The graduate possesses a broad knowledge base and skills in critical things, clinical reasoning, judgement and leadership, which provide a solid base for personal and professional growth and for advanced education in nursing. Graduate education in nursing builds upon the general baccalaureate education. The graduate of the master's program is prepared to function as an advanced practice nurse, a nurse practitioner or as a clinical nurse specialist, who is an expert practitioner in a specialized field, incorporating theories and principles of nursing, education, management, and research. The graduated is proficient in clinical, ethical, and system decision-making associated with interpretation, coordination, and delivery of direct care across settings. As leaders in the profession, graduates work in collaborative and consultative relationships to influence health policy and make significant contributions to the health care delivery system.
Graduates are prepared to pursue doctoral education.
The faculty is committed to the belief that nursing has a distinct body of knowledge that can and must be extended, verified, and revised using the methods of scientific inquiry. The doctoral program prepares nurse scientists who will advance the discipline of nursing through research and theory development. Graduates are expected to provide leadership for the advancement of the discipline in the scientific community and in academic and service institutions. The College of Nursing is committed to the continuing education of nurses. The faculty regards this education as a responsibility of nurses to themselves as well as to those they serve.