MSN Program Objectives

The objectives of the MSN program are based upon the mission of the institution, the philosophy of the program, directives of the Institute of Medicine, and the needs of the public. The objectives of the MSN program are to:

• Reading and Written Communication: Students will demonstrate competent writing and reading throughout their programs of study.
• Oral Communication: Students will demonstrate effective oral communication skills in both general and major-specific contexts.
• Critical Analysis and Reasoning: Students will use critical analysis and reasoning, supported by knowledge and skills learned throughout their degree programs, to enhance personal and professional decision making:
  • Quantitative analysis and reasoning
  • Analysis and reasoning in the humanities, sciences, social sciences, and arts
  • Ethical analysis and reasoning
  • Reasoning in career-related contexts
• Knowledge and Skills for Living in a Diverse Society: Students will consider multiple perspectives (quantitative and qualitative, among individuals, from different cultural contexts, etc.) when making decisions independently or as part of a team.
• Information Literacy: Students will define and articulate their needs for information and access this information effectively and efficiently.
• Integration of Learning: Students will develop the ability to integrate their learning, making connections within their major, between fields, between curricular and co-curricular activities, and between academic knowledge and practice
• Demonstrate knowledge, skills, abilities, and judgment to integrate nursing concepts necessary for advanced practice nursing roles.
• Demonstrate interpersonal communication skills and collaborative strategies that support the oversight and accountability for healthcare delivery.
• Develop a foundation for post-graduate nursing education and pursue professional growth in advanced nursing practice.
• Utilize evidence-based practice in providing primary care to patients within the defined scope of practice for advanced practice (FNP) nurses.
• Synthesize theoretical and empirical nursing and medical knowledge provided throughout the course of the program to be successful when taking advanced practice certification examinations (i.e., American Nurses Credentialing Center Board Certification [AANC] or The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board [AANPCB]).
• Apply leadership concepts and advanced nursing practice and decision-making when assuming the role of a certified Family Nurse Practitioner.