DNP
CLARION AND EDINBORO UNIVERSITIES
DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE PROGRAM
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2015

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
Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
Student Handbook
2014
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................1
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION ...............................................................................................1
MISSION .............................................................................................................................2
VISION ................................................................................................................................2
CORE VALUES ..................................................................................................................2
CURRICULAR THREADS ................................................................................................2
GRADUATE NURSING PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY ......................................................3
PROGRAM OUTCOMES ...................................................................................................4
GRADUATE FACULTY ....................................................................................................4
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES ..........................................................4
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................................4
APPLICATION AND ADMISSION PROCEDURES .......................................................5
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
PROGRAM PLANS ..........................................................................................................11
CAPSTONE PROJECT .....................................................................................................12
INTERNSHIPS ..................................................................................................................12
PORTFOLIO......................................................................................................................12
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CREDIT/CLOCK HOURS ..............................................13
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS...............................................................................................13
STUDENT POLICIES.................................................................................................................16
ACADEMIC HONESTY...................................................................................................16
CAPSTONE COMPLETION POLICY .............................................................................17

i

DISMISSAL POLICY .......................................................................................................17
GRADE APPEAL POLICY ..............................................................................................18
GRADING POLICY ..........................................................................................................18
GRADUATION POLICY .................................................................................................18
INCIDENT REPORT POLICY AND PROCEDURE ......................................................19
INCOMPLETE GRADES .................................................................................................19
IN PROGRESS GRADES .................................................................................................19
LEAVE OF ABSENCE POLICY ......................................................................................19
READMISSION POLICY .................................................................................................20
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS .....................................................................................21
RETENTION POLICY ......................................................................................................21
STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS .........................................................................................22
STUDENTS’ RIGHTS ......................................................................................................22
WITHDRAWAL POLICY ................................................................................................22
GENERAL INFORMATION .....................................................................................................22
ACADEMIC CALENDARS .............................................................................................22
BOOKSTORES .................................................................................................................23
DESIRE2LEARN ..............................................................................................................23
EVALUATIONS FOR THE PROGRAM .........................................................................23
FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE FOR DNP STUDENTS ...............................................24
GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS ....................................................................................24
LIBRARY SERVICES ......................................................................................................25
MAINTENANCE OF STUDENT EDUCATION AND FINANCIAL RECORDS .........26
OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT ACQUISITION .....................................................................26
PARKING REGULATIONS .............................................................................................27
PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTS ...................................................................................27
SOCIAL EQUITY EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
STATEMENT ....................................................................................................................29
STUDENT INCIVILITY GUIDELINES ..........................................................................29
SUPPORT SERVICES FOR ONLINE STUDENTS ........................................................29
TUITION ...........................................................................................................................30
WEB REGISTRATION PROCEDURES..........................................................................30
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS .................................................................................................30
STUDENT REPRESENTATION AT FACULTY MEETINGS ......................................30
SIGMA THETA TAU INTERNATIONAL ......................................................................30
PHI KAPPA PHI................................................................................................................31
APPENDICES ..............................................................................................................................32
APPENDIX A: GRADUATE FACULTY ........................................................................33
APPENDIX B: ACADEMIC INTEGRITY PLEDGE ......................................................36

ii

INTRODUCTION
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is one of four graduate level offerings in nursing at
Clarion and Edinboro Universities. The DNP builds on the competencies of the jointly sponsored
Master of Science in Nursing, Post-Master’s Certificate, and Second Master’s degrees with a
Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. 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 offerings are accredited by the
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), formerly known as the National
League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC). The DNP program is seeking initial
accreditation.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program prepares master's prepared advanced practice
nurses to achieve the highest level of professional nursing practice possible. The competency
based curriculum includes preparation in organizational and system's leadership, evidence-based
practice, technology and information literacy, and health care policy advocacy. Opportunities are
given for acquisition of skills in one of two areas, advanced clinical practice or clinical nursing
education. This is accomplished through mentored internship experiences and execution of a
Capstone Research Project designed to benefit a group, population, or community
The 34-credit DNP program is designed to be flexible, affordable, and professionally rewarding.
Coursework is completely online and available 24/7. Students are admitted in cohorts of 27 and
follow a part-time program plan of no more than 2 courses per term over six consecutive
semesters, including summers. Students select specialty electives in advanced clinical practice
and clinical nursing education based on their own learning goals. The online, part-time structure
of the DNP program accommodates employment as an advanced practice nurse while pursuing
the DNP, thus easing the financial burden. Orientation to the DNP program will be conducted in
an asynchronous manner on-line. Prior to the start of the first DNP courses, students will receive
information regarding how to access the orientation on-line. On-site campus experience is
limited to a required end of program research day which will take place just before graduation.
More information regarding research day will be provided in the spring semester prior to
graduation.
History of the DNP at Clarion and Edinboro Universities
The post-master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program jointly offered by Clarion and
Edinboro Universities is the culmination of deliberation and curricular development that spanned
a period of more than 8 years. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) faculty of what at the time
was a three-university consortium consisting of Clarion, Edinboro, and Slippery Rock
Universities, first discussed the DNP in 2005, soon after the American Association of Colleges
of Nursing proposed the role in their white paper. The immediate reaction was to adopt a “wait
and see” stance to gauge the support for the DNP by other constituencies. By 2006 it was clear
that the DNP had become the new standard in advanced practice nursing education, particularly
for nurse practitioners. The National Organization of Nurse Practitioners came out in full support
1

of the degree, conducting conferences, offering resources, and drafting new competencies and
recommendations to reflect this change. Faculty quickly moved from waiting to exploring
options.
In mid-August 2007, faculty from the MSN consortium met with a representative of the business
department at Edinboro to explore the DNP option. Following this productive discussion, the
Dean of Management, Science, and Technology, Graduate Dean, and Provost were contacted.
The DNP option was placed on Edinboro's strategic plan for further discussion. During this same
time period dialogue was taking place at Clarion and Slippery Rock with similar interest
generated. On February 9, 2007, Dr. Chris Reber, Executive Dean of the School of Nursing at
Clarion, led a meeting to discuss MSN Program consortium concerns. Meeting participants
included administrative and faculty representatives from all three universities who unanimously
identified the DNP as the next direction for program growth.
Submitting a successful proposal was faced with a major stumbling block, however. Consortium
schools were three of the fourteen state-owned universities that formed the Pennsylvania State
System of Higher Education (PASSHE) and exist as a result of legislative action by the General
Assembly of the Commonwealth, known as Act 188. In declaring the academic mission of the
PASSHE, Act 188 identified Indiana University of Pennsylvania as the sole institution chartered
to offer work at the doctoral level, as the doctor of education and doctor of philosophy degrees.
In 2009, the consortium was presented with yet another hurdle when Slippery Rock University
officially dissolved its relationship with Clarion and Edinboro. Of the remaining partners, only
Clarion felt prepared to continue with the original charge of submitting a proposal for a DNP
program, which they did at the university-level in 2010. Act 188 remained an obstacle for
approval at the state level that wasn’t removed until the Commonwealth Higher Education
Modernization Education Act, signed into law by Governor Tom Corbett on July 10, 2012,
opened the way for other PASSHE schools to offer professional, or applied doctorates, such as
the DNP. A decision was then made to build on the success of the MSN degree jointly offered by
Clarion and Edinboro Universities by proposing a collaborative DNP. With a renewed focus the
curriculum was completely revised and approved by both universities by July 2013. Final
program approval by the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Board of Governors
took place on January 23, 2014, marking the historic moment when the Doctor of Nursing
Practice would be the first doctoral level degree for Clarion and Edinboro Universities.
MISSION
Congruent with the missions of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Clarion
University, and Edinboro University, the mission of the DNP program is to meet regional needs
in health care and clinical nursing education through a program that is accessible to advanced
practice nurses who have work and family responsibilities.
VISION

2

The vision of DNP program is to develop advanced practice nurses as leaders in nursing and
practice experts whose actions and innovations will improve and transform the health of
individuals, populations, and systems in the region, state, and global community.

CORE VALUES







Excellence
Integrity
Social justice
Professionalism
Innovation
Independence

CURRICULAR THREADS





Translation of evidence based inquiry to practice
Organizational and systems leadership
Clinical scholarship
Intra- and Inter-professional collaboration

GRADUATE NURSING PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY
The philosophy of the Graduate 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.
3

Advanced practice nurses are leaders who function autonomously and interdependently assuming
the roles of nurse practitioner, clinical specialist, nurse anesthetist, and nurse midwife. Nurse
practitioners are case managers who are responsible for 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). As
clinical educators and preceptors, advanced practice nurses 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. At the doctoral level students build on the foundational
competencies of the master’s degree as they expand their clinical skills and develop complex
skill sets in data acquisition, analysis, and practice application.
PROGRAM OUTCOMES
The terminal learning outcomes for the Clarion and Edinboro Universities’ DNP program are to
prepare advanced practice nurses to be able to:
1. Apply clinical scholarship through advanced nursing practice within complex health
systems.
2. Design, implement, analyze, and disseminate research that translates evidence to practice.
3. Demonstrate advanced leadership skills for empowering and influencing others to bring
about change.
4. Utilize information and management systems to support evidence-based practice.
5. Establish inter-professional relationships to provide comprehensive delivery of advanced
practice nursing.
GRADUATE FACULTY
The graduate faculty of the Clarion and Edinboro Universities Doctor of Nursing Practice
Program are composed of educators from both universities (See Appendix A). The graduate
catalog of each university also lists faculty members and their credentials.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Master's prepared advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) as defined by the APRN
consensus model, that is Certified Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, Certified Nurse

4

Midwives, and Certified Nurse Anesthetists, are eligible for this program, provided they meet
the following admissions requirements:
1. Current unencumbered licenses as a Registered Nurse and Advanced Practice Nurse in
the state of PA.
2. Bachelor of Science in Nursing
3. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or other master's degree from an accredited program
with a GPA of 3.25 or higher. Note: Applicants with a master's degree other than nursing
may require additional coursework prior to enrollment, as determined by a review of
official transcripts.
4. National certification as an Advanced Practice Nurse is preferred
5. Verification of a minimum of 500 supervised clinical hours from the applicant’s graduate
program
6. A graduate course in research with a grade of "B" or higher or successful completion of
graduate thesis. Note: Completion of a graduate level capstone project will be considered
upon review of the project.
APPLICATION AND ADMISSION PROCEDURES
Admission into the graduate nursing programs is competitive. An applicant meeting all of the
program requirements is not guaranteed admission into the program. Notification of admission
status is by the Clarion University Graduate Studies Office per the recommendations of the DNP
Admissions, Progression, and Graduation Committee, comprised of graduate nursing faculty
from both universities. An application is considered “complete” when the following
application materials are in the Clarion University Graduate Studies Office:



A complete application packet (see below)
An on-site or virtual interview

A Complete Application Packet Includes the Following:










Completed application form
Non-refundable application fee (Visa and Mastercard are accepted)
Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended
Two recommendation forms
Resume
Copy of Registered Nurse and Advanced Practice Nursing licenses in the state where the
applicant plans to complete internship hours
Proof of national certification as an Advanced Practice Nurse
Verification of a minimum of 500 supervised clinical hours from the applicant’s graduate
program
A type-written 1-2 page personal statement describing your learning goals

The application form itself can be completed online and is available as a link from
http://www.clarion.edu/admissions/graduate/how-to-apply/index.html
5

Mail all gathered materials not otherwise submitted online in one envelope to: Graduate
Studies Office, 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.
On-Site or Virtual Interview
Upon receipt of the materials, the Clarion University Graduate Studies Office forwards the
complete packet to the members of the DNP Admission, Progression, and Graduation
Committee. Applicants will be contacted by the committee chair, or designee, to set up an
interview with the committee on one of our campus locations or via distance technology.
Interviews will be conducted in October for admission the following summer and will continue
until the class has reached capacity.
Application Deadlines
Early admission deadline—All completed applications received by October 1st will be
reviewed and considered for early admission into the DNP program for the upcoming summer
term. Interviews will be completed by November 1 st. Applicants meeting the criteria for early
admission will be notified by December 15th.
Regular admission deadline—All completed applications received by March 1st will be
reviewed and considered for regular admission into the DNP program for the upcoming
summer term. Interviews will be completed by April 1 st. Applicants meeting the criteria for
admission will be notified by May 15th. Note: Admission is highly competitive. If seats for the
upcoming term are filled at the early admission deadline, there will be no further review of
applications for admission that summer. Therefore, applicants are strongly advised to apply
early. Check with the program coordinator before applying.
Applicants meeting admission criteria are accepted on a “space available” basis. An applicant
may be placed on a waiting list for the upcoming summer admission or for admission the
following summer.
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

6

are not guaranteed regular full admission status. Certain course restrictions apply for nondegree students.

TRANSFER OF CREDIT
Clarion and Edinboro University graduate programs allow students to transfer credit for
graduate courses taken at other accredited institutions. It is a Graduate Nursing Program
policy that no more than 30 percent of the total credits for the degree may be transfer credits.
Courses transferred must be taken at a regionally-accredited institution within the past five
years, and the grade earned must be a “B” or its equivalent or better. The course(s) taken must
be recognized in content and quality as similar to approved academic credit in the Clarion and
Edinboro Universities DNP program. The credits must be capable of counting toward a graduate
degree at the sponsoring institution. Course credit will not be transferred until the course has
been evaluated and approved. Transfer credit course grades are not computed in the
universities quality-point average.



Transfer credit forms are available in the Graduate Studies Office at Clarion University
or online: http://www.clarion.edu/19476.pdf
Students who wish to take a course at another institution while enrolled in the Clarion
and Edinboro Universities DNP 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.
PRE-REQUISITE COURSES FOR THOSE ACCEPTED WITH MS DEGREE OTHER
THAN MSN
Following a review of transcripts, the Admission, Retention and Progression committee of the
DNP program may recommend any or all of the following courses for a student being admitted
to the program with and MS degree other than the MSN. Other pre-requisites may be required
and will be determined following transcript review. Pre-requisites are offered through the
consortium program and must be successfully completed prior to starting the doctoral level
courses.
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
7

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 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.

ADVISEMENT
Upon admission to the DNP 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 DNP 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
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 or
email Jennifer May at jmay@clarion.edu. Their website is http://www.clarion.edu/1019/
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY
All DNP 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

8

process. Appendix B contains a copy of the pledge. The signed pledge will be kept in the
students’ folders while in the program.
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 members’ university judicial system. Sanctions by the judicial
boards can include suspension or dismissal from the program or from the university.
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
CURRICULUM
OVERVIEW
The DNP program curriculum is designed to build on the foundational competencies of the
MSN-prepared advance practice nurse. For example, a course in nursing research at the master’s
level serves as the foundation for NURS 808: Analytical Methods of Evidence Based Practice;
and nursing theory serves as the foundation for NURS 806: Leading Nursing in Health Care
Systems. Likewise, courses within the DNP curriculum are sequenced to prepare students with
increasingly complex skill sets in data acquisition, analysis, and practice application that align
with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN, 2006) and National Panel (2006)
DNP competencies, and, for students electing courses in nursing education, the National League
for Nursing (NLN) Core Competencies for Nurse Educators (2005). Competencies for each
organization follow.
The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice (AACN, 2006)
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.

Scientific Underpinnings for Practice
Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Improvement and Systems Thinking
Clinical Scholarship and Analytical Methods for Evidence-Based Practice
Information Systems/Technology and Patient Care Technology for the Improvement and
Transformation of Health Care
Health Care Policy for Advocacy in Health Care
Interprofessional Collaboration for Improving Patient and Population Health Outcomes
Clinical Prevention and Population Health
9

VIII.

Advanced Nursing Practice

Practice Doctorate Nurse Practitioner Entry-Level Competencies (National Panel for NP
Practice Doctorate Competencies, 2006)
I.

II.

III.

IV.

V.

VI.

VII.

VIII.

IX.

Competency Area: Independent Practice
1. Practices independently by assessing, diagnosing, treating, and managing
undifferentiated patients
2. Assumes full accountability for actions as a licensed independent practitioner
Competency Area: Scientific Foundation
3. Critically analyzes data for practice by integrating knowledge from arts and sciences
within the context of nursing’s philosophical framework and scientific foundation
4. Translates research and data to anticipate, predict, and explain variations in practice
Competency Area: Leadership
5. Assumes increasingly complex leadership roles
6. Provides leadership to foster interprofessional collaboration
7. Demonstrates a leadership style that uses critical and reflective thinking
Competency Area: Quality
8. Uses best available evidence to enhance quality in clinical practice
9. Evaluates how organizational, structural, financial, marketing, and policy decisions
impact cost, quality, and accessibility of health care
10. Demonstrates skills in peer review that promote a culture of excellence
Competency Area: Practice Inquiry
11. Applies clinical investigative skills for evaluation of health outcomes at the patient,
family, population, clinical unit, systems, and/or community levels
12. Provides leadership in the translation of new knowledge into practice
13. Disseminates evidence from inquiry to diverse audiences using multiple methods
Competency Area: Technology & Information Literacy
14. Demonstrates information literacy in complex decision making
15. Translates technical and scientific health information appropriate for user need
16. Participates in the development of clinical information systems
Policy
17. Analyzes ethical, legal, and social factors in policy development
18. Influences health policy
19. Evaluates the impact of globalization on health care policy development
Health Delivery System
20. Applies knowledge of organizational behavior and systems.
21. Demonstrates skills in negotiating, consensus-building, and partnering
22. Manages risks to individuals, families, populations, and health care systems
23. Facilitates development of culturally relevant health care systems
Ethics
24. Applies ethically sound solutions to complex issues

Core Competencies for Nurse Educators (NLN, 2005)
1) Facilitate learning
10

2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)

Facilitate learner development and socialization
Use assessment and evaluation strategies
Participate in curriculum design and evaluation of program outcomes
Function as a change agent and leader
Pursue continuous quality improvement in the nurse educator role
Engage in scholarship
Function within the educational environment

Content is organized around three focus areas: a leadership core, specialty electives, and
advanced clinical practice.
Leadership Core
Core courses with a leadership focus prepare graduates to utilize information and management
systems within complex health care systems. The five courses that make up the leadership core
are also part of the core courses for the program.






NURS 805: DNP Role Seminar
NURS 806: Leading Nursing in Health Care Systems
NURS 807: Information Management in Health Care
NURS 808: Analytical Methods of Evidence-Based Practice
NURS 809: Advanced Topics in Nursing Practice

Specialty Electives
Specialty electives are available in advanced clinical practice and clinical nursing education.
Students can mix and match electives to meet their individual learning needs by selecting at least
one course from each of the following groups. The first course listed in each group is in
advanced clinical practice; the second course listed is in clinical nursing education.
Group 1
NURS 810
NURS 820

Advanced Topics in Clinical Management
Principles of Adult Learning in Nursing Education

Group 2
NURS 811
NURS 830

Practice Strategies for APNs
Clinical Teaching Strategies in Nursing

Group 3
NURS 812
NURS 840

Systematic Evaluation in Health Care
Advanced Evaluation Strategies in Nursing Education

11

Advanced Clinical Practice
Culminating practice-based experiences build on the foundation of previous coursework in the
program. Note that the internships and capstone project are also considered part of the core
curriculum.



NURS 850: Doctor of Nursing Practice Internship I and NURS 851: Doctor of Nursing
Practice Internship II
NURS 900: Doctor of Nursing Practice Capstone

Internship experiences account for 405 hours of direct clinical practice in the community and can
be completed at students’ home locations, or, in many cases, in their work settings.
The capstone project accounts for an additional 135 practice hours. The DNP capstone gives
students the opportunity to demonstrate acquisition of increasingly complex skill sets in data
acquisition, analysis, and practice application in a clinical setting.
Completion of all coursework is required for degree completion. This includes:
1. Core courses (25 credits, 9 of which are internship courses)
2. Specialty electives (9 credits minimum)
In addition, students will submit end of program portfolios in an electronic format.
PROGRAM PLANS
All students follow a part-time program plan. Part-time is defined as 8 credits or less. Students
electing specialty electives in only one focus are would have program plans as follows. Students
taking specialty electives in more than one area will follow a specific plan developed to meet
their needs.

Program Plan with Advanced Clinical Practice Specialty Electives

Summer
Course
Cr
NURS 805
1
NURS 806
3
Summer

Year 1
Fall
Course
Cr
NURS 807
3
NURS 808
3
Year 2
Fall
12

Spring
Course
Cr
NURS 809
3
NURS 810
3
Spring

NURS 811
NURS 900

3
3

NURS 812
NURS 850

3
3

NURS 851

6

Program Plan with Clinical Nurse Educator Specialty Electives

Summer
Course
Cr
NURS 805
1
NURS 806
3

NURS 830
NURS 900

Summer
3
3

Year 1
Fall
Course
Cr
NURS 807
3
NURS 808
3
Year 2
Fall
NURS 840
3
NURS 850
3

Spring
Course
Cr
NURS 809
3
NURS 820
3

NURS 851

Spring
6

CAPSTONE PROJECT
Students are encouraged to identify the topic for their capstone project in the first semester as
part of NURS 805: Doctor of Nursing Practice Role Seminar. The capstone project is formalized
the summer of year 2 and supported by pre-requisite courses in Analytical Methods and
Evidence Based Practice, Information Management in Heath Care, and Leading Nursing in
Health Care Systems. The capstone project should provide evidence of the student’s ability to
synthesize and apply coursework in information management, analytical methods, leadership,
and evidence based practices. A rubric will be used to evaluate achievement of specific
standards. A score of 84% or better is required to pass. Dissemination of the project will be in the
form of a written paper in the format of a dissertation and presentation to peers and a panel of
faculty at an on campus end of program meeting. The capstone project accounts for 135 hours of
clinical practice through intensive engagement with stakeholders as part of the capstone project
experience.
INTERNSHIPS
As a practice doctorate, all students will complete 540 clinical practice hours, 405 of these
through internship experiences. Clinical practice hours provide students an opportunity to
enhance and integrate prior learning and to acquire and apply DNP and advanced clinical
practice competencies in a mentored clinical setting. Recognizing that students come from
diverse backgrounds and a broad range of experiences, students will identify their own learning
goals and follow a faculty-approved plan. Students will be responsible for arranging internship
hours with a preceptor from their community; a growing list of preceptors from the joint MSN
program will be available to those residing in Western Pennsylvania. Faculty oversight will be
through phone, email, a HIPAA compliant desktop conferencing system, and grading of online
assignments. As each student’s internship experience will be unique, each student will need to
discuss plans for internship with their advisor. The student will be required to submit a set of
learning objectives and goals for their internship experiences. Each student’s preceptor will
complete an end of internship evaluation documenting achievement of goals. Students will be
13

required to document all internship experiences and hours in an on-line database. Information
about this database will be provided to students at the outset of the DNP program.
PORTFOLIO
In lieu of a traditional doctoral comprehensive exam, DNP graduates will develop an end of
program portfolio containing artifacts validating achievement of program objectives and DNP
competencies. Students will submit the end of program portfolios in an electronic format.
Available options include the use of wikis, such as those found at Google Sites, which can be
password protected yet be accessible to potential employers. A panel of DNP faculty will review
and grade the portfolios using a grading rubric based on the program objectives and DNP
competencies. A score of 84% or better will be required to pass this comprehensive assessment.
Students receiving a grade of less than 84% 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.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CREDIT/CLOCK HOURS
The DNP program incorporates 390 hours of didactic coursework, including the capstone project
and seminar, and 405 clinical practice hours as part of the internships. The capstone project
accounts for an additional 135 hours of outside work that is counted towards clinical practice.
Credit to clock hour computations by course type are as follows:
Lecture: 1 credit = 1 clock hour per week, or 15 clock hours over a 15 week semester
Seminar: 1 credit = 2 clock hours per week, or 30 clock hours over a 15 week semester
Internship: 1 credit = 3 clock hours per week, or 45 clock hours over a 15 week semester
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
NURS 805: DNP Role Seminar
Credits/Clock Hours: 1 credit/2 clock hours
Provides an overview of program expectations while examining the roles of the DNP-prepared
advanced practice nurse as expert clinician, researcher, health policy advocate, and educator.
Students will begin to identify research ideas and formulate an internship plan with the support
and feedback of peers. Prerequisites: none. Offered summer annually.
NURS 806: Leading Nursing in Health Care Systems
Credits/Clock Hours: 3 credits/3 clock hours
Provides the advanced practice nurse leadership skills for empowering and influencing others to
bring about change. Focus is on understanding multiple perspectives and applying theories of
leadership, organizational behavior, and systems to a variety of settings. Ethical and legal
14

strategies to influence procedures and policy will be emphasized. Prerequisites: none. Offered
summer annually.
NURS 807: Information Management in Health Care
Credits/Clock Hours: 3 credits/3 clock hours
Provides students with essential knowledge and skills to utilize information and management
systems to support evidence based practice. The role of information management systems and
data bases in health care will be discussed. Students will employ information technology to
implement decision support programs that are pertinent to improved practice. Co-requisite:
NURS 808. Offered fall annually.
NURS 808: Analytical Methods of Evidence Based Practice
Credits/Clock hours: 3 credits/3 clock hours
Emphasis is on analytical methods to critically appraise evidence-based literature and translate
research to clinical practice. Students appraise current literature related to their chosen topic,
constructing an evidence basis for their selected practice project. Co-requisites: NURS 807.
Offered fall annually.
NURS 809: Advanced Topics in Nursing Practice
Credit/Clock Hours: 3 credits/3 clock hours
Explores emerging literature related to management of complex health conditions across the
lifespan. Emphasis is on health promotion and care of communities and populations. The
effective utilization of health care systems, principles of epidemiology, environmental health,
and community partnering and planning are examined as they relate to population health
promotion. Prerequisite: none. Co-requisites: none. Offered spring annually.
NURS 810: Advanced Topics in Clinical Management
Credit/Clock Hours: 3 credits/3 clock hours
Explores the management of complex health conditions across the lifespan. Topics will vary and
be drawn from emerging fields such as genetics, immunology, behavioral health, pharmacology,
and preventive medicine. Prerequisites: none. Offered spring annually.
NURS 811: Practice Strategies for Advanced Practice Nurses
Credits/Clock Hours: 3 credits/3 clock hours
Provides advanced practice nurses an understanding of new venture development as it prepares
them to seek innovative solutions to health care issues. Approached from the perspectives of
developing a business plan for independent practice as well as thinking creatively to craft
responses to social problems that impact health care. Offered summer annually.
NURS 812: Systematic Evaluation in Health Care
Credits/Clock Hours: 3 credits/3 clock hours
15

Provides an overview of the strategies and tools for assessing and achieving improvement in
health care. Adapted from the Achieving Competence Today (ACT) curriculum, students will
identify and analyze system problems that compromise the quality and safety of care and then
develop an improvement plan. Offered fall annually.

NURS 820: Principles of Adult Learning in Nursing Education
Credits/Clock Hours: 3 credits/3clock hours
This course focuses on major research-based philosophies, models, and theories of adult learning
and knowledge development in nursing. Theories and models are analyzed and applied to the
dual role of advanced practice nurses as clinical educators in varied settings. Legal/ethical and
cultural influences on teaching and learning are emphasized. Offered spring annually.
NURS 830: Clinical Teaching Strategies in Nursing
Credits/Clock Hours: 3 credits/3 clock hours
Evidence-based teaching and learning strategies for adult learning and nursing education in
formal and informal learning settings are explored. Emphasis is on structuring teaching strategies
to assure effective individual and group learning. Simulation, case studies, structured
presentation, and other innovative strategies are reviewed. Offered summer, annually.
NURS 840: Advanced Evaluation Strategies in Nursing Education
Credits/Clock Hours: 3 credits/3 clock hours
This course will explore concepts related to assessment, measurement, and evaluation in nursing
education. Decision-making, objectivity verses subjectivity, and legal and ethical issues related
to evaluation will be explored. The components of reliable, valid evaluations will be highlighted.
Student will engage in planning and construction of evaluations.
NURS 850: Doctor of Nursing Practice Internship I
Credits/Clock Hours: 3 credits/9 clock hours per week (135 clinical practice hours per
semester)
First of two required internships. Provides students an opportunity to enhance and integrate prior
learning. Student acquires and applies DNP and advanced practice competencies in a mentored
clinical setting as a preceptor or direct care provider for individuals with complex medical
conditions. Student self-identifies learning goals/plan for faculty approval. Prerequisites: NURS
805, 806, 807, 808, 809 and specialty electives related to internship focus. Offered fall annually.
NURS 851: Advanced Clinical Practice Internship II
Credits/Clock Hours: 6 credits/18 clock hours per week (270 clinical practice hours per
semester)
16

Second of two required internships. Provides students additional opportunity to enhance and
integrate prior learning and to acquire and apply DNP and advanced clinical practice
competencies in a mentored clinical setting. Focus is on vulnerable populations and their
communities. Student identifies learning goals and follows a faculty-approved plan.
Prerequisites: NURS 850. Offered spring annually.

NURS 900: Doctor of Nursing Practice Capstone
Credit/Clock Hours: 3 Credit/3 Clock hours
Focus is on the development, implementation, evaluation, and dissemination of a research
project that translates evidence to practice. Project will relate to the advanced practice nursing
role and involve direct engagement with and benefit to a group, population or community rather
than an individual. Prerequisites: NURS 805, 806, 807, 808, 809. Offered summer annually.
STUDENT POLICIES
ACADEMIC HONESTY
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:
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
17

an Academic Integrity Pledge as part of their admission into the program. A copy of
this pledge can be found in Appendix B.
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.
CAPSTONE COMPLETION POLICY
Students are expected to complete their capstone project, including the final presentation, within 3
academic terms (one year) of initial registration for NURS 900. Failure to make sufficient progress
during that year will result in a “Failure” in NURS 900. Sufficient progress is defined as regular
communication with the capstone advisor and Institutional Review Board approval of the proposed
project.
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 Nursing and Allied Health at Clarion University, to remain in
the program.
DISMISSAL POLICY
A student will be dismissed from the DNP program for any of the following reasons:
1. Violations of the Academic Integrity Policy.
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.”

18

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 internships
5. A documented pattern of unprofessional behavior in the classroom or clinical setting.
6. Unsafe practice during the internship.
7. Failure to maintain a grade point average (QPA) appropriate to the program.
8. If the student’s record in more than one semester warrants probation.
A student dismissed from the university is also dismissed from the DNP program; however, a
student dismissed from the DNP program is not necessarily dismissed from the university. A
student who is dismissed from the DNP 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)
Students who are dismissed from the DNP Program are strongly encouraged to seek the advice
of their academic advisor to assist in problem solving and planning to meet their goals.
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.
GRADING POLICY
The graduate nursing faculty of the joint DNP program subscribes to the following grading scale:
Grading Scale
93 - 100 = A 66 - 74 = D
84 - 92 = B 65 - below = E
75 - 83 = C Pass/Fail
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 grade of 84% or better. The maximum time for
completion of the degree program is six calendar years.

19

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/registrar/commencement/gradapp.shtml

http://www.clarion.edu/27744.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.
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 DNP 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 DNP Program
Coordinator. The student is to complete the form and return it to the faculty member
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.
2. The faculty member will inform the DNP 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 Nursing and Allied Health 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.
INCOMPLETE GRADES
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 900 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
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.
20

LEAVE OF ABSENCE POLICY
Any student requesting a Leave of Absence from the DNP program must submit a request in
writing to the DNP 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 DNP Program, the student must notify the DNP Program
Coordinator of intent, the semester before returning, in order to register for the
appropriate courses.
READMISSION POLICY
Students who withdraw from the program without securing a leave of absence, leave because of
unsatisfactory performance, 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:

21

Admission, Progression, and Graduation Committee
Clarion and Edinboro Universities DNP 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.
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS
Seventy percent of all credits required for the DNP must be earned in coursework offered by
Clarion and Edinboro Universities.
RETENTION POLICY
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 letter grade of “C” in the internship courses (NURS 850 and NURS 851) or capstone (NURS
900) may not count toward fulfillment of requirements for the Doctor of Nursing Practice
degree.
A letter grade of “D” or “E” in any course also does not count toward fulfillment of requirements
for the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.
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.
22

However, all attempts and the original grade(s) earned will continue to appear on the graduate
transcript.
Progression
Students are admitted in cohorts and are expected to follow all courses in sequence. Although not
all courses in the DNP program have pre-requisites, any deviations from the program plan
require prior approval from the DNP Admissions, Progression, and Graduation Committee.
STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS
All requirements for the DNP degree must be completed within a six-year period commencing
with the first graduate course registration. The DNP 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 Clarion’s Director of the School of Nursing and Allied
Health 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.
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 DNP 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
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.

23

Students are advised to review information on Class Withdrawals and University Withdrawal at
http://www.clarion.edu/6874/#UniversityWithdrawals
GENERAL INFORMATION
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 of semesters.
However, there are differences for holidays and reading days. When there are differences in
breaks, students will follow the class schedule of the university which employs the faculty
member teaching his/her course. Academic calendars can be found on each university’s website.
BOOKSTORES
Textbooks are ordered by faculty for purchase at the bookstore located at the university where
they are employed. Purchases at either bookstore can be made in person or online.
Clarion University Store: http://www.neebo.com/clarion-university-of-pennsylvania
Click on Rent or Buy Textbooks at the top of the page. Shipping is free.
Edinboro University Campus Bookstore: http://edinborobookstore.com/home.aspx
Click on Textbook Orders on the left side of the page. There is a shipping fee.
DESIRE2LEARN (D2L)
The DNP Program uses Desire2Learn (D2L), 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/173562/
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/43307/
Microsoft Office 2000 Professional, XP, or later

To access Desire2Learn and login go to: http://www.clarion.edu/d2l
EVALUATIONS FOR THE PROGRAM
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,
24

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, at one and three years after graduation, students will be asked to participate in the
graduate and employer survey process, which is facilitated by the DNP 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
instructions to graduates to complete the Graduate Survey and provide access information
to the Employer Survey to their current employer.
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 DNP faculty and results posted in the
Desire2Learn DNP Forum.
FINANCIAL AID
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/1022/
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 DNP-L listserv or in the DNP Forum as information becomes
known:
Clarion University: http://www.clarion.edu/admiss/scholarships.shtml
Edinboro University: http://www.edinboro.edu/departments/development/scholarship_listings.dot
Contact the nursing departments and graduate offices at each university for graduate
assistantship and scholarship information.
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
25

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 on the Venango Campus 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/18636/ and submit with
it with their application to graduate study.
The Division of Graduate Studies also offers Frederick Douglass Assistantships to graduates of
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). Graduate assistantship includes a stipend
and tuition waiver.
Edinboro University
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 will 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 can be obtained from the Office of Graduate Studies or online at
http://www.edinboro.edu/departments/graduate_studies/graduate_assistantships/
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/395/
The Edinboro University Library home page can be found at:
http://www.edinboro.edu/departments/library/
26

Specific information for distance education students can be found:
For Clarion: http://www.clarion.edu/12781/
For Edinboro: http://www.edinboro.edu/departments/library/services/Distance_Education.dot
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 University’s digital databases when they are
registered for classes. Students not attending classes out of Edinboro University but wishing
to use their online database may need to specifically request to be added to their library
system.
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.
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 Office of Research and Graduate
Studies and those at Edinboro University through the School of Graduate Studies and
Research.
The DNP 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.
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

27

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/5764/
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.
PARKING REGULATIONS
Students enrolled in the DNP 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/4260/
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 at:
http://www.edinboro.edu/departments/police/ParkingRegulations.pdf
PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENTS

28

The main route for DNP Program announcements is via the DNP-L listserv, administered through
Clarion University and moderated by the DNP 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 DNP-L LISTSERV E-mail Account
DNP STUDENT LIST SERV INSTRUCTIONS
(DNPstudent-L)

The instructions below are for the listserv members regarding how to subscribe, signoff, and send e-mail
to the list. This message also contains instructions for the owner.

Any with e-mail may now participate in this list. Please send instructions regarding how to use the list to
those people you wish to participate in the list.

-----------------------------

Following are examples of how a list member may subscribe to the list, signoff of the list, and send mail
to the list. In each case, the commands are *not* case sensitive.

** 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:
Enter your message below.
SUBSCRIBE DNPstudent-L

** To subscribe from an off campus non-Clarion University e-mail account, send mail to Listserv as
follows:
29

Mail> send
To: listserv@listserv.clarion.edu
Subj:
Enter your message below.
SUBSCRIBE DNPstudent-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:
Enter your message below.
SIGNOFF DNPstudent-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:
Enter your message below.
SIGNOFF DNPstudent-L

** Send mail to the list from a Clarion University e-mail account as
follows:

MAIL> send
To: DNPstudent-L@listserv.clarion.edu

30

Subj:
Enter your message below.
Your message ….

** Send mail to the list from an off campus non-Clarion University e-mail account as follows:

MAIL> send
To: DNPstudent-L@listserv.clarion.edu
Subj:
Enter your message below.
Your message ….

Please note: When responding to an DNP-L message, remember that hitting “reply” sends
your message to the entire listserv!!

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, 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 and other pertinent state and federal laws and
regulations
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 DNP Program are
given an opportunity to openly discuss program-related issues in an online discussion board
located in the Desire2Learn DNP Forum. Participation in the DNP 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
31



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 DNP 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
SUPPORT SERVICES FOR ONLINE STUDENTS
As the administrative site for the DNP program, Clarion University offers a number of support
services for students enrolled in the program that are available online. These include an online
writing center, orientation, counseling, virtual library and others that can be accessed from their
website: http://www.clarion.edu/11107/

TUITION
Tuition information can be found at: http://www.clarion.edu/60195/ Please note that the DNP
Graduate tuition and fees are slightly higher and unique to that program.
WEB REGISTRATION PROCEDURES
All registration processes take place through Clarion University. Students in the DNP
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 Clarion’s Student
One Stop (SOS): http://www.clarion.edu/253/
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
STUDENT REPRESENTATION AT FACULTY MEETINGS

32

One graduate nursing student elected by the student body or volunteering from the student body
serves as the student representative for the DNP program. When one or more of the program’s
graduate assistant(s) is/are DNP students, they may be appointed to assume this role. When
there is no student representative, the Program Coordinator polls the student body via the DNP-L
listserv for concerns, questions, and recommendations before each DNP 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
www.nursingsociety.org)
Any student who is not already a member may contact a Chapter counselor once they meet the
membership criteria:




have completed ¼ of the nursing curriculum;
achieve academic excellence (at schools where a 4.0 grade point average system is used,
this equates to a 3.5 or higher);
meet the expectation of academic integrity.

*Students in graduate programs who are registered nurses, legally recognized to practice in their
country and have a minimum of a baccalaureate degree or the equivalent in any field, shall be
eligible to be considered as a nurse leader at any point in the program.
Application for Induction to Honor Society






Graduate students must have met eligibility criteria as described 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
of your choice.

33

Mu Xi Chapter (Clarion University): 814- 676-6591- Venango Campus; 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/AboutPKP/index.html

APPENDICES

34

APPENDIX A
GRADUATE FACULTY
Colleen Barrett, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC
(Edinboro University)
Dr. Barrett holds a BSN from Edinboro University, MSN from the University of Pittsburgh, and
DNP 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, CRNP, ANP-BC
(Clarion University)
Dr. Ciesielka is currently the MSN Program Coordinator as well as faculty. Dr. Ciesielka is a
graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science degree in natural
sciences, a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing, and Doctor of Education in leadership and
administration. Her MSN in Adult Primary Health Care Nursing is from the University of
Pittsburgh. She maintains a clinical practice as an adult nurse practitioner at an inner city
ambulatory care clinic. Her special interests are nursing history, online teaching, ENT, allergy,
and asthma.
Nancy Falvo, PhD, RN
(Clarion University)
Dr. Falvo received her BSN from Duquesne University, a Master's degree in nursing from
LaRoche 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.
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

35

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
orthopedics holding positions from staff nurse to outcomes manager and nursing excellence
coordinator. Her research interests include comfort theory, measurement, and data analysis.
Dr. McClune will serve the DNP program as the statistical consultant for the Capstone
Research Projects.
Shelly Moore, PhD, CNE
(Clarion University)
Dr. Moore is currently Chair of the Clarion University department of nursing. She earned
her ASN at Gannon University, Villa Maria School of Nursing, and her BSN at Slippery
Rock University. Her graduate education includes an MSN as a family nurse practitioner
through Clarion and Slippery Rock Universities, Post-Master’s Certificate as a nurse
educator through Clarion, Edinboro, and Slippery Rock Universities, and PhD in nursing
education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Her past clinical practice included working
as an FNP for approximately 6 years before teaching full-time. She is certified by the NLN
as a nurse educator.
Karen Morahan, PhD, RN, C
(Edinboro University)
Dr. Morahan holds a BSN from Dominican College, MS as an adult health clinical specialist from
the University of Maryland at Baltimore, and PhD from Capella University. Her research interest
is in promoting student confidence and success in the clinical environment.
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.
Susan Sitter, D. Ed., FNP
(Edinboro University)
Ms. 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, and
her Post-Masters FNP Certificate from the Clarion and Edinboro Universities’ MSN Program. Dr.
Sitter is certified as a family nurse practitioner.
Lana Smith, PhD, FNP
(Clarion University)
Dr. Smith completed her BSN at Edinboro University, MSN as a family nurse practitioner at
LaRoche, 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 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
36

nursing education from Capella University. Dr. Terwilliger has experience in medical-surgical
and maternity nursing. Her teaching and research interest are in simulation in nursing, nursing
education research, teaching Strategies, and course development.
Angela West, MSN, RN
(Clarion University)
Mrs. West is currently Co-Chair of the Nursing Department at Clarion University. She is a
diploma graduate of Jameson Memorial Hospital School of Nursing and earned her BSN from
Slippery Rock University and MSN in Family Health Nursing from LaRoche College. She
obtained a Post-Master’s Certificate—Nurse Educator from the joint Clarion-EdinboroSlippery Rock MSN Program. She has been a nurse practitioner in internal medicine and
women’s health. She currently practices parish nursing in her community.
Thomas White, D. Ed., FNP
(Edinboro University)
Dr. White is currently Chair of the Nursing Department at Edinboro University of PA. Dr.
White earned his BSN and MSN degrees from Edinboro University and DEd from Indiana
University of Pennsylvania. He holds certifications 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.

37

APPENDIX B
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 Graduate Nursing 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

38