Nursing
The Programs
The Department of Nursing offers:
- Nursing, D.N.P.
- Nursing, M.S.N. - Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing, M.S.N. - Nursing Education
- Nursing, M.S.N. - Nursing Informatics
- Nursing, M.S.N. - Nursing Leadership
- Nursing, M.S.N. - School Nursing
- Nursing, Post-Master's Certificate, Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing, Post-Master's Certificate, Nursing Education
- Nursing, Post-Master's Certificate, Nursing Informatics
- Nursing, Post-Master's Certificate, Nursing Leadership
- School Nursing, Post-Baccalaureate Certification
The Millersville University RN-BSN (delivered via distance education), Master’s Degree in Nursing (Nurse Educator, Nurse Leader, School Nurse, and Nursing Informatics tracks delivered via distance education), Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Nurse Educator, Nurse Leader, School Nurse, and Nursing Informatics tracks delivered via distance education), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (delivered via distance education) Programs are accredited by the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA) located at 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20037. 202-909-2487.
Chronister, Michele; Assistant Professor
College of Science and Technology
B.S., University of Pittsburg, 1993; M.N., Millersville University, 2014
Hartmann, Teresa; Assistant Professor
College of Science and Technology
B.S.N., Millersville University, 1987; M.S.N., Widener University, 1992; Ph.D., Ibid., 2016
Kuhns, Kelly; Professor
College of Science and Technology
B.S.N., Lycoming College, 1994; M.S.N., Villanova University, 2000; Ph.D., Ibid., 2011
Lambert, Dawn; Associate Professor
College of Science and Technology
B.S.N., Millersville University, 1994; M.S.N., West Chester University, 2008; Ph.D., Capella University, 2015
Lee, Linda; Assistant Professor
College of Science and Technology
B.S., East Stroudsburg University, 1982; M.S., University of Delaware, 1989
Matincheck, Tracee; Instructor
College of Science and Technology
A.A., Harrisburg Area Community College, 2002; B.S.N., Pennsylvania State University, 2007; M.S.N., Millersville University, 2016
Minter, Cayleigh; Assistant Professor
College of Science and Technology
B.S.N., York College of Pennsylvania, 2008; M.S.N., Millersville University, 2014
Monn, Jenny; Associate Professor
College of Science and Technology
B.S., The Pennsylvania State University, 1987; R.N., St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing, 1995; B.S.N., Millersville University, 2003; M.S.N., Ibid., 2007; D.N.P., York College of Pennsylvania, 2015
Moyer, Susan; Assistant Professor
College of Science and Technology
B.S.N., Bloomsburg University, 2001; M.S.N. Villanova University, 2007; Ph.D., Ibid., 2019
Rotondo, Kelly; Assistant Professor
College of Science and Technology
B.S.N., LaRoche College, 2002; M.S.N., Waynesburg College, 2004; D.N.P., Waynesburg University, 2009
Serves as the introductory course for the Master's of Science in Nursing degree. It is designed to provide a foundation to advance practice nursing. In this course, students will explore nursing concepts and theory. Emphasis is placed on bridging the theory-practice gap. Students will apply this theoretical basis in exploring advanced practice role development. Advanced practice core competencies will be introduced and analyzed.
Advanced research in nursing builds on previous knowledge of research and statistics to develop an evidenced-based approach to practice. The learner will analyze methods and techniques of research and interpret their usefulness for application in practice. Theory and practice will be used in defining nursing problems and in development of a literature review. 3 hrs. theory. Prereq/Coreq: NURS 501
In-depth study of the issues of advanced nursing practice, focusing on the historical, social and political forces which impact advanced nursing practice. Advanced practice roles in nursing are explored and analyzed. 3 hrs. theory. Offered in fall.
Discussion of the ways in which information and technology influence practice and decision making in various aspects of nursing practice, such as clinical, education, leadership and research, is the major focus of the course. Advances in technology that support and enhance the delivery of care and interdisciplinary communication are addressed. The legal, ethical, cultural, economic and social factors affecting healthcare information technology are also explored.
Discussion of advanced concepts regarding environmental health and evidence-based nursing in the context of sustainable development and global well-being. Using the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals as a comprehensive framework for understanding health, the environment, and human interaction, as well as how to promote public, international, and planetary health including multinational, interdisciplinary systems supporting all of humanity. Explores and underscores the important role nurses fulfill in promoting local and global health within the framework of sustainability.
Builds upon previous knowledge in physical assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. Using a systems approach, examines principles of select well and disease states. Provides the opportunity to assess, analyze, and explore the findings, treatment, and evaluation of common health issues. Analyzes the relationships between assessment findings, physiologic changes, and pharmaceutical treatments.
Advanced physiology and pathophysiology at the cellular, organic and systemic level. Interdependence of organ systems in health and disease is emphasized as a basis for clinical assessment and management. 3 hrs. theory. Offered in spring.
Clinical course. Provides framework for diagnosis and clinical decision making for the advanced practice nurse. Assessment skills and procedures for individuals across the life cycle will be developed. Information gathered in the assessment process will provide a basis for the evaluation of the health status of individuals. An analysis of an individual’s response to wellness and illness will include examination of concepts of cultural influences, health-seeking behaviors, and stress and adaptation. 2 hrs. theory, 3 hrs. lab. Prereq: NURS 501, 502, 503 and 511. Offered in fall.
Principles of pharmacology applied to the therapeutic management of the individual and the family across the life cycle. Emphasis on prescribing and monitoring pharmacology and alternative therapeutic regimens. Adverse drug reactions and multiple drug interactions are included. 3 hrs. theory. Prereq: NURS 501, 502, 503 and 511. Offered in fall.
This course provides the family nurse practitioner student with the necessary knowledge and clinical experience to assist young families with health promotion and chronic and acute health problems. The biophysical, cognitive and psychosocial development of members of the young family is explored. A focus on women’s health issues is incorporated in the course content. The role of the family nurse practitioner in caring for the young family is identified. 3 hrs. theory, plus clinical component. Prereq: NURS 501, 503, 511, 512, 513.
This course provides the family nurse practitioner with the necessary knowledge and clinical experience to assist mature and aging families with health promotion and chronic and acute health problems. The biophysical, cognitive and psychosocial development of members of mature and aging families is explored. A focus on women’s health issues is incorporated in the course content. The role of the family nurse practitioner in caring for mature and aging families is identified. 3 hrs. theory, plus clinical component. Prereq: NURS 521.
This course provides an opportunity to integrate theory and practice through an intensive internship experience. Focus is on the domains and competencies of the nurse practitioner as direct provider of primary healthcare. Biweekly seminars will be conducted to discuss current topics. The student will be guided in the practicum by nurse practitioner and physician preceptors in a variety of settings. 1 hr. theory, plus clinical component. Prereq: NURS 521 and 522.
This course provides the family nurse practitioner student with the necessary knowledge and clinical experience to assist young families and pediatric patients. Assessment, diagnostic reasoning and care management plans are foundational in guiding health promotion and prevention, but also caring for both chronic and acute health problems. The biophysical, cognitive, and psychosocial development of members of the young family is explored. The role of the family nurse practitioner in caring for the young family is identified. Prereq: NURS 501, 503, 511, 512, and 513
Course Description: This course provides the family nurse practitioner student with the necessary knowledge and clinical experience to assist the female patient with health promotion, chronic conditions, and acute health problems. The unique biophysical, cognitive, and psychosocial needs of women are explored. The role of the family nurse practitioner in caring for women is identified. Prereqs: NURS 501, 503, 511, 512, and 513.
Provides the family nurse practitioner student with the necessary knowledge and clinical experience to assist adults with health promotion and chronic and acute health problems. The unique biophysical, cognitive, and psychosocial needs of adults are explored. The role of the family nurse practitioner in caring for adults is identified. Prereqs: NURS 501, 503, 511, 512 and 513.
Provides the family nurse practitioner student with the necessary knowledge and clinical experience to assist the geriatric client with health promotion and chronic and acute health problems. The unique biophysical, cognitive, and psychosocial needs of the geriatric population are explored. The role of the family nurse practitioner in caring for the geriatric population is identified. Prereq: NURS 501, 503, 511, 512, and 513
Provides the family nurse practitioner student with the necessary knowledge and clinical experience to assist vulnerable populations with health promotion and chronic and acute health problems. The unique biophysical, cognitive, and psychosocial needs of various unique populations are explored. A special focus on population level health is included. Prereqs: NURS 511, 512, 513, 531, 532, 533, and 534.
This course provides an opportunity to integrate theory and practice through an intensive internship experience. Focus is on the domains and competencies of the nurse practitioner as direct provider of primary health care. Weekly seminars will be conducted to discuss current topics. The students will be guided in the practicum by nurse practitioner and physician preceptors in a variety of clinical settings. Prereqs: NURS 501, 503, 511, 512, 513, 531, 532, 533, and 534.
Focus on the specialty practice area of school nursing, examining the role of the school nurse with emphasis on the special health needs of children in the school setting. Management and evaluation of the special health care needs of diverse learners are discussed with an understanding of the need for outcome criteria. Emphasis is placed on identifying accommodations and adaptations for diverse learners. An overview of common physiological and psychological diagnoses of the school age population are discussed as well as the legal responsibilities of the school nurse when caring for this diverse population.
Focus on the specialty practice area of school nursing. Laws pertaining to school nursing practice and legal considerations for school nurses are explored. Individualized health plans that address the special health needs of children in the school setting are developed. Management and evaluation of the comprehensive school health program are discussed with an understanding for the need of outcome criteria. Clinical experiences provide the student an opportunity to apply concepts learned in the various school nursing program courses in school health settings at both elementary and secondary levels. Prereq: Undergraduate: faculty permission; Graduate: Baccalaureate degree
Experimental Course Number for Nursing
In-depth investigation and development of one or more topics of current interest in nursing that are not normally covered in regular courses. Topics/methods will vary according to the needs of students and faculty.
In-depth investigation and development of one or more topics of current interest in nursing that are not normally covered in regular courses. Topics/methods will vary according to the needs of students and faculty.
In-depth investigation and development of one or more topics of current interest in nursing that are not normally covered in regular courses. Topics/methods will vary according to the needs of students and faculty.
In this course, the focus is on the role of the school nurse in caring for students in grades PK-4. There is an emphasis on the nursing process as it is applied to the school age population while considering acute, chronic, and episodic illness and the overall healthcare needs of the PK-4 grade school population including those with special health needs, disabilities, diverse cultures, and English Language Learners. The physical, emotional, psychosocial, and developmental needs of the PK-4 grade population are explored. Interprofessional collaboration within the school nurse role in the elementary school setting is examined. This course provides 50 of the required 100 hours of practicum experience focusing on the PK-4 grade population under the guidance of a certified school nurse. Prereq: Current unencumbered RN License
In this course, the focus is on the role of the school nurse in caring for students in grades 5-12. There is an emphasis on the nursing process as it is applied to the school age population while considering acute, chronic, and episodic illness and the overall healthcare needs of the 5-12 grade school population including those with special health needs, disabilities, diverse cultures, and English Language Learners. The physical, emotional, psychosocial, and developmental needs of the 5-12 grade age population are explored. Interprofessional collaboration within the school nurse role in the middle and high school setting is examined. This course provides 50 of the required 100 hours of practicum experience focusing on the 5-12 grade population under the guidance of a certified school nurse. Prereq: Current unencumbered RN License
This course focuses on the school nurse's role in promotion of health in individuals and the school community with an emphasis on vulnerable populations. The integration of evidence-based practice and epidemiological approaches to promote consistent and equitable care for individuals and diverse populations in school communities is explored.
This course focuses on the legal mandates of school nursing and how these laws affect the certified school nurse. There is an emphasis on the special health needs of children in the school setting and the nurse's role in identifying health and health education related accommodations and adaptations for diverse learners in order to support student health and promote optimal learning.
Educational theories and methods are explored in this course. The advantages and challenges of technology-based teaching and learning are presented. Past and future trends in education are discussed. Theory and research findings about the learning process, the nature of the learner and the goals of instruction are discussed.
This course introduces the student to the concepts of measurement and evaluation. Techniques in designing instructional objectives and test items are developed. Grading methods and test analysis are explored. The purpose of program evaluation is emphasized.
This course focuses on curriculum foundations, principles and issues. Through investigation and discussion, students learn about curriculum threads and designing effective programs. The importance of organizational mission and priority in relation to program development is emphasized.
This course provides an opportunity to integrate theory and practice through a practicum experience in nursing academic education. Focus is on the role of the nurse educator and the learning environment. Seminars will be conducted to discuss current topics related to nursing academic education. The students will be guided in the practicum by preceptors who are nurse educators in academia. (Prereq: N630; N631, N632)
This course provides an opportunity to integrate theory and practice through a practicum experience in nursing professional development. Focus is on the role of the nurse educator and the learning environment. Seminars will be conducted to discuss current topics related to nursing professional development. The students will be guided in the practicum by preceptors who are nurse educators in a professional development role. (Prereq: N630; N631, N632)
Advanced discussion the role and impact of the nursing informatics specialist. Analysis of the impact on health and safety (QSEN) outcomes, as well as the impact of the human-technology interaction is included. Additional focus on the impact of technological and societal trends on patients and patient outcomes, as well as compliance and regulatory mandates.
Focused on the impacts of knowledge discovery and meta-analysis of data trends to impact healthcare outcomes. Understanding workflow processes, informatics solutions and their interplay are core concepts address. Methods to synthesize knowledge, use decision support and outcomes management to support reimbursement and advanced nursing science are addressed.
Examination of the role of design thinking and project management on operational architecture and information management. Consideration of the system life cycle to manage information exchange and accomplish key clinical operations.
Introduction the principles of data science and data analytics in context of healthcare. Focus on use of data, data visualization, and data analysis to impact and improve patient care outcomes and healthcare workflow processes. Examination spans generation of quality data using common languages through analysis, application, and evaluation.
This course provides an opportunity to integrate theory and practice through an intensive practicum experience. The practicum provides the opportunity for the nursing informatics student to develop advanced clinical experience within a selected population and/or setting (112 hours of practicum required).
Focused on the integration of the conceptual and theoretical frameworks of leadership into the role of the nurse leader. The role of the nurse leader to support the full spectrum of healthcare is addressed and analyzed . Additional focus on the role of change theory, organizational development, and complex healthcare systems.
Focused on the role of the nurse leader in advancing the quality of patient care within complex healthcare systems. Investigates the impact of performance and quality improvement on patient safety. Using the guidelines developed by the Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN), methods to positively impact patient safety and care quality are discussed.
Focus on the healthcare industry’s shift to value-based and risk-based reimbursement. Analysis of the impact of the change on every component of healthcare. Focused on high-value, cost-effective, and evidence-based measures that incorporate innovation, resource stewardship, and systems thinking. Examines new payment models, where reimbursement is tied directly to clinical, organizational, and consumer outcomes.
Focus on the essential competencies of the nurse leader in relation to communication, conflict management, employee development, and building relationships. Developing a business acumen though use of change management, decision-making strategies, and systems thinking. Additional emphasis on strategic planning, project management, and policy development.
Provides an opportunity to integrate theory and practice through an intensive practicum experience. The practicum provides the opportunity for the nursing leadership students to engage in an advanced leadership experience within a selected setting (112 practicum hours required)
In-depth investigation and development of one or more topics of current interest in nursing that are not normally covered in regular courses. Topics/methods will vary according to the needs of students and faculty.
In-depth investigation and development of one or more topics of current interest in nursing that are not normally covered in regular courses. Topics/methods will vary according to the needs of students and faculty.
In-depth investigation and development of one or more topics of current interest in nursing that are not normally covered in regular courses. Topics/methods will vary according to the needs of students and faculty.
In-depth approach to an individually structured problem. Focus will vary according to the needsw of students and faculty involved.
Capstone project is intended to be innovative, scholarly, and relevant to advanced nursing practice. It is completed under the supervision of an individual faculty member. Taken during last year of MSN curriculum courses.
Prepares students to be disciplined thinkers and effective communicators in order to develop the skills and competencies necessary for success in the DNP role. Emphasize on self-assessment of leadership strengths and emotional intelligence. Specific attention to the important of well-being and self-care for self and others. Guides development of a conceptual framework for the DNP role with a focus on identifying actionable problems in the healthcare setting.
Emphasizes the roles of the advanced practice nurse as a clinical scholar, clinical expert and as a leader in evidence-based practice and transformation of health care. Theories of leadership, change, transformation, and innovation diffusion are examined. Systems theory, organizational and other mid-level theories are addressed. The interface between ethical and regulatory/legal obligations will be examined.
Emphasizes the roles of the advanced practice nurse as a clinical scholar, clinical expert and as a leader in evidence-based practice and transformation of health care. Evolution and need for doctoral education in nursing is considered. Theories of leadership change and transformation, and innovation diffusion are introduced. Systems theory, organizational and other mid-level theories are addressed. The interface between ethical and regulatory/legal obligations will be examined.
The relationships among basic and applied research, translational science, and evidence-based practice in healthcare settings are examined through this course. Research elements and methods are analyzed with an emphasis on research ethics and reading, interpreting, and evaluating quantitative and qualitative research studies that can be used to inform nursing practice.
Focus on the integration of evidence-based practice and epidemiological approaches to promote consistent and equitable care for diverse populations. Data will be critically analyzed to identify barriers to equitable quality healthcare. Analyze epidemiological, biostatistical, occupational, and environmental data in the development, implementation, and evaluation of clinical prevention and population health. Additional focus will be placed on underserved populations, social determinants of health, and environmental health concerns.
Focus on the major theories and approaches to sustainable healthcare business practices. Key areas of interest include application of organizational theory, consideration of organizational culture and ethical decision-making. Focus on quality improvement and ensuring patient safety, with an emphasis on outcome indicators and the relationship among processes, outcomes and costs.
Focuses on developing the necessary skills needed for applying ESP processes within the context of a practice setting, health care organization, or community. Provides the foundation for the DNP Capstone experience. Emphasis on the scholarly, systematic evidenced-based practice approach to problemsolving. The relationship between nursing interventions and patient outcomes is examined and opportunities for improvement are sought.
Exploration of statistical methods commonly used by advanced practice nurses to understand human health patterns. Descriptive and inferential statistics are applied through the use of statistical software packages and manipulation of datasets. Appraisal of appropriateness of research methods and techniques is included.
Design, select, and use information systems/technology to evaluate programs of care, outcomes of care, and care systems. Examine how information systems/technology provide a mechanism to apply budget and productivity tools, practice information systems and decision supports, and web-based learning or intervention tools to support and improve patient care.
Focus is on the design, defense, and implementation of the student’s scholarly project. Integration of foundational courses to develop, design and successfully defend the proposed scholarly project. Students also engage in implementation of the scholarly project, as well as collection of specified outcome measures. Students will engage in their select area of practice to enact the previously approved scholarly project. Taught via independent instruction with the assigned project advisor.
Focus is on the evaluation and completion of the student’s scholarly project, including statistical analysis of the specified outcome measures. Analysis and application of the findings in the context of the greater healthcare system is essential. Emphasis on dissemination of results and sustainability of project. Taught via independent instruction with the assigned project advisor.
Focus on developing and refining knowledge and skills associated with teaching at a college or university. Focus on the purpose and structure of higher education, process of preparing and managing a course, the teaching strategies to achieve student learning outcomes, methods for assessing student learning outcomes, and the work of a faculty member beyond teaching responsibilities (teaching, scholarship, and service).
In-depth clinical practice in the current interest or need in advanced nursing which are not normally covered in regular courses. This clinical topics course will vary according to the needs of students and faculty involved.
In depth investigation and development of one or more topics of current interest in advanced nursing which are not normally covered in current courses. Special topics to be covered and methods used will vary according to the needs of students and faculty involved.
In-depth approach to an individually structured problem. Focus will vary according to the needs of students and faculty involved.
Provides field experiences in a school setting, with emphasis on the comprehensive role of school health services supervision, methods for personnel evaluation, observing and supervising school health personnel budget, staff in-service development, health curriculum evaluation, and school health program assessment/revision and community relations. Prereq: EDSU 700, 701 and 703.