Mission of the Nursing Program at the Graduate Level
The mission of the graduate nursing program is designed for professional nurses to prepare them to advance nursing knowledge and abilities generally and in a specific functional area.
The master’s curriculum is based on the philosophy of the School of Nursing and Wagner College. It is organized around key concepts of nursing, health, individual, and environment. Students in the program have the opportunity to expand their knowledge base, synthesize knowledge into new concepts and theories, test theories, create new ideas and processes, and apply them in nursing practice.
Students are given the opportunity to learn strategies of leadership and change in order to improve nursing practice and the health status of diverse society. The graduate student is prepared in the role areas of nurse educator or family nurse practitioner. The program prepares its graduates to actively participate in improving the delivery of safe patient health care centered across the life span, conducting research, and acquiring a foundation for doctoral study.
Student Learning Outcomes:
In order to fulfill the purposes of the Wagner College graduate nursing program, the student must meet the following program objectives.
Upon completion of the program students will be able to:
- Evaluate nursing practice as it influences the quality of services provided within the health care system.
- Analyze nursing theories and strategies in practice to promote, restore, and maintain the optimum level of health of diverse populations across the life span.
- Use research to improve nursing practice.
- Function as catalysts for change in collegial roles with other health professionals to improve the health care delivery system.
- Demonstrate leadership roles by functioning as: a.) nurse educators in collegiate nursing programs or staff development programs; or b.) family nurse practitioners.
- Promote responsibility and accountability in themselves and others in their roles as educators and practitioners.
Additional Admission Requirements
The following requirements for the Master of Science in nursing are in addition to those for all master’s degrees.
- Completion of an accredited baccalaureate program with a major in nursing including a course in nursing research.
- A minimum overall undergraduate G.P.A. of 3.2
- Current Registered Nurse License.
- For the Family Nurse Practitioner track, the applicant must submit documentation demonstrating current clinical practice.
- Two (2) letters of reference attesting to applicant’s current knowledge base, clinical competency and experiences, professional capabilities, and potential for successfully assuming an advanced practice role.
- Current Curriculum Vitae/Resume.
Students accepted for the FNP track should be aware that prior to the registration for clinical courses, demonstration of: a.) annual physical examination with current immunizations; and b.) current malpractice insurance coverage is required.
Degree Requirements: Successful completion of 44/45 credits.
Wagner College Office of Admissions page
For more information download the Graduate Handbook 2021-22 Edition