The College of St. Scholastica offers the only professional nursing programs in Northeastern Minnesota, a predominately rural area. Program faculty believe they have a particular obligation to respond to the health care needs of the region, especially those whose health needs have been underserved or neglected.Outreach is also extended to health care providers in the region who desire to continue their education.

The Post-Master Nursing Programs educates professional nurses for advanced practice in nursing either as clinical nurse specialists in adult nursing, gerontology nursing,, nurse managers, adult nurse practitioners, family nurse practitioners, gerontology nurse practitioners, adult or family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. The curriculum has the integration of nursing science, concepts and theories from related disciplines, along with practice and research. Opportunity is provided to pursue individual interests with respect to clientele and health care settings.

Program Description

The curriculum consists of core courses, support courses and clinical courses. The core courses provide a foundation in nursing theory, research design, health policies, professional issues and concepts of advanced practice nursing. Support courses provide the knowledge and skills necessary for specialized advanced practice nursing. Additional specialization and application of theories occur in the role courses. All degree seeking students complete a research study thesis or master's project if not met in previous masters program.

Outcomes

The program seeks to prepare nurses with specialized knowledge and skills for advanced practice nursing and as a foundation for doctoral study. It builds upon undergraduate education in nursing and adds depth in areas of specialization, scholarship, and research.

Upon completion of the Nursing program at The College of St. Scholastica, the graduate will be able to:

• Synthesize knowledge from nursing and related disciplines as a basis for advanced nursing practice.
• Design roles of advanced nursing practice responsive to changing environmental forces.
• Use leadership skills, teaching and collaborative strategies to create appropriate change in policy which augments health.
• Facilitate the investigation of nursing problems and the integration of findings in practice.
• Integrate knowledge of political, economic and social issues, ethical theory and jurisprudence in decision-making processes to resolve dilemmas of practice.
• Demonstrate a commitment to the advancement of professional nursing and to the professional growth of self and peers.

Format

The program accommodates working professionals and can be completed in two to four years depending upon the track chosen. Classes are conveniently scheduled and may be offered in the late afternoon, one full day format, or weekends. Some course assignments are done through innovative learning formats such as web-based technology, independent study, audio tapes, or video tapes.The program is also occasionally offered off campus in a regional community that demonstrates a need for master's-prepared nurses.

Chair, Department of Graduate Nursing

Carleen Maynard, Ph.D., R.N.
School of Nursing
College of St. Scholastica
1200 Kenwood Avenue
Duluth, MN 55811