Programmatic Growth

Program Description

  • The University of Mary has over 65 years of experience providing faith-based adult education, complemented by over 25 years of offering online and evening programs. Established in 1959, the institution has consistently addressed educational needs through innovative and flexible degrees and degree completion programs deeply rooted in Christian and Benedictine values. Among its notable offerings is the fully accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) Family Nurse Practitioner program, which is recognized for its excellence in clinical preparation, drawing on 30 years of experience. This program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of health promotion and disease management, addressing acute and chronic health issues and preparing them to excel as family nurse practitioners.

  • The program of study is structured to provide students with a comprehensive education that spans 2.7 years, divided across eight semesters. With a total of 86-semester credits, students engaged in a rigorous curriculum designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills essential for success in their future careers.

    To culminate their academic experience, students will undertake a Capstone Project that allows them to integrate their knowledge into a tangible project, showcasing their readiness for professional challenges. The program also includes a significant practical component through clinical hours, encompassing 1280 experiential hours in clinical practice and nursing leadership. This invaluable hands-on experience is designed to prepare students for real-world clinical environments under the mentorship of experienced professionals.

    Throughout the program, students are equipped with theoretical knowledge and the practical skills necessary for their chosen field, ensuring they graduate prepared to make meaningful contributions to healthcare. For more details on the specific courses and descriptions, a full list can be accessed via the provided link.

    Link: Program Details

  • Throughout my graduate clinical experiences, I engaged in a diverse array of experiential learning activities that significantly contributed to my development as an advanced practice nurse. The majority of my clinical hours were dedicated to rural primary care, an environment that not only presented unique challenges but also enriched my understanding of community health needs and patient-centered care.

    In addition to primary care, I expanded my expertise by participating in specialized clinical experiences in fields such as occupational medicine, dermatology, plastics and aesthetics, and wound care. These rotations allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to practice, enhance my clinical skills, and deepen my understanding of the complexities involved in various aspects of patient care.

    My exposure to different specialties has not only enhanced my clinical competence but has also fostered essential leadership skills. By working collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, I developed strong communication and problem-solving abilities, which are pivotal in advanced nursing roles. These experiences have instilled confidence and a sense of responsibility in me, positioning me well for future leadership opportunities in my career.

    For a detailed account of my clinical and leadership hours, you can refer to the clinical hours log.

    Link: Typhon Log

The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice is crucial as it outlines the competencies necessary for nurses at the doctoral level. Doctoral programs in nursing are primarily divided into two types: research-focused and practice-focused. Research-focused programs, often leading to a PhD, emphasize scientific research and methodology, requiring students to complete original research projects and dissertations. Conversely, practice-focused programs, such as the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), aim to cultivate experts in specialized advanced nursing practice through evidence-based, innovative approaches to care.

These programs are essential in addressing societal healthcare needs and preparing nurses for leadership roles in both practice and research. The call for nursing education from organizations like the Institute of Medicine highlights the necessity for interdisciplinary expertise in areas such as information systems, quality improvement, and patient safety. The Essentials framework ensures that DNP graduates develop the proficiency to navigate these demands effectively, contributing to the advancement of nursing and patient care standards. Overall, the doctoral education framework fosters a comprehensive approach to nursing, merging scholarly knowledge with practical application.

As I reflect on my journey through the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, I am encouraged by the degree of competence I have achieved concerning the outlined Program Outcomes and AACN Essentials. I have developed a solid foundation in both advanced clinical practice and research methodologies, which has greatly enhanced my ability to provide high-quality patient care.

One of my key strengths lies in my ability to integrate evidence-based practice into my clinical work. I have successfully used research findings to inform my decision-making, resulting in improved patient outcomes. Additionally, my strong communication skills have allowed me to collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of shared knowledge and continuous learning. Furthermore, I have demonstrated competence in areas such as quality improvement and patient safety, aligning with the Essentials framework.

While I feel confident in many aspects of my training, I recognize that there are areas where my competence is still emerging, particularly in the domain of health informatics. As technology continues to evolve in healthcare, I acknowledge the necessity of enhancing my skills in information systems to better navigate and utilize these tools to support patient care and administrative functions.

To address my limited competence in health informatics, I plan to engage in targeted professional development activities. This includes enrolling in specialized online courses focused on healthcare technology and informatics. I also intend to seek mentorship from colleagues who possess advanced skills in this area to gain practical insights and hands-on experience.

American Association of Colleges of Nursing: The essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice

FNP Program Outcomes

The DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program outcomes play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare delivery. By emphasizing competence in health promotion, disease prevention, and illness management, DNP graduates are equipped to address the diverse health needs of individuals, families, and communities. This foundational knowledge not only enhances the quality of patient care but also promotes proactive approaches to health and well-being. FNP program outcomes are pivotal in preparing practitioners who not only excel in clinical competency but also embody values of leadership, collaboration, and holistic care, ultimately leading to healthier communities and improved health outcomes.