CLARION AND EDINBORO UNIVERSITIES
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING PROGRAM
Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration
Nurse Educator Concentration

STUDENT HANDBOOK
2015 - 2016

This jointly sponsored Master of Science in Nursing program is fully accredited by:
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3343 Peachtree Rd NE, Suite 850
Atlanta, GA 30326
Phone: 404-975-5000
Fax: 404-975-5020
Website: http://www.acenursing.org/

Clarion University

Edinboro University

Venango College of Clarion University
School of Health Sciences
Department of Nursing
1801 West First St
Oil City, PA 16301
Phone: 814-676-6591
Fax: 814-676-0251

College of Sciences and Health
Professions
Department of Nursing
Health & Human Services Bldg
Edinboro, PA 16444
Phone: 814-732-2900
Fax: 814-732-2536

Clarion and Edinboro Universities
Master of Science in Nursing Program
Student Handbook
2015 – 2016
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................1
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION ...............................................................................................1
MISSION .............................................................................................................................1
VISION ................................................................................................................................1
CORE VALUES ..................................................................................................................1
CURRICULAR THREADS ................................................................................................2
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY ...............................2
PROGRAM OUTCOMES ...................................................................................................3
FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER CONCENTRATION ...............................................3
NURSE EDUCATOR CONCENTRATION .......................................................................4
GRADUATE FACULTY ....................................................................................................4
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES ..........................................................4
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................................4
APPLICATION AND ADMISSION PROCEDURES .......................................................5
APPLICATION DEADLINES ............................................................................................6
ENROLLMENT AS A NON-DEGREE STUDENT ..........................................................6
TRANSFER OF CREDIT....................................................................................................6
CREDIT BY CHALLENGE................................................................................................7
ADVISEMENT....................................................................................................................7
HEALTH POLICY ..............................................................................................................7
DISABILITY STATEMENT ..............................................................................................7
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY PLEDGE..................................................................................8
CURRICULUM .............................................................................................................................8
OVERVIEW ........................................................................................................................8
FULL TIME STUDY ..........................................................................................................9
SECOND MASTER’S DEGREE (for Family Nurse Practitioner) .....................................9
POST MASTER’S FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE ......................10
PROGRAM PLANS .........................................................................................................10
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CREDIT/CLOCK HOURS ..............................................14
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS...............................................................................................15
STUDENT POLICIES.................................................................................................................19

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ACADEMIC HONESTY...................................................................................................19
ACADEMIC STANDING .................................................................................................21
Academic Probation ......................................................................................................21
Removing Probation Status...........................................................................................21
Dismissal .......................................................................................................................22
Readmission ..................................................................................................................22
COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT/PORTFOLIO ........................................................23
COMMUNICATING POLICY CHANGES .....................................................................24
GRADING POLICY ..........................................................................................................24
Grading Scale ................................................................................................................24
Incomplete Grades ........................................................................................................24
In Progress Grades ........................................................................................................24
Grade Appeal Policy .....................................................................................................25
GRADUATION POLICY .................................................................................................25
GRADUATION RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT ............................................................25
INCIDENT REPORT POLICY AND PROCEDURE ......................................................25
LEAVE OF ABSENCE POLICY ......................................................................................26
PROGRESSION OF INTERRUPTED CLINICAL COURSES .......................................26
STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS .........................................................................................27
STUDENTS’ RIGHTS ......................................................................................................27
THESIS COMPLETION POLICY ....................................................................................27
WITHDRAWAL POLICY ................................................................................................27
CLINICAL PRACTICE IN THE MSN PROGRAM ...............................................................28
RESEARCH IN THE MSN PROGRAM ..................................................................................28
GENERAL INFORMATION .....................................................................................................28
WHO TO CONTACT FOR HELP ....................................................................................29
STUDENT CIVILITY GUIDELINES ..............................................................................31
SOCIAL EQUITY EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
STATEMENT ....................................................................................................................31
TITLE IX REPORTING EXCEPTIONS ..........................................................................31
DISTANCE EDUCATION IN THE MSN PROGRAM ...................................................32
WEB REGISTRATION PROCEDURES..........................................................................32
PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTS ...................................................................................33
LIBRARY SERVICES ......................................................................................................34
ACADEMIC CALENDARS .............................................................................................34
CLASS CANCELLATION NOTIFICATION POLICY ..................................................35
TUITION ...........................................................................................................................35
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE FOR MSN STUDENTS ..............................................35
MAINTENANCE OF STUDENT EDUCATION AND FINANCIAL RECORDS .........36
GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS ....................................................................................36
PARKING REGULATIONS .............................................................................................37
EVALUATIONS FOR THE PROGRAM .........................................................................38
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OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT ACQUISITION .....................................................................38
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS .................................................................................................39
STUDENT REPRESENTATION AT FACULTY MEETINGS ......................................39
SIGMA THETA TAU INTERNATIONAL ......................................................................39
PHI KAPPA PHI................................................................................................................40
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF NURSE PRACTITIONERS ......................................40
PENNSYLVANIA COALITION OF NURSE PRACTITIONERS..................................40
APPENDICES ..............................................................................................................................41
APPENDIX A: STEPS IN OBTAINING LEGAL CERTIFICATION AND
PRESCRIPTIVE AUTHORITY IN PENNSYLVANIA...................................................42
APPENDIX B: GRADUATE FACULTY ........................................................................43
APPENDIX C: ACADEMIC INTEGRITY PLEDGE ......................................................47

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INTRODUCTION
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Master of Science in Nursing Program is sponsored jointly by Clarion and Edinboro
Universities, two of 14 universities in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Prior
to 2013 there were two concentration areas: family nurse practitioner (FNP) and nurse educator
(NE).
The FNP concentration is 45 semester hours in length and includes 600 hours of clinical practice.
FNP graduates are prepared to provide primary care in medically under-served areas in Western
Pennsylvania and are eligible to apply to the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing for legal
certification as certified registered nurse practitioners (CRNP) in family health after passing
professional certification exams through either the American Nurses Credentialing Center
(ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
The NE concentration was placed on moratorium in 2013. Students finishing out that program
complete 36 semester hours and 135 hours of mentored teaching experience. NE graduates learn
to design, implement, and evaluate instruction and are prepared to teach in diploma and associate
degree programs as well as to fill clinical education and staff development position in hospitals
and other health care institutions. NE graduates meet the educational requirements to sit for the
National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Educator exam.
Courses for both program concentrations are delivered online with the exception of clinical
practica and a limited number of skill labs and workshops. Graduates of the program receive a
joint degree granted by both universities. Students are assigned one university site for
advisement and may utilize facilities and services of both universities. The MSN program is
accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), formerly known
as the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). Students should check
the MSN Forum for the most up-to-date program information. Information about program
requirements and administrative matters is also available at both universities.
MISSION
Congruent with the missions of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Clarion
University, and Edinboro University, the mission of the MSN Program is to provide an
affordable, accessible, quality graduate education in nursing which prepares graduates as
advanced practice nurses.
VISION
The vision of the MSN Program is that students and faculty will be responsive to the needs of a
dynamic health care system as they contribute to the welfare of the region, state, and global
community through scholarly activities and advanced nursing practice. The MSN Program will
provide the foundation for a life-long process of personal and professional growth as well as for
post-graduate education.
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CORE VALUES
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Integrity
Professionalism
Excellence
Leadership
Social justice
Self-mastery

CURRICULAR THREADS
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Evidence based advanced practice
Critical thinking
Systematic inquiry
Effective communication
Advocacy

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY
The philosophy of the Master of Science in Nursing Program is derived from the philosophies of
the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs of Clarion and Edinboro Universities, which are
complementary in nature, and is consistent with the stated missions of both universities.
Human beings reflect diverse cultures and life styles as they interrelate with family, community,
and social systems. The individual's life experiences influence health beliefs, choices, and
practices. Each individual has the right and the responsibility to make decisions affecting health
and to be supported in those decisions. Each individual is unified, dynamic and continually
interacts with the environment.
Environment is the aggregate of influences that interrelate with individuals. Multiple
environmental factors—legal, ethical, political, socio-economic, and historical—affect both the
level of health of humans and their ability to acquire health care services. Advanced practice
nurses impact health care services and practices through change making endeavors.
Health, as an ever-changing process, encompasses well-being and illness, and is an evolving
potential that cannot be quantified. Nursing interfaces with health as nurse professionals work
with clients to direct, organize and monitor individuals' progress toward maximum well-being.
Nursing is a consumer-focused profession that addresses the health care needs of individuals and
communities. Advanced nursing practice involves inquiry and a variety of ways of knowing. As
an evolving discipline with a clinical focus, nursing is grounded in theory and research and
encompasses professional standards of practice. The scope of advanced nursing practice remains
fluid.
Advanced practice nurses are leaders who function autonomously and interdependently assuming
the roles of nurse practitioner, clinical specialist, nurse anesthetist, nurse midwife, nurse
educator, and nurse administrator. Nurse practitioners are case managers who are responsible for
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health promotion, disease prevention, caring/healing, and teaching/coaching through
interdisciplinary communication and collaboration. They are qualified to perform acts of
medical diagnosis or prescription of medical therapeutic or corrective measures in collaboration
with and under the direction of a physician licensed to practice medicine in this Commonwealth
(Pennsylvania Code 49§21:251). Nurse educators prepare the clinicians of the future.
Graduate nursing education builds upon the knowledge and skills that individuals obtain in
baccalaureate nursing programs and prepares graduates to be critical thinkers and use diagnostic
reasoning in their professional role. Learning includes research methodology for application to
nursing problems and participation in research studies. The educational process provides for role
development and opportunities to apply advanced nursing knowledge and related theories to
practice and educational settings.
PROGRAM OUTCOMES
The terminal learning outcomes of the joint Master in Science in Nursing Program reflect
the ability of the graduate to:
1. Synthesize established and evolving knowledge from nursing, the sciences, and
humanities into advanced practice nursing.
2. Incorporate professional/legal standards and moral/ethical values into a culturally
sensitive practice.
3. Provide advanced nursing practice that reflects critical thinking and effective
interpersonal and communication skills
4. Appraise and assimilate theory and scientific evidence to investigate and evaluate
practice based issues.
5. Demonstrate awareness and responsiveness to systems-based practice through advocacy,
collaboration, and effective use of resources.
FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER CONCENTRATION
The Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration was first offered by Clarion and Slippery Rock
Universities in 1995, the result of several years of discussion among Clarion, Slippery Rock, and
Edinboro, and recommendations by a task force of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher
Education. Edinboro had a competing program at the time and opted to delay joining the
consortium until August of 2001. After 8 successful years as a 3-university consortium,
Slippery Rock University officially dissolved its relationship in 2009. The remaining partners,
Clarion and Edinboro Universities, carry on the original mission.
The FNP Concentration is designed to prepare primary care providers to work in ambulatory
settings such as community health centers, outpatient clinics, student health and women’s health
centers and private practices. The focus is on preparing nurse practitioners for rural and urban
under-served areas. It is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
(ACEN), formerly known as the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC)
and the curriculum is consistent with the Curriculum Guidelines published by the National
Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF). The curriculum includes 600 hours of
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supervised clinical practice in the community. Each of the clinical courses requires some
clinical practice hours, varying according to the objectives of the specific course, and 270
hours of this practice is part of the culminating internship.
Students are required to successfully complete a comprehensive examination and graduates are
eligible to apply for legal certification to the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing and for
professional certification to the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and to the
American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). Legal certification by the Pennsylvania
State Board of Nursing authorizes the nurse practitioner to use the credentials, CRNP. Students
must be board certified by a national accrediting agency (ANCC or AANP) in order to apply for
legal certification in Pennsylvania and for prescriptive authority (See Appendix A)
NURSE EDUCATOR CONCENTRATION
This master’s concentration focuses on the preparation of nurse educators. Students were first
admitted to this concentration in the fall of 2001 under the former 3-university consortium. The
last class admitted to the nurse educator concentration entered in the fall of 2013. This
concentration is designed to prepare graduates to teach in diploma and associate degree
programs as well as to fill clinical education and staff development positions in hospitals and
other health care institutions. Built on a strong foundation of science, health policy, health
promotion, and advanced health assessment, students in this concentration share many of the
foundational courses with students in the nurse practitioner concentration. Students in the
nursing education track are required to complete an internship that is a mentored teaching
experience. They are encouraged to seek this experience in the type of organization in which
they expect to be teaching.
GRADUATE FACULTY
The graduate faculty of the Clarion and Edinboro Universities Master of Science in Nursing
Program is composed of educators from both universities (See Appendix B). The graduate
catalog of each university also lists faculty members and their credentials.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
The admission requirements for both MSN concentrations are the following:
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Evidence of an earned baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited program.
Unencumbered licensure as a registered nurse in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
An undergraduate grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale, or
A graduate grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (if seeking second MSN degree or PostMaster’s Certificate).
One year of recent full-time clinical practice or two years of part-time clinical practice
(2,000 hours)

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Evidence of completion in the past 10 years of a college-level statistics course with a grade
of “C” or better or other evidence of competency in statistics (e.g., research work)

APPLICATION AND ADMISSION PROCEDURES
A complete application packet includes the following:
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Completed online application form
Non-refundable application fee—payable at the time of online application submission
Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended
Two recommendation forms
Resume
Copy of registered nurse License in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
 A 1-2 page personal statement describing your understanding of the family nurse
practitioner role and your goals for practice in that role
Application instructions can be found at the Clarion University Graduate Admissions Website:
http://www.clarion.edu/admissions/graduate/how-to-apply/index.html
1. Mail all gathered materials not otherwise submitted online in one envelope to: Office
of Graduate Programs, Clarion University, 840 Wood St; Clarion, PA 16214. All
documents become the property of Clarion University and Edinboro University and will
not be returned or duplicated for any purpose outside of the universities. An application
is considered “complete” when all application materials are in the Clarion University
Graduate Admissions Office.
2. Upon receipt of the materials, the Clarion University Graduate Admissions Office
forwards the complete packet to the members of the Admission, Progression, and
Graduation Committee. Applicants will be contacted by the committee chair, or designee,
to set up an interview with the committee. Interviews are conducted during the month
of October. Applications received after October 1st may be reviewed for acceptance on
a space available basis.
3. After the completion of all interviews, members of the Admission, Progression, and
Graduation Committee review all materials and submit a recommendation regarding
admission to the Graduate Studies Office. Options include: deny admission, admit
provisionally (with provisions described), full admission, and wait listed. Students with
prior graduate degree work must submit materials describing the courses they think will
substitute for courses in the MSN curriculum. Members of the Admissions, Progression,
and Graduation Committee make the decision regarding such substitutions.
4. The Graduate Studies Office informs each applicant of the decision of the Admissions
Committee via a letter that also informs the applicant to contact the program designee for
his/her advisor’s name and contact information. The program designee directs the
applicant to contact the advisor to develop a program plan.
5. The faculty meets with the applicant via email or phone. At this meeting the faculty
advisor evaluates the applicant’s previous coursework and the decision of the
Admissions, Progression, and Graduation Committee, and develops an individual

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program plan. A copy of the program plan is sent to the MSN Program Coordinator for
inclusion in the student database and individual student’s file.
APPLICATION DEADLINES
MSN Students are only admitted to the fall semester. To be fully considered for the limited
number of seats in our competitive nursing program, all materials must be in Clarion’s Graduate
Office by October 1st prior to the fall start date for any given year. Clarion University operates on
a rolling admissions basis which means that applications may be submitted and reviewed any
time prior to the deadline. It is recommended that applications be submitted far enough in
advance of the deadline to insure ‘complete’ status. Applications received after the October 1st
deadline are only considered if the fall class has not already been filled. Otherwise those
applications are held for review the next October.
Applicants with successful interviews who meet the criteria for admission are accepted on a
“space available” basis and will be notified by December 15th. In the event that no spaces are
available, an otherwise qualified applicant may be placed on a waiting list for the upcoming fall
admission or for the following fall admission.
Applications to the Post-Master’s Certificate Program will be considered at any time. The
applicant will be contacted to arrange an interview with the Program Coordinator. Admission is
based on qualifications and space availability.
ENROLLMENT AS A NON-DEGREE STUDENT
Occasionally individuals will want to engage in graduate study without formally entering a
graduate program. Such individuals should apply for non-degree admission status at the time of
application. All admission requirements must be met. Individuals remaining in this status
may not receive a graduate degree. Courses taken while a person is in this status will be
identified as non-degree on the student’s transcript. The non-degree student who, after taking
courses in the non-degree status, seeks a graduate degree must be formally admitted to a
graduate degree program under regular admission procedures. Graduate programs may or may
not accept courses taken while a student is in non-degree status. No program may accept
more than nine credits taken in non-degree status. Applicants admitted on a non-degree basis
are not guaranteed regular full admission status. Certain course restrictions apply for nondegree students. Students that are not enrolled in the MSN program but take individual classes
that are included in the curriculum are subject to course surcharges. (See:
http://www.clarion.edu/admissions/graduate/nondegree-and-transient-applicants/index.html )
TRANSFER OF CREDIT
Clarion and Edinboro University graduate programs allow students to transfer credit for
graduate courses taken at other accredited institutions. It is an MSN program policy that 30
credits of the total required degree credits are taken in the Clarion and Edinboro Universities’
MSN Program. Courses transferred must be certified as graduate level on the transcript and

6

must have a grade of “B” or better. Transfer credit course grades are not computed in the
universities quality-point average.
Students may transfer up to 12 credits of approved non-clinical course work toward the MSNFNP degree. The proposed transfer credit must not be more than five years old.
Students already holding an earned MSN degree may transfer up to nine credits from that degree.
Up to nine credits may be granted for life experience based upon careful evaluation of such
experience.
Correspondence course credits are not accepted for transfer. No more than six semester hours
will be transferred from another institution after a student has been admitted to the Clarion and
Edinboro Universities program. Course credit will not be transferred until the course has been
evaluated and approved.
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Transfer credit forms are available online (http://www.clarion.edu/academics/registrarsoffice/documents-and-forms/Graduate-Transfer-Credit-Request-Form.pdf) or in the
Graduate Admissions Office at Clarion University.
Students who wish to take a course at another institution while enrolled in the Clarion and
Edinboro Universities’ MSN Program are referred to the Clarion and Edinboro University
Graduate Catalogs for guidance.

CREDIT BY CHALLENGE
Students may challenge up to three credits of course work with the permission of the Graduate
Nursing Faculty.
ADVISEMENT
Upon admission to the MSN Program the student will be assigned a faculty advisor. Before
beginning the first course, the successful applicant should meet with the graduate advisor for
orientation and assistance in planning their program of studies. This can be accomplished
face-to-face, by phone, email, or desktop conferencing.
HEALTH POLICY
Specific health forms are not required for admission to the MSN Program. However, clinical
agencies may require certain health requirements which must be met prior to clinical practice in
that agency. It is the student’s responsibility to meet those requirements. All fees incurred in
attaining health requirements are the responsibility of the student. The faculty reserves the right
to request medical clearance from a student prior to clinical placement.
DISABILITY STATEMENT
Students who have a documented disability and require accommodations in order to complete
the requirements of a course, need to inform their instructors as soon as possible. All students
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that require accommodations need to be registered with the Office of Disability Support
Services (DSS) at Clarion, and they will assist in providing the appropriate verification of the
requested accommodations. The Office of DSS can be reached by calling (814) 393-2095.
Their
website
is
http://www.clarion.edu/academics/academic-support/disabilitysupport/index.html
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY PLEDGE
All MSN students are expected to be professional and ethical at all times while in the program.
Thus all students are required to sign an Academic Integrity Pledge as part of their admission
process (Appendix C) contains a copy of the pledge. The signed pledge will be kept in the
students’ folders while in the program.
CURRICULUM
OVERVIEW: MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING
The American Nurses’ Association publications, “Standards of Clinical Practice” (1991) and
“Advanced Nursing Practice: Nurse Practitioner Curriculum Guidelines” (1990), provided the
original framework for developing the nurse practitioner curriculum in 1995. The National
League for Nursing draft of “Core Competencies of Nurse Educators” was used in
development of the Nurse Educator concentration which was added in 2002 but placed on
moratorium in 2013 due to persistently low enrollment. The American Association of
Colleges of Nursing publication “Essentials of MSN Education for Advanced Practice
Nursing” (AACN, 1996) informed the core competencies shared by both program
concentrations.
The joint Clarion and Edinboro Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner
(MSN-FNP) program and Post-Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner (PM-FNP) Certificate
program have followed the same curriculum since its initial approval in 1995. Since that time,
the program has evolved from a hybrid of face-to-face and online classes to a completely
online program, with the exception of select skill labs and precepted clinical practicum
experiences in students’ home communities.
To meet the highest standards, a revised curriculum for the FNP program was submitted to
and approved by the curriculum committees of both universities as well as the Pennsylvania
State Board of Nursing. The revised curriculum went into effect fall 2014. The framework for
the revised curriculum for the FNP program is based upon the “Nurse Practitioner Core
Competencies” (NONPF, 2012), which subsume the nine essentials in the AACN (2011)
“Essentials of Master’s Education,” and the “Population Focused Nurse Practitioner
Competencies” (NONPF, 2013).
Content is organized around core graduate nursing courses and specialty courses in the family
nurse practitioner concentration. Master of Science in Nursing students take all core courses
and specialty courses in their area of concentration; Post-Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner
students take 24 credits that include all FNP specialty courses and may or may not include
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core courses in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health promotion, based on a gap
analysis.
Core Courses
NURS 601: Advanced Concepts in Pathophysiology
NURS 602: Pharmacologic Applications
NURS 605: Evolution of Nursing Theory
NURS 610: Advanced Concepts in Nursing Research
NURS 614: Health Promotion: Family and Community Perspectives
NURS 645: Nursing and Public Policy
NURS 800: Scholarly Project/Thesis
Family Nurse Practitioner Courses
NURS 615: Advanced Health Assessment
NURS 616: Advanced Health Assessment Practicum
NURS 620: Clinical Decision Making I
NURS 621: Clinical Decision Making I Practicum
NURS 622: Family Nurse Practitioner Role Development
NURS 630: Clinical Decision Making II
NURS 632: Clinical Decision Making II Practicum
NURS 640: Clinical Decision Making III
NURS 642: Clinical Decision Making III Practicum
NURS 750: Family Nurse Practitioner Internship
Full-time students admitted fall 2014 and all part-time students admitted prior to fall 2014 will
follow the original curriculum. All nurse educator students have completed courses in their
specialty AY 2013-2014. Please refer to the MSN Student Handbook, 2013-2014 for specifics
related to that program.
FULL TIME STUDY
A minimum of nine credits per semester is considered a full load for graduate students, although
students may register for up to thirteen credits per semester in the MSN Program without special
permission. Students may not register for more than twelve semester hours during the summer.
Exceptions may be authorized by the Director of Health Sciences at Clarion University upon the
recommendation of the graduate faculty.
SECOND MASTER’S DEGREE – Family Nurse Practitioner
Second Master’s Degree Curriculum
Individuals holding a graduate degree in nursing may earn a second masters in nursing degree in
the Clarion and Edinboro Universities’ Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. In order to
qualify for a second master’s degree, regardless of where the first degree was earned, graduate
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students must successfully complete a minimum of 30 hours of credit in the Clarion and
Edinboro Universities’ Program beyond the first master’s degree and meet program requirements
with respect to the required semester hours of credit and courses for the major. Second master’s
degree students would typically have transfer credits in nursing theory and research that could
apply to the requirements of NURS 605-Evolution of Nursing Theory, NURS 610-Advanced
Concepts in Research, and NURS 800-Thesis/Project. Students may petition for life experience
credits for NURS 614-Health Promotion: Family and Community Perspectives and NURS 645Nursing and Public Policy. Clinical courses and the internship are required of all degree students
regardless of prior advanced education.
POST MASTER’S FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE
A Post-Master's Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate is available to individuals who hold a
master’s degree in nursing from an accredited program. A program of study that meets all
requirements for the graduate to sit for national certifying exams will be tailored to the needs of
the individual. A minimum of 24 credits is required to earn a certificate.
PROGRAM PLANS
As a result of the curriculum revision, individual program plans for AY 2014-2014 will
depend on the student’s admission year and whether or not he or she is a full-time or part-time
student. Since this is a transition year, students admitted fall 2014 who opt for a full-time plan
do not have the option to drop back to part-time.
PROGRAM PLAN, FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER CONCENTRATION—
ORIGINAL CURRICULUM
Part-time Students Admitted Before Fall 2014 and
Full-time Students Admitted Fall 2014

Course
Number
NURS
601
NURS
614
NURS
605
NURS
615
NURS
616

Full-time Plan (45 Credits)
*Hours Course
Course Name
Number
Fall Semester I
Spring Semester I
Advanced Concepts in
3-45-0 NURS
Pharmacologic
Pathophysiology
602
Applications
Health Promotion:
3-45-0 NURS
Nursing & Public
Family & Community
645
Policy
Perspectives
Evolution of Nursing
3-45-0 NURS
Advanced Concepts in
Theory
610
Nursing Research
Advanced Health
2-30-0 NURS
Clinical Decision
Assessment
620
Making I
Advanced Health
1-0-45 NURS
Clinical Decision
Assessment Practicum
621
Making I Practicum
Summer I
Course Name

10

Hours

3-45-0
3-45-0

3-45-0
2-30-0
1-0-45

NURS
800

Thesis/Project

NURS
630
NURS
631

Fall Semester II
Clinical Decision
Making II
Clinical Decision
Making II Role Seminar

NURS
632

Clinical Decision
Making II Practicum

NURS
750

Course
Number
NURS
605
NURS
614

NURS
800

3-45-0
1-0-30

NURS
640
NURS
641

NURS
642
Summer II
Family Nurse Practitioner Internship

2-0-90

Spring Semester II
Clinical Decision
Making III
Clinical Decision
Making III Role
Seminar
Clinical Decision
Making III Practicum

Part-time Plan (45 Credits)
*Hours Course
Course Name
Number
Fall Semester I
Spring Semester I
Evolution of Nursing
3-45-0 NURS
Advanced Concepts in
Theory
610
Nursing Research
Health Promotion:
3-45-0 NURS
Nursing & Public
Family & Community
645
Policy
Perspectives
Summer I
Thesis/Project

NURS
630
NURS
631
NURS
632

Clinical Decision
Making II Practicum

3-45-0
2-30-0
1-0-45

3-45-0
1-0-30

2-0-90

NURS
602
NURS
620
NURS
621
NURS
640
NURS
641

NURS
642
Summer III
Family Nurse Practitioner Internship

3-45-0
1-0-30

2-0-90

6-0270

Course Name

Fall Semester II
Advanced Concepts in
Pathophysiology
Advanced Health
Assessment
Advanced Health
Assessment Practicum
Fall Semester III
Clinical Decision
Making II
Clinical Decision
Making II Role Seminar

NURS
601
NURS
615
NURS
616

3-45-0

Spring Semester II
Pharmacologic
Applications
Clinical Decision
Making I
Clinical Decision
Making I Practicum
Spring Semester III
Clinical Decision
Making III
Clinical Decision
Making III Role
Seminar
Clinical Decision
Making III Practicum

Hours

3-45-0
3-45-0

3-45-0

3-45-0
2-30-0
1-0-45

3-45-0
1-0-30

2-0-90

NURS
6-0750
270
*Hours: Credits – Theory Clock Hours/Semester– Clinical Clock Hours/Semester (Lab Hours
for Seminar Courses)
11

PROGRAM PLAN, FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER CONCENTRATION—
REVISED CURRICULUM
Part-time Students Admitted Fall 2014 or Later

Course
Number
NURS
601
NURS
614
NURS
605
NURS
615
NURS
616

NURS
800
NURS
630
NURS
632
NURS
750

Course
Number
NURS
605
NURS
614

Full-time Plan (45 Credits)
Course Name
*Hours Course
Course Name
Number
Fall Semester I
Spring Semester I
Advanced Concepts in
3-45-0 NURS
Pharmacologic
Pathophysiology
602
Applications
Health Promotion:
3-45-0 NURS
Nursing & Public
Family & Community
645
Policy
Perspectives
Evolution of Nursing
3-45-0 NURS
Advanced Concepts in
Theory
610
Nursing Research
Advanced Health
2-30-0 NURS
Clinical Decision
Assessment
620
Making I
Advanced Health
2-0-90 NURS
Clinical Decision
Assessment Practicum
(30 as 621
Making I Practicum
skill
NURS
Family Nurse
lab)
622
Practitioner Role
Development
Summer I
Thesis/Project
Fall Semester II
Clinical Decision
Making II
Clinical Decision
Making II Practicum

3-45-0

NURS
640
2-0-90 NURS
642
Summer II
Family Nurse Practitioner Internship

Spring Semester II
Clinical Decision
Making III
Clinical Decision
Making III Practicum

Part-time Plan (45 Credits)
*Hours Course
Course Name
Number
Fall Semester I
Spring Semester I
Evolution of Nursing
3-45-0 NURS
Advanced Concepts in
Theory
610
Nursing Research
Health Promotion:
3-45-0 NURS
Nursing & Public
Family & Community
645
Policy
Perspectives
Summer I
Course Name

12

Hours

3-45-0
3-45-0

3-45-0
1-15-0
2-0-90
1-15-0

3-45-0

3-45-0
2-0-90

6-0270

Hours

3-45-0
3-45-0

NURS
800
NURS
601
NURS
615
NURS
616

NURS
630
NURS
632

Thesis/Project
Fall Semester II
Advanced Concepts in
Pathophysiology
Advanced Health
Assessment
Advanced Health
Assessment Practicum

Fall Semester III
Clinical Decision
Making II
Clinical Decision
Making II Practicum

3-45-0

3-45-0

NURS
602
2-30-0 NURS
620
2-0-90 NURS
(30 as 621
skill
NURS
lab)
622

3-45-0

NURS
640
2-0-90 NURS
642
Summer III
Family Nurse Practitioner Internship

Spring Semester II
Pharmacologic
Applications
Clinical Decision
Making I
Clinical Decision
Making I Practicum
Family Nurse
Practitioner Role
Development
Spring Semester III
Clinical Decision
Making III
Clinical Decision
Making III Practicum

NURS
750
*Hours: Credits – Theory Clock Hours/Semester– Clinical Clock Hours/Semester

3-45-0
1-15-0
2-0-90
1-15-0

3-45-0
2-0-90

6-0270

Students completing the MSN Nurse Educator Program will follow the old curriculum:
PROGRAM PLAN – N URSE EDUCATOR CONCENTRATION

Course
Number
NURS
601
NURS
605
NURS
615
NURS
616
NURS
800
NURS
614

Full-time Plan (36 Credits)
Course Name
*Hours Course
Course Name
Number
Fall Semester I
Spring Semester I
Advanced Concepts in
3-45-0 NURS
Pharmacologic
Pathophysiology
602
Applications
Evolution of Nursing
3-45-0 NURS
Advanced Concepts in
Theory
610
Nursing Research
Advanced Health
2-30-0
Assessment
Advanced Health
1-0-45
Assessment Practicum
Summer I
Thesis/Project
Fall Semester II
Health Promotion:
Family & Community

3-45-0
13

NURS
645

Spring Semester II
Nursing & Public Policy

Hours

3-45-0
3-45-0

3-45-0

3-45-0

NURS
675
NURS
676
Course
Number
NURS
605
NURS
614

NURS
800

Perspectives
Nursing Curriculum
Development
Education Strategies in
Nursing

3-45-0
3-45-0

NURS
677
NURS
751

Evaluation &
Assessment in Nursing
Nurse Educator
Internship

Part-time Plan (36 Credits)
Course Name
*Hours Course
Course Name
Number
Fall Semester I
Spring Semester I
Evolution of Nursing
3-45-0 NURS
Advanced Concepts in
Theory
610
Nursing Research
Health Promotion:
3-45-0
Family & Community
Perspectives
Summer I
Thesis/Project

3-45-0
3-0135
Hours

3-45-0

3-45-0

Fall Semester II
Spring Semester II
NURS
Advanced Concepts in
3-45-0 NURS
Pharmacologic
3-45-0
601
Pathophysiology
602
Applications
NURS
Advanced Health
2-30-0 NURS
Nursing & Public Policy 3-45-0
615
Assessment
645
NURS
Advanced Health
1-0-45
616
Assessment Practicum
Fall Semester III
Spring Semester III
NURS
Nursing Curriculum
3-45-0 NURS
Evaluation &
3-45-0
675
Development
677
Assessment in Nursing
NURS
Education Strategies in
3-45-0 NURS
Nurse Educator
3-0676
Nursing
751
Internship
135
*Hours: Credits – Theory Clock Hours/Semester– Clinical Clock Hours/Semester (Lab Hours for
Seminar Courses)
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CREDIT/CLOCK HOURS
The FNP concentration consists of 18 credits of theory courses, 3 credits of research, and 24
credits of combined theory and practicum for a total of 45 credits. The program incorporates 465
hours of didactic course work (computed at 15 clock hrs. per credit) including thesis/scholarly
project and 600 hours of clinical practica and role seminar. Clinical practica are computed at 45
clock hours per credit and role seminars, in the original curriculum, are computed at 30 clock
hours per credit.
The NE concentration consists of 33 credits of theory courses, 3 credits of thesis/scholarly
project, and 3 credits of internship. The program incorporates 435 hours of didactic course work
(computed at 15 clock hours per credit) including thesis/project and 180 hours of clinical practica

14

(advanced health assessment and internship). Clinical practica are computed at 45 clock hours
per credit.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Core Courses
NURS 601: ADVANCED CONCEPTS IN PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
3 credits
This course is devoted to the study of the physiological process of disease and the body's response to
this process. It is the goal of the course to present broad physiological principles that advanced
practice nurses can apply to their clinical experiences. Specific diseases will be used to exemplify
pathophysiological concepts, and treatment is examined at the molecular level as response to the
pathophysiology. The course investigates exogenous causes of diseases, emphasizing infection,
inflammation and the immune response, as well as endogenous diseases of the nervous, endocrine,
cardiovascular, hepatic pulmonary, and renal systems. Offered fall annually.
NURS 602: PHARMACOLOGIC APPLICATIONS
3 credits
Covers principles of pharmacology as applied to advanced nursing practice. This includes drug
effectiveness, mechanism and interaction. Emphasis will be on the pharmacological action of drugs
on specific organ systems and the clinical use of drugs in treatment of disease conditions. Emphasis
will be on critical decision-making skills in the selection of drug therapy, doses of drugs, routes of
administration and preferred therapy. This course focuses upon pharmacologic implications for the
family nurse practitioner in working with individuals across the life span. Pre-requisite: NURS 601.
Offered spring annually.

NURS 605: EVOLUTION OF NURSING THEORY
3 credits
Focuses on selected aspects of theory development in nursing science. Emphasis is given to the study
of epistemological issues related to the evolution of theory in nursing. Varying levels and
components of theories are explored. Major strategies for theory development including concept
analysis, synthesis, and theory derivation are analyzed. Students gain experience in critically
examining major existing theoretical models. Offered fall annually.
NURS 610: ADVANCED CONCEPTS IN NURSING RESEARCH
3 credits
Examines the relationship and contribution of nursing research to the development of nursing
science. The growth of research will be traced over the course of the last century, with particular
emphasis on the evolution which has occurred since mid-century. Students will be assisted to
increase their ability to critically evaluate published research and to make decisions concerning its
application to practice. Additionally, students will develop a proposal for an individual or group
research project which may become the foundational work for the scholarly project. Pre-requisite:
NURS 605 or by permission of instructor. Offered spring annually and as needed.
NURS 614: HEALTH PROMOTION: FAMILY & COMMUNITY PERSPECTIVES
3 credits
Introduces the advanced practice nurse student to health promotion and disease prevention strategies
for families and communities. Students will explore principles of family theory, established models
of family development, epidemiology, and demography. An opportunity will be given to develop
intervention plans to improve wellness based risk assessment and knowledge of national standards of
15

clinical preventive services. This course is a pre-requisite to all other clinical nursing courses in the
nurse practitioner concentration. Offered fall annually.
NURS 645: NURSING AND PUBLIC POLICY
3 credits
This course examines the implications of health care financing, structuring, labor market trends, and
current health care reform proposals for nursing in general and for advanced practice nursing
specifically. Additionally, the student will be stimulated to appreciate the critical need for nurses to
engage in activities, individually and as members of professional organizations that will enhance the
position of nursing in influencing health care policy and legislation at all levels–local, state, and
federal. A pervasive theme throughout the course is the ultimate goal of improving the health care of
our citizens. Offered spring annually.
NURS 800: SCHOLARLY PROJECT/THESIS
3 credits
Students will engage in group research related to an aspect of care relevant to the nurse practitioner
or nurse educator professions. The scholarly project is supervised by a research advisor and
committee. Prerequisites: NURS 605 and 610.
Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty Courses (Original Curriculum)
NURS 615: ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT
2 credits
This course builds upon the basic assessment skills of the nurse. It prepares the advanced practice
nurse to conduct focused and comprehensive health assessments of clients across the lifespan. The
process of diagnostic reasoning is emphasized as the primary means of collecting and analyzing data
obtained from the client history, physical examination, and diagnostic procedures. Two hours lecture
weekly. Must be taken concurrently with NURS 616. Pre- or Corequisite: NURS 601. Offered fall
annually and as needed.
NURS 616: ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT PRACTICUM
1 credit
Provides an opportunity for the student to implement the objectives identified in NURS 615.
Students may select experiences from a variety of clinical settings appropriate to the course focus.
Three clinical hours weekly. This course must be taken concurrently with NURS 615. Pre-requisite:
NURS 601. Offered fall annually and as needed.
NURS 620: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING I
2 credits
The focus of this course is clinical data gathering skills, diagnostic reasoning, and clinical problemsolving in the management of common health problems of clients throughout the lifespan. Critical
thinking skills are emphasized and honed and are used to amplify common sense, intuition, and
simple reasoning. Emphasis is placed upon the analysis and synthesis of client data for diagnosis and
for identification of appropriate nursing and other therapeutic interventions to be used by the
advanced practice nurse. This course is required as a prerequisite to all other clinical nursing courses
and is to be taken concurrently with NURS 621. Prerequisite: NURS 615/616. Spring, annually and
as needed.
NURS 621: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING I PRACTICUM
1 credit
Provides an opportunity for the student to implement the objectives identified in NURS 620. Students
may select experiences from a variety of clinical settings appropriate to the course focus. Three
clinical hours weekly. This course must be taken concurrently with NURS 620.
Pre-requisite: NURS 615. Offered spring annually and as needed.
16

NURS 630: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING II
3 credits
Focus is on health promotion, wellness maintenance, disease prevention, early detection of problems,
prompt treatment of acute illness, and support for management and self-care during chronic
conditions of children (birth through adolescence) and childbearing women. All dimensions of
development and the total health of the family are considered. Collaboration with other healthcare
providers is fostered. Three lecture hours weekly. Must be taken concurrently with NURS 631 and
NURS 632. Pre-requisites: NURS 601, 602 and 614 and minimum grade of “B” in 615 and 620.
Offered fall annually.
NURS 631: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING II: ROLE SEMINAR
1 credit
Focus of this seminar will be clinical based research questions, client presentation, and effective
treatment interventions for children (birth through adolescence) and childbearing women. Students
are given an opportunity to discuss alternative approaches to diagnosis, advanced nursing, medical,
or collaborative management in a controlled environment. Two laboratory hours weekly. Must be
taken concurrently with NURS 630 and NURS 632. Pre-requisites: NURS 601, 602, and 614;
Minimum grade of “B’ in NURS 615 and 620. Offered fall annually.
NURS 632: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING II PRACTICUM
2 credits
Provides an opportunity for the student to implement the objectives identified in NURS 630.
Students may select experiences from a variety of clinical settings appropriate to the course focus.
Six clinical hours weekly. Must be taken concurrently with NURS 630 and NURS 631. Prerequisite: NURS 601, 602, and 614; Minimum grade of “B’ in NURS 615 and 620. Offered fall
annually.
NURS 640: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING III
3 credits
Focus is on health promotion, wellness maintenance, disease prevention, early detection of problems,
prompt treatment of acute illness, and support for management and self-care during chronic
conditions of young, middle aged, and older adults. All dimensions of development and the total
health of the family are considered. Collaboration with other health care providers is fostered with
emphasis upon the coordination and continuity of client care. Three lecture hours weekly. Must be
taken concurrently with NURS 641 and NURS 642. Pre-requisites: NURS 601, 602, and 614 and
minimum grade of “B” in 615, 620, and 630. Offered fall annually.
NURS 641: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING III: ROLE SEMINAR
1 credit
Focus of this seminar will be clinical based research questions, client presentation, and effective
treatment interventions for young, middle-aged, and older adults. Students are given an opportunity
to discuss alternative approaches to diagnosis, advanced nursing, medical, or collaborative
management in a controlled environment. Two laboratory hours weekly. Must be taken concurrently
with NURS 640 and NURS 642. Pre-requisite: NURS 601, 602, and 614; Minimum grade of “B’ in
NURS 615, 620, and 630. Offered spring annually.

NURS 642: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING III PRACTICUM
2 credits
Provides an opportunity for the student to implement the objectives identified in NURS 640.
Students may select experiences from a variety of clinical settings appropriate to the course focus.
Six clinical hours weekly. Must be taken concurrently with NURS 640 and NURS 641. Prerequisites: NURS 601, 602, and 614; Minimum grade of “B’ in NURS 615, 620, and 630. Offered
spring annually.
17

NURS 750: FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER INTERNSHIP
6 credits
Provides the opportunity to gain competency in the multifaceted role of nurse practitioner through
supervised clinical experience under the guidance of certified nurse practitioners, physician
assistants, or licensed physicians approved by the department as preceptors. Prerequisites: All
program course work, including completion of NURS 800. Spring, annually and as needed.
Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty Courses (Revised Curriculum)
NURS 615: ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT
No change. See Original Curriculum.

2 credits

NURS 616: ADVANCED HEALTH ASSESSMENT PRACTICUM
2 credits
Provides an opportunity for the student to implement the objectives identified in NURS 615.
Students may select experiences from a variety of clinical settings appropriate to the course focus.
Prerequisite (or co-requisite) NURS 601; must be taken concurrently with NURS 615. Offered fall
annually and as needed.
NURS 620: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING I
1 credit
Focus is on developing skills in gathering clinical data, diagnostic reasoning, and clinical problemsolving. Analysis and synthesis of patient data to evaluate and appropriately manage common health
problems across the lifespan is emphasized. Prerequisite: NURS 615 and NURS 616; must be taken
concurrently with NURS 621 and NURS 622. Offered spring, annually and as needed.
NURS 621: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING I PRACTICUM
2 credits
This course provides an opportunity for the student to implement the objectives identified in NURS
620. Students may select experiences from a variety of clinical settings appropriate to the course
focus. Prerequisite: NURS 615 and NURS 616; must be taken concurrently with NURS 620 and
NURS 622. Offered spring, annually and as needed.
NURS 622: FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER ROLE DEVELOPMENT
1 credit
Explores the evolving role of the family nurse practitioner as an advanced practice nurse. Focus is on
acquisition of advanced practice skills and application of decision making models that guide
evidence based practice. Professional, ethical, and legal accountability is emphasized. Prerequisite:
NURS 615 and NURS 616; must be taken concurrently with NURS 621 and NURS 620. Offered
spring annually and as needed.
NURS 630: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING II
No change. See Original Curriculum.

3 credits

NURS 632: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING II PRACTICUM
No change. See Original Curriculum.

2 credits

NURS 640: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING III
No change. See Original Curriculum.

3 credits

NURS 642: CLINICAL DECISION MAKING III PRACTICUM
No change. See Original Curriculum.

2 credits

NURS 750: FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER INTERNSHIP

6 credits

18

No change. See Original Curriculum.
Nurse Educator Specialty Courses (Last offered AY 2013-3014)
NUR 675: NURSING CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT
3 credits
Examines curriculum development in post-secondary nursing programs. Focuses on philosophical
issues, learning theories, learner needs assessment, and curriculum design for target populations in
various nursing education programs. Enables advanced practice nursing students to develop and
evaluate curriculum for selected nursing education programs. Offered fall, every other year and/or as
needed.
NURS 676: EDUCATIONAL STRATEGIES IN NURSING
3 credits
Provides a comprehensive overview of educational strategies for students who desire to function as
advanced practice nurses in the educational arena. Provides the necessary theory to implement the
instructional process with various populations. Examines issues relevant to educational strategies and
their evaluation. Students design and implement a lesson plan. Self-evaluation and critique of others
are used as a method to improve teaching. Offered fall, every other year and as needed.
NURS 677: EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT IN NURSING
3 credits
Provides a comprehensive overview of evaluation and assessment in learning for students who desire
to function as advanced practice nurses in the educational arena. Emphasizes current issues in
assessment, establishment and measurement of learning outcomes, and the development and
utilization of assessment tools. Students design and use evaluation tools for clinical and classroom
application in nursing and health education. Offered spring, every other year and/or as needed.

NURS 751: NURSE EDUCATOR INTERNSHIP
3 credits
Provides the opportunity to gain competency in the multifaceted role of nurse practitioner through
supervised clinical experience under the guidance of certified nurse practitioners, physician
assistants, or licensed physicians approved by the department as preceptors. Prerequisites: All
program course work, including completion of NURS 800. Spring, annually and as needed.

STUDENT POLICIES
ACADEMIC HONESTY (Academic Integrity Policy)
Clarion University
Students at Clarion University shall maintain a high standard of honesty in scholastic work. As
members of the university community, students have a responsibility to be familiar with the
conduct regulations found in the university catalogs, Student Handbook and Calendar; Student
Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Handbook; and other university documents. Among the
conduct regulations addressed are acts of academic dishonesty, including plagiarism or
cheating on assignments, examination, or other academic work, or, without prior approval
of the instructor, submitting work already done for another course.
Students shall avoid all forms of academic dishonesty, including but not limited to:
19

1. Plagiarism – The use of another’s words without attribution and without enclosing
the words in quotation marks. Plagiarism may also be defined as the act of taking
the ideas or expression of ideas of another and representing them as one’s owneven if the original paper has been paraphrased or otherwise modified. A close or
extended paraphrase may also be considered plagiarism even if the source is named.
2. Collusion – Working with another in the preparation of notes, themes, reports, or
other written work offered for credit unless such collaboration is specifically
approved in advance by the instructor.
3. Cheating on an examination or quiz – Giving or receiving information or using
prepared material on an examination or quiz.
4. Falsification of data – Manufacturing data, falsification of information, including
providing false or misleading information, or selective use of data to support a
particular conclusion or avoid conducting actual research. Students are asked to sign
an Academic Integrity Pledge as part of their admission into the program. A copy of
this pledge can be found in Appendix C.
Charges of academic dishonesty may be brought against a student by any member of the
academic community. Sanctions for academic dishonesty can range from a failing grade on a
particular assignment or examination to dismissal from the university based on the seriousness
of the action and whether it is part of a pattern of academic dishonesty. Instructors imposing
a lowered or failing grade on an assignment or course as a result of a charge of academic
dishonesty must inform the student. Students have the right to appeal instructor decisions
(Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Handbook) either through the grade appeal
process or directly to the Conduct Board, depending on the nature of the dispute. Sanctions
extending beyond a particular course, such as suspension or dismissal from an academic
program or from the university, can only be imposed as the result of complaints filed under
the Disciplinary Procedures Code and after formal hearings under this code.
Edinboro University
Academic dishonesty is considered a violation against the university’s Student Code of Conduct.
Dishonesty includes cheating, plagiarism, or knowingly furnishing false information to the
University. Violations are adjudicated by the Office of Student Judicial Affairs within the
Division of Student Affairs and Student Success, with final authority for the disciplinary
system of the University resting with the President of Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
In addition, the Clarion and Edinboro Universities’ Graduate Nursing Programs hold students to
the Academic Integrity Pledge signed at the time of admission. Sanctions for violation of
academic integrity will be as follows:
1. First time offense – Student will be given a failing grade on the assignment and a
warning. Remediation will be given to address specific violations, such as inability to
appropriately cite sources.
2. Second offense – Student will be given a failing grade in the course and will be referred
to the individual faculty member’s university judicial system. Sanctions by the judicial
boards can include suspension or dismissal from the program or from the university.
20

Turnitin
As an additional measure to ensure academic integrity in the program, all written assignments
must be submitted through Turnitin, a service that helps prevent plagiarism by comparing student
papers with Turnitin's database and Internet sources. While student privacy is protected, papers
submitted to Turnitin do become source documents in Turnitin's reference database solely for the
purpose of detecting plagiarism of such papers. Use of the Turnitin service is subject to the
Terms and Conditions of Use posted on Turnitin's website: http://www.turnitin.com
ACADEMIC STANDING
All graduate students are expected to remain in good academic standing by maintaining a
cumulative QPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and earning no more than three semester hours of “C” or
lower grades in graduate courses.
Academic Probation
Students will be placed on probation for the following reasons:
1. Failure to maintain an overall quality-point average (QPA) of 3.0
2. Earning a grade of “C” or below in any one course
A student placed on probation automatically loses his or her graduate assistantship. A
reapplication for an assistantship will be required once she or he has returned to “good”
academic standing. A student placed on probation must return to “good” academic standing
through grades earned in course work during the next semester or summer session in which he or
she enrolls. Failure to earn grades sufficient to be removed from probation will result in the
student being dismissed from the graduate program.
FNP students cannot progress in courses in the clinical sequence while on probation.
Removing Probation Status
Students placed on probation may repeat grades of “C” or below according to the following
policy:
1. Only one course may be repeated
2. This one course may be repeated only one time
3. The most recent grade (regardless of whether it is higher or lower) will be the grade
used for the GPA calculation.
1. A failure in NURS 800 cannot be repeated
2. If a student earns a grade of “C” or below in a theory course that has a co-requisite
clinical practicum, or earns a “Failure” on the co-requisite clinical practicum, the
student must repeat all related co-requisite clinical courses (e.g., NURS 615 and
NURS 616) the next semester that course is offered
21

4. A grade of “C” or below in NURS 750 cannot be repeated without permission from
the MSN Program Coordinator
A letter grade of “C” or below in any course with a clinical component may not count toward
fulfillment of requirements for the Master of Science in Nursing degree.
Dismissal
A student will be dismissed from the MSN program for any of the following reasons:
1. Violations of the academic honesty policies.
2. Violation of the American Nurses Association “Code for Nurses” guidelines for
ethical practice, or the National Student Nurses’ Association “Code of Academic and
Clinical Conduct.”
3. Failure to notify the Office of Graduate Studies of changes in a criminal arrest
history.
4. Failure to meet enrollment requirements (e.g., licensure, CPR, professional liability
insurance, clearances, and site-specific requirements) for clinical practicum
experiences.
5. A documented pattern of unprofessional behavior in the classroom or clinical setting.
6. Unsafe practice during the practicum experience.
7. Failure to maintain a cumulative QPA of 3.0.
8. Failure to meet conditions for removal of probation status.
9. A grade of “C” or below in two courses.
10. A failing grade in NURS 800: Thesis
A student dismissed from the university is also dismissed from the MSN program; however, a
student dismissed from the MSN program is not necessarily dismissed from the university. A
student who is dismissed from the MSN program will be informed by letter, a copy of which will
be retained in the student’s file. The student may choose to:
1. Remain at the university and pursue another course of study
2. Withdraw from the university
3. Appeal dismissal (See Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online
Handbook)
4. Seek readmission (see Readmission Policy)
Students who are dismissed from the MSN Program are strongly encouraged to seek the advice
of their academic advisor to assist in problem solving and planning to meet their goals.
Readmission
Students who do not meet the conditions for removal of probation will be dismissed from their
graduate program. After one semester of non-enrollment, the student may reapply to the
program. If reaccepted, all conditions of probation apply and must be addressed in their first
semester back.
22

Likewise, students who withdraw from the program without securing a leave of absence or fail to
complete the program requirements in six years (or by the approved extension date) may apply
for readmission to the nursing program if they have a cumulative QPA of 3.0.
The Admission, Progression, and Graduation committee will evaluate student requests for
readmission and make a recommendation to the graduate faculty based on the following criteria:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

General academic history
Grade point average
Clinical performance as evaluated by graduate nursing faculty and preceptors
Time absent from the academic program
Potential for success

Students must request readmission in writing and address the reason for the dismissal or
withdrawal and, if applicable, what the student has done or plans to do to improve academic
performance. The Committee reserves the right to request additional information. The letter must
be sent to:
Admission, Progression, and Graduation Committee
Clarion and Edinboro Universities’ MSN Program
Clarion University - Pittsburgh Site
4900 Friendship Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Requests for readmission the fall semester of the next academic year must be received by the
Committee no later than March 31. Requests for readmission the spring semester of the next
academic year must be received by the Committee no later than September 30.
Students must apply for readmission within one year from the date of dismissal. Students who
are not readmitted within the one year period will be considered new applicants and must meet
the admission criteria.
Readmission to the nursing program is based on the professional judgment of the graduate
nursing faculty and is contingent upon class size (space available). Students will be notified in
writing of the Committee’s decision.
COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT/PORTFOLIO
In order to successfully complete the program, students must pass a comprehensive assessment
in the form of a professional portfolio. The portfolio is submitted while enrolled in NURS 750 or
NURS 751 and assumes completion of all MSN courses with a cumulative QPA of not less than
3.0. The portfolio evaluates the ability of the student to synthesize the information from core
courses with the principles of diagnosis and management in primary care, in the case of FNP
students, and with the principles of education, in the case of NE students.

23

Successful completion of the portfolio requires meeting or exceeding each outcome as
determined by a grading rubric given to the student prior to submission of the final document.
Students are expected to collect artifacts throughout the program for inclusion in the portfolio.
Acceptable evidence includes course assignments or projects, clinical logs and reflections, a
current resume, letters of recommendation, a summary of professional development experiences,
and any other evidence that would support the reader’s full comprehension of the student’s
growth as a professional. Specifically, FNP students should demonstrate attainment of the Nurse
Practitioner Core Competencies (NONPF, 2012) and the Population Focused Nurse Practitioner
Competencies (NONPF, 2013); NE students should demonstrate attainment of the NLN Core
Competencies of Nurse Educators (2005).
Expectations must be met or exceeded for all outcomes in order to pass. Students receiving a
failing grade on the portfolio will be given a comprehensive written examination. Failure on the
comprehensive written examination will result in remediation, which may include additional
coursework, followed by second administration of a comprehensive written exam. Failure on the
second examination will result in dismissal from the program.
COMMUNICATING POLICY CHANGES
Any changes in policy that are made during the academic year, either by Clarion or Edinboro
universities, departments of nursing, or graduate nursing programs, will be communicated to
students by instructors in all appropriate classes, sent via the MSN-L listserv, and/or posted in
the MSN Forum.
GRADING POLICY
Grading Scale
The graduate nursing faculty of the joint MSN program subscribes to the following grading
scale:
93 - 100 = A 66 - 74 = D
84 - 92 = B 65 - below = E
75 - 83 = C Pass/Fail
Incomplete Grade
Incomplete grades must be completed by the end of the following semester. No one may be
cleared for graduation with “I” grades on the record.
In Progress (IP) Grades
Students who have not completed NURS 800 in the designated semester receive an “IP” (In
Progress) grade. The grade "IP" is given only when the work in a course extends beyond the
semester or term originally scheduled. It implies satisfactory performance. The grade "IP" will
not alter the QPA of the student since hours attempted, hours earned, and quality points earned
24

will be entered in cumulative totals once the final grade is submitted. The "IP" grade shall remain
on the student's transcript until the instructor submits a grade upon completion of the
thesis/project.
Grade Appeal Policy
Disagreements between students and faculty on student rights and academic complaints against
faculty members may be dealt with as described in the Clarion University Student Rights,
Regulations, and Procedures Handbook or the Edinboro University Student Handbook at the
respective university of the faculty member.
GRADUATION POLICY
Students must have completed all coursework required for their degree with an overall qualitypoint average (QPA) of 3.0 in order to graduate from the program. In addition, students must
have passed the portfolio competency, with a “meets” or “exceeds” score for each outcome on
the portfolio grading rubric. The maximum time for completion of the degree program is six
calendar years.
It is the candidate’s responsibility to file, with the aid of his or her advisor, an Application for
Graduation prior to the published deadline during the semester in which he or she intends to
graduate. Graduation applications are available online at:
http://www.clarion.edu/academics/registrars-office/documents-and-forms/Application-forGraduation.pdf
Students have the option of participating in the Commencement ceremony at either Edinboro
University or Clarion University. Commencement occurs two times a year: Spring (May) and
Winter (December). Students may “walk” in the Spring Commencement if they will be
completing all program requirements by the end of the Summer III term. Students choosing this
option should plan to apply for graduation on the date posted for May graduates.
GRADUATION RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT
Seventy percent of the credits meeting program requirements must be taken from the Clarion and
Edinboro Universities’ MSN Program. For MSN-FNP students, this is 30 credits; for MSN-NE
students, this is 24.
INCIDENT REPORT POLICY AND PROCEDURE
An incident is any happening related to student performance in the education setting which is not
consistent with the educational practices of the MSN Program or one in which the safety of an
individual is jeopardized.
1. The student who has had an incident in the clinical setting is responsible for
completing an Incident Report Form which can be obtained from the MSN Program
Coordinator. The student is to complete the form and return it to the faculty member
25

who is supervising the practicum. The faculty member will confer with the student as
necessary and then will complete the required portion of the Incident Report Form
(see Clinical Practicum Manual).
2. The faculty member will inform the MSN Program Coordinator, and Department
Chair if necessary, and determination will be made as to the action to be taken.
Referral to the Clarion Director of the School of Health Sciences is made at the
discretion of the Coordinator and/or Department Chair.
3. Incident Reports are retained in the student file.
4. Students must comply with affiliating agencies’ policies related to the reporting of
incidents.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE POLICY
Any student requesting a Leave of Absence from the MSN program must submit a request in
writing to the MSN Program Coordinator. This letter must include a reason for requesting the
leave and the student’s plans for return.
1. The Coordinator has the right to request a personal interview with the student
requesting the leave before a decision is made.
2. Each Leave of Absence will be handled individually according to the specific need,
academic standing, and clinical performance of the student.
3. The Coordinator will present the request to the Admission, Progression, and
Graduation Committee with all pertinent information.
4. The Admission, Progression, and Graduation Committee will recommend denial or
granting of the Leave of Absence.
5. No Leave of Absence will be granted for unsatisfactory academic performance or for
a period longer than one year or two full semesters.
6. If the leave is granted, the student will be informed as such and must notify the Office
of the Registrar of his or her intention to withdraw and the reason for withdrawal. At
this time, the student will be informed of any conditional requirements for return (see
CUP Graduate Catalog).
7. Before returning to the MSN Program, the student must notify the MSN Program
Coordinator of intent, the semester before returning, in order to register for the
appropriate courses.
PROGRESSION OF INTERRUPTED CLINICAL COURSES
Once admitted in the MSN program, FNP concentration, it is strongly advised that less than two
years elapse between clinical courses. Clinical courses include NURS 615 and 616: Advanced
Health Assessment, all clinical decision making courses, and the internship. If two or more years
elapse, the student must receive permission from the faculty member teaching the course and
may be asked to complete a practical exam or retake the previous clinical course.

26

STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS
All requirements for the master’s degree must be completed within a six-year period
commencing with the first graduate course registration. The MSN Program Coordinator may
extend this period upon written request from the student for justifiable reasons. This request must
be supported by the Coordinator before submission to the office of Graduate Studies for final
approval.
STUDENTS’ RIGHTS
In the case of a dispute between the student and a faculty member involving academic concerns
(i.e., classroom evaluation, course grades, etc.), the student should follow the procedures
outlined in the appropriate publication of the university employing the faculty member, for
example, Clarion University’s Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Handbook and
Edinboro University’s Student Handbook. The procedures to be followed are consistent with the
university in which the faculty member is employed.
THESIS COMPLETION POLICY
Students are expected to complete their research, including the writing and approval of the final
document, within one year (3 academic terms, including the summer) of initial registration for
NURS 800. Failure to make sufficient progress during that year will result in a “Failure” in NURS
800. Sufficient progress is defined as regular communication with the thesis advisor and
submission of chapters 1 to 3 at a minimum. Students who fail NURS 800 may not repeat the
course and are automatically dismissed from the program.
For students who have made sufficient progress during the first year, if more than a year passes and
the study is still not complete, students must register for one additional credit for each term until it
is completed or until a second year has passed. After two years, students must seek permission
from the Director of the School of Health Sciences at Clarion University, to remain in the program.
WITHDRAWAL POLICY
All class withdrawals must be made through the Clarion University Office of the Registrar. If a
withdrawal is not made through the Office of the Registrar, a failing grade will be recorded for the
affected course(s). Withdrawals between the end of the second and ninth weeks may be made
without penalty. After the beginning of the tenth week of a semester or the second half of a
summer session, a course from which a student withdraws shall be reported with a grade of "E."
No student may have more than 2 class withdrawals while enrolled in the MSN Program.
Exceptions may be made for withdrawals due to extenuating circumstances such as illness or some
other unavoidable occurrence. (See Leave of Absence Policy)
Students may withdraw from the university (all courses) through the last day of classes. If a
university withdrawal is not made through the Office of the Registrar, a failing grade will be
recorded for the affected course(s). Any student who withdraws from the university (that is,
withdraws from all classes) either during or at the end of a semester must notify the Office of the
27

Registrar of his or her intention to withdraw and the reason for withdrawal. Such students must be
readmitted to the university before being allowed to take classes again. This can be done by
contacting Graduate Studies at 814-393-2337 or 800-676-7171, option 6.
Students are advised to review information on Class Withdrawals and University Withdrawal at
http://www.clarion.edu/academics/registrars-office/academic-policies/index.html
CLINICAL PRACTICE IN THE MSN PROGRAM
Guidelines for clinical practicum experiences can be found in the Clinical Practicum Manual. At
this time, all clinical practice experiences must take place in Pennsylvania because of approval
certificates required of out-of-state degree granting institutions in many states. Clinical practicum
experiences also must take place within a 2 hours driving time of our campus locations in
Edinboro, Oil City, Clarion, and Pittsburgh so that clinical faculty can make site visits to gauge
students’ progress.
RESEARCH IN THE MSN PROGRAM
Completion of a scholarly project is expected of every graduate student in the MSN program.
This can take two forms: a group thesis, carried out by 2-3 students, or an individual thesis,
carried out by one student only. Both are completed with the advice and consultation of the
project advisor and project committee. Details on procedures related to the research process,
including registration for NURS 800, can be found in the MSN Thesis Research Manual, which
can be accessed in the MSN Forum in D2L.
GENERAL INFORMATION
WHO TO CONTACT FOR HELP
The following chart lists departments, phone numbers, and other contact information for various
staff members and faculty who can help you with specific questions. For course related
questions, check with the faculty member teaching that course. The MSN Program Coordinator
is also available at any time to answer questions or direct you to who can. Dr. Ciesielka can be
reached at dciesielka@clarion.edu (preferred contact method) or phone 412-578-7277

28

Contact Information Quick Start Guide
Information/Questions
Advisor

Billing

Clinical documents/
Typhon

Who to Contact
MSN secretary can
give you this
information
Accounts
Receivable
(Student Accounts)
Your clinical
instructor

Desire2Learn (D2L)
assistance
Clarion email account
not working
Edinboro email account
not working

D2L Help

Financial Aid

Financial Aid
Office

Graduation

Your advisor

Registration

Contact your
advisor for
guidance

Computing
Services Help Desk
Technology Help
Center

Phone
412-578-5239

Other Contact Information
Also listed at http://myclarion.clarion.edu

814-393-2253

http://www.clarion.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/contactstudent-financial-services/index.aspx

Contact
information on
syllabus
855-203-5112
(toll free)
814-393-2640

See Clinical Practicum Manual guidelines

814-732-2111

Password Management:
http://www.edinboro.edu/directory/offices-services/tech-andcomm/password-management.html

814-393-2315 or
800-6727171(toll free)

http://www.clarion.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/contactstudent-financial-services/index.aspx

For Typhon: submit support ticket request in Typhon
See D2L Support: https://d2l.clarion.edu/
helpdesk@clarion.edu

Forms and instructions:
http://www.clarion.edu/academics/registrarsoffice/graduation.html
How to: http://www.clarion.edu/academics/registrarsoffice/registering-for-classes/index.html
See Transcripts (below) for Registrar’s Office contact
information

29

Textbooks

Thesis registration
Transcripts

Library

Clarion University
Store for courses
taught by Clarion
faculty

1-855-696-3326

http://www.bkstr.com/clarionstore/home

814-732-2456

http://edinborobookstore.com/home.aspx

Edinboro
University Campus
Bookstore for
courses taught by
Edinboro faculty
(section numbers
with an ED)
Your thesis advisor
Clarion University
Registrar’s Office

Clarion University
Library—For
Online Students
Edinboro BaronForness Library

See Research Manual guidelines
814-393-2229

http://www.clarion.edu/academics/registrars-office/transcriptsand-diplomas/index.html

Fax requests to:
814-393-2039
866-272-5612
(Press # 5 for
Library)
Dr. Monty
McAdoo:
814-732-1070

To email the Registrar’s Office: registrar@clarion.edu
http://www.clarion.edu/libraries/services/for-clarion-onlinestudents.html

http://www.edinboro.edu/directory/offices-services/library/

30

STUDENT CIVILITY GUIDELINES
Students are always free to express opinions publicly and privately by orderly means that do not
disrupt the regular and essential operation of the universities. Students in the MSN Program are
given an opportunity to openly discuss program-related issues in an online discussion board
located in the Desire2Learn MSN Forum. Participation in the MSN Forum affirms these First
Amendment rights of students’ freedom of expression. Faculty ask, however, that students
refrain from the following:





Anonymous postings
Use of indecent or offensive language
Blatant disregard for authority
Violation of published student rights and responsibilities at either university

Above all, students are expected to respect the rights, dignity, and worth of every person as
well as exemplify the mission, philosophy, and values of the MSN Program.
Students with individual concerns and course-related grievances are encouraged to contact the
involved parties first or file a formal grievance according to the Students' Rights policy (see
Student Policies in this handbook).
Within the classroom, whether virtual, face-to-face, or in a clinical setting, students are
expected to demonstrate the same civil behavior. Students may refer to the following resources
for further guidance:
Netiquette by Virginia Shea (1994): http://www.albion.com/netiquette/book/index.html
Netiquette: E-guides on Social Interaction and Communicating Electronically:
http://www.studygs.net/netiquette.htm
SOCIAL EQUITY EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
Clarion University of Pennsylvania is committed to equal employment and equal educational
opportunities for all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin,
affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or other classifications that are
protected under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Americans with
Disabilities Amendment Act of 2008-2009, and other pertinent state and federal laws and
regulations
TITLE IX REPORTING EXCEPTIONS
Clarion University and its faculty are committed to assuring a safe and productive educational
environment for all students. In order to meet this commitment and to comply with Title IX of
the Education Amendments of 1972 and guidance from the Office for Civil Rights, the
University requires faculty members to report incidents of sexual violence shared by students to
the University's Title IX Coordinator. The only exceptions to the faculty member's reporting
31

obligation are when incidents of sexual violence are communicated by a student during a
classroom discussion, in a writing assignment for a class, or as part of a University-approved
research project. Faculty members are obligated to report sexual violence or any other abuse of
a student who was, or is, a child (a person under 18 years of age) when the abuse allegedly
occurred to the person designated in the University protection of minors policy.
Information regarding the reporting of sexual violence and the resources that are available to
victims of sexual violence is set forth at the Office of Social Equity/Title IX webpage
http://www.clarion.edu/misconductfaq and http://www.clarion.edu/titleix.
DISTANCE EDUCATION IN THE MSN PROGRAM
The MSN Program uses technology extensively to make the program more accessible to
students. With the exception of skill labs for NURS 616: Advanced Health Assessment
Practicum, workshops for learning procedures (e.g., suturing), and clinical practica, courses are
web-based, using Desire2Learn (D2L). D2L is an online learning environment accessible from
any computer with an internet connection. Faculty opting to offer synchronous class sessions
using desktop conferencing will announce class times in advance and archive sessions for those
students unable to attend due to work or other obligations. Faculty are sensitive to accessibility
issues in rural areas. D2L technical requirements can be found at:
http://www.clarion.edu/about-clarion/computing-services/learning-technologycenter/d2l/tech-requirements.html
In addition, the following are required:



Anti-virus software. McAfee anti-virus software is available without charge for enrolled
Clarion students through a license agreement: http://www.clarion.edu/aboutclarion/computing-services/safe-computing-and-security/anti-virus-software.html
Microsoft Office 2000 Professional or Microsoft Office XP Professional or
Microsoft Office for Macintosh

To access Desire2Learn and login go to: https://d2l.clarion.edu/
WEB REGISTRATION PROCEDURES
Students in the MSN Program are responsible for reviewing the relevant sections of the
university catalog, consulting with their assigned academic advisor during the period of
advisement, and monitoring their academic progress to ensure that every course scheduled
will fulfill respective degree requirements. The university retains the right to remove students
from any courses for which they are not academically qualified or lack the required co-requisite
and/or prerequisite courses. Instructions for online registration can be found at the Clarion
University Registrar’s page: http://www.clarion.edu/academics/registrars-office/registeringfor-classes/index.html#webregistrationinstructions

32

PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTS
The main route for MSN Program announcements is via the MSN-L listserv, administered
through Clarion University and moderated by the MSN Program Coordinator. New students are
provided with instructions on subscribing to the listserv and may continue to be subscribed
upon graduation. Select announcements are posted at Clarion University-Venango Campus,
the Pittsburgh Campus, and Edinboro University. Other information is transmitted through class
e-mail, class announcements, and individual mailings.
Using the MSN-L LISTSERV E-mail Account
A LISTSERV E-mail account has been established through Clarion University Computing
Services for all MSN students. MSN-L is the name of this LISTSERV account. Please note:
this LISTSERV is not to be used for sending private messages to individuals, but instead, it is a
mechanism for sending messages to all members of the MSN-L simultaneously.
** To subscribe to this list from a Clarion University e-mail account, send mail to Listserv as
follows:
MAIL> send
To: listserv@listserv.clarion.edu
Subj: (leave this blank)
Enter your message in the text field below: SUBSCRIBE MSN-L
** To subscribe from an off-campus Non-Clarion University e-mail account, send mail to
Listserv as follows:
MAIL> send
To: listserv@listserv.clarion.edu
Subj: (leave this blank)
Enter your message in the text field below: SUBSCRIBE MSN-L FirstName LastName
** To signoff this list from a Clarion University e-mail account, send mail to Listserv as
follows:
MAIL> send
To: listserv@listserv.clarion.edu
Subj: (leave this blank)
Enter your message in the text field below: SIGNOFF MSN-L
** To signoff this list from an off-campus Non-Clarion University e-mail account, send mail to
Listserv as follows:
MAIL> send
To: listserv@listserv.clarion.edu
Subj: (leave this blank)
Enter your message in the text field below: SIGNOFF MSN-L
Any questions should be referred to: Clarion University Graduate Studies at (814) 393-2337

33

Please note: When responding to an MSN-L message, remember that hitting “reply” sends
your message to the entire listserv!!
LIBRARY SERVICES
Edinboro and Clarion University Libraries are accessible to distance students via a variety of
online resources, including tutorials re: how to conduct searches and request materials. Students
are also welcome to visit any of the campus libraries in person. Students may access each
library’s catalog from their home through the Libraries’ home pages.
The Clarion University Libraries home page can be found at: http://www.clarion.edu/libraries/
The Edinboro University Library home page can be found at:
http://www.edinboro.edu/directory/offices-services/library/
Specific information for distance education students at Clarion can be found:
http://www.clarion.edu/libraries/services/for-clarion-online-students.html
From the library home pages, students are directed to various links such as library
information, the online library catalog, online journals, reference web sites, databases, as
well as the interlibrary loan service, and other academic links. To search a database you will
need to login with your username/password. Select either Clarion or Edinboro from the dropdown list of institutions and then enter the username and password you use to access your
campus email account.
All students have automatic access to Clarion and Edinboro Universities’ library services/digital
databases when they are registered for classes.
Requests for interlibrary loans can be placed from Clarion or Edinboro Universities Libraries’
home pages. Students should request interlibrary loans from the campus affiliated with their
faculty advisor.
ACADEMIC CALENDARS
In most aspects the calendars of both universities are the same. The Pennsylvania State
System of Higher Education Universities has agreed to the same start and end dates for fall and
spring semesters. However, there may be differences at the discretion of the university for
select days, such reading days prior to finals, and for summer sessions. When there are
differences, students will follow the class schedule of the university which employs the
faculty member teaching his/her course. Academic calendars and class schedules are printed in
Clarion and Edinboro Universities’ semester class schedule, posted on bulletin boards at each
university, and emailed to each MSN student. Academic calendars are also found on each
university’s website

34

CLASS CANCELLATION NOTIFICATION POLICY
Clarion University
Information concerning class cancellation at Venango College of Clarion University may be
obtained by dialing (814) 676-6591, ext. 1200. A recorded message will apprise the caller of the
status of class sessions. The message is updated as is necessary according to conditions affecting
class meetings. Announcements of closure of university classes will be broadcast over local
television and radio stations and via cell phone text notification. Television stations in Pittsburgh
will also list class closure for Clarion University.
Edinboro University
Information concerning class cancellation at Edinboro Campus may be obtained by dialing (814)
732-2676. This “Emergency Hotline” informs outside callers of the cancellation of classes. Also,
any student enrolled at Edinboro University will also receive an e-mail message providing
further information of the status of class sessions. Announcements will also be broadcast over
local television and radio stations and via cell phone text notification.
TUITION
Tuition information can be found at: http://www.clarion.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/tuitionand-fees/graduate-tuition-and-fees.html#row-d13e918
Please note that the MSN Graduate
tuition and fees are slightly higher and unique to that program.
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE FOR MSN STUDENTS
Admission to a graduate program does not include financial support. Information about financial
assistance available to graduate students may be obtained by contacting the Financial Aid
Office at Clarion University (814-393-2315) or by visiting:
http://www.clarion.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/financial-aid/index.html
Of special note, students enrolled in certificate programs are not eligible for federal student aid.
In addition, scholarships often become available intermittently. Many, if not all, include
financial need documentation as part of their criteria. It is recommended that upon admission,
all students fill out a FAFSA form documenting unmet financial need. This form can be
obtained at financial aid offices at either university, but should be submitted to Clarion’s
financial aid office. Scholarship information can also be found at the following websites, as
well as being posted via the MSN-L listserv or in the MSN Forum as information becomes
known:
Clarion University: http://www.clarion.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid/financialaid/scholarships/index.html
Edinboro University:
http://www.edinboro.edu/directory/offices-services/financial-aid/types-of-aid/scholarships/

35

Contact the nursing departments and graduate offices at each university for graduate
assistantship and scholarship information.
MAINTENANCE OF STUDENT EDUCATION AND FINANCIAL RECORDS
Each university within the State System has an Academic Affairs division that provides the
structure and governance for all academic programs (undergraduate and graduate) within the
university. In conjunction with the academic colleges in which programs are housed, graduate
programs at Clarion University are administered through the Graduate Admissions Office and
those at Edinboro University through the School of Graduate Studies and Research.
The MSN program is a jointly offered program that permits the universities to share faculty,
material resources, libraries, facilities, and equipment. In order to facilitate the logistics of
operating a joint program, an administrative site is designated every five years. Clarion
University, currently functioning as the administrative site, handles all the administrative
aspects of admission of students, student accounts (billing), financial aid, registration, etc. In
addition, Clarion collects all fees related to admission, registration, and graduation.
GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS
Clarion University
Each year a limited number of graduate assistantships are awarded to graduate students admitted
with regular full admission status to a graduate program. Graduate assistants work 10 or 20 hours
per week in assignments related to academic programs or university-wide service. They are paid
an hourly stipend and receive a 50% tuition waiver for a 10-hour assistantship or a 20-hour
assistantship. Students are required to pay full tuition beyond 9 credits per semester. There are no
summer assistantships. Assistantships are available on the main campus of Clarion University
and at the Venango College of Clarion University in Oil City, PA.
Graduate assistants must take at least 6 credits of course work per semester, perform assigned
duties in a satisfactory manner, and remain in good academic standing.
Students wishing to apply for a graduate assistantship should complete the Application for
Position of Graduate Assistant form available at http://www.clarion.edu/academics/graduatestudent-services.html and submit with it with their application to graduate study.
Frederick Douglass Fellowships are also available to graduate students who are pursuing a career
in college teaching and are in their final year of a terminal degree program. The fellowships are
designed to attract advanced graduate students primarily from Historically Black Colleges and
Universities (HBCU). Selected scholars will team-and/or co-teach one course. Information can
be
found
on
page
15
of
the
Clarion
University
Graduate
Catalog:
http://www.clarion.edu/academics/registrars-office/documents-and-forms/2013-2015-GraduateCatalog.pdf
Edinboro University

36

A number of Graduate Assistantships are available each year and are awarded by the School of
Graduate Studies and Research. Eligibility for an Assistantship includes acceptance into a
graduate program, enrollment for full-time study, and acceptance by the director of the office
assigned.
Full-time graduate assistantships only cover 9 credits towards tuition per semester. If a GA
enrolls in more than 9 credits (15 credits a semester is the maximum a GA can schedule) they
must cover additional tuition costs at their own expense. Full-time Graduate Assistantships
include a stipend and 270 hours of work per semester. Half-time Graduate Assistantships
include a remission of one-half of course tuition, a stipend, and 135 hours of work per
semester.
Assistantships in residential life also include a waiver of charges for a private room in the
residence hall and a telephone. A limited number of prorated Assistantships are available for the
summer. Applications and current stipend rates can be obtained from the Edinboro University
School
of
Graduate
Studies
and
Research
or
online
at:
http://www.edinboro.edu/academics/schools-and-departments/graduatestudies/apply/graduate-assistantships/index.html
PARKING REGULATIONS
Students enrolled in the MSN program are eligible for parking privileges at both universities
Clarion University
In order to secure a parking permit, please write to Clarion University Public Safety, Thorn I
Bldg., 840 Wood Street, Clarion, PA 16214 or call 814-393-2111 to obtain a form to apply for a
permit. The cost of the permit will be added to your tuition bill from Clarion University.
Registration of student vehicles at Clarion University is required for parking on weekdays before
4:30 pm. Parking regulations (e.g., ticketing policy) for Clarion can be accessed at:
http://www.clarion.edu/student-life/campus-safety/parking-on-campus/general-parkinginformation.html
Edinboro University
Registration of student vehicles at Edinboro University can be completed online at
https://secure.edinboro.edu/EVR/VehReg.pl or in person through the Edinboro University Police
Department located in Earley Hall or by phone at 814-732-2921. If a permit has already been
obtained through Clarion University an additional $1.00 will be charged for the permit.
Registration of student vehicles at Edinboro University is required for parking on weekdays
before 5 pm.
Parking
regulations
for
Edinboro
University
can
be
accessed
http://www.edinboro.edu/dotAsset/17820e6a-429c-45aa-8850-2b5373c8b1fb.pdf
EVALUATIONS FOR THE PROGRAM

37

at:

Throughout the program students will be asked to evaluate courses and faculty. Students are
expected to use these opportunities to provide constructive criticism. The intent of the
evaluations is to provide valuable feedback for the planning and revising of the curriculum,
teaching strategies, and other factors that would enhance the learning experience. These
evaluations are completed anonymously and will be made available to students online.
In addition, students will be asked to evaluate the program upon graduation (exit survey) and at
one and three years after graduation (alumni surveys). One and three year alumni surveys will
coincide with the employer survey process, which is facilitated by the MSN Program
Coordinator as follows:
Follow-up Procedures
1. One and three years after graduation, two survey forms, a Graduate Survey and Employer
Survey, will be sent, or be made available electronically, to all program graduates.
2. A cover letter will accompany each follow-up survey explaining its objectives and
providing instructions to graduates to complete the Graduate Survey and how to provide
access information to their current employer for the Employer Survey.
3. If mailed, a pre-addressed stamped envelope will be included with each follow-up form
to encourage responses.
The returned follow-up surveys will be reviewed by the MSN faculty and results posted in the
Desire2Learn MSN Forum.
OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT ACQUISITION
Official transcripts are maintained in the Office of the Registrar, Clarion University. In order to
protect students' privacy rights, we must receive a signed, written request before releasing
transcripts. Transcript requests may NOT be requested by phone or email.
Transcripts can be requested in person in the Office of the Registrar, 122 Carrier Administration.
In most cases, transcripts can be taken with you. Transcripts may also be ordered by mailing or
faxing a written request. Requests by fax should be sent to (814) 393-2039 (please do not include
a coversheet). Requests by mail should be sent to:
Clarion University of PA
Registrar's Office
840 Wood Street
Clarion, PA 16214
Transcript delivery methods include regular mail, pick-up in person (photo ID is required), and
electronic delivery. Electronic transcript delivery is only available to students who attended Fall
1999 to present and to institutions participating in this service.
For detailed transcript request instructions and access to a Transcript Request Form, see:
http://www.clarion.edu/academics/registrars-office/transcripts-and-diplomas/index.html
38

Note: No fee is required with your request; therefore, there is a limit of THREE (3)
TRANSCRIPTS PER REQUEST AND ONLY ONE REQUEST PER DAY. Multiple daily
requests will not be honored or held
Note: No fee is required with your request; therefore, there is a limit of THREE (3)
TRANSCRIPTS PER REQUEST AND ONLY ONE REQUEST PER DAY. Multiple daily
requests will not be honored or held
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
One graduate nursing student elected by the student body or volunteering from the student body
serves as the student representative for the MSN program. When one or more of the program’s
graduate assistant(s) is/are MSN students, they are appointed to assume this role. When there is
no student representative, the Program Coordinator polls the student body via the MSN-L listserv
for concerns, questions, and recommendations before each MSN meeting.
Students are also welcome to participate as members of the Graduate Student Advisory
Committee which functions to a) address issues of mutual concern related to the graduate nursing
program, b) address other concerns as they arise, and c) provide feedback related to curricular
issues.
SIGMA THETA TAU INTERNATIONAL
Sigma Theta Tau is the international honor society of nursing. Both Clarion and Edinboro
Universities have chapters in this prestigious organization. Member benefits include networking,
conferences, publications, scholarships, and grant opportunities, among others (see
http://www.nursingsociety.org/Pages/default.aspx)
Any student who is not already a member may contact a Chapter counselor once they meet the
membership criteria.
Application for Induction to Honor Society






Graduate students must have completed one fourth of the MSN Curriculum, at least one
clinical course and have a QPA of 3.5 or above
Candidate must complete a Membership Intent Form
Indicate on your intent form the graduate nursing courses you have completed
Attach updated vitae
Indicate if you are already a member of Sigma Theta Tau and want to transfer or hold dual
membership.

Two letters of endorsement are required. At least one of the two endorsers is required to be a
member of the nursing faculty and at least one of the two endorsers is required to hold active
membership in Sigma Theta Tau International. Submit your completed application by the
designated date. Please mail your application along with all required paperwork to the chapter
39

of your choice.
Mu Xi Chapter (Clarion University): 814- 676-6591- Venango College; 412-578-5239 -CUP,
Pittsburgh site
Nu Theta Chapter (Edinboro University): 814-732-2619
PHI KAPPA PHI
Phi Kappa Phi is an all-discipline honor society with a chapter at Clarion University. Membership
is by invitation only. Benefits of membership include networking and scholarship opportunities. To
learn more about this organization, visit their website at: http://www.phikappaphi.org/web/
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF NURSE PRACTITIONERS
The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) was the first national organization to
represent nurse practitioners. Member benefits include networking, conferences, continuing
education opportunities, publications, and a reduced rate on the AANP national certifying exam.
Any student currently enrolled in an NP program qualifies for membership in the AANP. Student
membership rates are approximately half of full membership but with all rights of membership.
Students will be asked to provide proof of enrollment to qualify. Visit their website for more
information: http://www.aanp.org
PENNSYLVANIA COALITION OF NURSE PRACTITIONERS
The Pennsylvania Coalition of Nurse Practitioners (PCNP) is the organization in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania that represents nurse practitioners through regional chapters. The
Northwest Pennsylvania Nurse Practitioner Association serves Erie and surrounding areas; the
Nurse Practitioner Association of Southwest Pennsylvania serves Allegheny and surrounding
counties.
Students are encouraged to join the organization and are offered a discounted membership rate.
Each May the organization recognizes two outstanding graduating students and honors them at
the Annual Meeting. Students are also encouraged to frequent the PCNP website
(www.pacnp.org/) for current news re: nurse practitioners and to subscribe to the PACNP
listserv.

40

APPENDICES

41

APPENDIX A
STEPS IN OBTAINING LEGAL CERTIFICATION
AND PRESCRIPTIVE AUTHORITY IN PENNSYLVANIA
These are the steps you will need to follow to obtain legal certification in Pennsylvania. If you plan
to practice in another state, you will need to become familiar with their rules and regulations.
1. Complete Curriculum! For the AANPCP, you may begin the application process as early as
6 months before graduating to allow time for review and for you to send in any missing
information. However, candidates cannot sit for an examination until after they have
completed all didactic courses and clinical practice hours required for their NP program,
For the ANCC, the rules are the same: candidates may sit for the exam prior to degree
conferral but not before completion of the program. Scores will not be released by either
organization until they receive an official transcript showing degree conferral. ANCC may
require you to fill in our program number on their form. (Our number is 2493).
2. Apply to the national certification organization of your choice and complete the application
process. The ANCC exam requires the coordinator’s signature; the AANPCP exam does
not.
3. Take exam and have results sent to the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing (SBON).
4. Once you know that you have passed the exam, complete the state board forms for legal
certification
(CRNP).
Your
portion
can
be
completed
online
(see
http://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Nursing/Pages/ApplyOnline.aspx#.VWyaVUagGpQ) or via paper
(http://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Nursing/Pages/Applic
ation-Forms.aspx#.VWyanUagGpQ)
5. Email the MSN Program Coordinator to make arrangements to sign the form that verifies
your program completion. She is able to access this online and will forward it to the
Registrar's Office for the school seal. The Registrar's Office will mail the signed and sealed
form to the SBON. The SBON will only accept forms mailed to them directly from the
school. You are responsible for mailing all other documents/fees.
**You must have a valid RN license in order to apply for CRNP certification. The name on your
CRNP application must be exactly the same as on your RN license. Please be aware that a faxed
from will not be accepted by the SBON**
6. Once you have your CRNP number you may apply for prescriptive authority, which
involves getting a signed collaborative agreement with your NP employer and verification
of successful completion of 45 hours of pharmacology. To make things easier for you, the
MSN Program Coordinator will automatically complete and mail the pharmacology
verification form to the Registrar at the same time she sends the verification of program
completion form. You are responsible for mailing all other documents/fees.
*Helpful Hint: Keep your collaborative agreement as broad as possible
Please visit the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing website for up to date information.
42

APPENDIX B
GRADUATE FACULTY
Colleen Barrett, DNP, FNP
(Edinboro University)
Dr. Barrett is the current DNP Program Coordinator. She holds a BSN from Edinboro University,
MSN-FNP from the University of Pittsburgh, and Doctor of Nursing Practice from Robert Morris
University. She is a certified family nurse practitioner with experience in acute care, pulmonary,
internal medicine, and family practice. Her research interest is in preventative health care, with an
emphasis on immunizations.
Dorothy Carlson, DEd, RN
(Edinboro University)
Dr. Carlson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Villa Maria, MSN from
Edinboro, and Doctor of Education from Penn State. Her specialty training is in medical surgical
nursing. She is published in the Journal of Emergency Nursing on how to critique and use
research in practice.
Debbie Ciesielka, DEd, ANP-BC
(Clarion University)
Dr. Ciesielka is the current MSN Program Coordinator. She is a graduate of Indiana
University of Pennsylvania with a BS in natural sciences, BSN, and Doctor of Education in
leadership and administration. Her MSN in Adult Primary Health Care Nursing is from the
University of Pittsburgh. She is a certified adult NP with 30 years’ experience at an inner city
clinic. She currently practices as a sub-investigator for clinical trials and NP conducting inhome health assessments. Her special interests are nursing history, online teaching, and ENT,
allergy, and asthma.
Donna Falsetti, DrPH, MSN, FNP
(Clarion University)
Dr. Falsetti earned her BSN, MSN-FNP, and Doctor of Public Health from the University of
Pittsburgh. She has extensive experience as a clinician as well as classroom and clinical
educator of nurse practitioner students. She is a certified FNP with a current practice in
occupational medicine. Her research interests include adolescent and women’s health,
simulation in education, and policy issues involving NP practice.
Nancy Falvo, PhD, RN
(Clarion University)
Dr. Falvo received her BSN from Duquesne University, a Master's degree in nursing from La
Roche College, and a PhD from the University of Pittsburgh. She teaches in both the
undergraduate and graduate nursing programs at Clarion University. She is the past Director of
Clarion University’s Health Science Education Center, a health education project that provided
health education programs to school-aged children in Clarion, Venango, Armstrong, Butler,
Elk, Forest and Jefferson counties.
Andrew Grimone, Pharm.D.
(Clarion University)
Dr. Grimone is employed as a part-time temporary faculty member each spring term to teach
NURS 602, Pharmacologic Application. Dr. Grimone is currently a Clinical Pharmacology
Specialist in Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases at St. Vincent Health Center in Erie,
PA. He graduated Magna cum Laude from the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy.
43

Jill Harpst-Rodgers, DNP, FNP
(Edinboro University)
Dr. Harpst-Rodgers earned her BSN from Thiel, MSN in nursing administration, Post-Master’s
FNP Certificate from Indiana State University, and DNP from Carlow where she also earned a
school nurse certificate. As an NP she conducts in-home medical assessments on Medicare
patients. Her research interests include health care of student athletes and NP practice issues.
Victoria Hedderick, DEd, MSN, RN
(Edinboro University)
Dr. Hedderick teaches in the undergraduate nursing programs at Edinboro. She earned her BSN
from Penn State, MSN from La Salle University, and DEd from Indiana University of
Pennsylvania. She has earned national recognition for her innovative teaching strategies as
recipient of the 2015 Elsevier Leading Stars in Education award for Active Learning in the
Classroom.
Deborah Kelly, DNP
(Clarion University)
Dr. Kelly holds an RN diploma from Shadyside Hospital School of Nursing, BSN from Clarion
University, and received her MSN and DNP degrees in nursing administration from the
University of Pittsburgh. She is certified in hospice and palliative care nursing. In addition to
teaching at Clarion, she is Chief Clinical Officer for the Clarion Forest VNA. Her interests include
public policy, chronic illness, geriatrics, and quality of life issues across the lifespan
Meg Larson, DNP, FNP
(Edinboro University)
Dr. Larson earned her BSN and MSN-FNP from Edinboro University and DNP from Robert
Morris University. She is a primary care practitioner at a rural health clinic in northwestern
Pennsylvania. Her research interests are patient and provider communication, health literacy, and
nursing education.
Kerri Last, MSN, FNP
(Clarion University)
Ms. Last holds an RN diploma from Jameson Hospital, BSN from Slippery Rock University, and
MSN-FNP from the joint Clarion and Slippery Rock University program. Her experience as a
nurse educator has included co-teaching a cross-cultural nursing course in Tanzania. As an FNP
her practice has included internal medicine, psychological services for children and adults, and the
utilization of telemedicine in the care of older adults, through the RAVEN project.
Susan Maloney, PhD
(Edinboro University)
Dr. Maloney earned her BSN from Edinboro University, MSN-FNP from Gannon, and PhD in
psychology from Walden. She has had a varied practice as an FNP to include medicine, student
health, women’s health, and health promotion of older adults. In addition, she serves as a
consultant and independent practitioner as a health psychologist with a focus on
health/fitness/nutrition/body image and depressive disorders. Her research interest is in health
promotion.
Amy McClune, PhD, MSN, BSN
(Edinboro University)
Dr. McClune is currently the Graduate Program Head at Edinboro University where she
received both her BSN and MSN degrees. She completed her PhD at the University of
Pittsburgh School of Nursing. Her doctoral work focused on comfort theory and quality of
life. Dr. McClune has broad experience in critical care, neurosurgery, pediatrics, and
44

orthopedics, holding positions from staff nurse to outcomes manager and nursing excellence
coordinator. Her research interests include comfort theory, measurement, and data analysis.
Michelle McGonigal, DNP, MSN
(Clarion University)
Dr. McGonigal earned her BSN from Mercyhurst College and MSN (nursing
administration/nursing education) and DNP (nursing administration) from Waynesburg
College. She is Director of Safety/Quality for the Allegheny Health Network. Her research
interest is in quality improvement.
Lucille Morrison, DNP, FNP
(Edinboro University)
Dr. Morrison holds a BA in religion from Allegheny Wesleyan College, BS in education and
ASN from Kent State University, MEd, BSN, and MSN from Edinboro University, and DNP
from Robert Morris University. Dr. Morrison has experience in pediatrics and nursing education.
She maintains clinical practice as a nurse practitioner at UPMC Hamot.
Debra Shreve, MSN, FNP
(Clarion University)
Ms. Shreve is clinical faculty for the MSN program. She is a diploma graduate from Sharon
Hospital School of Nursing and holds a BSN and MSN-FNP from Edinboro University. She
practices as an FNP for the Medical Group of Corry. Her research interest is in management of
prescription medications of elderly patients in rural settings.
Susan Sitter, DEd, FNP
(Edinboro University)
Dr. Sitter holds a BSN from Edinboro University, earned her MSN with a concentration in
nursing education from the Clarion, Edinboro, and Slippery Rock Universities MSN Program,
her Post-Masters FNP Certificate from the Clarion and Edinboro Universities’ MSN Program,
and her DEd in administration and leadership in education at Indiana University of
Pennsylvania. She has practiced as an FNP in behavioral health.
Lana Smith, PhD, FNP
(Clarion University)
Dr. Smith completed her BSN at Edinboro University, MSN as a family nurse practitioner at La
Roche, and her PhD in leadership studies at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She continues to
practice as a family nurse practitioner in Fairmount City, PA.
Mary Terwilliger, PhD
(Clarion University)
Dr. Terwilliger is the current Assistant Chair and Chair-Elect of the Nursing Department at
Clarion. She holds an ASN and BSN from Clarion University, MSN in nursing education from
the Clarion, Edinboro, and Slippery Rock Universities’ MSN Program, and PhD in nursing
education from Capella University. Dr. Terwilliger has experience in medical-surgical and
maternity nursing. Her teaching and research interests are in simulation in nursing education,
nursing education research, teaching strategies, and course development.
Krista Tharan, MSN, FNP
(Clarion University)
Ms. Tharan earned her BSN from Saint Francis University and MSN-FNP from Clarion and
Edinboro Universities. She has experience as an FNP in internal medicine and currently
practices in a float position that covers the ER, urgent care, family medicine, and occupational
medicine.
45

Thomas White, DEd, FNP
(Edinboro University)
Dr. White is currently Chair of the Nursing Department at Edinboro University. Dr. White
earned his BSN and MSN degrees from Edinboro University and Doctor of Education in
administration and leadership from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He holds certification
as an emergency nurse (ENA) and family nurse practitioner (ANCC). He maintains clinical
practice as a nurse practitioner in emergency medicine as well as in family practice.

46

APPENDIX C
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY PLEDGE
As professional nurses we are held to the provisions of the Code of Ethics for Nurses (ANA,
2005) adopted by the American Nurses Association in 2001. Provisions of the Code address
privacy, confidentiality, responsibility, moral virtue, values, and social reform, among others.
More importantly, the Code calls for nurses to not “act in a way that is inconsistent with the
values of ethics of the profession” (ANA, 2005, Provision 5.4).
Faculty of the Clarion and Edinboro Universities’ MSN Programs look to the Code of Ethics
for Nurses to inform the program policy for academic integrity. Advanced practice nursing
students in the program are expected to adhere to values consistent with the profession of
nursing by:





Submitting only original work
Properly citing sources (e.g., crediting original authors for their ideas, enclosing exact
words in quotation marks)
Not falsifying data
Not cheating on examinations or quizzes

Plagiarism, the act of misrepresenting someone else’s words or ideas as one’s own, and
other violations of academic integrity will be handled through individual faculty members’
university judicial system. As students in a joint program, the following resources further
guide behavior and define potential consequences.
Edinboro University—Student Code of Conduct:
http://www.edinboro.edu/departments/judicial/code_of_conduct.dot
Clarion University—Academic Honesty Policy: http://www.clarion.edu/51642/
Pledge:
I have read and understood the above statement and agree to abide by the standards of academic
integrity of Clarion and Edinboro Universities.
___________________________________________
Signature

_____________________________
Date

___________________________________________
Printed Name
Reference: American Nurses Association [ANA]. (2005). Code of ethics. Retrieved from
http://nursingworld.org/ethics/code/protected_nwcoe813.htm

47