation.

If the background check reveals violations that may result in students being denied licensure, admission to a clinical agency and/or access to patients in the agency, admission may be denied. If a comparable assignment cannot be made to meet course objectives, the student may be denied admission to or continuation in the College of Nursing. 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/Link to Combined Program/Link to Graduate Programs

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree program includes a Registered Nurse (RN) to B.S.N. program and Pre-Licensure Nursing Programs consisting of two tracks: the Traditional B.S.N. and the Accelerated Second Degree B.S.N. The bachelor’s program in nursing is an upper-division curriculum in which students enter with 60 lower-division credits. Review policies for all bachelor's degree programs here.

Pre-Licensure B.S.N. Programs
The Pre-Licensure Nursing Programs 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 B.S.N. programs are limited access. Individuals must be admitted to FAU as pre-Nursing students prior to being considered for admission to the traditional or accelerated track of the B.S.N. program. Qualified applicants will be admitted into nursing on a space-available basis. Admission as a pre-Nursing student does not guarantee admission to either the traditional or accelerated second degree track of the B.S.N. program. The Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing supports the University’s policy of nondiscrimination.

Undergraduate 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:

• Be a generalist in nursing practice.
• Use personal, empirical, ethical, aesthetic and other ways of knowing in responding critically and reflectively to calls within nursing situations.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the complexity of caring through social-cultural responsibility and accountability as a member of the nursing profession.
• Create caring-healing environments through personal and professional leadership.
• Use systematic inquiry to make decisions about nursing practice, evaluate outcomes and contribute to nursing knowledge.
• Collaborate with persons, families, groups and colleagues in nursing and other disciplines to promote the well-being of the global community.
• Be prepared for the pursuit of advanced study and lifelong learning in nursing.

Admission Deadlines
The deadline for University admission for the programs on the Boca Raton campus (traditional track and accelerated second degree track) is approximately six months prior to anticipated commencement of the programs. The RN-B.S.N. program is on a rolling admissions basis; Interested nurses may apply at any time throughout the year. Students may enter the program in any semester.

Application Process for the Traditional Track Program
The traditional track program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and eligibility for RN licensure. It is available 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.

1. Apply to the University (must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in all undergraduate courses completed).

2. Apply to the College of Nursing at http://nursing.fau.edu. Click on traditional program. The applicant is cautioned to note the application deadline published on the website. There are no deadline exceptions.

3. Scores on the HESI entrance exam are used for overall evaluation of applicants. Check www.fau.edu/testing/HESI.php for scheduled HESI entrance exam dates and instructions for taking this test. A review book is available for purchase at www.hesitest.com.

4. Must have 12 prerequisite courses completed before applying to the nursing program. Each prerequisite must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to satisfy admission requirements. In addition, all prerequisite courses must be completed prior to starting the nursing program in the summer.

Qualified students are admitted on a space-available basis. If there are more qualified applicants than available spaces, factors considered for admission include:

1. Overall GPA in all undergraduate courses taken;
2. Minimum of 12 prerequisite courses completed at time of consideration;
3. Performance in prerequisite courses;
4. Current enrollment in undergraduate program at FAU;
5. Score on HESI entrance test;
6. Other pertinent factors relating to the professional role.

A complete background check is required prior to beginning clinical courses.

Application Process for the Accelerated Second Degree Track Program
The accelerated track program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and eligibility for RN licensure. It 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.

1. Apply to the University (must have 3.0 GPA in bachelor’s degree).

2. Apply to the College of Nursing at http://nursing.fau.edu. Click on accelerated program. The applicant is cautioned to note the application deadline published on the website. There are no deadline exceptions.

3. Scores on the HESI entrance exam are used for overall evaluation of applicants. Check www.fau.edu/testing/HESI.php for scheduled HESI entrance exam dates and instructions for taking this test. A review book is available for purchase at www.hesitest.com.

4. Must have all required prerequisite courses completed prior to starting the nursing program, which begins in the summer semester. Each prerequisite must be completed with a grade of “C” or better to satisfy admission requirements.

Qualified students are admitted on a space-available basis. If there are more qualified applicants than available spaces, factors considered for admission include:

1. GPA from bachelor’s degree;
2. Grades in prerequisite courses;
3. Score on HESI entrance test;
4. Other pertinent factors relating to the professional role.

A complete background check is required prior to beginning program courses.

Traditional B.S.N. Track Requirements
The traditional track is for the non-RN student who has completed 60 credits of general education college-level study. The program requires five semesters of study at the College of Nursing. Students seeking admission must have a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 in all undergraduate courses taken and a minimum grade of “C” in all general education and required prerequisite courses.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the Intellectual Foundations 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 community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the Transfer Student Manual (see www.fau.edu/registrar/tsm.php) and below.

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.

Accelerated Second Degree B.S.N. Track Requirements
The accelerated second degree track of 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 12-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 approximately 40 hours per week. This is a limited access program, and students must complete all program prerequisites prior to beginning the accelerated track coursework.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the Intellectual Foundations 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 community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the Transfer Student Manual (see www.fau.edu/registrar/tsm.php) and below.

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.

RN to B.S.N. Program Requirements
The RN to B.S.N. program is designed for registered nurses aspiring to a Bachelor’s degree in nursing who have 60 completed lower-division college credits from an accredited institution and an A.D. program in nursing. Nursing courses for the RN to B.S.N. program are offered on the Boca Raton, Davie and Treasure Coast campuses as well as in a distance-learning (online) format.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the Intellectual Foundations 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 community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the Transfer Student Manual (see www.fau.edu/registrar/tsm.php).

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
1. Minimum GPA of 2.75 on 4.0 scale.
2. Current RN license in state of residency.
3. Grade of “C” or better in all required prerequisite courses.

Courses in the Program: RN to B.S.N.
Required lower-division prerequisite courses will be reviewed with an academic advisor.

* A complete background check is required for admission to the RN to B.S.N. program.



Policies for all Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Health and Other Requirements for Nursing Practice
The student who is admitted to the Pre-Licensure Program (traditional or accelerated second degree) must meet the following requirements annually:

1. Submit evidence of current health insurance.

2. Complete annual required health forms and immunizations.

3. Assume responsibility for transportation to and from all off-campus course clinical experiences.

4. Provide evidence of BLS certification for Health Care Providers through the American Heart Association. Certification must be valid for the entire academic year and resubmitted annually.

5. Additional health requirements may be necessary for students practicing in specific clinical agencies. Affected students will be notified.

6. Basic computer knowledge (word processing, email and Internet) is expected of students in the nursing program.

7. Purchase basic tools and equipment for nursing practice experiences.

8. Purchase learning materials preparatory for NCLEX in each course throughout the program.

9. Undergo complete background checks.

Note: In the last semester of the curriculum, students will be required to take a comprehensive exit exam and earn a satisfactory score on the exam prior to graduation.

The student who is admitted to the RN to B.S.N. program must meet the following requirements annually:

1. Submit a copy of current RN license.

2. Assume responsibility for transportation to and from all off-campus course clinical experiences.

3. Additional health requirements may be necessary for students practicing in specific clinical agencies. Affected students will be notified.

4. Basic computer knowledge (word processing, email and Internet) is expected of students in the nursing program.

5. Prior to the integrative practicum course (NUR 4836L) students must provide:

a. Evidence of professional liability (malpractice) insurance ($1 million to $3 million);
b. Evidence of current health insurance;
c. Complete annual required health forms and immunizations;
d. Evidence of BLS certification for Health Care Providers through the American Heart Association. Certification must be valid for the entire academic year and resubmitted annually.

6. Complete background check is required for full admission.

Progression and Retention Policy
1. Students must achieve a grade of “C” (2.0) or better in each course with an NUR or NSP prefix in order to continue in the undergraduate nursing program.

2. Each student admitted to the bachelor’s degree nursing program will be formally evaluated periodically throughout the semester. Students who are not making satisfactory progress toward meeting course objectives at any time during the semester 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 who demonstrate unsafe behaviors in the practice setting may be removed at any time.

3. Any student fully admitted to the traditional or accelerated second degree tracks of the B.S.N. program who withdraws from a course with an NUR or NSP prefix, with the exception of a filed medical withdrawal, is dismissed from the program.

4. In the traditional and accelerated programs, students must be successful on standardized tests at various points in the program to progress.

5. In traditional and accelerated programs, students will be required to take a comprehensive exit exam in the last semester of the curriculum and earn a satisfactory score on the exam prior to graduation.

6. Students are expected to demonstrate 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.

Dismissal Policy
A student enrolled in the undergraduate 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 director or 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 Committee on Students in the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. Readmission decisions by the committee 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.



Combined Program

B.S.N./M.S. Program Requirements
This dual degree program allows nurses with associate degrees to enter and earn the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) and the Master of Science with Major in Nursing (M.S.) degrees at the same time. Both degrees are awarded upon successful completion of the entire program. The B.S.N. is not awarded prior to the M.S. This degree option combines requirements for the current RN to B.S.N. program (with some adjustments related to master’s level courses) and all requirements for the master’s program with specialty preparation of the student’s choice. All current M.S. specialty tracks are available to the B.S.N./M.S. student; however, admission into the dual degree does not guarantee admission into the limited access Nurse Practitioner tracks.

Prerequisite Coursework for Transfer Students
Students transferring to Florida Atlantic University must complete both lower-division requirements (including the requirements of the Intellectual Foundations 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 community college or through equivalent coursework at another regionally accredited institution. Before transferring and to ensure timely progress toward the baccalaureate degree, students must also complete the prerequisite courses for their major as outlined in the Transfer Student Manual (see www.fau.edu/registrar/tsm.php).

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.

Guidelines
1. Admission to the B.S.N. level requires 1) a 2.75 GPA 2) an RN license and 3) a grade of “C” or better in all required prerequisite courses.

2. Students will first apply to the B.S.N. program and are considered undergraduates until B.S.N.-level requirements are met.

3. Students may study full or part time.

4. A specific course applies to only one of the degree programs.

5. Students apply to the M.S. program after completing the first three courses in the sequence listed below. Nurse Practitioner applicants have additional required courses. See track descriptions for details. M.S.-level admission is granted pending successful completion of upper-division nursing courses with a grade of “B” or better. Students complete all requirements for the M.S. track of their choice. Individual advisement is required.

6. Students choosing to “opt out” of the program before completion of the M.S. program or who are not accepted into the M.S. program can complete the B.S.N. by satisfying all current requirements for the RN to B.S.N. program.

7. Students in all M.S. options will need to take at least 30 credits beyond the B.S.N. level for the M.S. degree.

Master’s Program Objectives
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:

1. Be a specialist in advanced nursing practice, education and/or administration.

2. Use personal, empirical, ethical, aesthetic and other ways of knowing in responding critically and reflectively to calls within advanced practice nursing situations.

3. Demonstrate responsibility and accountability for independent and collaborative practice as an advanced practice nurse.

4. Address the complexity of caring through sociocultural responsibility and accountability as a leader of the nursing profession.

5. Create caring-healing environments through personal and professional leadership.

6. Articulate and apply nursing’s theoretical base to make decisions about nursing practice, evaluate outcomes and advance nursing knowledge.

7. Initiate systematic inquiry to study and advance the discipline of nursing.

8. Collaborate with persons, families, groups and colleagues to promote well-being in the global community by enhancing and humanizing health care delivery and influencing health care policy.



Practicum Requirements
Prior to entering any practicum course for graduate study, students are required to submit the following documentation:

1. Annual student health form (current within the last year).
2. Proof of personal medical insurance.
3. Malpractice insurance policy for registered nurses or student nurse practitioners. ($250,000-$750,000; specific for student Nurse Practitioner practice.)
4. Current CPR certification (BLS).
5. Signed statement to the effect that OSHA/ HIPAA/Safety requirements have been read.
6. Complete background check. Annual renewal of the background check by an Oath and Affirmation Statement is required.
7. 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 “B” or above in all required nursing graduate courses. For further clarification, see the Progression and Retention Policy in the Graduate Student Handbook at http://nursing.fau.edu.

Master of Science with Major in Nursing

Admission Requirements
1. Earned B.S.N. from an accredited bachelor’s program in nursing.

2. 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, or

3. Minimum verbal and quantitative Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores of 500 each. Preparatory course for GRE strongly advised. Waiver of GRE requirement may be considered under certain circumstances. This should be discussed with the graduate program advisor.

4. Basic baccalaureate-level, upper-division statistics course.

5. Baccalaureate-level, upper-division nursing research course.

6. For applicants who wish to prepare for a nurse practitioner track or the Advanced Holistic Nursing Track, the following baccalaureate-level courses are required: Health Assessment and Pharmacology. Students are also encouraged to take a baccalaureate-level pathophysiology course.

7. Résumé or Curriculum vitae (CV) presented in specified format located at http://nursing.fau.edu.

8. A written essay describing the student’s philosophy of nursing (see essay criteria below). Please do not use FAU form letter.

9. Two letters of recommendation (see criteria for letters below).

10. Current RN licensure to practice nursing.

11. Licensed as a nurse in country of origin if applying as an international student to the Individualized Track that has no clinical component.

12. An interview and on-site writing sample may be required.

13. Practice experience is not required but may be considered as part of the overall quality of the application.

Guidelines for Philosophy of Nursing Statement and Reference Letters
Philosophy of Nursing
Please provide a typed, double-spaced, no more than three-page statement of your nursing philosophy, specifically addressing:

1. Your beliefs/philosophy of nursing;
2. Why you are interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the specific track you have chosen; and
3. What you expect the achievement of the degree to provide for you and for nursing.

Letters of Reference
The purpose of letters of reference is to provide the graduate program with information about how colleagues and associates perceive the applicants to the Master of Science with Major in Nursing Program. Letters must be on letterhead, signed with an original signature and dated. Letters older than six months from the date of application or undated letters will not be accepted. One letter must be from a recent place of employment. Reference letters from other current students or peers will not be accepted.

The following points should be addressed in the letters of reference:

1. How long the referee has known the applicant;

2. In what capacity the referee has known the applicant (e.g., manager);

3. Specific information about all of the following in reference to the applicant:

a. Initiative;
b. Scholarly achievements and/or dispositions;
c. Ability to complete tasks;
d. Orientation to work in a team;
e. Self-reflection and self-correction;
f. Career orientation as a nurse;
g. Impression that the applicant can achieve the Master of Science with Major in Nursing.

Curriculum Plans for Master of Science with Major in Nursing Tracks

Administrative and Financial Leadership in Nursing and Health Care (39 credits)

* Offered in the College of Business.
** May not be required for all students.
Note: Complete background check required.

Adult Nurse Practitioner (43 credits)

* Requires 60 hours of clinical experience in skills lab and in community.
** Requires 180 hours of clinical practical experience.
*** Requires 240 hours of clinical practical experience.
Note: Complete background check required.



Advanced Holistic Nursing (33-36 credits)

* Requires 60 hours of clinical experience in skills lab and in community.
** May be waived with appropriate documentation of experience/education in complementary and alternative modalities.
*** Requires 180 hours of clinical practical experience.

Note: Complete background check required.

Clinical Nurse Leader (33 credits)

* Requires 60 hours of clinical experience in skills lab and in community.
** This course is offered in the College of Business.
*** This course includes a 400-hour paid practicum at a clinical partner site.
Note: Complete background check required.

Family Nurse Practitioner (43 credits)

* Requires 60 hours of clinical experience in skills lab and in community.
** Requires 180 hours of clinical practical experience.
*** Requires 240 hours of clinical practical experience.
Note: Complete background check required.

Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (43 credits)

* Requires 60 hours of clinical experience in skills lab and in community.
** Requires 180 hours of clinical practical experience.
*** Requires 240 hours of clinical practical experience.
Note: Complete background check required.

Individualized Track (30 credits minimum)

Note: Complete background check required.

Nursing Educator (30 credits minimum)

* Requires 120 hours of practicum experience.
Note:
Total of 360 practicum hours of supervised instruction.
Complete background check required.

Post Master’s Certificate Programs

Applicants holding an earned Master of Science degree in Nursing may choose from the following Post Master’s Certificate Programs: Administration and Financial Leadership in Nursing and Health Care, Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP), Advanced Holistic Nursing (AHN), Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) or Nurse Educator (NGRE).

Consideration will be given to the student’s former M.S. in Nursing program when planning the specific plan of study for the Post Master’s Certificate Program. 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 Master’s Certificate is awarded upon program completion.

Advanced Nursing Practice Grounded in Caring, NGR 6110, is required of all post master’s students regardless of the track.

Any applicant for a Post Master’s Certificate must meet with the Assistant Dean/director for the master’s program for initial advisement and program planning.

Admission Requirements for Post Master’s Certificate Programs
1. Earned M.S. degree in Nursing from an accredited nursing program.
2. Minimum graduate program GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
3. Baccalaureate-level (upper-division) courses: Health Assessment and Pharmacology are required for nurse practitioner tracks. Students are also encouraged to take a baccalaureate-level pathophysiology course.
4. Résumé or CV.
5. A written essay describing the student’s philosophy of nursing.*
6. Two letters of recommendation.*
7. Current RN licensure to practice nursing.
8. Complete background check (required following admission).
9. An interview and on-site writing sample may be required.
10. Practice experience is not required but may be considered as part of the overall quality of the application.

* Criteria for essay and letters are previously listed under the heading: Guidelines for Philosophy of Nursing Statement and Reference Letters.

Note: Admissions decisions are made based upon the quality of the application and the number of available slots in the desired  program track. Meeting the minimal admission requirements does not guarantee admission.

Bridge Graduate Program

The Bridge Graduate Program at FAU offers a unique perspective to study nursing at an advanced level. The curriculum is designed for registered nurses with a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing to earn a master’s degree in nursing. It allows for entry into any of the M.S. in Nursing specialty tracks.

Applicants who meet admission requirements are admitted conditionally to the master’s program. The Bridge Program offers the student the opportunity to complete a plan of study of upper-division undergraduate courses that form a bridge to the master’s program. Applicants must have met the prerequisites required for the upper-division undergraduate nursing coursework before being considered for graduate admission. Because recognition for the prior baccalaureate is taken into consideration and the Bridge Program of coursework is abbreviated at the upper division of study in the undergraduate nursing program, a baccalaureate degree in nursing is not awarded.

Once the student has completed the Bridge courses satisfactorily (3.0 GPA on 4.0 scale), conditional admission is lifted. The student then may take courses in the chosen track in the graduate program for study toward the Master of Science with Major in Nursing degree.

Bridge Program Admission Requirements
1. Earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
2. Minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or
3. Minimum verbal and quantitative GRE scores of 500 each. Preparatory course for GRE strongly advised. Waiver of GRE requirement may be considered under certain circumstances. This should be discussed with the graduate program advisor.
4. Basic baccalaureate-level statistics course.
5. Required prerequisite courses (see below).
6. Résumé or CV.
7. A written essay describing your philosophy of nursing.*
8. Two letters of recommendation.*
9. Current RN licensure to practice nursing.
10. Licensed as a nurse in the country of origin if applying for Individualized Track with no clinical component.
11. Complete background check (required upon admission).
12. Practice experience is not required but may be considered as part of the overall quality of the application.

* Criteria for essay and letters are previously listed under the heading: Guidelines for Philosophy of Nursing Statement and Reference Letters.

Note: Admissions decisions are made based upon the quality of the application and the number of available slots in the desired  program track. Meeting the minimal admission requirements does not guarantee admission.

*May substitute upper-division research course from baccalaureate degree.
**May be waived by director or Assistant Dean.
+ Must take NUR 3115 and NUR 4805 first.

In addition, for clinical tracks (Nurse Practitioner), the following baccalaureate-level courses are required: Health Assessment and Pharmacology. Students are also encouraged to take a baccalaureate-level pathophysiology course.

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 on clinical 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.

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 a seven-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+” and “B” are acceptable in fulfilling graduate school requirements in the doctoral plan of study. Students in the doctoral program must achieve a “B” or better in each nursing course 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 fee waivers are available for full-time students. In addition, limited scholarship funds are 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: Director or Program Assistant of Doctoral Programs, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL 33431.

Doctor of Philosophy with Major in Nursing

Admission Requirements
Admission to the Ph.D. program will be for the fall and spring semesters 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:

1. 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.

2. A minimum cumulative 3.5 GPA in the nursing master’s program.

3. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) scores. The GRE or MAT is required by the State of Florida. GRE or MAT scores should be from within the last five years of the date postmarked on the application. If the GRE or MAT score is older than five years, the applicant may petition the doctoral program committee to consider acceptance of the older score.

4. Curriculum vitae; required format available at http://nursing.fau.edu.

5. Three letters of recommendation from academic and professional references, one from a master’s program professor holding a doctorate (see guidelines on website).

6. A copy of one 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.

7. A typed statement of the applicant’s goals for the doctoral degree (12-point font, double-spaced, no more than 500 words).

8. Evidence of grade of “B” or better in a graduate statistics course: STA 6113, Educational Statistics or an equivalent course. STA 6113, offered through the College of Education, provides the student with a broad knowledge of statistical concepts and techniques necessary for critical consumption of research. If an equivalent course was taken, a copy of the syllabus or official catalog course description of the equivalent course must accompany the application.

9. Copy of current malpractice insurance as a registered nurse or advanced registered nurse practitioner. Insurance must be maintained throughout the program.

10. Complete background check.

Applicants may 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 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:

1. The candidate must complete 63 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.

2. The 45 credits of required and approved coursework prior to dissertation include 9 credits of theory core, 15 credits of research core, 3 credits of advanced statistics beyond the required prerequisite course, 9 credits in the nursing concentration core and doctoral seminars, 9 credits in cognate courses that complement the student’s research focus area, at least 90 practicum hours and 3 credits of doctoral precandidacy study.

3. The 9 credits of cognate coursework must be approved by an advisor.

4. Ph.D. students are expected to serve as research assistants to faculty for at least 90 hours while in the program. The total hours may be divided over three semesters.

5. The candidate must successfully complete the qualifying comprehensive examination at the end of all coursework during the doctoral precandidacy 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.

6. 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 Outcome Competencies
By the completion of the Ph.D. program, graduates will be able to:

1. Integrate the knowledge of caring in the design of innovative models for nursing practice and research.
2. Analyze and apply theoretical and conceptual models to guide nursing practice and research.
3. Design, conduct and utilize research relevant to nursing practice grounded in caring.
4. Interpret and influence health policy in an interdisciplinary context.

Ph.D. Program Curriculum Plan

Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Philosophy

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 and policy without taking the traditional M.S.-level courses in these areas.

Admission Requirements
All Ph.D. program admission requirements outlined previously are necessary with the exception of:

1. A master’s degree with major in Nursing is not required. 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.

2. One year of experience as a registered nurse is required before being admitted to the program.

3. A GPA of 3.5 for the B.S.N. degree is required.

4. One reference letter from the baccalaureate program is required in addition to the other two described in the Ph.D. admission section.

5. Scholarly product from coursework completed at the B.S.N. level can substitute for the M.S.-level project.

6. All other Ph.D. admission requirements must be met.

Degree Requirements
The B.S.N. to Ph.D. program requires at least 81 credits following the B.S.N. degree. One plan of study prepares students for the educator role. Other role preparation is possible but may require additional credits. For example, advanced practice preparation would require additional theory and practice courses. Study plans will be developed under the direction of the student’s doctoral committee.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Admission Requirements
Admission to the D.N.P. program will be for the fall and spring semesters each year. Applications must first be submitted to the University’s Graduate College before completing the College of Nursing application. Evidence of the following information is required in the admissions process:

1. 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 postsecondary 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.

2. A minimum cumulative 3.5 GPA in the nursing master’s program.

3. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) scores. The GRE or MAT is required by the State of Florida. GRE or MAT scores should be from within the last five years of the date postmarked on the application. If the GRE or MAT score is older than five years, the applicant may petition the doctoral program committee to consider acceptance of the older score.

4. Curriculum vitae; required format available at http://nursing.fau.edu.

5. Three letters of recommendation from academic and professional references, one from a master’s program professor holding a doctorate (see guidelines on website).

6. A copy of one 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.

7. A typed statement of the applicant’s goals for the doctoral degree (12-point font, double-spaced, no more than 500 words).

8. Evidence of grade of “B” or better in: STA 6113, Educational Statistics, or an equivalent course. STA 6113, offered through the College of Education, provides the student with a broad knowledge of statistical concepts and techniques necessary for critical consumption of research. A transcript record of completion of STA 6113 or equivalent with the grade must be provided with the application. If an equivalent course was taken, a copy of the syllabus or official catalog course description of the equivalent course must accompany the application. Epidemiology is also required.

9. Copy of current malpractice insurance as a registered nurse or advanced registered nurse practitioner. Insurance must be maintained throughout the program.

10. Complete background check.

11. National certification in Advanced Practice Nursing or Administration.

12. Copy of current licensure in the state of  Florida as a Registered Nurse. This must remain active throughout the program.

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:

1. The candidate must complete 39-45 credits beyond the master’s degree to total 80 graduate credits beyond the bachelor’s degree.

2. The candidate must complete 1000 clinical hours in graduate courses beyond the bachelor’s degree.

3. The candidate must complete a capstone project that evaluates an innovation related to advanced practice nursing and/or administration of nursing care.

4. The capstone project committee for each student will oversee the development and completion of the student’s project. Upon successful defense and completion of the project, the candidate will be awarded the degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice at the next graduation ceremony.

Program Outcome Competencies
By the completion of the D.N.P. program, graduates will be able to:

1. Integrate knowledge of caring in the design, implementation and evaluation of innovative models of advanced nursing practice.

2. Utilize nursing and other disciplinary knowledge and research to support improvement of nursing practice in populations-based care across the continuum of the health care industry.

3. Apply theoretical and conceptual models that directly relate to nursing practice.

4. Interpret and influence health policy in the design and evaluation of advanced nursing practice and multidisciplinary services with a consideration of the financing of health care.

5. Articulate the role of the Doctor of Nursing Practice as a leader of systems change in a multidisciplinary context.

6. Critically evaluate the design and implementation of information systems and technologies as they support whole-person care across the lifespan.

7. Design systems of population-based health promotion for the improvement of global health using multidisciplinary approaches that demonstrate cultural competence.

D.N.P. Program Curriculum Plan

Information
For questions/clarification/information regarding specific programs in the College of Nursing, contact the following:

Boca Raton Campus
Undergraduate and Accelerated B.S.N. Programs: Sharon Dormire (sdormire@fau.edu). Maureen Brooks (mbrooks@fau.edu) at 561-297-3263 (Traditional and Accelerated Pre-Licensure programs). Latchmin Harrilal (lharrila@fau.edu) at 561-297-3761 (RN to B.S.N. program).

Master of Science Program: Dr. Shirley Gordon (sgordon@fau.edu) or Carol Kruse (ckruse@fau.edu) at 561-297-3261.

Doctoral Program: Dr. Susan Folden (sfolden@fau.edu) or Krisa Kolbe (kkolbe@fau.edu) at 561-297-1109.

Davie Campus
RN to B.S.N. Program and Master’s Program: Sharon Dormire (sdormire@fau.edu) or Program Assistant (davie.nursing@fau.edu) at 954-236-1276.

Treasure Coast Campus
RN to B.S.N. and Master’s Programs: Sharon Dormire (sdormire@fau.edu) or Dr. Shirley Gordon (sgordon@fau.edu), respectively, or Mary Curran (mcurran@fau.edu) at 772-873-3381.

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