College of Nursing and Health Innovation

The faculty believes learning is a continuous lifelong process and a personal responsibility. Students must be actively involved in the learning process to acquire clinical proficiency and to be socialized into professional roles. Learning experiences are implemented to achieve sequence, continuity and synthesis of knowledge and expertise as defined by the educational outcomes. Teaching and learning are dynamic processes involving curriculum evaluation and revision based on research evidence, the needs of a multicultural society, and the changing health care system. The educational process facilitates the development of each person's potential and promotes cultural competence and assimilation of ethical principles.

The College of Nursing and Health Innovation believes in collaboration and partnerships with stakeholders that include education, community and health care organizations, as well as individuals who are impacted by each of the undergraduate and graduate programs. Feedback from the community is used to strengthen the programs and ensure that the graduates are regarded as employees of choice. Innovation and positive change are outcomes of strong collaboration between the college and its alumni and other constituents.

Faculty and students foster an educational climate of mutual respect, honesty, intellectual inquiry, creativity, and effective communication. We contribute to the development of our professions through the conduct of research and the dissemination and application of evidence-based knowledge. Faculty and students provide service to the community through clinical practice and leadership.

Undergraduate nursing education builds on a foundation of studies in the sciences, humanities, and arts. The baccalaureate program prepares competent, self-directed generalist nurses (Registered Nurses) who can assume increasing responsibility and leadership in the delivery of evidence-based nursing care.

Master’s education builds on a foundation of undergraduate nursing education and provides specialty practice with an expanded theoretical and empirical knowledge base. The Master of Science in nursing programs prepare Registered Nurses for advanced functional roles that require increased accountability, expertise, and leadership. Graduates are prepared to provide evidence-based health care in collaboration with other health care providers and consumers. Administration graduates are prepared to lead and manage care in a variety of health care settings. Education graduates are prepared to teach in schools of nursing and health care organizations.

Doctoral education develops and advances empirical knowledge to promote evidence-based practice in the discipline of nursing. Research-focused graduates have a background to develop theories and conduct research with vulnerable populations and to assume academic, research, and leadership roles. The research doctorate provides a basis for future research programs and other scholarly activities. Practice-focused graduates have a background to develop and lead patient-centered delivery systems, conduct clinical research projects, and assume professional leadership roles. The practice doctorate provides a basis to translate research findings into practice for future population focused quality improvement and other evidence-based activities.