Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

MSN-600 Orientation to MSN Program (0 credits)

Students engage in on-line activities to become oriented to Alverno College and the Graduate Nursing Program. CastleBranch requirements for clinical placement in the MSN degree program are completed.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the advanced practice MSN degree program

MSN-600A Orientation to the Post-Master's Certificate Program (0 credits)

Students engage in on-line activities to become oriented to Alverno College and the Graduate Nursing Program. Castle Branch requirements for clinical placement in the post-MSN certificate program are completed.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to the post-MSN certificate program

MSN-600B Orientation to DEMSN Program (0 credits)

Admission to the DEMSN Program. Students engage in on-line activities to become oriented to Alverno College and the Graduate Nursing Program. CastleBranch requirements for clinical placement in the DEMSN degree program are completed.

MSN-602 Nursing Inquiry, Research & Scholarship (3 credits)

The student develops knowledge and skills to promote the delivery of evidence-based health care to optimize patient outcomes. Key elements of the research process are examined; research, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice processes are differentiated; and the quality of clinical practice guidelines are evaluated. Clinical practice problems are identified, and a relevant body of published intervention-focused research is critically appraised to determine the overall strength of evidence and recommendations for clinical practice and future research. Research ethics, including human subject research protections are explored.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-615 completed or concurrent

MSN-603 Health Care Systems: Organization, Economics, and Politics (3 credits)

Through the lens of a nurse leader, students comprehensively and systematically examine the interrelationships among health care policy, politics, delivery, and accessibility issues to make decisions about the allocation of resources to optimize health care quality and cost-effectiveness. Federal, state, and local health care resources are explored. The interaction and impact of politics, organizations, and economics on the student's specialty area of advanced practice nursing are analyzed.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-615 completed or concurrent

MSN-605 Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology (3 credits)

Students synthesize knowledge from theory and research to explore etiology, pathogenesis, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations of common diseases across the lifespan. Students expand their clinical judgment and patient education skills through the analysis and evaluation of physiological health and illness processes attributable to age, race, culture, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status.

Prerequisite(s): N-545, N-556

MSN-610 Nursing Leadership: Advocacy, Activism, Innovation and Policy (3 credits)

Students engage in personal leadership development in the context of ever-changing complex organizations and environments. Current and emerging health issues are examined, beginning at the local level and expanding globally. The many facets of leadership are examined as well as the skill sets needed to facilitate change and the nurse leader's role within professional organizations to advance nursing and health care. Students advocate for policies and strategies that maintain or improve health outcomes for diverse populations, especially considering organizational structures and the economics of health care.

Prerequisite(s): N-529 completed, N-528 and N-530 completed or concurrent

MSN-614 Nursing Research and Scholarship (3 credits)

The student advances their knowledge of evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and research processes as they engage in the scholarship of practice. The student identifies a problem of interest and develops a researchable question, conducts a comprehensive search of electronic data bases, differentiates the utility of qualitative and quantitative research findings, appraises published research studies and synthesizes research findings, and translates evidence into practice. Research ethics and human subject research protections are emphasized.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-618 and MSN-629 completed or concurrent.

MSN-615 Advanced Practice Roles and Nursing Theories (3 credits)

Current and emerging advanced practice nurse (APRN) roles, standards and scope of practice, required competencies, and issues of practice specialization are explored. APRN roles are examined within the interdisciplinary health care system; legal and professional issues, practice models, and leadership are emphasized. Students identify, apply, analyze, and evaluate nursing and related disciplinary theories to determine their utility for guiding APRN practice.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-600 or MSN-600A completed or concurrent

MSN-616 Ethics for the Advanced Practice Nurse (1 credit)

Using self-reflection, the students examine their moral decision-making in relation to the ANA Code of Ethics and apply ethical models and frameworks used in the health care system. Ethical decision-making processes are discussed as they relate to the role of the advanced practice nurse (APRN) and are applied to APRN practice situations, ethics committees, and ethics consultations.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-600 completed or concurrent

MSN-617 Population-Based Health (3 credits)

The principles of epidemiology are examined with a focus on the health of communities and populations. The influence of genetics, culture, and environment are explored. International, national, and local health promotion strategies and goals are identified and analyzed from the lens of the advanced practice nurse (APRN) and interprofessional team. Students explore the use of valid sources of population data and current information technologies to optimize patient safety, health care cost-effectiveness, and population health outcomes.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-615 completed or concurrent

MSN-618 Population-Based Health (3 credits)

Epidemiological principles are applied to analyze and respond to population-based health issues and health promotion in national and international environments. Using active learning strategies, students examine the influence of genetics, the environment, disaster preparation, and health care disparities on health and health outcomes. Health information technologies and data sources are analyzed for use in promoting safe practice environments, population safety, cost-effectiveness, and optimal population health outcomes. Students continue to explore concepts of evidence-based, inter-professional, and population-centered care related to the leadership role of a master's prepared nurse.

Prerequisite(s): N-546, N-556, N-557, and N-565 completed., MSN-605 and MSN-614 completed or concurrent.

MSN-621 Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology (3 credits)

Theory and research are used to explore the etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations of common diseases across the lifespan with a particular focus on adults and older adults. Variations in physiological health and illness processes attributable to age, race, culture, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status are examined from the lens of the advanced practice nurse (APRN). Generalized stress response and adaptation of the body to a variety of acute and chronic illnesses are emphasized. This course builds upon the nurse's prior knowledge of basic physiology and pathophysiology, providing foundation for the assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic management of disease across the lifespan by the APRN provider.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-600 or MSN-600A completed or concurrent

MSN-622 Advanced Health & Physical Assessment (3 credits)

The nurse builds upon prior knowledge and experience as they examine and apply advanced practice health and physical assessment techniques and theories in the collaborative care of culturally diverse patients and families with an emphasis on individuals across the lifespan. Assessment findings are synthesized to support the development of differential diagnoses and clinical decision-making by the advanced practice nurse (APRN) provider.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-615 and MSN-621 completed

MSN-623 Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics and Clinical Decision Making (3 credits)

Principles of advanced pharmacology in the management of patients across the lifespan are learned, with an emphasis on adults and older adults. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacotherapeutics of major drug classifications and current clinical drug research are examined. Ethnopharmacological research studies are appraised to discern clinical applications for individuals from racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds. The student is prepared for the role and responsibilities of the advanced practice nurse (APRN) provider with prescriptive authority.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-621 completed or concurrent, or equivalent course pre-approved for transfer credit prior to admission

MSN-624 Advanced Primary Care Theory 1 (3 credits)

Students develop primary care knowledge to assess, diagnose, and treat acute and chronic health problems across the lifespan, with a particular focus on adults and older adults. Health promotion, disease prevention, and the management of common cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine/metabolic, hematologic, oncologic, and HEENT disorders are emphasized. Pathophysiological, social, and developmental theoretical frameworks, and relevant current research findings are applied. Advanced critical thinking is used to plan holistic, culturally sensitive advanced practice primary care.

Prerequisite(s): Advanced practice MSN degree program students: MSN-600, MSN-602, MSN-603, MSN-615, MSN-616, MSN-617, MSN-621, MSN-622, and MSN-623 completed Advanced practice post-MSN certificate program students: MSN-600A completed MSN-615, MSN-621, MSN-622, and MSN-623 completed or equivalent courses pre-approved for transfer credit prior to admission Note: MSN-615 is not required for post-MSN certificate program students with current national board certification who are currently practicing in the APRN role, MSN-624P concurrent

MSN-624P FNP Clinical Practicum 1 (2 credits)

Under the supervision of a clinical preceptor, students integrate theories and concepts from advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, and advanced pharmacology in the collaborative, culturally sensitive, holistic care of diverse individuals and families in the clinical setting. Advanced critical thinking is applied in the performance of advanced health and physical assessment, formulation of differential diagnoses, and development of treatment plans across the lifespan based on current and emerging national guidelines. Acute and chronic health problems are addressed; health promotion, disease prevention, and cost-effective evidence-based primary care are emphasized.

Prerequisite(s): Advanced practice MSN degree program students: MSN-600, MSN-602, MSN-603, MSN-615, MSN-616, MSN-617, MSN-621, MSN-622 and MSN-623 completed Advanced practice post-MSN certificate program students: MSN-600A completed MSN-615, MSN-621, MSN-622, and MSN-623 completed or equivalent courses pre-approved for transfer credit prior to admission Note: MSN-615 is not required for post-MSN certificate program students with current national board certification who are currently practicing in the APRN role, MSN-624 completed or concurrent

MSN-625 Advanced Primary Care Theory 2 (3 credits)

Students develop primary care knowledge to assess, diagnose, and treat acute and chronic health problems across the lifespan, with a particular focus on women, children, and gender-related care. Health promotion, disease prevention, and the management of illnesses common to women and children are emphasized. Pathophysiological, social, and developmental theoretical frameworks, and relevant current research findings are applied. Advanced critical thinking is used to plan holistic, culturally sensitive, advanced practice primary care.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-624 and MSN-624P completed, MSN-625P concurrent

MSN-625P FNP Clinical Practicum 2 (2 credits)

Under the supervision of a clinical preceptor, students refine their ability to independently integrate theories and concepts from advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, and advanced pharmacology in the collaborative, culturally sensitive, holistic care of diverse individuals and families in the clinical setting. Advanced critical thinking is applied in the performance of advanced health and physical assessment, formulation of differential diagnoses, and development of treatment plans across the lifespan based on current and emerging national guidelines. Acute and chronic health problems are addressed; health promotion, disease prevention, and cost-effective primary care are emphasized.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-624 and MSN-624P completed, MSN-625 completed or concurrent

MSN-626 Advanced Primary Care Theory 3 (3 credits)

Students continue to develop primary care knowledge to assess, diagnose, and treat acute and chronic health problems across the lifespan. Health promotion, disease prevention, and the management of common dermatologic, neurological, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal/genitourinary, psychologic/psychosocial, and inflammatory disorders are emphasized. Pathophysiological, social, and developmental theoretical frameworks, and relevant current research findings are applied. Advanced critical thinking is used to plan holistic, culturally sensitive advanced practice primary care. Additional emphases include palliative and end-of-life care management, coding/payment structures, and professionalism of the Family Nurse Practitioner.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-625 and MSN-625P completed, MSN-626P concurrent

MSN-626P FNP Clinical Practicum 3 (2 credits)

Under the supervision of a clinical preceptor, students demonstrate independent and effective integration of theories and concepts from advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, and advanced pharmacology in the collaborative, culturally sensitive, holistic care of diverse individuals and families in the clinical setting. Acute and chronic health problems are addressed; health promotion, disease prevention, and cost-effective care are emphasized; and readiness for the responsibilities of independent practice in the Family Nurse Practitioner role is demonstrated.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-625 and MSN-625P completed, MSN-626 completed or concurrent

MSN-629 Advanced Nursing Roles and Interprofessional Teams (2 credits)

Students explore the expanding roles of master's-prepared nurses across various settings, interdisciplinary teams, and professional organizations, with a focus on required competencies and scope of practice. The course emphasizes the nurse's involvement in macro-level decision-making and the application of theoretical frameworks to influence healthcare structures and outcomes. Additionally, students study the contributions of nursing pioneers and their lasting impact on the profession.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-610 completed., N-545 and N-556 completed or concurrent.

MSN-630 Psychopharmacology (3 credits)

Pharmacotherapies used in the management of mental health disorders are examined. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are applied to antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics, hypnotics, and stimulants with an expressed understanding of the respective indications, side effects, and contraindications of each. Key elements of neurotransmission, including neuroreceptors, neurotransmitters, and enzymatic reactions are explored. The utility of psychotropic medications in the advanced practice treatment of mental health disorders, including addictions, is discussed. This course prepares nurses for the role and responsibilities of the PMHNP in professional practice with prescriptive authority.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-622 and MSN-623 completed

MSN-631 Advanced Health and Physical Assessment (3 credits)

Students expand their knowledge of health and phyiscal assessment as they apply nursing and interdisciplinary theories and advanced assessment techniques used in the collaborative care of culturally diverse individuals, families, and communities. Students identify expected and abnormal findings, drawing inferences based on knowledge of pathophysiology, lifestyle practices, and health-seeking behaviors as they advance their clinical judgment. Adult-geriatric populations serve as the key focus of interest.

Prerequisite(s): N-545 and N-556 completed., MSN-605 completed or concurrent.

MSN-632 Advanced Nursing Theory I (3 credits)

Students apply their knowledge of core nursing principles to the care of individuals and populations experiencing unstable or emergent critical health conditions. Through various learning modalities, students integrate theoretical foundations and clinical judgment to promote optimal health outcomes in diverse populations.

Prerequisite(s): N-545, N-556, N-565 and MSN-610 completed., MSN-605 and MSN-629 completed or concurrent.

MSN-634 Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Care Theory 1 (3 credits)

Theories of personality and psychopathy are explored through the assessment and diagnosis of mental illness in the adult population. Advanced psychopharmacology concepts are applied to abnormal neurophysiology as seen in depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and sleep disorders. Critical thinking and psychotherapy techniques based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Activation Therapy, and Acceptance-Commitment Therapy are utilized to formulate culturally sensitive, evidence-based, individualized care plans addressing the genetic and epigenetic components of mental health.

Prerequisite(s): Advanced practice MSN degree program students: MSN-600, MSN-602, MSN-603, MSN-615, MSN-616, MSN-617, MSN-621, MSN-622, and MSN-623 completed Advanced practice post-MSN certificate program students: MSN-600A completed MSN-615, MSN-621, MSN-622, and MSN-623 completed or equivalent courses pre-approved for transfer credit prior to admission MSN-630 completed or concurrent Note: MSN-615 is not required for post-MSN certificate program students with current national board certification who are currently practicing in the APRN role, MSN-630 completed or concurrent, MSN-634P concurrent

MSN-634P PMHNP Clinical Practicum 1 (2 credits)

Under the supervision of a clinical preceptor, students integrate theories and concepts from advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, advanced pharmacology, advanced psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy in the collaborative, culturally sensitive, holistic mental health care of diverse individuals and families in the clinical setting. Advanced critical thinking is applied in the assessment of abnormal neurophysiology, formulation of differential diagnoses, and development of treatment plans based on patient history, genetics, epigenetics, and lifestyle factors.

Prerequisite(s): Advanced practice MSN degree program students: MSN-600, MSN-602, MSN-603, MSN-615, MSN-616, MSN-617, MSN-621, MSN-622, MSN-623 and MSN-630 completed Advanced practice post-MSN certificate program students: MSN-600A completed MSN-615, MSN-621, MSN-622, MSN-623, and MSN-630 completed or equivalent courses pre-approved for transfer credit prior to admission Note: MSN-615 is not required for post-MSN certificate program students with current national board certification who are currently practicing in the APRN role, MSN-634 completed or concurrent

MSN-635 Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Care Theory 2 (3 credits)

Theories of personality and psychopathy are explored through the assessment and diagnosis of mental illness in the child-adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations. Advanced psychopharmacology concepts are applied to abnormal neurophysiology as seen in personality disorders, neurocognitive disorders, bipolar spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, ADHD, and autism. Psychotherapy techniques including the use of group therapy are utilized to formulate culturally sensitive, evidence-based, individualized care plans addressing the genetic and epigenetic components of mental health.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-634 and MSN-634P completed, MSN-635P concurrent

MSN-635P PMHNP Clinical Practicum 2 (2 credits)

Under the supervision of a clinical preceptor, students refine their ability to integrate theories and concepts from advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, advanced pharmacology, advanced psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy in the collaborative, culturally sensitive, holistic mental health care of diverse individuals, including children/adolescents, in individual and group therapy settings. Advanced critical thinking is applied in the assessment of abnormal neurophysiology, formulation of differential diagnoses, and development of treatment plans based on patient history, genetics, epigenetics, lifestyle factors.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-634 and MSN-634P completed, MSN-635 completed or concurrent

MSN-636 Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Care Theory 3 (3 credits)

Theories of mental health and psychopathy are explored through the assessment and diagnosis of trauma, eating, and addiction disorders. Advanced psychopharmacology and specialized supportive therapies are applied with a focus on culturally sensitive, evidenced-based, individualized plans of care. Challenges and opportunities regarding mental health care for individuals, families, and communities are explored at local, state, and national levels. The roles and responsibilities of the PMHNP, including the professional standards and scope of practice and ethical and legal aspects of care, are emphasized.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-635 and MSN-635P completed, MSN-636P concurrent

MSN-636P PMHNP Clinical Practicum 3 (2 credits)

Under the supervision of a clinical preceptor, students demonstrate independent and effective integration of theories and concepts from advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, advanced pharmacology, advanced psychopharmacology, and psychotherapy in the collaborative, culturally sensitive, holistic mental health care of diverse individuals in the clinical setting. Readiness for the responsibilities of independent practice in the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner role is demonstrated.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-635 and MSN-635P completed, MSN-636 completed or concurrent

MSN-644 Advanced Primary Care Adult- Gerontology 1 (3 credits)

This is the first of two systems-focused didactic theory courses in the AGPCNP Program. In this course, as in MSN-645 the course content is organized by body system and spans the adult-geriatric primary care wellness-illness continuum. Health promotion, health protection, and disease prevention and treatment in adult-geriatric individuals and populations, including the frail elderly, are addressed. There is an emphasis on advanced-practice primary care management of episodic and chronic health problems experienced by geriatric patients. Various teaching strategies, including the use of technology, are employed to promote and support student learning. Students are expected to build upon knowledge gained in the MSN Core courses, applying theoretical frameworks cultural and generational perspectives, ethical principles, current evidence and the cost of care in formulating and evaluating advanced practice plans of care to ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality, cost-effective adult-gerontological health care. Current CPR certification and updated immunization records required.

Prerequisite(s): Advanced practice MSN degree program students: MSN-600, MSN-602, MSN-603, MSN-615, MSN-616, MSN-617, MSN-621, MSN-622, and MSN-623 completed Advanced practice post-MSN certificate program students: MSN-600A completed MSN-615, MSN-621, MSN-622, and MSN-623 completed or equivalent courses pre-approved for transfer credit prior to admission Note: MSN-615 is not required for post-MSN certificate program students with current national board certification who are currently practicing in the APRN role, MSN-644P concurrent

MSN-644P AGPCNP Practicum 1 (2 credits)

AGPCNP practicum courses involve situated experiential learning opportunities, conducted in outpatient settings where episodic and chronic health problems spanning the adult-geriatric wellness-illness continuum are diagnosed and treated. Under the direct supervision and guidance of an approved clinical preceptor, the student engages in collaborative, interprofessional primary care of adult-geriatric patients, including the frail elderly, thereby progressing toward competence in the delivery of advanced practice adult-gerontology primary care nursing. It is expected that students apply theoretical knowledge, skills, and abilities attained in pre-requisite MSN program core courses, as well as the corresponding AGPCNP track theory courses, as they partner with patients in the clinical environment to optimize health outcomes.

Prerequisite(s): Advanced practice MSN degree program students: MSN-600, MSN-602, MSN-603, MSN-615, MSN-616, MSN-617, MSN-621, MSN-622, and MSN-623 completed Advanced practice post-MSN certificate program students: MSN-600A completed MSN-615, MSN-621, MSN-622, and MSN-623 completed or equivalent courses pre-approved for transfer credit prior to admission Note: MSN-615 is not required for post-MSN certificate program students with current national board certification who are currently practicing in the APRN role, MSN-644 completed or concurrent

MSN-645 Advanced Primary Care Adult- Gerontology 2 (3 credits)

Last offered Fall 2025. This is the second of two theory courses in the AGPCNP program in which course content is organized by body system and spans the adult-geriatric primary care wellness-illness continuum. Health promotion, health protection, and disease prevention and treatment in adult-geriatric individuals and populations, including the frail elderly are addressed. There is an emphasis on advanced-practice primary care management of episodic and chronic health problems. Students are expected to build upon knowledge gained in the MSN program core courses, applying theoretical frameworks, cultural and generational perspectives, ethical principles, current evidence and the cost of care in formulating and evaluating adult-gerontology primary care to optimize health can health care systems.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-644 and MSN-644P completed, MSN-645P concurrent

MSN-645P AGPCNP Practicum 2 (2 credits)

Last offered Fall 2025. This course provides a situated experiential learning opportunity, conducted in outpatient settings where episodic and chronic health problems spanning the adult-geriatric wellness-illness continuum are diagnosed and treated. Under the direct supervision and guidance of an approved clinical preceptor, the student engages in collaborative, inter-professional primary care of adult-geriatric patients, including the frail elderly, thereby progressing toward competence in the delivery of advanced practice adult-gerontology primary care. It is expected that students apply theoretical knowledge, skills, and abilities attained in MSN program core courses, build upon prior MSN-644 and MSN-644P learning, and apply the corresponding AGPCNP track theory course (MSN-645) contents, as they partner with patients in the clinical environment to optimize health outcomes.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-644 and MSN-644P completed, MSN-645 completed or concurrent

MSN-650 Statistics for Advanced Practice (3 credits)

This course will provide graduate students and advanced healthcare providers with the ability to analyze and apply appropriate statistical approaches for improving clinical practice. The use of computer programs for analyzing data will be examined as well as methods to critique the use of statistics in published clinical research. Articulate communication of research results to interested audiences will also be addressed.

Prerequisite(s): Admission to an advanced practice MSN degree program

MSN-650C Statistics for Advanced Practice (3 credits)

Admission to the DNP Program. This course will provide graduate students and advanced healthcare providers with the ability to analyze and apply appropriate statistical approaches for improving clinical practice. The use of computer programs for analyzing data will be examined as well as methods to critique the use of statistics in published clinical research. Articulate communication of research results to interested audiences will also be addressed.

MSN-656 Advanced Acute & Critical Care Adult-Gerontology (3 credits)

This is the third theory course in the AGACNP program with content focusing on the management of critical and complex physical and mental illnesses across the adult spectrum from late adolescent to frail older adult. The primary emphasis of MSN-656 is advanced practice nursing care management of acute episodic and critical health problems. Students build upon knowledge gained in the MSN program core courses, MSN 654 and MSN 655, applying theoretical frameworks, cultural and generational perspectives, ethical principles, current evidence, and the cost of care in formulating and evaluating adult-gerontology acute care patients to optimize health and health care systems. Critical management of single and multiple body systems as well as the restoration of maximum health in adult individuals and populations, including the frail elderly will also be addressed.

Prerequisite(s): MSN 655 and MSN 655P or MSN 695 and MSN 695P completed

MSN-656P AGACNP Practium 3 (2 credits)

This course provides a situated experiential learning opportunity, conducted in outpatient and/or inpatient hospital settings where episodic and chronic health problems spanning the adult-gerontology continuum are diagnosed and treated. Under the direct oversight of an approved clinical preceptor, the student engages in collaborative, interprofessional acute care of adult-geriatric patients, including the frail elderly, thereby progressing toward competence in the delivery of advanced practice adult-gerontology acute care. It is expected that students apply theoretical knowledge, skills, and abilities attained in pre-requisite MSN program core courses, as well as the corresponding AGACNP track theory course, Advanced Acute and Critical Care Adult-Gerontology (MSN-656), as they partner with patients in the clinical environment to optimize health outcomes.

Prerequisite(s): MSN 655 and MSN 655P or MSN 695 and MSN 695P completed, MSN-656 completed or concurrent

MSN-698P Dual Primary and Acute Care Adult- Gerontology Practicum 4 (3 credits)

Students complete 300 clinical practice hours, which are appropriately applied toward meeting the primary care and/or acute care clinical practice hour requirements of the dual AGPCNP/AGACNP program (1200 hours total: 600 in primary care and 600 in acute care). It is expected that students apply theoretical knowledge, skills, and abilities attained in prerequisite MSN program core courses, as well as the prior and corresponding track theory as they partner with patients in the clinical environment to optimize health outcomes.

Prerequisite(s): MSN 695P completed, MSN-656 completed or concurrent

MSN-755 Capstone 1 (1 credit)

This is the first of two consecutive capstone courses that culminate in the student's demonstrated achievement of the advanced practice MSN program outcomes. The scholarship of practice is evidenced through the student's successful development of a capstone project proposal, supported by an assigned faculty mentor. The capstone proposal clearly identifies the practice problem of interest; asserts a clear statement of purpose; establishes the background and significance of the problem through a comprehensive review of the literature, thereby justifying the need for the project; and outlines the planned method of implementation.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-624 or MSN-634 completed or concurrent

MSN-760 Capstone 2 (1 credit)

This is the second of two capstone courses, culminating in the student's demonstrated achievement of the advanced practice MSN program outcomes. The capstone project is implemented as previously proposed, and the results of the project are analyzed; recommendations for practice and future research based on the project results are asserted; and the project is disseminated in a professional forum prior to graduation, as directed by the JMSNHP Chair of Graduate Nursing Programs.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-755 completed

MSN-770 Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics and Clinical Decision-Making (3 credits)

Students synthesize the principles of pharmacokinetics, pharmacotherapeutics, and clinical judgment in the care of clients across the lifespan. Students analyze drug therapies within all levels of healthcare, including evaluation of drug regimen cost-effectiveness, polypharmacy challenges, marginalization prevention, and the clinical application of pharmacogenomics. The nurse's role in examining forms of pharmacological social issues and trends is stressed, with an emphasis on providing effective education for maximum effectiveness of drug therapy across the lifespan.

Prerequisite(s): MSN-605 and MSN-632 completed., MSN-631 completed or concurrent.

MSN-775 Advanced Nursing Theory II (3 credits)

Students begin their transition to the professional nurse role, advancing their clinical judgment and decision-making abilities with a special emphasis on safe patient care across the care continuum, including chronic illness and palliative care.?The utility of selected nursing and interdisciplinary theories for the optimization of health, healthcare, and patient outcomes is examined.

Prerequisite(s): N-570, MSN-605, MSN-631, and MSN-632 completed., MSN-614, MSN-618, MSN-629, MSN-770 completed or concurrent., MSN-776 concurrent. MSN-775 cannot be continued (i.e., the student must drop the course) if MSN-776 is dropped.

MSN-776 Nursing Clinical Practice IV (4 credits)

Knowledge and skills are applied at an advanced level during experiential learning opportunities. Students manage multiple complex patients in a health care setting with minimal supervision. Holistic care of diverse and vulnerable complex patients is emphasized.

Prerequisite(s): N-570, MSN-605, MSN-631, and MSN-632 completed., MSN-614, MSN-618, MSN-629, and MSN-770 completed or concurrent., MSN-775 concurrent. MSN-776 cannot be continued (i.e., the student must drop the course) if MSN-775 is dropped.