NOTE: THE DECKER SCHOOL OF NURSING RESERVES THE RIGHT TO AT ANY TIME AMEND AND/OR ALTER CONTENTS OF THE GRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK.
This Handbook for graduate students enrolled in the Decker School of Nursing provides general, convenient, and pertinent information which the student needs in order to maximize the resources of this University. Additional information is included in the University Bulletin and in specific policies of the Decker School of Nursing which are distributed with course materials. Students should also become familiar with the University Rules and Expectations for Students and the Graduate School Manual.
The Decker School of Nursing offers programs at the graduate level leading to the degrees: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing, Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), Master of Science in Nursing, and post master's certificates in nursing. At the master's and post master's level of study, students select a clinical specialization in family nursing, family psychiatric mental health nursing, community health nursing, or gerontological nursing. They may also choose to pursue a functional role as a clinical nurse specialist, educator, administrator or nurse practitioner. Students with a baccalaureate degree in nursing who are certified nurse midwives may complete requirements for the master's degree in family nursing.
This Handbook, along with its companion "Shared (Grad/UG) Handbook," contain a lot of dos and don'ts, musts and shoulds, as well as requirements and recommendations. It is not wonderful reading, but we have tried to include things that will make your life in the Decker School more manageable. On behalf of the faculty and administration of the School, I offer my warmest welcome to you and wish you every success in your program.
Joyce Ferrario, RN, PhD
Dean and Professor
Statement of Philosophy (approved by DSON Council January 8, 2008)
The philosophy of the Decker School of Nursing emphasizes the search for meaning, freedom of choice, integrity, personal responsibility, self-awareness, caring, and
compassion for self and others. The Faculty is in accord with the stated mission of Binghamton University, a premier public institution, which is "…dedicated to enriching the lives of people in the region, nation, and world through discovery and education and to being enriched by its engagement in those communities."
The focus of nursing is on human systems that consist of individuals, families, and communities, each existing interdependently with their environments. These systems experience ever-changing and complex states of health and require nursing care at various times along the life cycle. Nursing promotes self-actualization through health promotion, prevention of disease, restoration of health, and a peaceful and dignified death.
The Faculty believes in the essential dignity and worth of every person, family, and community as a unique and dynamic system. Human systems have aspects that are physical, social, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual in nature, culminating in a greater whole. The Faculty views all human systems as evolving, on a purposeful journey through the wide dimensions of human experience.
The Faculty believes that human systems are ultimately responsible for their own growth, values, and search for fulfillment, while recognizing that self-actualization takes place in relationship with other human systems and the broader ecosystem. To this extent human systems interact with society at large and become stewards of their environment.
People exercise freedom of choice in determining and attaining their goals without interfering with the freedom and well-being of others. The Faculty values the promotion of social justice, whereby the necessary resources for growth, development, and actualization are available to all people and communities.
Health is a complex phenomenon characterized by dynamic interaction between the internal and external environments of every human system. Human systems experience health, illness, and death in unique and varying ways. The Faculty associates good health with the harmonious balance among all aspects of the human system throughout the continuum of life. Any human system functioning at a high level of health will also be maximizing that system's creative potential. Groups such as families, communities, and societies follow a similar pattern with the reflection of relationships, capacity for growth, respect for diversity, and balance needed for optimal health. The health of rural populations is of special interest to the students and Faculty of the DSON, whether caring for a rural client in an urban system or influencing the community or health care systems of rural areas.
The Faculty views nursing as an art and a science actuated by humanistic values. Nursing, as a science, is grounded in knowledge, generated through discovery, and
implemented in evidence-based practice. Nursing, as an art, seeks to synthesize scientific, aesthetic and self-knowledge in providing direct care that promotes health, prevents illness, and maximizes the quality of life.
The health of human systems is nursing's greatest concern. Nurses respect the principles of social justice, realizing health care resources in some environments are limited and need to be distributed fairly. To provide comprehensive health care, nursing must be cognizant of health values, beliefs, and perceptions of human systems and their effect on well-being in the context of complex environments and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Caring, trust, compassion and mutual respect are fundamental to the nurse-client relationship. The nurse incorporates knowledge and self-awareness in the development of a therapeutic approach. Nursing has its own knowledge built on theory and discovery, and shares a knowledge base with other disciplines to generate and utilize the best evidence for effective care.
Within professional nursing there are multiple levels of practice. The nurse generalist, prepared at the baccalaureate level, applies theory and research from the physical, behavioral, and nursing sciences to the practice of nursing. The baccalaureate-prepared nurse becomes an intelligent consumer of research, uses research-based evidence to support clinical practice, and participates collaboratively to manage comprehensive health services for a diverse and multicultural population. Baccalaureate-prepared nurses demonstrate beginning leadership and management skills in the coordination of resources for client systems within a value system consistent with professional nursing. The nurse specialist prepared at the graduate level solves complex client care problems through a
multiplicity of roles using theoretically driven strategies of advanced nursing practice. The master's-prepared nurse participates in research, uses evidence-based practice, assumes a leadership role in the planning, management, and improvement of health care, influences health policy, and promotes the continuing development of nursing as a profession. The terminal degree in nursing is at the doctoral level. The PhD graduate from the DSON is actively engaged in designing original research to generate and test theory to enhance rural nursing practice, and actively engages in the development of policy to enhance the health of rural populations. Together the nurse generalist and nurse specialist collaborate to advance the profession of nursing.
Nursing education is achieved through the active participation in discovery, practice and scholarship. The Faculty views education as a continuous lifelong process of becoming, aimed at the development of intellectual, aesthetic and professional interests that advance each learner towards personal and professional goals. The essence of learning and growth for both teacher and learner is the Faculty-student relationship. The Faculty prepare culturally, ethnically, and racially diverse nurses to strengthen the professions ability to meet the needs all people. The Faculty recognizes and supports the need for international collaboration and experiences for both students and Faculty, as we seek to generate a global vision in relation to health and nursing.
Decker School of Nursing Mission Statement (8/7/2008)
Our mission is to disseminate and advance knowledge about human health care, health promotion and the treatment of illness in individuals, families and communities, with an emphasis on under served and rural populations. Students educated in our programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels will be able to practice Nursing from a research base; and consistent with its tradition as a public institution, the School will provide educational access and support to culturally and economically diverse students in an established culture of diversity, respect, and success with coursework and clinical experiences designed to promote socially just and competent care of all persons. The ultimate goals of the School are to prepare future leaders in Nursing, health care, and health care research, and to promote the research and scholarship of its faculty and students, with a particular focus on solving the most challenging health problems in rural populations, consonant with the goals of a research-intensive University. Finally, using additional strategies, the School will continue to educate the public and other professionals about emerging and established health care regimens.
Graduate School Manual and Decker School of Nursing Graduate Student Handbook
The Graduate School Manual is an invaluable resource to be referenced and reviewed by all Binghamton University Graduate School students. It provides comprehensive information on Graduate School programs of study and outlines all University policies and procedures to be followed as an enrolled student of the Graduate School at Binghamton University. The Decker School of Nursing Graduate Student Handbook is the graduate nursing student's resource to understanding Decker School Graduate Program-specific policies and procedures. The two manuals are designed to complement each other and should be used as such. It is strongly recommended that you become familiar with both handbooks.
Admission Requirements for all Degree programs (Matriculated) and Post MS Certificate programs
Decker School of Nursing admission requirements for all applicants to matriculated degree programs of study are posted online. Applicant admission types (categories) can vary and are defined online in the Graduate School Manual. NOTE: Beginning full-time students must take and pass the NCLEX exam by November 1st. Students who do not pass will be blocked or removed from clinical course enrollment.
Admission: Non-Degree/Non-Matriculated Status
Full details regarding non-matriculated (non-degree) application and admission can be found online in the Graduate School Manual. Non-degree students may take up to 12 credits total, though some academic departments and schools limit that number further. Degrees or graduate assistantships are not granted to non-degree students. Depending on the curriculum requirements of a program, some courses taken as a non-degree student may be applied toward a degree, should you later gain admission to a Binghamton University graduate degree program.
It is strongly recommended that all students become familiar with the student information and registration system BU Brain. BU BRAIN Self Service is an online tool designed to give students, faculty, and staff convenient access to campus tools and services. Students, faculty and staff can login to BU BRAIN Self Service using the PODS username and password or the B-Number and PIN.
Students will use BU BRAIN Self Service to register for classes, view grades, view unofficial academic transcripts, request official transcripts, run DARS reports, print class schedules, view student accounts, view holds, view and update personal information, view and accept financial aid awards, and more.
Students who receive correspondence from a University office (this includes all on-campus departments, the Registrar, Student Accounts, Admissions, etc.) are responsible for follow through and/or follow-up of requests or directives sent to them. Failure to do so may result in fines and/or canceled registration if the situation warrants such action. NOTE: Additionally, electronic mail (e-mail) has been designated by the University as the official and primary means of communication with campus constituencies. Students are held responsible for the content delivered to them through e-mail vehicles such as through official campus listservs and/or messages sent by any/all official campus personnel. Students may find it helpful to forward their BU (BINGSUNS) account to a preferred account to keep abreast of incoming information; instructions for forwarding e-mail are available via a link found on the BU Brain web page.
A University Identification Card (ID) is carried by and required for all students. New students traditionally obtain an ID card during new student "Beginnings" Orientation sessions held during the summer months. Each year ID cards are issued to returning students during the week before and the first week of classes. A photograph is taken by personnel in the Registrar's Office (SW 119) for returning students and at an assigned location for new students during Orientation. The I.D. Card is needed for course registration, library privileges, allows for reduced event fees held at the Anderson Center, and is necessary for use of/ access to many University facilities such as FitSpace in the East Gym. Access to any personal information (e.g., registration records, financial aid, grades, etc.) requires a University ID card.
Regular ID Card Office Hours:
Monday - Friday - 9:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. SW-119 (Registrar's Office)
Lost, stolen and mutilated ID cards can be replaced at the Registrar's office (SW 119). *There is a $20 replacement fee for lost, stolen or mutilated ID cards.* Your PAC (Personal Access Code) is found on the back of your ID card and consists of the last four digits of the library bar code (as pictured below). This code is needed for access to multiple on-line services.
Expenses beyond tuition and University fees are variable depending on the specific courses in which the student is enrolled. The following is meant to serve as an estimate only and all costs are subject to change.
Transportation costs to clinical sites are the responsibility of the student. Cost will vary depending on distance.
Malpractice insurance - a one time per semester charge of approximately $35 per semester is assessed for any course in which the student encounters a client/patient in conjunction with course requirements. A current list of these courses is available from program offices. This fee is assessed regardless of outside malpractice insurance policies under which a student may have current coverage and is a required charge mandated by SUNY.
Health evaluation and immunization costs are the responsibility of the student.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification is required annually. Fees for courses vary.
Textbooks required for nursing courses average between $500-$1000 per full-time semester.
Uniform and medical equipment costs are the responsibility of the student.
Campus parking stickers are available for a fee through Campus Parking Services. All students must have the required decal and tags to park on campus. Unpaid parking fines can result in an inability to register for courses. All students have a mail folder located in AB 114. Students should check their mail folder at least once per week. It is strongly recommended that students check their Binghamton University e-mail accounts on a daily basis.
Computers available to students in the Decker School of Nursing are equipped with Microsoft Office, therefore students need to become proficient with this application in order to use in-house facilities. Many instructors who teach courses in the Decker School use the Blackboard (on-line) course management system. Students will need to become familiar with navigation and use of this system as course announcements, assignments, grades and other details are posted for students enrolled and student participation in the class. Detailed information on the use of the Blackboard system is provided by course faculty using the system to manage a course.
Read the complete policy on Student Technology Requirements in order to ensure you have an optimal educational experience.
Change of address forms are available to students and are found in the University Registrar's Office (SW-119). In addition, please notify the appropriate Decker School office promptly of any change of address or telephone number (including temporary changes).
Decker School of Nursing Office Information
Administrative, faculty, and staff offices of the Decker School are located in the Nursing Building. Administrative office rooms and phone extension follow:| Office | Room | Extension |
| Decker School of Nursing Dean 's Office | AB-108 | 7-2311 |
| Graduate Programs | AB-110 | 7-4964 |
| Undergraduate Programs | AB-112 | 7-4713 |
| Student Services | AB-114 | 7-4954 |
| Clinical Site Coordinator | AB-116 | 7-4845 |
| Kresge Center for Nursing Research | AB-315 | 7-4625 |
| Office | Phone |
| Bookstore | 777-2745 |
| Campus Police | 777-2393 |
| Career Development Center | 777-2400 |
| Computer Services Helpdesk | 777-6420 |
| Financial Aid (SW 109) | 777-2428 |
| General Information | 777-2877 |
| Graduate School (Admin. Bldg.) | 777-2284 |
| Kresge Center for Nursing Research | 777-4625 |
| Lost and Found (UU) | 777-2877 |
| Off Campus College (off-campus housing) | 777-2767 |
| Residential Life (on-campus housing) | 777-2321 |
| Snow Line (Inclement Weather) | 777-SNOW |
| Student Accounts (SW 117) | 777-2702 |
| University Libraries (Hours) | 777-2800 |
| University Libraries (Information) | 777-2194 |
| University Registrar (SW 119) | 777-6088 |
Human Subject Review Guidelines
All research and capstone projects involving human subjects must be reviewed and approved prior to initiating any research or project. Human Subject Review Forms can be obtained at http://humansubjects.binghamton.edu/. The level of the review (exempt, expedited, or full review) depends on the type of research needed for your particular study or project.
DSON Standing and Continuing Ad Hoc Committees
Decker's School of Nursing committees are comprised of students, faculty, and administrators. The following describes the purpose, responsibility, and membership of the Decker School of Nursing Faculty Council and its seven standing committees. Students are encouraged to consider membership on Decker School committees.
I. DSON Faculty Council: Faculty Council is the major deliberative and legislative body of the DSON.
Faculty Council has seven standing committees with additional ad hoc committees established by the Council during the academic year for the purposes defined in the resolutions creating them.
II. Standing and Ad Hoc Committees:
1. Committee on Committees :
Functions:
a. Prepare secret ballots and conduct elections where appropriate for membership on Faculty Council standing committees
b. Prepare secret ballots and conduct elections for the chair of Faculty Council
c. Make appointments to fill vacancies as they arise on standing committees
Faculty Membership : 3 Faculty including at least 1 tenured faculty
Student Membership : 1 Undergraduate Student and 1 Graduate Student
Meetings : Every other month (3 times each semester).
2. Undergraduate Curriculum Committee :
Functions :
Membership :a. To review the philosophy, objectives, purposes, curriculum, and organization of the undergraduate program and recommend revisions to the DSON Faculty Council.
b. To review curriculum requirements from entry to graduation.
c. To approve proposals for new courses and make recommendations to the DSON Faculty Council.
d. To evaluate program, program outcomes, including NCLEX results and make recommendations as appropriate.
1. Voting Members:
a) 4 Faculty, at least 1 of whom is tenured.
b) The associate dean/director of Undergraduate Programs
c) Project directors of active undergraduate level training grants
d) 2 Undergraduate students
2) Nonvoting Members:
Pertinent program coordinators, liaisons, and directors are expected to attend.
Meetings : Monthly.
3. Undergraduate Educational Policies Committee:
Functions:
a. Develop and recommend to DSON Faculty Council new educational policies and standards.
b. Evaluates existing educational policies and standards and, where necessary, recommend changes to Faculty Council. (Including but not limited to policies for admission, retention, progression, graduation, honors, awards, grievances, and academic dishonesty.)
c. Approve action regarding individual student academic status.
d. Decides outcomes of student petitions for exceptions to educational policy. Appeals would be made to the Dean.
e. Evaluates decisions granting academic credit for prior learning and revises as appropriate.
Membership :
1) Voting Members
a) 4 faculty—including at least 1 tenured faculty
b) 2 undergraduate students
2) Non-voting members :
Pertinent program coordinators, liaisons, and directors are expected to attend.
Meetings : Monthly.
4. Student/Faculty Affairs Committee:
Functions :
a. Facilitate social functions
b. Recommend undergraduate award recipients for school, foundation, and university awards.
Membership :
1. Six (6) Faculty representing the undergraduate and the graduate programs
2. Four (4) Students – student membership to include representation from the undergraduate and graduate programs
Meetings : Monthly.
5. Master's Program Committee:
Functions :
a. Evaluate graduate programs (e.g. philosophy, objectives, curriculum, resources, faculty, students, and graduates), make recommendations to the Graduate Council and inform the Decker School of Nursing Faculty Council.
b. Establish, maintain, and review master's educational policies (e.g. admission, retention, promotion, graduation, and honors)
c. Act on admission, retention, promotion, and graduation of students.
d. Approve new master's courses, forward actions to the Graduate Council for approval, and inform the Decker School of Nursing Faculty Council.
e. Appoint ad-hoc committees as necessary
Membership :
1. Voting Members :
a. 4 faculty--including at least 2 tenured faculty members and the director of the Graduate Program
b. Project directors of active master's level training grants
c. 1 master's student
2. Non-voting Members :
Pertinent program coordinators, liaisons, and directors are expected attend.
6. Doctoral Program Committee:
Functions :
a. Evaluate doctoral programs (e.g., philosophy, objectives, curriculum, resources, faculty, students, and graduates), make recommendations to the Graduate Council, and inform the Decker School of Nursing Faculty Council.
b. Establish, maintain, and review doctoral program educational policies (e.g., admission, retention, promotion, graduation, and honors)
c. Act on admission, retention, promotion, and graduation of doctoral students.
d. Approve new doctoral courses, forward actions to the Graduate Council for approval, and inform the Decker School of Nursing Faculty Council.
e. Appoint ad-hoc committees as necessary.
Faculty Membership :
1) All faculty holding earned doctorates and the Director of Graduate Programs
2) Student Membership : 1 Doctoral Student
7. Undergraduate Admissions Committee:
Functions :
a. Review admission criteria and procedure for admission and forward recommendations to Faculty Council for action.
b. Work with the Undergraduate Admission's Office to admit selected freshmen, transfer, and intra-university transfer (IUT) students to Undergraduate Admissions office.
c. Make recommendations to readmit students in collaboration with the Undergraduate Educational Policies Committee.
Membership :
1) Voting Members : 5 Faculty—including at least 1 tenured faculty, the Director of Undergraduate Programs, and the Director of Student Services.
2) Non Voting Members : Pertinent program coordinators, liaisons, and directors are expected to attend.
Meetings : Monthly.
8. Recognition Committee ( ad hoc ):
Function : Plans and implements the Recognition Ceremony for all graduate and undergraduate students at the Decker School of Nursing.
Student Membership : Junior and senior students (undergraduate) and first- and second-year graduate students preferred.
Meetings : Fall semester, monthly; Spring semester, biweekly.
The Decker School of Nursing adheres to the University Calendar. Students whose religious beliefs require celebration of holidays at times which differ from the official University calendar should make arrangements with individual instructors for missed classes.Policy Regarding Inclement Weather
In the event of inclement weather students are strongly advised to contact the appropriate faculty member or members prior to traveling to campus or clinical. Undergraduates should refer to the specifics as written in the Policy for Cancellations of Class and Laboratory found on-line in the UG Handbook.
Policy and Procedure Guidelines for Occupational Postexposure Prophylaxis
07/01 jmfc; Reviewed by B. Christophersen 06/10; 8/12
Purpose: To provide a process for access to evaluation and treatment for any Decker School of Nursing (DSON) student sustaining an occupational exposure. Prompt evaluation and treatment of health care workers following occupational exposure enhances positive outcomes. Evaluation and treatment of the exposure should be made by a health care professional as soon as possible, ideally within one hour, and no later than thirty-six hours post-exposure.
Definitions:
“Health Care Worker” — any person (e.g. employee, student, contractor, attending clinician or volunteer) whose activities involve contact with patients or with blood or other body fluids from patients in a healthcare or laboratory setting.
“Exposure” — percutaneous injury (e.g. a needlestick or cut with a sharp object), contact of mucous membrane or nonintact skin (e.g. when the exposed skin is chapped, abraded, or afflicted with dermatitis), or contact with intact skin when the duration of contact is prolonged (e.g. several minutes or more) or involves an extensive area, with blood, tissue, or other body fluids.
“Body Fluids” — includes a) semen, vaginal secretions or other body fluids contaminated with visible blood that have been implicated in the transmission of HIV infection; and b) cerebrospinal, synovial, pleural, peritoneal, pericardial and amniotic fluids which have an undetermined risk for transmitting HIV.
Procedure:
Policy and Procedure Guidelines for Standard Precautions
07/01 jmfc
Reviewed by B. Christophersen 06/10; 8/12
Purpose: Medical history and examination cannot reliably identify patients infected with HIV or blood-borne pathogens. Blood and body fluid precautions should be consistently used for all patient contacts when exposure to blood and body fluid is anticipated.
Definitions:
“Health Care Worker” — any person (e.g. employee, student, contractor, attending clinician or volunteer) whose activities involve contact with patients or with blood or other body fluids from patients in a healthcare or laboratory setting.
“Exposure” — percutaneous injury (e.g. a needle stick or cut with a sharp object), contact of mucous membrane or non-intact skin (e.g. when the exposed skin is chapped, abraded, or afflicted with dermatitis), or contact with intact skin when the duration of contact is prolonged (e.g. several minutes or more) or involves an extensive area, with blood, tissue, or other body fluids.
“Body Fluids” — includes a) semen, vaginal secretions or other body fluids contaminated with visible blood that have been implicated in the transmission of HIV infection; and b) cerebrospinal, synovial, pleural, peritoneal, pericardial and amniotic fluids which have an undetermined risk for transmitting HIV.
Procedure: The following precautions are taken from the MMWR, August 21, 1987, published by the Center for Disease Control.
Policies for Student Clinical Practice
11/22/02 jmfc
Reviewed by B. Christophersen 06/10; 8/12
Health/ Practice Requirements
All students participating in clinical laboratory experiences must meet standards regarding health status as outlined by the New York State Department of Health Code- Section 405.3 (2002). Inclusive in the code is a regulation that states that the health status of all persons involved in direct patient care must be assessed prior to the individual's assumption of patient care duties. The evaluation needs to be “of sufficient scope to ensure that no person shall assume his/her duties unless he/she is free from a health impairment which is of potential risk to the patient or which might interfere with the performance of his/her duties, including the habituation or addiction to depressants, stimulants, narcotics, alcohol or other drugs or substances which may alter the individual's behavior”. Student health status should be evaluated at least annually with reassessment as frequently as judged necessary. The information provided must be of sufficient quantity and quality to allow a decision to be made that supports quality patient care and safe practice.
Students participating in clinical courses in the nursing major are required to submit a completed Annual Student Health Evaluation form to Certified Background. The clinical site coordinator for DSON manages all health requirements through Certified Background. The health/practice requirements as outlined below must be fulfilled and be completed prior to beginning clinical course work.
The DSON will not provide opportunities for clinical experiences for students who fail to meet the following requirements/ responsibilities. A completed physical examination documented on the DSON form and submitted to Certified Background and to Decker Student Health Services. University requirements are less stringent than those of the DSON; therefore, students cannot assume that meeting Binghamton University requirements is sufficient. University Health Services will accept the DSON documentation. Annual Student Health Evaluation forms are available from the Clinical Site Coordinator and on the DSON website.
Two intradermal Mantoux Tuberculin tests are required for the first semester before entering the clinical setting and then one annually thereafter. Students with a positive Mantoux Test will be required to have a chest x-ray and show satisfactory (to the University) evidence of follow-up health care. A TB screening form must be completed annuallly for those with a positive Mantoux history.
DSON students must provide proof of immunity to specific communicable diseases as outlined on the Annual Student Health Evaluation form. In addition, the DSON recommends the Hepatitis B immunization series. Hepatitis B infection is a major occupational hazard for health care workers because the procedures performed may involve contact with blood or blood-contaminated body fluids. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, the risk of acquiring Hepatitis B infection is often highest during professional education programs and immunization should be completed during study in schools of nursing, medicine, dentistry and other health professions. If for personal reasons, a student elects not to receive Hepatitis B vaccine, a statement of declination needs to be signed by the student and on file with Certified Background. Students are also required to show immunity to Varicella by one of the following:
Students who do not have immunity to varicella are at risk for contracting the disease and may be delayed/declined/denied community agency placement.
The health care agencies used by the DSON for clinical experiences require that students have annual certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Students must assume responsibility for obtaining and maintaining annual CPR certification. The level of certification required is equivalent to that of “Professional Rescuer”. Students will be required to show evidence of CPR certification prior to the beginning of the nursing sequence and annually in order to participate in nursing courses with a clinical component. While the Decker School does not require evidence of CPR for freshman and sophomore nursing students, certification for these students is recommended. NOTE: The Decker School does not accept online certification for CPR.
Malpractice insurance is required by Binghamton University in the amount of $3Million/$3Million and it is required that all nursing students registered in clinical courses purchase this coverage through the University at a nominal charge. Students may elect to carry private insurance as additional coverage.
Graduate and RN students enrolled in clinical courses must have a copy of their valid license to practice nursing on file with the school.
Students must provide proof of current personal health insurance coverage.
All students will be required to sign a confidentiality statement to be kept on file at the DSON.
Students may be asked to comply with additional requirements of selected clinical agencies (i.e. drug testing; removal of artificial/acrylic nails; more frequent Mantoux testing) in order to participate in clinical experiences in those agencies. Any cost incurred in fulfilling additional requirements will be the student's responsibility. Clinical agencies may request copies of selected information from students' health records. Students will be required to sign a release so that this information may be forwarded to the agencies. Delay or failure to sign a release may lead to a delay/denial of clinical placement.
Students experiencing health problems or a change in their health status which may affect their ability to function safely in the clinical laboratory setting must submit an additional statement from their health care provider. This statement should address any limitation or restrictions resulting from the health problem. This information should be submitted directly to the Clinical Site Coordinator. This must be done prior to the laboratory experience or upon return if the student has been absent due to the health problem. Binghamton University (BU) also may require a student to undergo an appropriate medical evaluation at BU expense prior to readmission or resumption of clinical placement (classes).
Responsibilities of Patient Care
All students of the DSON are expected to provide care to patients to whom they are assigned. Assignments/ placements are to be based on the level of skill and knowledge of the student and the educational objectives of the learning experience. When a clinical instructor is not “on-site”, responsibility for the provision of patient care must be explicitly defined and mutually agreed upon by the clinical instructor and the clinical agency.
In some clinical courses, student preference of clinical site may be considered. Students will not be placed for an educational clinical experience at their work site. Such a situation often contributes to role confusion and the potential for a conflict of interest. In health organizations with multiple sites, a placement at a site other than the student's actual work site within the employing organization may be considered and will be done at the discretion of DSON faculty. The DSON reserves the right to make final clinical placements based upon student, course, preceptor, agency and DSON needs.
DSON faculty and students are expected to practice nursing in adherence to the ANA Code of Ethics (2001)-. Student behavior in the clinical area that is identified by faculty or a clinical agency as unprofessional may result in removal of the student from the clinical placement and further investigation of the student's fitness to practice. Only when the DSON determines that the student is fit to practice will the student be permitted to resume his/her duties and responsibilities in the clinical area.
Approved by DSON Council October 18, 1993The following document has been developed to assist in the recruitment, admission, and progression of students in the Decker School of Nursing. This document includes a statement regarding Reasonable Accommodation for Students with Disability Related Needs and the Essential Skills required to meet program objectives.
Reasonable Accommodation for Students with Disability Related Needs
In compliance with the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act, Reasonable Accommodation for Students with Disability Related Needs will be determined on an individual basis taking into consideration the Essential Skills which must be performed to meet program objectives. Decisions regarding Reasonable Accommodation will be directed toward maximizing the student's independence while maintaining personal and client dignity and safety. Note: Please contact course coordinators promptly with special needs.
Essential Skills
The following activities are representative of essential skills expected of students in the Decker School of Nursing beginning with the first semester. The student will be expected to:
DSON Grievance Procedure [Approved with revisions by DSON April 24, 2006]
DSON - Grievance Procedure
Accepted by Faculty Council March 2006 with corrections made April 2006
Professional Ethics and Academic Honesty Policy for Undergraduate and Graduate Students
Students are responsible for maintaining the integrity of and hold individual responsibility for their course assignments. Failure to do so is a violation of the Academic Honesty Policies of both the University and the Decker School of Nursing. See http://bulletin.binghamton.edu/program.asp?program_id=291 for the University's policies on Academic Integrity and the Student Academic Honesty Code. This link will also allow students to review violation category definitions per the University's Academic Honesty policies. See DSON Academic Honesty Policy for department specific procedures re: Academic Honesty. For more information on Academic Honesty at the University level including forms, please see the Provost's web site: http://provost.binghamton.edu/honesty.html.
Policies and Procedures for Student Incident Reports
[Approved by Council for implementation 1/29/90; Reviewed by B. Christophersen 06/10]
Incidents that threaten the safety of the patients, students, or staff in an agency are reportable to the New York State Department of Health within twenty-four hours of occurrence. This reporting is the responsibility of the agency in most situations. Each agency will have a policy for such reporting that defines reportable and non-reportable incidents.
Incidents involving students will be investigated by the instructor of record for the affiliation and the results of the investigation as well as any actions taken will be documented.
Criminal Background Screening and Drug Screening Administrative Policy
[Reviewed by B. Christophersen 06/10]
Code of Ethics for Nurses
(Revised 2-14-2011 as voted on by Faculty Council)
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The nurse, in all professional relationships, practices with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and uniqueness of every individual, unrestricted by considerations of social or economic status, personal attributes, or the nature of health problems. |
The nurse participates in establishing, maintaining, and improving health care environments and conditions of employment conducive to the provision of quality health care and consistent with the values of the profession through individual and collective action. |
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The nurse's primary commitment is to the patient, whether an individual, family, group, or community. |
The nurse participates in the advancement of the profession through contributions to practice, education, administration, and knowledge development. |
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The nurse promotes, advocates for, and strives to protect the health, safety, and rights of the patient. |
The nurse collaborates with other health professionals and the public in promoting community, national, and international efforts to meet health needs. |
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The nurse is responsible and accountable for individual nursing practice and determines the appropriate delegation of tasks consistent with the nurse's obligation to provide optimum patient care. |
The profession of nursing, as represented by associations and their members, is responsible for articulating nursing values, for maintaining the integrity of the profession and its practice, and for shaping social policy. |
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The nurse owes the same duties to self as to others, including the responsibility to preserve integrity and safety, to maintain competence, and to continue personal and professional growth. |
ã 2001 American Nurses Association |
Web Site for Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements:
Click here to view. (Subject to update and revision by the American Nurses Association.)
Graduate students:
The student should be familiar with the University Bulletin and the Decker School of Nursing Handbook (Undergraduate Handbook; Graduate Handbook ) and should seek advisement early and as often as possible. Faculty advisors make notations on Advisement Record forms regarding advisement sessions and the proposed program plan to complete remaining requirements. These advisement forms are kept in the student folder. This documentation serves as a record of the student's progress throughout the curriculum for the student, faculty, advisor, and the Program Offices and is used to monitor student completion of program requirements. The student is urged to request a copy of advising notations and proposed program plan developed by the student and faculty advisor.
As a graduate student, petitions may be submitted via a letter written to the Graduate School Programs Committee. Graduate students should see the Decker School's Graduate Program Director for further information regarding the process of petitioning for exceptions to policy.
Each matriculated graduate student is assigned a faculty advisor. Non-matriculated students are encouraged to seek program planning and academic advisement from the Director of Graduate Programs.
In consultation with a faculty advisor, an appropriate program of study is planned for each student. It is important for the student to complete prerequisites for courses as specified, and to be aware that certain courses must be taken in sequence or concurrently. Ongoing communication with the Director of Graduate Programs or faculty advisor is encouraged.
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Computing Services
Computing services are available at several sites throughout the campus.
1. Students may access computers from public computer pods across campus, but nursing-related software and programming is only available on the Decker School computers housed in the Decker School computer pod on the ground floor.
2. The Computing Services Center provides access to mainframe, mini/micro, and consultation services.
Library
In order to use the library facilities at Binghamton University , a valid University ID card is required. Each library (Science, Main , Fine Arts) has a procedure for validating the ID for use in that particular library.
The Decker School of Nursing collection is held in the Science Library. Support and management of the collection is the responsibility of the nursing or health science bibliographer. Materials pertinent to some courses are also housed in the Bartle Library. Students are encouraged to participate in a university library orientation scheduled early in the semester.
Nurse Practitioner Certifications, Educational (Course) Completion Verifications, and Hospital Certification Requests
For the initial (i.e., upon student's graduation) NP certification process after completion of an NP program, DSON at no charge to the student submits specific Certification of Professional Education forms as is required by NY (and/or other states as well as national testing agencies) on behalf of any student who completes a Nurse Practitioner program. Future and/or additional documentation requests placed by alumni for state and/or national certifications and/or hospital privileges will be assessed a $10.00 charge per verification/certification. A fee of $25 is assessed for complicated documentation for hospital privileges or certification.
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Graduate Nursing Student Organization
Graduate students have opportunities to participate in the governance of their student life through membership in the Graduate Student Organization, and through service on the School of Nursing Standing Committees .
The Graduate Nursing Student Organization coordinates program wide activities and is responsible for the administration of its budgeted allotment from the University Graduate Organization. The money received funds outside speakers, conferences, and educational materials for graduate student enhancement.
Zeta Iota Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International, the international honor society of nursing, recognizes superior academic achievement, academic integrity, professional leadership potential, and/or marked achievement in the field of nursing. The purposes of the Chapter are to:
1. Recognize superior achievement
2. Recognize the development of leadership qualities
3. Foster high professional standards
4. Encourage creative work
5. Strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession
Eligibility for membership in the Zeta Iota Chapter is by invitation. Students who have completed at least one-half of the courses in the nursing major and have a grade point average of 3.0 and rank in the highest 35 percent of the senior class qualify for invitation to membership. Graduate Students (Master's and Doctorate) must have completed ¼ of the nursing curriculum; achieve academic excellence (at schools where a 4.0 grade point average system is used, this equates to a 3.5 or higher); meet the expectation of academic integrity. Inductions are held during the academic year. An invitation to become a member of the nursing honor society is a distinct honor and privilege.
The Binghamton Nursing Honor Society was founded on April 26, 1980. It became a Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International on April 24, 1982.
Petitioning an Academic Regulation
You may petition an Academic Regulation by writing a letter to the Masters Program Committee in the School of Nursing. The letter should include all relevant information regarding your situation, why you wish to petition the regulation, and what outcome you are seeking.
Meetings are scheduled on a regular basis during the academic year. Students may attend the meeting to provide further information regarding their petition. If the student does not wish to attend, they may have an advocate speak for them. Your adviser or the Director of the Graduate Program may be able to provide more information prior to your petitioning.
The Bulletin in effect when you matriculate into the School of Nursing stipulates the policies by which you may expect to proceed through the program. For example, if you enter in the Fall 2012, then the 2012-13 Graduate bulletin is your contract with the University. The rules and regulations printed at the time are the ones to be followed while you are a student at Binghamton University.
You may be allowed to change your bulletin. To make the change, you must go to the Graduate Program Coordinator in the School of Nursing to request a change. You can only change to a bulletin printed after you entered the School of Nursing. (You cannot change to a bulletin printed at an earlier date.)
A change is not made unless you request it. After it is approved, your request is placed on file.
To view the current University Bulletin see University Bulletin.
All students who have completed 24 credits after the baccalaureate degree are considered level 2 students. Students who reach the Level 2 are able to be full time with only 9 credits. Doctoral students are considered Level 3 until they have completed all course work and only need to complete their dissertations (ABD). ABD students are considered Level 4. For more information click here.
You are considered a full-time student by the University if you are carrying 12 or more credits per semester until you are Level 2 (24 credit hours successfully completed) or higher level, and then 9 credits is considered full time.
You may be a part-time or full-time matriculated student in the Decker School of Nursing. It is not necessary to formally change your status if you move from part time to full time or full time to part time, but it is important to see an adviser before you change status in order to maintain the integrity of your program.
The Office of the University Registrar asks all University students to meet the following deadlines, which are important and rigid. A copy of the current Add and Drop policy can be found here.
It is not the responsibility of the Graduate Nursing office to monitor your registration. Please verify that you are registered for the appropriate courses each semester.
Continuous Registration and Leaves of Absence
The official policy for leaves of absence can be found here.
All students who have been admitted into a degree granting program (matriculate) must maintain continuous registration each semester for a minimum number of credit hours, or must apply for a formal leave of absence. Unless the student registers or is granted a leave of absence, he/she is ineligible to return until readmitted. Graduate students are not required to maintain matriculation during the Summer Session unless they intend to complete their final degree requirements during this period.
Readmission is not automatic and may be subject to additional conditions set by the department or school or by the Dean of the Graduate School.
Graduate students in a degree program who wish to absent themselves from campus for a semester or two should normally register for one credit of continuous registration. A leave of absence is granted only in exceptional circumstances, such as illness or other unusual personal hardship, and requires detailed justification. Leaves of absence, since they are given for personal hardship reasons, are normally for a maximum of one year. If at all possible, requests for leaves of absence should be submitted one month prior to the semester for which leave is requested.
Leaves of absence are not granted to students working toward a graduate degree who are absenting themselves from campus for a semester or two to undertake thesis or dissertation research elsewhere; such students should maintain continuous registration. Students going off campus to fulfill an internship related to degree requirements should similarly register for at least one credit of continuous registration, unless the department or school specifies a course rubric and a minimum credit hour registration to encompass such internship experience.
When a leave of absence is granted, the period of leave of absence is counted against the time limitation for completing the degree.
During the period of leave of absence, a student is not eligible to participate in the student insurance plan.
Students must be registered during the semester their degree requirements are completed.
The official policy of the Graduate School regarding a grade of Incomplete can be found here.
The Decker School requires that if you are taking a grade of Incomplete (I), that you complete a contract with your faculty member to determine when the deadline is for completion. Contract forms are available in the Graduate Nursing Office. This contract will help you and your faculty member by determining a date of completion so that your grade does not turn into a "W" or Withdraw. This contract will also be used to monitor your progress in completion of coursework.
To withdraw from the Decker School of Nursing at the end of a semester, you must inform the School of Nursing, the Office of the University Registrar, and the Graduate School--in writing--of your decision.
If you leave in the middle of a semester, you must get a withdrawal form from the Office of the University Registrar and have it signed by all the offices indicated. Failure to do this and leaving campus without properly withdrawing during a semester means that you will receive an "F" on your transcript. You must return your I.D. card when you leave the University.
There is no academic penalty for withdrawal from the University up to the last day of class in any given semester.
Students who withdraw prior to the "Drop" deadline will have all current semester courses deleted from their record. Students who withdraw after the "Drop" deadline will have grade(s) of "W" appear for all courses along with the notation of the date of their withdrawal. (This information will appear on the official transcript.)
The official Graduate School Manual policy on Withdrawals can be found here. The official University Registrar's policy on Withdrawal and related information can be found here.
All students admitted to a degree program must register for each semester, excluding summer, until all degree requirements have been completed. Students who fail to maintain continuous registration, unless granted a formal leave of absence, are ineligible to resume graduate study until readmission has been approved. A student applying for readmission to a graduate program is subject to the rules, procedures, curriculum, and standards in effect at the time of readmission. Readmission is not automatic and may be subject to additional conditions set by the department or school or by the Vice Provost for Graduate Studies and Research.
Non-matriculated students who fail to register for more than two consecutive semesters, excluding summer, are not permitted to register for courses until they have been readmitted.
Application for readmission is completed online. A fee is assessed for all applications for readmission to Binghamton University graduate degree programs. If you are seeking readmission, it is recommended that you contact both the Department and the Graduate School for guidance.
Academic Honesty and Integrity
Students are responsible for maintaining the integrity of and individual responsibility for course assignments. Failure to do so is a violation of the Academic Honesty Policies of the University and the Decker School. (See policies).
Preparation of Written Assignments for Nursing Courses
Students in School of Nursing courses are required to type all written assignments unless specifically advised otherwise. In addition, the School has adopted the use of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, latest edition, by the American Psychological Association.
APA Video by Dr. Susan Seibold-Simpson.
Matriculated students may petition to have credits earned at other institutions transferred toward the Binghamton University School of Nursing Graduate degree. The student should submit the institution's course description, course outline if available, and an official transcript (if one is not already on file) to the Director of Graduate Studies. Credits petitioned for transfer must not have been used to satisfy the requirements of another degree. (See full policy in the Graduate School Manual). Students enrolled in master's programs may transfer 12 credits.
Credits for which transfer is sought must have been earned in graduate level courses with a grade of at least B. Courses without a letter grade cannot be transferred. When courses are approved for transfer, the letter grades are not reflected in the Binghamton University transcript, nor are they considered in determination of the student's grade point average. Courses taken more than five years prior to matriculation may not be used without approval from the Graduate School Director. Consult the Graduate Nursing Program assistant for assistance in this area.
Grading System of the Graduate School (See Graduate School Policy online.)
For the purpose of computing semester or cumulative averages, each letter grade is assigned a quality point value as follows:
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A = 4.0 |
B = 3.0 |
C = 2.0 |
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A- = 3.7 |
B- = 2.7 |
C- = 1.7 |
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B+ = 3.3 |
C+ = 2.3 |
F = 0 |
These letter grade values are combined with course credit hours to produce an average. A cumulative average of 3.0 is required for graduation and to be considered in good standing in the Graduate School.
Students who drop a nursing course after the drop deadline will be assigned a grade of W (withdrawn) which will appear on the official academic transcript.
Students may repeat courses in which they received a grade of B- or lower with approval of the Graduate Program Coordinator and the Graduate School. Students should submit a petition to the Office of the Graduate Program Director. See official course repeat policy in the Graduate School Manual.
When a course is repeated with the approval of the Graduate School, the grade received in the second attempt is substituted for the first in the computation of the student's grade-point average and in the awarding of credit. However, the first grade remains on the student transcript.
In addition to the general policies of the Graduate School, the following are requirements that must be met by students in the graduate program of the School of Nursing:
Probation Policy of the Graduate School
The official Probation policy for the Graduate School can be found here.
Statement of Expectations Regarding Computer Literacy
It is expected that all graduate students in the Decker School of Nursing will have a level of computer literacy before they begin graduate study. The expectation for literacy is defined in the following list of expected competencies.
The student will:
Students will not be asked to document or demonstrate these skills prior to admission; however, in courses where these skills are required, students who do not have them will be at a great disadvantage. Instructors will not assume responsibility for remediation of these skills. If you need to develop these skills, several options are available.
If you have questions, please contact the Graduate Program Assistant for assistance.
Declaration of Candidacy (Both University and Decker School of Nursing)
At the beginning of the semester in which a student intends to graduate, the student must complete the Graduate Application for Degree form(s). These online forms are available on the University Commencement page and must be completed by the University deadline to assure your name will be in the commencement brochure and that you receive valuable commencement information in a timely manner. A cumulative average of at least 3.0 is required for a graduate degree.
The following guidelines must be followed if students register for Audit credit for School of Nursing courses:
School of Nursing Uniform Code
The student is required to meet the dress code of any agency to which he/she is assigned for clinical experience. The faculty member will inform students of particular regulations during orientation to the agency/clinical service. Non-compliance to the dress code will lead to disciplinary action by the faculty, relative to the seriousness of the infraction.
Students visiting families in the community not under the aegis of a clinical service/agency with a dress code should dress in a professional manner.
Nurse Practitioner Certification
Any student who completes a nurse practitioner program will have all forms completed for initial certification (i.e., one state) free of charge. Any subsequent documentation for certification or hospital privileges that is requested (i.e., another state) will be assessed a $10.00 charge. A fee of $25 is assessed for complicated documentation for hospital privileges or certification.
(08/08/03) Pending Acknowledgment of the Graduate Committee
Independent study is a mechanism by which students can study a definitive area in depth under the direction of faculty members. Students engaged in independent study are responsible for their own learning within the guidelines of the learning contract established with the supervising faculty member. Independent study can be counted as elective credit and may, with the approval of the Director of the Graduate Program, be used in place of a regular course. Grading procedures for independent study are determined by the student and the faculty member and may be either normally graded or pass/fail.
Students who wish to pursue independent study should use the following procedures:
If the Independent Study involves a clinical component, the following procedures should be followed in addition to those previously stated:
Nurse Practitioner NYS Prescribing Requirement
Nurse practitioner students are required to complete the Prescribing Information for Nurse Practitioners and Midwives continuing education course in NYS prior to taking the Role I course. This learning experience may be accessed online. There is a fee to complete this NYS requirement, but you earn two continuing education contact hours. Students are required to give a copy of their certificate of completion to their Role 1 faculty member.
Clinical placements must be made through the Clinical Site Coordinator. Requests for specific preceptors can be made, however, may not always be available.
The Decker School of Nursing has a limited number of teaching, graduate, and research assistantships. These provide stipends plus tuition scholarships and require full time enrollment. Activities involve assisting faculty in teaching and research.
Some professional nurse traineeships, with monies allocated by the Division of Nursing, Department of Health and Human Services, may also be available. The traineeships include a half stipend and half tuition scholarship and require full time enrollment. Other traineeships and fellowships may be available.
Application forms for assistantships and traineeships are available online. Students who request financial assistance are responsible for completing and returning application forms on an annual basis. Decisions are made early in the summer as soon as all necessary information about financial support has been received.
The acceptance of financial assistance, in the form of an assistantship or traineeship is regarded as a contract between the school and the student. Any changes require mutual consent and should be considered only in extreme circumstances. Students who do not maintain full time enrollment during the semester will incur a debt to the University in the form of tuition payback. Therefore, the decision to drop all or part of the course work must be made after careful thought as students MAY INCUR A DEBT EQUAL TO THE TOTAL COST OF TUITION FOR THE SEMESTER.
To be eligible for funding, a student cannot have any incomplete grades. Any Incomplete grades must be replaced by a letter grade before the start of the semester.
Procedures for Initiating Fellowships, Assistantships, and Traineeships
All students awarded financial assistance for a fellowship, assistantship or traineeship:
Failure to complete these procedures may result in a loss of stipend and/or tuition assistance.
Information regarding other forms of financial assistance is available in the Graduate Office and the Financial Aid Office.
A limited amount of scholarship funding is available directly through the Decker School. These include the Decker Foundation, Alumni and other scholarships. Each award has different requirements for eligibility. Applications are available in late spring and decisions are made during the summer. Students must be matriculated to be eligible for these scholarships.
There are two sources of funding for graduate students in the Decker School of Nursing who wish to complete a research project. The first is from José's Fund, and the second is from the local Zeta Iota Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau.
Sigma Theta Tau scholarships are given to support the research of its members. Sigma Theta Tau scholarship applications are also available through the Center for Nursing Research. Applications for this scholarship are accepted throughout the year and applications are approved by the Executive Committee of the Zeta Iota Chapter.
Other sources of funds to support thesis and independent study are available through community groups and agencies. For assistance in locating possible funding sources, speak with the Coordinator of the Graduate Program, Director of the Center for Nursing Research, or the chairperson of your thesis or dissertation committee or independent study project.
José's Fund is an endowment given in memory of José Reichel, who was the secretary in both the Graduate Office and the Kresge Center for Nursing Research. She was loved by all the graduate students, and upon her death a fund was begun by her family and friends to support graduate student research. Applications for this fund are located in the Decker School of Nursing Dean’s office. The application must be submitted to the Dean’s office on or before January 30th for use of funds during the current academic year.
TopDecker School of Nursing Master's Program Objectives
The Decker School of Nursing offers a program at the graduate level leading to a Master of Science degree. The major and clinical specialization is in family nursing, family psychiatric mental health nursing, community health nursing, or gerontological nursing. Students will select a functional role as a nurse practitioner, clinical specialist, educator, or administrator. Students may pursue a dual functional role by completing additional course credits and are strongly advised to meet with a faculty advisor to help develop a curriculum plan to include the appropriate course credits which will result in successful completion.
This clinical focus prepares the nurse as an expert in family-centered health care family nursing. Graduates are able to assess the health status of client families; provide expert nursing care; coordinate the care given by others; and assume leadership, consultative, and teaching roles with clients and other health personnel. Research skills are used in the analysis and evaluation of nursing practice. All students must complete core courses which address nursing theory, health assessment, nursing research, professional issues, and the health care delivery system. The curriculum is enriched by support courses as well as electives. The clinical focus is family nursing where the family is viewed as a unit which both affects, and is affected by its members. Students are urged to pursue personal and professional goals through their electives, and some opportunity exists for concentration in a specific phase of the life cycle. Functional role courses prepare students as either nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, educators or administrators. Students elect one of these role options. Courses in other functional roles may fulfill elective credit.
Certified nurse midwives who hold a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing may complete requirements for the Master of Science degree in family nursing.
Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
Graduates of the program in psychiatric nursing are prepared to provide comprehensive, client-centered mental health care to individuals, families and groups across the lifespan. Students acquire in-depth knowledge in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental illness, as well as the promotion of mental health. Students may select a functional role preparation as a family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse administrator. Nurses who have a master of science degree in nursing may enroll in the post-master's family nurse practitioner certificate program.
Graduates of this program are committed to aiding the community to achieve optimal health as a means of improving life. Graduates are able to assess and diagnose actual and potential health problems of the community; work with families, groups and communities; and assume provider, consultative, leadership, facilitative, and evaluative roles with the community. In addition, graduates are able to apply sociocultural, public health, epidemiological, and advanced nursing theory to the care of families, groups, and communities. Research skills are used in the analysis and evaluation of nursing practice. All graduates must complete core courses that address nursing theory, family theory, health assessment, nursing research, professional issues, and the health care delivery system. Support and elective courses enrich the program. Functional role courses prepare students as nurse educators, nurse administrators, clinical nurse specialists or community health primary care nurse practitioners.
Graduates of this program are prepared to provide advanced nursing care to older persons in primary, secondary, and tertiary care settings. Graduates are able to provide physical, functional, and psychosocial assessments of elders in homes, hospitals, communities, clinics, and long term care facilities. They are able to plan intervention strategies and work with other members of the health care team to implement plans of care. Research skills are used to analyze and evaluate nursing practice. Functional role courses prepare students as nurse administrators, nurse educators, clinical nurse specialists, or nurse practitioners. All graduates complete core courses as well as elective and support courses.
Post Master's Nurse Practitioner Certificate Programs
Post master's Nurse Practitioner certificate programs exist in all Decker School of Nursing clinical areas. These programs are available to students already holding a master's degree in nursing who desire preparation as a Nurse Practitioner. Students are expected to be competent in research and knowledgeable about nursing theory and professional issues.
Advanced Certificates
Advanced Certificate in Nursing Education
Students in the Educator Role can opt to take NURS 556, 557 & 590 (Nurse Educator I, II, & III) and complete the requirements for their degree, however, for those who want to delve more into the Nurse as Educator role may wish to seek the Advanced Certificate in Nursing Education. Students who also complete NURS 558 (Information and Technology in Nursing Education) are eligible to receive the Advanced Certificate status on their transcript.
Advanced Certificate in Disaster Management
Students in the Disaster Management certificate program will take the following courses: NURS 540 (Essentials of Epidemiology and Biostatistics), NURS 546 (Community Health Response to Emerging Health Threats), NURS 547 (Disaster Management) and NURS 549 (Community Health's Response to Chemical and Radiological Incidents). Students will get an official certificate and the Advanced Certificate will appear on their transcript upon completion of their program.
Advanced Certificate in Forensics
Students in the Forensics certificate program will take the following courses: NURS 581B (Essentials of Forensic Health), NURS 581G (Forensic Health of Victims), and NURS 581F (Forensic Health of Offenders). Students will get an official certificate and the Advanced Certificate will appear on their transcript upon completion of their program.
Concentrations in rural nursing are available for students who wish to enhance their knowledge and skill in this area. Additional credits may be required to complete these programs. Students interested in completing a concentration or certificate in these areas should contact the Graduate Nursing Program office for further information.
Organization of the Curriculum
Course specific program plans vary depending upon the student's choice of clinical and role preparation. To assure that students are on track for completing all program requirements, it is essential that students meet with their assigned faculty adviser at least once per semester.
Curriculum Plans are available by clicking here.
Students should check the current course schedule or check with their faculty advisor each semester to determine what elective offerings will be available. Additional graduate elective courses in related fields are available throughout the University.
NOTICE: 08/16/2012--The prerequisites and co requisites as listed below are currently under review for revision. This section will be updated when revisions are complete and accepted by the DSON MS/DNP Graduate Committee.
Many courses in the program have prerequisite or corequisite requirements. For that reason it is important that you meet with an academic adviser every semester to ensure that your program plan is appropriate. The following list of requirements will assist you in planning.
Clinical and role courses must be taken sequentially (I.e., Clinical and Role I, Clinical and Role II, and Clinical and Role III)--and optimally--clinical and role courses are taken not only sequentially but also paired together. When clinical and role courses cannot be taken together in the same semester (I.e., Nursing 521, Family Practice I, and Nursing 553, Nurse Practitioner Role I, etc.), the clinical courses must taken before the role courses (I.e., Nursing 521 must be completed before Nursing 553).
*****The above prerequisite and co requisite course listing is a guide only. *****
Please See an Academic Adviser Each Semester to Avoid Delay in Your Educational Program.
Students have the option of writing a thesis as an elective. When the thesis option is chosen, the specific procedure outlined below should be followed.
Capstone Project (Master's)
All students are required to complete a capstone project at the end of their program. This two semester long planning and implementation is to demonstrate integrated synthesis of all areas of the program: Research, Clinical focus and Role development. To accomplish this goal, Master's Degree students at the Decker School of Nursing will have the option to complete a capstone thesis, project or paper to fulfill this requirement:
Capstone Thesis Option: Students may choose to write a thesis. Thesis credits may be used to satisfy elective credit requirements. Students planning to pursue a PhD in nursing are encouraged to consider the thesis option. If this option involves human subjects, students will be required to complete the Human Participants Training and Education Requirement and obtain Binghamton University Human Subjects Research Review Committee (HSRRC) approval, as well as additional institutional Human Subjects Institutional Review Board approval when appropriate. When the thesis option is chosen, the specific procedure outlined below should be followed.
Capstone Project Option: Community Health Students must complete the community health capstone project, which will be discussed with them by the Community Health Faculty. The other Masters of Science students may choose to complete a capstone project and may use elective credits to satisfy the project option. The purpose of the capstone project is to give students an opportunity to demonstrate master's level expertise in family, geriatric, or psychiatric mental health nursing by synthesizing advanced scientific knowledge, skills, and individual creativity to design, implement, and evaluate a project relevant to the student's clinical focus. Students who choose this option--and who are not in community health--are encouraged to consider taking elective credit as a cognate for their project.
Students may choose to complete a capstone project. This two-semester long planning and implementation project is designed to demonstrate integrated synthesis of all areas of the program: Research, Clinical focus and Role development. If this option involves human subjects, students will be required to complete the Human Participants Training and Education Requirement and obtain Binghamton University Human Subjects Research Review Committee (HSRRC) approval, as well as additional institutional Human Subjects Institutional Review Board approval when appropriate.
Capstone Paper Option: Students may choose to write a capstone paper over a two-semester period. This paper will be comprehensive in nature encompassing specialization, clinical role, and curricular threads such as research, theory, policy, and ethics. It will be a synthesis paper that requires students to integrate knowledge across courses, and include content specific areas (health conditions) that are applicable to their roles and specialization. If students complete dual roles, they will be expected to choose one role on which to focus and will be encouraged to select the NP role if it is one of their roles. Students who choose this option are encouraged to consider taking elective credit as a cognate for their scholarly work.
low-topThe Ph.D. program in nursing is designed to prepare nurse scholars with skills and knowledge necessary to conduct research on rural health and vulnerable populations. Graduates of the program are expected to assume leadership roles in nursing related to rural health and vulnerable populations in academic and practice settings.
To view the Curriculum guide, click here.
This program is designed to prepare Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists to respond more efficiently to changes in health care delivery and emerging health care needs for the future—-tomorrow's practice. The DNP program will incorporate the advanced practice content and competencies currently taught in the master's program. The DNP focuses on providing graduates with knowledge and competence in health systems leadership, policy development, and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve health care quality and increase health care access for all populations. Transforming health care delivery recognizes the critical need for clinicians to design, evaluate, and continuously improve the context within which care is delivered.
To view the Curriculum guide, click here.
Doctoral students will be assigned a faculty adviser to assist in program planning. As the students' research or capstone project interests become more fully defined it is likely that the faculty member who is or is likely to become dissertation chair will assume primary advising activity.
Since it is likely that the majority of students graduating from the program will be employed in academic settings, students must demonstrate expertise in teaching before graduation. Specific guidelines for meeting this requirement will be individually determined.
The comprehensive examination for PhD students is planned for the third year of the program (post-master's entry level full-time students.) The comprehensive examination for part-time students is planned for the summer before Year 5 of the program. Each student's chair and committee develop questions based on the student's research area of interest.
Final Doctoral Projects
Under the guidance of a committee, students will complete a Capstone Project which will result in the implementation of a plan for improvement for one of the following: health care delivery system; program development and evaluation; development of a patient-focused intervention; or organizational changes that influence health care policies to reduce health care disparities.
The Capstone Project Committee will consist of three members, two faculty members from DSON and the other member a clinical mentor.
Students will complete a dissertation before graduation. Nursing 607 Advanced Research Practicum is designated as the course in which the dissertation proposal is prepared. Students will be working with their committee members and course faculty. When the committee agrees that the proposal is complete, an oral defense will be scheduled. The format for submitting a dissertation can be found here. Data cannot be collected without approval from the student's committee and Binghamton University Institutional Review Board.
Dissertation committees are formed using the guidelines of the Graduate School. The committee is comprised of a minimum of three members. The chair must be a faculty member in The Decker School of Nursing. Final decision regarding the membership of committees rests with The Doctoral Program Coordinator.
