The study of diverse disciplines contributes to the ability to think analytically, reason logically, and communicate effectively. Students are expected to continue growing in intellectual and communication skills, using their liberal education to deepen their understanding of nursing and health. University-wide interdisciplinary activities are actively sought for the intellectual exchange and stimulation they provide. The purpose of graduate education in nursing is to prepare students for advanced practice roles including nurse midwife, nurse practitioner, and nurse manager. At the master's level, graduate study provides the opportunity for in-depth theoretical knowledge, the basis for advanced clinical practice.
Students acquire research skills and a deeper knowledge of their nursing specialty.
Graduate education provides students the knowledge and skills for planning and initiating change in a health care system. For potential members of interdisciplinary health care management teams, the focus is on advanced patient care skills that will provide leadership and will influence nursing organizations within a variety of health care settings. It is acknowledged that preparation for the nurse educator role requires education beyond the master's degree. The increase in knowledge and scope of nursing responsibilities, as well as changes in roles, functions, and practice settings, require a post-baccalaureate nursing education that is built on a rich undergraduate liberal education base and a baccalaureate in nursing or its equivalent. The nursing program leading to the M.S.N. at Vanderbilt constitutes an arena for excellence in nursing practice, as well as a forum for discussion and analysis of issues that affect health care, consumers, the nursing profession, and society.