The curriculum pattern for the graduate nursing program is based on
the fact that professional nursing is mandated by, and accountable to,
society for the effect of nursing practice. As the needs of society
change in response to new knowledge and technology, nursing evolves
through a process of resocialization. Professional nursing roles
develop that are collaborative and complementary to roles of other
health professionals; these reflect increasing authority and
responsibility for decision making in areas of research and practice.
Leadership in the planning and development of health resources as a
part of the multidisciplinary team is a necessary response.
The master's program offers specialized study. Students advance from
the baccalaureate-prepared generalist to the advanced practitioner
capable of assuming roles that encompass consultation, management, and
educational functions. The graduate program is designed to prepare
nurses to deal with larger and more complex situations in the process
of providing health care services in the areas of adult and aged
primary care, adult and aged acute care, advanced practice in
pediatrics, advanced practice in women's health, community health
nursing, family nurse practitioner, and psychiatric/mental health
nursing.
