NOTE: THE DECKER SCHOOL OF NURSING RESERVES THE RIGHT TO AT ANY TIME AMEND AND/OR ALTER CONTENTS OF THE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK.
Academic Policies, Procedures, and Requirements
Undergraduate Curriculum
Undergraduate Transfer Information
Academic Standards for Undergraduate Program
Undergraduate Nursing Course Information
Students, alumni, administrative coordinators, faculty, and staff contributed to the preparation of the Binghamton University Decker School of Nursing (DSON) Undergraduate Program Office Student Handbook. The purpose of the handbook is to clarify DSON academic policies, procedures, and curricular requirements to new and continuing students, as well as to facilitate students' progress in meeting degree requirements. Undergraduate students currently enrolled in DSON use the Handbook to find general, convenient, and pertinent information that is needed in order to maximize the resources of Binghamton University.
Additional information regarding academic policies and procedures can be found in the Binghamton University Bulletin on-line at http://bulletin.binghamton.edu and in specific policies of the Decker School within the Decker School on-line handbook. Students are also expected to become familiar with the University Rules Governing Academic Life for students, also found in the on-line University Bulletin.
As a student preparing for practice in a distinguished field, you will encounter legal and professional obligations specific to the role of the professional nurse. These obligations include the requirement of all current nursing students to maintain annual Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification and that students must submit an annual Student Health Evaluation form before participation in clinical experiences involving client care. Basic knowledge and skill level may need verification before assignment to clinical areas. Specific dress codes may be mandatory for certain clinical agencies.
You are a member of a select group of students who have qualified for admission to the Decker School. You are entering a challenging, rigorous, demanding, and rewarding program. Upon satisfactory completion of your program of study, you will enter into professional nursing practice as a distinguished, caring, and competent graduate of this University.
Decker School of Nursing faculty, administrators, and staff offer our warmest welcome to you and wish you every success. The University motto is to learn, to search, and to serve. At the Decker School of Nursing, we work as a team to enable each student to become all that she or he is capable of becoming.
The Decker School of Nursing is committed to scholarship and excellence in the educational preparation of nurses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The faculty members of Decker are committed to instilling in students an awareness of and desire for lifelong learning that accompanies the profession of nursing.
The Decker School of Nursing at Binghamton University, consistent with its tradition as a public institution, recognizes the responsibility to educate nurses who can address the health care needs of a multicultural society. In order to carry out this responsibility, the Decker School seeks to provide educational access and support to a culturally and economically diverse body of students.
Building on a firm foundation in the liberal arts and basic sciences, the Undergraduate Curriculum at Decker prepares nurses for generalist practice in all health care settings. Graduates of the baccalaureate program are recognized for finely tuned critical thinking skills and sound judgment in the clinical setting. Decker graduates are also recognized for providing compassionate care to patients while working in a dynamic environment. Nurses educated at the baccalaureate level learn to provide and coordinate care across settings. Nursing students also learn to practice nursing from broad-based research activity, as astute consumers of research literature, and as active participants in research that improves clinical practice. Research activity is required of nursing students and must be clinically relevant and contribute to the science of evidence-based nursing.
The Decker School of Nursing is a prominent leader in the field of nursing education. DSON continually sets standards of excellence at both state and national levels. Decker School faculty members strive to maintain this level of distinction by:
The Decker School's curriculum is designed to incorporate coursework from all disciplines, including the humanities, social, behavioral, and natural sciences. The curriculum for courses in nursing and in liberal arts and sciences includes both required and elective courses that provide students with opportunities for continued growth and knowledge in understanding themselves and the world. Nursing is approached as part of the health care delivery system in a complex society. Faculty provide learning experiences where students will acquire competency in the provision of health care as well as the knowledge and preparation for their emerging and expanding roles in primary, acute, and long-term care.
Implementation of this curriculum requires the joint effort of students, staff, faculty, and administrators together with clients and health care professionals in community agencies. The UG Handbook is used by students in the Decker School of Nursing as a source of information regarding existing resources available to them and to help them ensure realization of their envisioned goals as they progress through the curriculum.
The Bulletin in effect when students enter the Decker School describes the policies that affect student progression toward completion of degree requirements. For example, if the student enters in the fall of 2009, the 2009-10 Bulletin is the student's contract with the University. The policies and requirements are those that must be followed while the student is enrolled at Binghamton University. To see the Bulletin on-line, go to: http://bulletin.binghamton.edu/.
Students are considered to have full-time status by the University if they are carrying 12 or more credits per semester with letter or Pass/Fail grading option. Most students carry 16 to 17 credits (4 courses) per semester. Students are considered to have part-time status if they are carrying less than 12 credits. Undergraduate students are allowed to register for no more than 18 credit hours unless they have filed an academic petition form for an overload. Petitions to register for an overload are considered on an individual basis when submitted to the Decker School of Nursing Educational Policies Committee. (See the section on Petitioning for Exceptions to Policies and Requirements.)
Students may matriculate on a part-time or full-time basis in the Decker School.
An academic minor is an approved course sequence within an area of study outside of the nursing curriculum that provides a program of specialization in that area. One example is the minor in Romance Languages – Spanish. Students are encouraged to consult the Binghamton University Bulletin for specific information regarding minors. The area in which a student takes a minor is recorded on the transcript upon graduation. Students interested in this option are urged to contact Decker Student Services for academic advising regarding a program plan soon after enrollment in the Decker School and prior to nursing courses in the third year.
NOTE: The Decker School reserves the right to alter section enrollment limits and student placement within a course section or sections based on Department and School operating needs. This policy is especially critical and most often implemented when considering clinically based course enrollments. The Decker School has a responsibility to provide an environment in which all students can safely and successfully perform in clinical settings.
The Registrar's Office issues Add and Drop Deadlines for each semester. The Add and Drop Deadlines are always announced and posted online at http://registrar.binghamton.edu/registration.htm. The add/ drop-delete deadlines both fall at the end of the first two weeks of a semester. Students who drop a course after the official drop-delete deadline will receive a grade of W (withdrawal) on their transcript. For more information on withdrawing from a Decker School course, see Withdrawal. Please see the University Bulletin for withdrawal from non-nursing courses.
Students may add courses or change sections via BU Brain (Binghamton University's Student Information and Registration system) before the Add Deadline if space is available in a class and no restrictions are in place on course sections preventing such add/drop activity. If the class is closed, students may contact the department or school offering the course for information on how to petition (at the discretion of the department) for a space in the class. Petitioning into a course may not always be available to students. Though not required, students may find it helpful to consult with their assigned adviser when adding a class.
To add a course after the Add Deadline, students obtain and complete the “Late Add” section of an “Undergraduate Late Add/Drop Petition” form. Available in Decker's Student Services Office and on the DSON web site at http://www2.binghamton.edu/dson/student-forms.html, petitions must be completed and signed by the petitioning student, the Director of Student Services in the Decker School, and the faculty instructor of record for the course.
Once all signatures are obtained, the student may submit an approved late add petition with appropriate late fee payment to the Student Accounts Office. Approved petitions must be submitted to Student Accounts within two weeks of approval to be accepted.
To drop a course, students are allowed two weeks. Students may drop a course via BU Brain prior to the drop deadline; however, students should discuss this option with their faculty adviser before dropping the class, since dropping a class may affect the program plan. If students stop attending class without officially dropping, they will receive an "F" on the transcript. This may cause serious academic difficulty. Students must drop all courses for which they have registered and have not attended.
If students are unable to meet the drop deadline or decide to drop a course after the drop deadline, they should discuss the situation with their faculty adviser. If dropping the course after the drop deadline is desirable, students must submit an “Undergraduate Late Add/Drop Petition” with the “Late Drop” section completed to the course instructor for approval and signature. The student must also obtain approval and signature from the Decker School 's Director of Student Services.
For late drop courses, the Decker School generally follows the grading policy of the school offering the course that the student is petitioning to late drop. It is the student's responsibility to pick up the approved form from the Student Services Office within a week after the date of the approval and submit the form to Student Accounts with the appropriate late fee payment. Approved petitions must be submitted to Student Accounts within two weeks of approval to be accepted.
The student who wishes to change a grade option should be aware of the Decker School grading policies (see Academic Standards and Grading). Only electives and physical education courses may be taken "P/F" unless "P/F" is the only grade option available. Students are expected to consult with their faculty advisors if they have questions. If the student decides, after consultation with the faculty adviser, to change the grading option to "P/F" or "audit" before the drop deadline, the student may do so via BU Brain. If the drop deadline has passed, the student will need to obtain an Undergraduate Late Add/Drop petition form and seek approval for the change of grade option from the instructor, the faculty adviser, and the Director of Student Services.
The Decker School of Nursing adheres to the University policy pertaining to attendance in class. In addition, attendance for all laboratory experiences is mandatory. Students must notify their instructors if they are unable to meet this commitment because of illness or other circumstances beyond their control. All course-related assignments must be completed as indicated in course syllabi unless prior arrangements are made with course faculty. The Decker School of Nursing (DSON) will attempt to make reasonable accommodations for students with scheduling conflicts related to religious observance, performing arts sessions, debates, or Division I athletic obligations. Accommodations may consist of course lectures or learning experiences being filmed and uploaded to the ITunes web site. Thus, in some instances students may download some course content as a podcast. Logon and password information for podcast sessions will be provided as necessary. Students are expected to contact the instructor of record for the course affected as soon as possible if there is need for an accommodation due to scheduling conflicts. The DSON will make every attempt to ensure students have an opportunity to learn with reasonable alternative formats when selected schedule conflicts occur.
Students may satisfy their interest in a subject area or explore a new area of study through a course audit. By auditing a course, students participate in but do not receive credit for the course. Course Audit Petitions are available in the Registrar's Office, the undergraduate advising offices, and the Graduate School. Students may register for audits within the course add period only. Credit-bearing courses may not be changed to audit courses after the course add deadline, nor may audited courses be changed to credit courses after this deadline. Audited courses do not satisfy degree requirements .
Prospective auditors are advised of the following:
Note : “Prior approval” is defined as placing one's request to audit before the semester begins in which the course being considered for audit is offered.
Older Adults as Auditors:
New York residents 60 years of age or older may audit courses free of charge when space is available. Courses may not be taken for credit. Permission of the instructor is required. Persons interested in auditing courses are encouraged to contact the Harpur College academic advising office in Student Wing 110, 607-777-6305.
(Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior)
The Decker School considers the student to have senior standing when junior year nursing courses have been satisfactorily completed and the student is enrolled in senior nursing courses.
Students are considered to have junior standing upon satisfactory completion of the 66 credits of liberal arts and sciences and prerequisite courses and enrollment in junior-level nursing courses.
Students who have completed 30 credits of classroom study are considered sophomores in the Decker School .
A student who has completed less than 30 credits is considered a freshman.
Decker School students may earn the degree in nursing and a degree offered in another discipline at Binghamton University at the same time by completing a minimum of 156 credits, 28 credits beyond the 128 required for nursing, and fulfilling all requirements for both degree programs. Students who wish to participate in the Double Degree Program may apply by completing and submitting to the Undergraduate Admissions Office the Application for a Double Degree form available from the Student Services Office or the Admissions Office. Students are also urged to contact the Director of Student Services for academic advising regarding a program plan to facilitate successful completion of both degrees. Students are required to have a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA for consideration.
Binghamton offers a variety of need-based grants and loans to eligible students including federal nursing student loans. Students may apply for assistance by completing the Federal Government's Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) indicating on the form that the processing agency send information to Binghamton University (SUNY), code number 002836. In addition, New York State residents should complete the current edition of the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) Application. Students may contact the Office of Student Financial Aid and Employment at 607-777-2428 for information on financial aid eligibility.
The Decker School of Nursing has a limited number of scholarships available with specific eligibility criteria including merit and, in some cases, residency requirements. These awards are given annually to admitted and enrolled students depending on funding availability. An application and additional information for admitted and enrolled students is available online by visiting: http://www2.binghamton.edu/dson/financial-aid-opportunities.html.
For returning students the deadline to apply for these scholarships is March 1.
A committee reviews scholarship applications, and applicants are notified about the scholarship funds before the beginning of the fall semester. Students may contact the Student Services Office at 607-777-4954 for more information and for applications.
Applications will be considered beginning in March and all decisions are made by May 1 each year. Applications received after the May 1 deadline may be considered for an award on an individual basis.
A list of scholarship descriptions follows:
Alumni Scholarships
Scholarships funded by the alumni of the Decker School of Nursing are given to undergraduate students based on need and/or merit.
Arkell Hall Foundation Scholarships
Scholarships funded by the Arkell Hall Foundation, Inc., are given to students from Montgomery, Fulton, Schoharie, and Herkimer Counties in New York State. Students from Montgomery County receive first preference. Awards are reserved for students who intend to pursue their nursing careers in one of these counties.
Binghamton General Hospital School of Nursing Scholarship
This scholarship, funded by the Binghamton General School of Nursing Alumni Association, is given to registered nurse students who are pursuing a baccalaureate degree in the Decker School of Nursing. Preference is given to residents of Broome, Chenango, Delaware, and Tioga Counties in New York and in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania. FAFSA required.
Broome County Charities Nursing Scholarship Fund
Awarded to a Broome County resident; second preference given to a student residing within a 60-mile radius of Broome County. Student must show an interest in living and working in the Broome County area and demonstrate financial need. The recipient can be a full-time or part-time undergraduate or graduate student.
Charles S. Wilson Memorial Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Association Scholarship
Reserved for matriculated DSON undergraduate full- and part-time students with a preference given to Wilson Memorial Hospital School of Nursing (WMHSON) alumni or relatives of WMHSON alumni. Preference is given to New York or Pennsylvania residents living within a 60-mile radius of the University. Financial need determined in consultation with the Office of Student Financial Aid and Employment. FAFSA required.
Dr. G. Clifford and Florence B. Decker Foundation Scholarships
Scholarships funded by the Dr. G. Clifford and Florence B. Decker Foundation are given to nursing students who reside within a 60-mile radius of Broome County. First priority is given to Broome County residents.
Lester Casper Nursing Scholarship
Scholarship for nursing students in financial need. Preference for incoming Decker School of Nursing freshmen students with demonstrated financial need as determined in consultation with the Office of Student Financial Aid and Employment. FAFSA required.
Mark and Ann O'Neil Scholarship Fund
Established to benefit financially needy Decker School of Nursing graduate students. Recipients must be matriculated full- or part-time master's degree students. Preference is given to financially needy students pursuing a specialty in primary care or gerontology who have an interest in serving community-based elder or rural elder patients. Financial need is determined by the scholarship selection committee in consultation with the Office of Student Financial Aid and Employment.
United Health Services Nursing Scholarships
Scholarships funded by United Health Service Hospitals, Inc., are given to area minorities and immigrants and their children who wish to pursue a nursing education at the Decker School of Nursing.
William H. Lane Incorporated Scholarship
Scholarships funded by William H. Lane, Incorporated, are given to full-time students based on academic merit and proven need for financial aid. Awards are reserved for New York State residents with first preference to those residing in upstate New York. FAFSA required.
Grades in courses offered by the University are normally recorded as follows: A, A–, B+, B, B–, C+, C, C–, D and F.
A grade of C- or higher in nursing courses is required for progression in the nursing curriculum. A grade of D or less in a nursing course will require repeating that course.
Numerical equivalents of the assigned letter grade that are traditionally used in the undergraduate program for consistency are:
For all non-nursing courses, the following applies:
Grades of I (Incomplete), W (Withdrawn), WP (Withdrawn Passing), WF (Withdrawn Failing) and AU (Audit) may be given. These grades are not included in cumulative totals.
To calculate the GPA for a semester, multiply the grade point value received for each grade by the number of credits the course was worth. Do this for each course, and total the products. Divide this total by the credit load carried for the semester.
There is no official University procedure for taking a leave of absence. However, if the student plans to leave Binghamton University and not register for classes in a given semester, the student should notify the Decker School Student Services Office in writing. Students who wish to return to Binghamton University after an absence of two semesters (or longer) will need to apply for readmission with the University Admissions Office and may find that their return is complicated by program changes or enrollment space availability (See Readmission.)
Many employers and some State Boards of Nursing require official transcripts prior to employment and application for licensure. Official transcripts are available only from the Registrar's Office and must be requested by the individual student. The Decker School cannot request transcripts for forwarding to any individual, agency or institution. For more information see Registrar.
If the student thinks she/he has good reason to be granted an exception to a policy or requirement, the student may petition the Educational Policies Committee (EPC) of the Decker School. The committee will decide outcomes of student petitions for exceptions to education policy. Appeals of petitions denied by the committee are made to the Dean.
The process of petitioning for exceptions is:
1. Students should discuss their situation with the faculty adviser, the Student Services Office, or the EOP or CSTEP adviser.
2. If the situation indicates the need for a policy exception, the student must obtain a petition form online. Students should read the EPC petition form carefully, and fill it out completely. The student's faculty adviser must sign the petition before it goes before the EPC for consideration. Describe the request for exception and give reasons for making the request. Attach appropriate supporting documents such as catalog course descriptions, course outline or syllabus, letters from instructors or department chairpersons, supporting statements from advisors or instructors, or any additional information that will help committee members decide how best to meet the educational interests of the student. Supporting documentation will be returned to the student after the committee makes its decision. Petitions that are unclear or give insufficient information will be returned to the student for clarification.
3. Students should consult the Student Services Office for information on meeting dates and the name of the chair of the committee. Students must submit their petition and supporting material to the Student Services Office one week before the next scheduled meeting date for the committee to take action on the petition. Meeting dates are subject to change. Students may attend the meeting to provide additional information or may have an advocate speak for them. The petition will usually be acted upon within a month.
4. Consult DSON Student Services (AB 112/114) if you have other questions about the petition process.
Note: The BU campus supports ONLY a Microsoft Office platform.
Students in nursing courses are required to type all written assignments unless specifically advised otherwise. It is assumed that students begin the nursing major with strong writing skills. In addition, the School has adopted the use of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, latest edition, by the American Psychological Association.
Students have access to computers in public computer PODs on campus for word processing as well as other uses. Term papers, reports, etc., can be completed efficiently using on campus resources. Information Technology Services (ITS) provides computing and network resources and educational technology services to the Binghamton University campus community. People, facilities, hardware and software together create an enhanced computing and educational environment. Resources are continually being upgraded to provide the University with current technologies.
Computers restricted to nursing student use are currently available in the Decker School Student Computer Pod on the second floor of Academic Building B, accessible during hours when the Decker School Innovative Practice Center (Learning Laboratory) is open. Preference for use of the DSON computers will be given to those students enrolled in upper-division nursing courses.
Note: Plans to relocate the DSON computing pod to the ground floor of Academic Building B are scheduled for summer 2008.
Students who apply for readmission to the Decker School of Nursing after withdrawal from Binghamton for a minimum of two semesters must submit an Application for Readmission to the University Admissions Office. Decisions regarding readmission will be based upon:
1. Academic standing of a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 at the time of withdrawal;
2. Required personal interview may be required with the Director of Student Services or the Director of Undergraduate Programs;
3. Review of college transcripts for all colleges/universities attended since withdrawal;
4. Review of student's personal statement, including the reason for seeking readmission, description of career goals, and employment history; and
5. Review of student's assessed potential for success.
Students who meet these criteria for readmission may be readmitted to complete the Decker School program described in the Binghamton University Bulletin in effect at the time of the readmission. Students readmitted prior to Advance Registration for that semester will be permitted to advance register for courses.
In accordance with Binghamton 's readmission policy, the Decker School students who withdrew from all classes during a semester may register for the following semester without applying for readmission. These students will return to complete the Decker School program described in the Binghamton University Bulletin in effect at admission to the University.
An incomplete grade in a nursing course that is a prerequisite to a subsequent nursing course must be converted to a letter grade by the beginning of the following semester or the grade will convert to an "F." The course instructor of record must approve exceptions to this policy in writing with copies to the student file, the Director of Undergraduate Programs, the faculty adviser, and the Office of the University Registrar. Incomplete grades earned in nursing electives will be subject to and follow University policy regarding incompletes.
An incomplete in a course other than nursing will convert to an "F" at the end of the next semester unless an official extension has been filed with the Office of the Registrar. The appropriate form, “Request for Extension of Incomplete Grade in an Undergraduate Course,” is available in the Registrar's Office. The student must initiate the request for an extension after reaching agreement with the instructor for an alternate completion date.
Students may repeat a general requirement or elective course if they have withdrawn, dropped, or received an "F". Students may repeat a prerequisite liberal arts or science course if they receive a "D" or an "F" with the permission of the school or department offering the course. Students may repeat a nursing course only once if they receive an "F" or a "W " in the course on the first attempt. (See Academic Dismissal.)
Students who wish to repeat an equivalent prerequisite course at another college or university may do so according to the transfer credit policy. (See Transfer Credit.)
(Approved by DSON Faculty Council 2/3/97)
With the permission of the course instructor of record, a student may petition to drop a nursing course after the Drop-Delete Deadline. A student who drops a nursing course after the drop-delete deadline will receive a grade of W (withdraw), assigned by the instructor. This withdrawal grade indicates that the student has made an attempt to complete the course, and a student will be allowed a maximum of two attempts. (See Academic Dismissal.) If a student retakes a nursing course in which a withdrawal grade was received on the first attempt and again seeks permission to withdraw, the instructor of record will assign a grade of WP or WF. Withdrawing grades will not be used to compute the grade point average.
In a course with a clinical nursing component, the clinical instructor, with the concurrence of the course instructor of record and/or the Director of Undergraduate Programs, may require that a student petition for withdrawal if a serious or repeated problem involving health or safety occurs. The student will not be permitted to return to the clinical site. In such cases, refusal to petition for a withdrawal grade prior to the last day of classes will result in a grade of F in the course.
The decision to apply for a withdrawing grade must be made, documented on the appropriate petition form, and received by the University Registrar's Office prior to the closing of that office on the last day of classes in the semester in which the course was taken. A student who is concerned about the impact of a withdrawal or failing grade on her or his financial aid status is advised to meet with a counselor at the Student Financial Aid and Employment Office.
Students who wish to withdraw from the Decker School after the end of a semester must inform--in writing--the DSON Student Services Office and the Registrar's Office of their decision.
Students who withdraw during the semester must obtain a Binghamton University Withdrawal Form from the Student Services Office or the Registrar's Office and have it signed by all offices indicated. Failure to follow this procedure will result in grades of "F" on the transcript for that semester. Students must return I.D. cards to Student Accounts upon withdrawal from 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-Delete Deadline will have all courses deleted from their record. Students who withdraw after the Drop-Delete Deadline will have grades of "W" for all courses, and the notation of the withdrawal date will appear on the official transcript.
| Summer Session I | Credits |
| Nurs 320 Socialization I: Introduction to Professional Nursing |
4 |
| Nurs 321 Nursing Assessment of Clients (LECTURE ONLY TERM I; LAB, TERM II) |
4 |
| Nurs 351 Pathophysiology / Psychopathology I | 2 |
| Nurs Elective (one required; take summer or spring) | 2 |
| Total Per Summer Session I | 10-12 |
| Summer Session II | Credits |
| Nurs 321 Nursing Assessment of Clients (LAB ONLY TERM II; LECTURE, TERM I) |
-- |
| Nurs 360 Socialization II: Nursing Research |
2 |
| Nurs 361 Pathophysiology / Psychopathology II | 4 |
| Nurs Elective (one required; take summer or spring) | 2 |
| Total Per Summer Session II | 8-10 |
| Fall Semester | Credits |
| Nurs 322 The Client System of Nursing | 4 |
| Nurs 352 Practice of Nursing I | 4 |
| Nurs 353 Practice of Nursing II | 4 |
| Nurs 362 Practice of Nursing III | 4 |
| Nurs 365 Pharmacology | 2 |
| Total Per Semester | 18 |
| Spring Semester | Credits |
| Nurs 363 Practice of Nursing IV | 4 |
| Nurs 470 Socialization III: Professional Issues |
4 |
| Nurs 471 Practice of Nursing V | 8 |
| Nursing Elective (one required; take summer or spring) | 2 |
| Total Per Semester |
16-18 |
Gen Ed is waived for students earning a second bachelor's degree
NOTES:
These credits may be taken at any school within Binghamton University or may be transferred from other accredited colleges or universities. Students are urged to explore areas outside the field of nursing to meet elective requirements. Elective credits with the exception of the required nursing elective may be taken pass/fail. Students who choose to take additional nursing electives may take these courses pass/fail at the discretion of the instructor.
Students may elect to take an independent study that meets their educational interests and needs and are encouraged to contact the appropriate professional school or department in Harpur College for academic advising.
A total of eight credits for nursing students from the department of Health and Physical Education (this includes courses with the CEO and HWS rubrics) may be applied to the total number of credits required for graduation for those students admitted in spring 2010 or later. Note that students admitted prior to spring 2010 may only count a total of 6 credits of HPE, HPEY, CEO, and HWS rubrics toward the total number of credits required for graduation with the exception of Division I athletes who are allowed 8 credits.
The total general elective credits required for each student for degree completion may vary widely depending on each student's curriculum plan and variation in transfer credits.
[Approved by DSON Council 2/18/91]
Note: RN students may petition the Decker School Graduate Office to enroll in graduate nursing courses.
1. Undergraduates considering enrollment in graduate level courses must be prepared for more demanding effort and more challenging requirements than in their undergraduate courses. Greater independent initiative and responsibility for learning are also expected.
2. Eligibility requirements for enrollment in a graduate nursing course include: a) a minimum of a 3.0 nursing GPA; b) senior level standing; c) assessed potential for success based on adviser's statement of student's ability, interest, and past experiences; and d) permission of the instructor and approval of the Director of Undergraduate Programs and the Director of Graduate Programs.
3. Undergraduates who meet the eligibility requirements will be registered for graduate courses on a space available basis, with first preference given to graduate students.
4. Since final notification of space in the course may be uncertain up until the "add" deadline, undergraduate students planning to have the graduate course(s) meet elective credit requirements for the undergraduate degree should consider alternate course enrollment plans.
5. Students who complete graduate courses may be permitted to count these courses toward baccalaureate degree requirements. If these courses are used to meet baccalaureate degree requirements, they cannot be counted toward graduate degree requirements.
6. Undergraduates who have completed all but two courses (8 credits) required for graduation may register for up to two courses for graduate credit. At registration, students must designate those courses for which they wish to receive graduate credit. Courses submitted for graduate credit by such students are not counted toward their undergraduate degree.
Undergraduates' Eligibility and the Procedure to Petition taking a Graduate Course for Graduate Credit:
Eligibility:
Undergraduate students who have successfully completed all but eight credit hours toward their undergraduate degree may complete a petition to take a maximum of up to TWO graduate courses for graduate credit as long as the credit hours are not needed for the bachelor's degree. These graduate courses would be charged at the undergraduate rate.
Procedures:
Student should register for the course(s).
Student completes the “Undergraduate Receiving Graduate Credit” petition no later than the add deadline. Petitions are available in the Office of the Registrar, Graduate Office, and Advising Office of each School.
Student submits completed form and most recent DARS report to the Registrar's Office for approval and obtains the appropriate signature. Students must notify Student Services when they register for graduate nursing courses to count for graduate credit
The six-semester part-time study option is designed for students who choose to extend their program of study beyond the traditional four-semester plan. There are two part-time study options: one for Traditional Students and another for RN Students.)
[Approved for implementation, 4/87 Revised 11/91; 6/93; 11/98; 2/99; 6/04]
The six-semester part-time study guide is designed for students who plan to extend their program of study beyond the usual full-time four-semester plan. The document serves as a guide and does not exclude other plans of study.
Students who plan to extend the program from four to six semesters:
Curriculum Schema
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Fall, Semester 1 | See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. | |
| N. 320 | 4 | |
| N. 321 | 4 | |
| N.351 | 2 | |
| Total | 10 | |
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Spring, Semester 2 | See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. | |
| N. 361 | 4 | |
| Nursing or General Elective | 2-4 | |
| Total | 4-8 |
* See Policies of the School of Nursing for UG Nursing Electives on access to nursing electives.
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Fall, Semester 3 | See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. | |
| N. 322 | 4 | |
| N. 360 | 2 | |
| Nursing or General Elective | 2-4 | |
| Total | 6-10 | |
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Spring, Semester 4 |
See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. |
|
| N. 352 | 4 | |
| N.353 | 4 | |
| General or Nursing Elective | 2-4 | |
| Total | 8-12 | |
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Fall, Semester 5 |
See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. |
|
| N.362 | 4 | |
| N.363 | 4 | |
| N.365 | 2 | |
| Total | 10 | |
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Spring, Semester 6 | See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. | |
| N.470 | 4 | |
| N.471 | 8 | |
| Total | 12 |
Students may need to plan on summer sessions to complete any remaining humanities, social sciences, or electives needed to complete degree requirements.
Note: Students have the right to petition for exceptions to policies and requirements.
The six-semester part-time study option is designed for registered nurse students who plan to extend their program of study beyond the usual four-semester program. This plan shows completion of the last 30 credits for the degree at Binghamton University, the residency requirement. RN students may take non-nursing courses in the summer after completing N. 472 if degree credits are needed but must petition Educational Policies if the credits are not completed at Binghamton University. NOTE: RNs may earn credit by examination for N. 351, 361 and 365. See RN Credit by Examination Policy for Selected Nursing Courses. Additionally, in order to begin NURS 364 and NURS 472, proof of licensure must be submitted to Decker Student Services and the Clinical Site Coordinator.
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Fall, Semester 1 | See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. | |
| N.323 Transitions in Professional Role Development I | 4 | |
| N.351 Pathophysiology/ Psychopathology I | 2 | |
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Spring, Semester 2 | See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. | |
| N. 361 Pathophysiology and Psychopathology II | 4 | |
| Nursing Elective | 2 | |
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Fall, Semester 3 | See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. | |
| N.322 Client System of Nursing | 4 | |
| N.360 Socialization II: Nursing Research |
2 | |
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Spring, Semester 4 | See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. | |
| N.470 Socialization III: Professional Issues |
4 | |
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Fall, Semester 5 | See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. | |
| N.364 Population Focused Care in Community | 2 | |
| N.365 Pharmacology | 2 | |
| Semester | Credits | Notes |
| Spring, Semester 6 | See Bulletin for prerequisite course information. | |
| N.472 Practice of Nursing V for RNs | 6 |
The following courses must be completed prior to taking upper division nursing classes:
*Note: Introductory biology is waived for students who have successfully completed two semesters of human anatomy and physiology at another institution.
In addition, students are expected to complete approximately 66 credits toward the degree prior to beginning the nursing major. Note that in order for licensed RNs to begin NURS 364 and/or NURS 472, proof of licensure must be submitted to Decker Student Services and the Clinical Site Coordinator.
Exception for Licensed RNs to the DSON Required Prerequisite & Corequisite Policy:
There are two exceptions to the completion of prerequisites rule that apply only to those licensed RNs enrolling in non-accelerated program tracks. RNs enrolling in non-accelerated program tracks may opt to complete statistics prior to or concurrently with Nursing 360 (Socialization II: Nursing Research) and also may opt to complete the chemistry prerequisites (CHEM 101 and CHEM 102) prior to or concurrently with the respective pathophysiology/psychopathology required courses, Nursing 351 (Patho I) and 361 (Patho II).
[DSON Council Approval and Implementation 5/11/98]
Preamble: Decker School of Nursing provides a process by which admitted and enrolled registered nurse students may request credit-by-examination in the following courses: Nursing 351 and 361, Pathophysiology/Psychopathology I and II, respectively; and Nursing 365, Pharmacology in Nursing. Registered nurse students with evidence of a health assessment course that is not transferable for college credit may request credit-by-examination to meet that component of Nursing 323, Transitions in Professional Role Development I, using the Nursing 497 Independent Study rubric. The philosophy of this policy is that the Decker School wishes to acknowledge and validate students' prior education and practice.
This is a sample of a sequence of courses for the nursing program for Registered Nurse students who have completed all prerequisites to the nursing major, including inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and statistics. DSON will transfer up to 84 credits from a Community College, including 30 credits of nursing coursework. In order to begin NURS 364 and NURS 472, proof of licensure must be submitted to Decker Student Services and the Clinical Site Coordinator.
|
Junior Year |
|||
| Fall Semester | Credits | Spring Semester | Credits |
| Nursing 322 The Client System of Nursing | 4 | Nursing 361* Pathophysiology and Psychopathology II | 4 |
| Nursing 323 Transitions in Professional Role Development I | 4 | Elective or Gen Ed (if needed) | 4 |
| Nursing 351* Pathophysiology and Psychopathology I | 2 | Elective or Gen Ed (if needed) | 4 |
| Elective or Gen Ed (if needed) | 4 | ||
| Total Credits | 8-14 | Total Credits | 4-12 |
| Senior Year | |||
| Nursing 360 Socialization II: Nursing Research |
2 | Nursing 470 Socialization III: Professional Issues |
4 |
| Nursing 364 Population Focused Care in the Community | 2 | Nursing 472 Practice of Nursing V for RNs | 6 |
| Nursing 365* Pharmacology or Nursing Elective | 2 | Elective or Gen Ed (if needed) | 4 |
| Elective or Gen Ed (if needed) | 4 | ||
| Elective or Gen Ed (if needed) | 4 | ||
| Total Credits | 4-14 | Total Credits | 4-14 |
Registered Nurse students will receive 20 credits of ADN coursework to count toward the required 52 credits in the nursing major. Remaining ADN credits may be used to fulfill general elective credit. Diploma RNs will receive 24 credits on scores of C- or better in the Regents College Examinations entitled Adult, Maternal Child, and Mental Health Nursing, of which 20 credits will count toward the required 52 credits in the nursing major, with the remaining 4 credits counting toward general electives. The above program plan assumes that the student will be full time. This plan may be modified to part-time if the student takes only required nursing courses. The student would then have to enroll in summer school sessions in order to complete the necessary general education and/or elective credits required for the B.S. degree in nursing in a two-year time frame.
An appropriate part-time sequence of courses for registered nurses can be arranged individually between the student and faculty adviser. This sequence would normally be completed in three years but may be extended to six if necessary.
* RN students may request credit by exam for Nurs 351, Nurs 361, and Nurs 365.
* See Sample Part-Time Plan for RNs. *See Credit By Exam for RNs.
[Implemented 4/87 rev. 11/87; 6/94]
The RN Accelerated Track Program is designed for RN students who have completed most of the prerequisites to the nursing major, the majority of the general education requirements and a significant number of elective credits. Registered nurses with a degree in another field or who have had a significant number of courses from other colleges would be eligible.
Sample Curriculum Plan for Accelerated RNs
The following is the sequence of nursing courses for the two-semester accelerated program. This plan assumes that all prerequisites and degree requirements are complete with the exception of nursing courses. Note: In order to begin either NURS 364 and NURS 472 courses, proof of licensure is required and must be submitted to Decker Student Services and the Clinical Site Coordinator.
| Fall Semester | Credits |
| Nurs 322 The Client System of Nursing | 4 |
| Nurs 323 Transitions in Professional Role Development I | 4 |
| Nurs 351 Pathophysiology and Psychopathology I* | 2 |
| Nurs 360 Socialization II: Nursing Research |
2 |
| Nurs 364 Population Focused Care in the Community | 2 |
| Nurs 365 Pharmacology* | 2 |
| Total Per Semester | 16 |
| Spring Semester | Credits |
| Nurs 361 Pathophysiology and Psychopathology II* | 4 |
| Nurs 470 Socialization III: Professional Issues |
4 |
| Nurs 472 Practice of Nursing V for RNs | 6 |
| Nursing Elective | 2 |
| Total Per Semester | 16 |
*Note: Credit for N. 351, 361 and 365 may be earned by examination. Also, a two-credit independent study may be substituted for the nursing elective. See the Nursing 497 Independent Study Guidelines for Undergraduates. Please see Nursing 497 Independent Study Guidelines for Undergraduates.
[DSON APPROVED 7/17/2001]
Purpose:
This accommodates students who wish to pursue individual study under the direct supervision of a faculty member.
Prerequisites:
Process:
The body of the plan of study needs to include:
**SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS REGARDING HUMAN SUBJECTS IN RELATION TO INDEPENDENT STUDY RESEARCH AND OR CLINICAL PRACTICE:
If the study includes use of human subjects for either research or clinical practice, the appropriate permissions must be obtained in writing prior to final project approval. Copies of permissions must be submitted to the Independent Study Committee prior to final approval. Students who propose to involve human subjects in any way as part of independent study must comply with stated university policy, HSRC policy, and the American Nurses Association Human Rights Guidelines in Clinical and Other Research.
N.B. Various funding opportunities may be available particularly in funding of research studies. The Director of Undergraduate Program's Office and the Decker School of Nursing Kresge Center for Nursing Research are potential resources for funding.
[Council Approval 5/13/97--Implementation Fall 1997]
Preamble
The School of Nursing in keeping with its existential-humanistic philosophy and organizing framework offers a variety of nursing electives. These courses, as a required component of the curriculum, are taken while the student is enrolled in upper division nursing courses.
Elective courses are designed to assist the student in the exploration of advanced concepts of nursing and/or the in-depth study of a selected area of application to the health care system. Interest in specific electives is expected to develop as core concepts of nursing are introduced in the curriculum at levels II and III.
These upper division nursing electives are viewed as a part of the synthesis of nursing experience which are expected to assist the student in meeting program and personal objectives.
Guidelines for Program Planning and Decision Making about Timing and Appropriateness of Nursing Electives
LEVEL OF ACCESS GUIDELINES FOR ENROLLMENT IN NURSING ELECTIVES
| Nursing 320 Level | General Education Indicator |
| NURS 324 Socio-Cultural Aspects of Health Care | |
| NURS 325 Nutrition Through the Life Span | S (Wellness) |
| NURS 329 Special Topics in Women's Health | S |
| NURS 330 Political Activism & Health Care Delivery | |
| NURS 331 Mathematics in Nursing |
|
| NURS 332 Holistic Health Practice | S |
| NURS 334 Computer Applications in Nursing | |
| NURS 335, Forensics; NURS 335B, Forensic Health of Victims; NURS 335C, Forensic Health of Offenders |
Click here to read about the DSON Certificate of Completion available for successful completion of all three Forensics courses. |
| NURS 340 Special Topics in Clinical Skills | |
| NURS 342 Global Healthcare Strategies in Nursing |
|
| NURS 345 Care of Children in the Community | |
| Nursing 350 Level | |
| NURS 355 Health Care Provider As Patient Educator | |
| NURS 356 Health Promotion in the Aging Population | |
| NURS 357 Rural Health Care | |
| NURS 358 Therapeutic Intervention of Dementia Clients | |
| Nursing 360 Level | |
| NURS 366 Play and the Hospitalized Child | |
| NURS 367 Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Nursing | |
| NURS 370 Disaster Preparedness | |
| NURS 392 Palliative Care | |
| Nursing 470 Level | |
| NURS 435 Biopsychosocial Issues in Oncology | |
| NURS 450 Essentials in Critical Care Nursing | |
| NURS 473 Problems in Advanced Clinical Nursing |
GUIDELINES TO DEVELOP NURSING ELECTIVES AND TO PLAN FOR ENROLLMENTS IN THESE COURSES W/I THE UNDERGRADUATE CURRICULUM
(updated 5/5/08)
Advanced Placement credit may be used to fulfill general requirements or elective credit requirements. The Decker School of Nursing follows these criteria for Advanced Placement credit: AP Credit Chart (pdf, 64kb)
(general education)
Options for credit by examination for general education and prerequisite science courses include the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Regents College Examinations (RCE). CLEP and RCE scores must meet guidelines established by Binghamton. To learn more about this method of receiving credit, contact the Student Services Office or the Undergraduate Program Office in the Decker School.
Students who come to Binghamton are sometimes advised to take developmental courses in preparation for college level work. Such courses might include "100" level courses in rhetoric, math, biology, chemistry, English as a Second Language (ESL), and others. Students needing these courses are advised to take them as early as possible in their curricula.
The policy regarding credit for these courses is:
Note: Twelve (12) credits of ESL coursework may be counted toward degree requirements in the form of general elective credit. ESL courses with General Education indicators (e.g., “C,” “O,” etc.) attached may also be used to fulfill a general education requirement.
NOTE: This list is subject to change, and it is the student's responsibility to be aware of their registration in developmental courses by checking with the individual departments and/or instructors.
Students who wish to transfer to another Binghamton school may apply by completing an Intra-University transfer application obtained from the Admissions Office or by going online to the Admissions web site at http://admissions.binghamton.edu. Students are expected to remain in the Decker School for a minimum of two semesters. Students should notify the Student Services Office in writing if they plan to transfer from the Decker School to another school within the University.
The Decker School of Nursing has no limit on the number of transfer credits allowed given coursework is completed with a grade of C- or better. Transfer credits include 20 credits of nursing coursework to meet upper division nursing course requirements for students that are licensed graduates of Associate Degree programs in nursing. An additional 32 credits of nursing course work is required and must be completed at Binghamton University in order to meet degree requirements. The remaining credits required for the degree will be made up of general education courses, prerequisite courses, and general elective courses to total 128 credits.
Registered nurse students graduating from hospital diploma programs may earn up to 24 credits for prior nursing knowledge through Regents College Examinations. Registered nurse students with associate degrees in nursing from out-of-state community colleges will have nursing transfer credit evaluated on an individual basis.
Registered nurse students who transfer nursing credit or use the examination process to meet 20 of the 52 nursing major credits will take 32 credits of course work at the Decker School of Nursing. These credits exceed the residency requirement of 30 credits.
If you received college credit for course work completed at a degree-granting institution, or if you have enrolled in any post high school formal education that is not credit bearing, you are considered a transfer student. Course work for which credit has been received is evaluated through the Student Services Office.
The Decker School has developed policies and procedures by which students with baccalaureate nursing credit from another program may transfer some portion of that credit to meet nursing course requirements at Binghamton. Credit for this upper-division course work will be evaluated on an individual basis (See Policies and Procedures for Transfer of Upper Division Nursing Credit ).
General education courses may be transferred to fulfill general and elective course requirements if a grade of "C-" or higher was earned in courses completed at accredited colleges or universities. The Decker School will also transfer credit hours to fulfill elective requirements for a course where the grade option was Pass/Fail and a grade of Pass was earned.
The DSON has no limit on the number of transfer credits allowed given coursework is completed with a grade of C- or better. Generally, no more than 76 transfer credits are accepted from all previous college work as the University policy is to accept only those courses necessary for completion of degree requirements. Course credit for transferred courses is recorded on your Binghamton transcript; grades are not recorded. Courses must be worth at least 3 credits to fulfill a humanities, social science, statistics, or science requirement. Science courses such as human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and chemistry are expected to include a laboratory component. Other transferred credits that do not fulfill Decker School prerequisites or general education requirements will count as electives.
You are urged to talk with your faculty adviser if you plan to take summer school courses at another college or university. You must first complete a Petition to Take Courses at Another Institution form (available in the Student Services Office or online). You must also provide a catalog, course description, or outline as requested by the reviewing office. Approval of this petition by either office is your contract that the courses you plan to take will be acceptable for transfer credit. You must receive a grade of "C-" or better in order for the transfer credits to be awarded.
Upon completion of summer school courses, you must contact the Registrar at the college or university and arrange to have an official transcript mailed to the Student Services Office in the Decker School of Nursing. The credit, but not the course title or grade, will be recorded on your Binghamton transcript . Note that the grade(s) earned will not be included in the Binghamton University grade point average (GPA). Credit for all course work taken can not be awarded without the official transcript. If you are taking prerequisite coursework during the summer prior to entering the nursing major and are unable to obtain an official transcript, you must submit grade reports or a letter from the instructor as proof of successful completion of the prerequisite course work to the Student Services Office before the beginning of fall classes. Your registration in the nursing course work may be cancelled if adequate documentation is not submitted as requested.
Please note the following regarding the transfer of credit to Binghamton:
a. The Decker School transfers credits as earned at another institution. A 3-credit course transfers for 3 credits but will fulfill a 4-credit requirement.
b. Quarter credits are not the same as semester credits. Binghamton University is on a semester-credit system. If you take quarter-credit courses, you receive two semester credits for each three quarter credits you successfully complete.
c. The Decker School awards transfer credits upon receipt of official transcripts. Students are responsible for contacting the credit-granting institution for these transcripts.
If you have completed 65-66 credits of liberal arts and science requirements, it will take you a minimum of two years to complete the nursing course sequence. Generally, it is expected that nursing courses be completed at Binghamton University . The policies and procedures for transfer of nursing credit can be found in Policies and Procedures for Transfer of Upper Division Nursing Credit .
[Approved for Implementation on 12/10/87]
Preamble
The School of Nursing has developed policies and procedures by which students with baccalaureate nursing credits from another program may transfer some portion of that credit to meet Decker School nursing course requirements. Designated credits can be used to fulfill a limited number of credits required to complete the nursing major.
In order to have baccalaureate level nursing credit taken in another program considered for transfer credit, the following criteria must be met.
1. The student has been admitted to the Decker School of Nursing.
2. Course(s) for which transfer credit is sought must have been taken in an upper division NLN accredited nursing program.
3. Course(s) may be transferred if the student has received a grade of C- or better (as documented on the official transcript).
4. Student must present a course syllabus which clearly identifies the focus, objectives, assignments, etc. of the course.
5. Course for which transfer credit is requested must have been completed in the last 10 years.
I. Transfer of Upper Division Nursing Credit to Meet Core Curriculum Requirements of Decker School of Nursing
1. Student may petition to have selected courses taken in another baccalaureate nursing program accepted to meet a limited amount of core curriculum course requirements in the Decker School of Nursing. These courses must be completed prior to admission to the Decker School of Nursing.2. The general criteria for transfer of credit identified in the Preamble to these policies and procedures must be met.
3. The student must complete a minimum of 28 of the 52 credits in the nursing curriculum. (Binghamton University requires that the last 30 credits toward the degree be in residence.)
4. Nursing courses which must be taken at Binghamton University include: NURS Socialization Courses (Nurs. 320, 360, 470) (10 credits total); The Client System of Nursing (Nurs 321; 4 credits); Practice of Nursing V (Nurs. 471 (for traditional track and BAT students), 8 credits; Nurs. 472 (for licensed RNs), 6 credits); and at least one of the third level Practice of Nursing courses--Nursing 352, 353, 362 or 363 (4 credits each). Note: Determination of the appropriate course (Nursing 352, 353, 362 or 363) would be made after review of the student's total program to assure that end of program objectives of the Decker School of Nursing would be met.
5. Courses for which transfer credit is requested must be equivalent in content and objectives to a specific course in the nursing curriculum (e.g. 321, 351, 352, 353, 361, 362, and 363).
Procedure1. A petition must be filed with the Educational Policies Committee.
2. The petition must be accompanied by information which documents that the general criteria for transferring nursing credit have been met.
3. Educational Policies Committee will seek consultation from course heads and/or the Director of Undergraduate Programs before taking action on the petition.
NOTE: The Decker School of Nursing recognizes the distinctiveness of nursing curricula; however, individual courses taken in another upper division baccalaureate program in nursing may be equivalent to Decker School of Nursing courses. Therefore, the above policy on transfer credit was established to serve a small number of students who may wish to transfer nursing credit to the Decker School of Nursing.
II. Transfer of Upper Division Nursing Credit to Meet Nursing Elective Credit Requirements .
1. Student may request to have selected nursing credit taken in another baccalaureate program accepted as nursing elective credit given the coursework was completed within the last ten years.2. The general criteria for transfer of credit is identified in the preamble to this policy and procedure. In addition to the general criteria, the course for which credit is being requested must fulfill the expectations held for nursing electives in the Decker School of Nursing undergraduate curriculum.
3. The course(s) for which transfer credit is requested must reflect advanced concepts or an in-depth study of an area of nursing that is integrated into the core curriculum of the Decker School of Nursing. Examples are Nutrition Across the Life Span and Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Nursing.
Procedure1. Students who wish to have baccalaureate nursing credit taken in another program accepted as nursing elective credit at Decker School of Nursing must petition the Educational Policies Committee.
2. The Educational Policies Committee will seek consultation from faculty in the Decker School of Nursing who teach similar courses and/or the program coordinator before taking action on the petition.
Students in the Decker School of Nursing must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0. Students whose end-of-semester GPA is below 2.0 or whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 will receive one of the following academic actions:
1. Academic Warning
a. Students whose GPA at the end of a current semester falls below a 2.0 for that semester, but whose cumulative GPA is 2.0 or higher, will receive a letter of academic warning. The purpose of the academic warning letter is to notify the student that initial academic probation will result if the cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 in the next semester.
b. If a Decker School of Nursing student completes the first semester of freshman year with a GPA of less than 2.0, the student will receive a letter of academic warning rather than being placed on initial academic probation (see 2). This exception will apply only in this case, and after the first semester, academic policies will apply as per the Student Handbook.
2. Initial Academic Probation
If the student's cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 at the end of the semester, the student will be placed on academic probation. The designation “Academic Probation” will be placed on the student's internal transcript. The purpose of academic probation is to serve notice to students that the quality of their work is below an acceptable level and that continuation of unsatisfactory work will result in academic dismissal from the Decker School of Nursing.
3. Continuing Academic Probation
If the student has been placed on initial academic probation in the preceding semester and the GPA of the current semester is at least 2.0 but the cumulative GPA is less than 2.0, the student will be placed on continuing academic probation. The designation “Academic Probation” will continue to be placed on the student's internal transcript, and the student will remain on continuing academic probation until the cumulative GPA is at least 2.0.
4. Academic Suspension/Dismissal
If the student has been placed on academic probation and fails to achieve a GPA of at least 2.0 in the next semester, the student will receive notice of academic suspension. This suspension prevents enrollment in all University courses for a period of one semester, excluding Summer Session. If the student receives a failing grade and/or a withdrawal grade in the same nursing course twice, the student will receive notice of academic dismissal from the program and may seek inter-University transfer if desired.
A full-time student normally completes the degree in the Decker School in a four- to five-year period. The requirements to complete the nursing degree must be met within six years from the time the student is enrolled in the first nursing course.
Nursing courses in which a student receives a W may be repeated only once, regardless of the number of credits the course carries. Failure to pass the course on the second attempt results in the student's dismissal from the Decker School .
The following awards have been created for graduating seniors to recognize their achievements as students in the Decker School. Additional information on the awards is available in the Student Services Office. The awards are:
Dennis Jimenez Memorial Award--Presented to a graduating nursing student in memory of Dennis Jimenez. Dennis was a nursing student who we sadly lost in 2003. Not only was he dedicated to his nursing studies, but he was also an accomplished musician and composer. Many have memories of Dennis sitting at his piano sharing his gift of music with others. This award is given by the graduating class to a senior who demonstrates ability not only in nursing but also in the performing arts.
Jessica Mally Memorial Award —Presented to the graduating senior who most possesses class spirit, independence, and a strong dedication to nursing. This award, created by the Class of 1981, is a memorial to Jessica Mally, a classmate who died in an automobile accident. (Voted upon by senior class according to the stated criteria.)
Martha Harnick Bress '69 Nursing Award—The Martha Harnick Bress '69 Nursing Award is presented to a student completing nursing as a second degree who has demonstrated clinical excellence or is completing nursing as a non-traditional age student.
Mary E. Mahoney Leadership and Service Award —Presented to the graduating senior who demonstrates outstanding leadership and service to both the Mary E. Mahoney Support Group and to the Decker School of Nursing. (Voted upon by student members of the Mary E. Mahoney Support Group.)
Mary Pillepich Award for Excellence in Nursing Practice —Presented to a graduating senior. The Pillepich Award recognizes excellence in clinical practice. (Voted upon by faculty and based upon clinical excellence.)
Sara Ainspan Memorial Award —Presented to a graduating senior in good academic standing in the baccalaureate accelerated program. This award is voted upon by both the senior and junior classes and awarded to the individual whose sense of humor and adventuresome personality enhances the practice of nursing. This award, created by the Class of 1997, is a memorial to Sara Ainspan, a classmate who died in a skydiving accident.
The Decker Foundation Award for Academic Excellence —Presented to a graduating senior in the baccalaureate accelerated track program. The award recognizes academic excellence based on a Binghamton University GPA of 3.7 or above in all upper division nursing course work.
The Decker Foundation Award for Clinical Excellence —Presented to a graduating senior in the baccalaureate accelerated track program. The award recognizes academic excellence based on a Binghamton University GPA of 3.7 or above in all upper division nursing coursework and excellence in clinical practice. (Voted upon by faculty.)
The Registered Professional Nurse (RN) Baccalaureate Award is presented by the Decker School of Nursing annually to a graduating senior who currently is a registered professional nurse. This award recognizes academic achievement and clinical excellence as well as exceptional leadership and dedicated service to the nursing profession by a registered nurse completing the Baccalaureate Degree. The winner of this award not only supports the mission and embodies the philosophy of the Decker School of Nursing but also meets the following criteria:
1. A cumulative grade point average of 3.2 or better2. Clinical excellence in the Registered Nurse student role
3. Service and leadership in professional nursing organizations
4. Preceptor and mentor of generic nursing students and new nurses
The following awards are given by Binghamton University, the Binghamton University Foundation, and the Chancellor of the State University of New York to recognize excellence of graduating students:
Binghamton University Award for Academic Excellence-- Any current undergraduate or graduate student at Binghamton who is in good academic standing is eligible. The student will have enriched the Binghamton community through leadership and accomplishment in such areas as research, teaching, scholarship, student life, and community life, all of which reflect the University's purposes and priorities.
Binghamton University Foundation Award for Academic Excellence — Awarded to the graduating senior with the highest GPA at the end of the seventh semester, based on cumulative GPA. Recipient determined by the Academic Standards Committee of the Decker School of Nursing. Students must have taken at least 28 credits for a letter grade at Binghamton prior to the spring semester of the senior year to be eligible for the award.
Chancellor's Awards for Student Excellence-- Chancellor's Awards are presented annually and are based on the student's outstanding academic record and significant contributions to the University community. Each honoree has excelled in academic achievement and at least one of the following areas: leadership, athletics, community service, creative and performing arts or career achievement. Recipients are given a framed certificate and medallion, which may be worn at Commencement.
A Dean's List is compiled at the end of each semester. In order to qualify, students must meet the following conditions:
• Minimal acceptable GPA of 3.5
• Student must be matriculated in the Decker School
• Student must be taking at least 8 credits with letter grades for the semester
• No incompletes or missing grades are allowed on a student's transcript when being considered for Dean's List
The designation "Dean's List" will be placed on the student's official transcript.
To qualify for the Bachelor of Science degree with a major in nursing, the student must:
1. Complete a minimum of 32 academic courses (128 semester hours)
2. Complete the general course requirements for the degree
3. Take the last 7 1/2 courses (30 credits) toward the degree at Binghamton University. Students who wish to transfer any part of the last 30 credits must petition the Educational Policies Committee for an exception to this policy. (See Petitioning for Exceptions to Policies and Requirements.)
4. Complete all degree requirements within six years from the time the student enrolled in the first nursing course
5. Achieve an overall cumulative GPA of 2.0, with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 in nursing courses
6. Pay or satisfactorily adjust all fees and bills
7. Not be under any disciplinary action
8. Be duly recommended by the University faculty
9. Have been admitted to the degree by formal action by the State University Trustees
In order to fulfill requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree with a major in nursing, students who hold the baccalaureate or higher degree in another field must complete nursing course requirements and only those general requirements that are prerequisite to the nursing course sequence.
Students with outstanding academic records receive college-wide honors upon graduation. To qualify students must meet the cumulative grade-point averages specified below, have at least 48 graded Binghamton University credits and have no missing grades or Incompletes. Honors are awarded as follows:
• 3.50-3.69 GPA: cum laudeThe appropriate graduation honors are indicated on the diploma and on the final transcript.• 3.70-3.84 GPA: magna cum laude
• 3.85-4.00 GPA: summa cum laude
A Letter of Commendation is sent each semester to all nursing students who have shown outstanding academic achievement but who do not meet all of the criteria for the Dean's List.
Students in the Decker School are required to take the last 7 1/2 courses (30 credits) toward the degree at Binghamton. Students who wish to transfer any part of the last 30 credits must petition the Educational Policies Committee for an exception to this policy (See Petitioning for Exceptions to Policies and Requirements ).
Students in the nursing program are required to have the following items and should expect to incur costs for such items:
• Uniforms—approximately $200 in the junior year
• Equipment: sphygmomanometer, stethoscope, bandage scissors, hemostat, pen light, pharmacology pack, and student name pin—approximately $100 in the junior year
• Nursing students beginning junior level coursework are required to pay a one time $30 supply and equipment fee at the beginning of the first semester junior year. BATs (Baccalaureate Accelerated Track) and RAT (RN Accelerated Track) students pay a $25 fee to cover their one-year program costs. This fee is charged to all students to offset costs of supplies and equipment used by students during their junior and senior years.
• Transportation in junior and senior years to off-campus clinical laboratories is the responsibility of the student. See transportation costs.
• Malpractice insurance in junior and senior years—approximate cost is $70 per year ($35 per semester). This fee is subject to change.
• Annual Student Health Evaluation (Variable cost depending on health care provider and services needed (e.g., physical exam, titers, etc.)
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) Certification at the Professional Rescuer Level or equivalent required annually—fees may vary from $50 to $100 or more
• Textbooks and course supplements required for nursing courses—approximately $2000 in the junior year and $450 in the senior year
• NCLEX RN Test Preparation Program: This program provides an NCLEX-RN test program to all pre-licensure students. The anticipated cost for this mandatory program will be approximately $450. Resources associated with the program will be integrated into all course work and continue to be available post-graduation to prepare for the licensure exam. (Revised 10/12/09--JMO)
• Health Care Insurance is mandatory for State University of New York students. The cost is variable depending on coverage selected. Students have the opportunity to buy insurance through the University or to opt out given they provide proof of other health insurance coverage to Student Accounts.
1. If roads are legally closed, off-campus nursing laboratory experiences are canceled.
2. If roads are legally open but driving is hazardous where an individual student or instructor resides, the person will avoid taking risks, remain at home, and notify appropriate individuals. If conditions become safe at a later hour, every effort should be made to meet scheduled laboratory obligations.
3. Students are responsible for notifying instructors if there is doubt about their ability to meet scheduled laboratory obligations. Instructors are responsible for notifying students if there is doubt about their ability to meet scheduled laboratory obligations. Plans for this communication are worked out in advance.
4. If an agency to which some students are assigned is closed, the laboratory session for that day is cancelled and will be rescheduled, if necessary.
5. The above rules for off-campus assignment apply whether or not campus classes are held. Campus classes in nursing are held in accordance with official University policy.
6. If campus classes are canceled for reasons other than poor weather, students are expected to fulfill off-campus laboratory obligations unless otherwise arranged with individual instructors.
7. The University recognizes selected religious holidays. Students who observe other religious holidays that affect their clinical responsibilities must make special arrangements with their instructors well in advance of anticipated observed religious holidays.
Students in the Decker School have certain responsibilities to patients and personnel when they visit community agencies and hospitals. For this reason, the Decker School has adopted policies on Laboratory Attendance (Absences ), the Cancellation of Class, On-campus and Off-campus Laboratories , Evaluation of Laboratory Performance, Summer Clinical Nursing Programs, Policy for Student Clinical Practice, and Use of the DSON Learning Laboratory.
The Decker School of Nursing Innovative Practice Center is to be used only by students enrolled in the undergraduate and graduate programs and by faculty and staff. Individuals who are not enrolled in the Decker School of Nursing are not to use the Practice Center.
The Decker School of Nursing policy is that attendance at all laboratory experiences is required.
In the event of an absence:
1. The student must call lab instructor before laboratory begins.
2. The student must meet with the instructor before the next laboratory to discuss whether it is possible to meet course objectives.
3. A form obtained at Student Services Office will be filled out by the student and submitted to the instructor explaining the reason for absence. Individual faculty will choose appropriate actions in relation to mastery of objectives. Faculty will send copies to the course coordinator, the Director of Undergraduate Programs, and the student. A copy will also be attached to the clinical evaluation form.
4. Faculty will log all absences in laboratory courses (N. 320, 321, 322, 323, 352, 353, 362, 363, 364, 470, 471, 472) and share at Course Coordinators meetings.
5. Absences may prevent students from meeting course objectives. Failure to meet course objectives will result in course failure.
The Decker School has adopted the following policy regarding the evaluation of laboratory performance. The laboratory performance is an integral part of the course and is graded on a Pass/Fail basis. Specific expectations of performance are identified for each course. When the evaluation is satisfactory, the letter grade for the didactic or theoretical component is the grade assignment for the course. If the clinical performance is not satisfactory, the grade for the course is "F".
1. The instructor shall give students a written statement of the criteria for passing the laboratory component.
2. The methods of evaluation of laboratory learning are stated in terms of behavioral outcomes and made known to students at the beginning of each course.
3. An evaluative statement about achievement of laboratory objectives is on file for each student in the Decker School upon completion of the laboratory component of each course. Students may request a copy of the evaluation and will be asked to sign the file copy. A signature indicates that the student read the report. Students are encouraged to make comments.
Many Binghamton University nursing students have found it beneficial to enroll in a summer clinical nursing course or program in a health care institution during the summer between their junior and senior years. Generally, students find the experiences valuable, even though quality of experience varies a great deal.
While many programs are sponsored by hospitals and do not offer college credit, some are awarded college credit by a college or university school of nursing. If a student wishes to receive credit toward the baccalaureate degree at Binghamton for such a course, she/he should be aware of the following policies:
1. The course must be awarded credit from a four-year college or university.
2. The credits received for the course may be considered for credit toward the Binghamton degree only as general electives because it is hard to measure the "content" of a practice experience and the grade is generally "P/F," which we allow only for P.E. and general electives.
3. If the student wants special consideration to use clinical nursing credits taken at another college or university as Binghamton nursing elective credits, the student may petition the Educational Policies Committee.
4. In seeking to obtain credits for a summer clinical program where college credit is granted by another college, the student must apply to the Student Services Office during the spring semester for prior written approval or denial for credit. The student should complete a Petition to Take Courses at Another Institution form and supply a course description or outline, as with any summer course.
The University assumes no responsibility for providing transportation for travel from campus to the clinical health agencies used for student clinical experiences. Students arrange their own transportation to clinical agencies. Some clinical experiences require students to travel up to a 150 mile distance away from campus. There may be parking costs at some clinical agencies.
Approved: 5/3/2004
Implemented: 5/3/2004
Updated: 6/24/2009
When a uniform is required, the following applies:
1. Uniform: The uniform for women and men is a hunter green, v-necked scrub top and white slacks. (Note: No cargo style pants or see-through fabric/material is acceptable.)
2. Additional layered clothing is not to be worn with the uniform. A white, clean, freshly laundered turtleneck is acceptable in lieu of a sweater.
3. A white, long-sleeved laboratory coat of three-quarter length to full length is acceptable and should only be worn over street clothes. The lab coat is not considered a uniform.
4. White socks are worn under the pant uniform.
5. Shoes must be white. All white sneaker-style or vinyl or leather shoes are acceptable. Clogs, sandals, and high heels are prohibited. Shoes must be clean. No open toe or open heel shoes are allowed.
6. Fingernails are to be short and clean. Nail polish and acrylic (or otherwise artificial) nails are not acceptable.
7. Hair must be well groomed and worn in a controlled style. Hair accessories must be white, tortoise shell, or the same color as the hair. Moustaches and beards must be clean and trimmed.
8. A wedding ring is the only acceptable ring to be worn in the clinical area. Small, single, non-dangling post earrings are acceptable. Wrist and ankle bracelets and necklaces are not acceptable. Nose, tongue, and any other facial jewelry are not acceptable.
9. Tattoos must be covered.
10. Sweaters are not to be worn when giving direct patient care. White sweaters without decoration are acceptable for non-patient care activities.
11. Student ID cards are worn as a name badge and must be visibly displayed as a required piece of the student nurse uniform. Plastic holders are used to display the ID card and are attached to the uniform with a pocket clip or on a break-away lanyard worn around the neck, available for sale at the University Bookstore.
12. In an agency or nursing unit where a uniform is not required, the student ID card will be worn per No. 11 of the Uniform Policy. Clothes must be neat, clean, washable, and conservative in style. Jeans, shorts, sweat suits, tank tops, mid-riff tops, sleeveless blouses, and overalls are not acceptable.
13. The student must wear either a uniform or a laboratory coat when going to a hospital to obtain the clinical assignment. In certain circumstances the uniform or lab coat is not required, and the student will be advised of appropriate attire by faculty. The student ID card must be visibly displayed per No. 11 of the Uniform Policy.
14. At no time is unsuitable clothing or footwear to be worn in the hospital or community agency.
15. Licensed RN students shall follow the undergraduate student uniform code with the exception that they may wear a white uniform.
16. The community health uniform for all students consists of either the student uniform or black dress slacks or skirt and the hunter green scrub top. Socks or stockings should be black or beige. All clothing should be washable. Shoes should be black. A white sweater may be worn when needed.
In order to begin NURS 364 and NURS 472, proof of licensure must be submitted to Decker Student Services and the Clinical Site Coordinator.
