The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) prepares students to focus their practice on the identified health needs of society, become leaders in their field through scholarship, influence the quality of patient care, manage technology and information, gain autonomy in their careers, and develop a lifelong commitment to learning. The MSN program offers a range of specializations in the most critical areas of nursing today.
Note: The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is offered in two different learning modalities: the course-based modality and the competency-based modality, Tempo Learning®.
Accreditation 
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Write My Essay For MeThe baccalaureate degree program in nursing (BSN), master’s degree program in nursing (MSN), post-graduate APRN certificate program, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Walden University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).
Note on Certification
The MSN nurse practitioner specializations are designed to prepare graduates to qualify to sit for national nurse practitioner certification exams, which are required for practice as a nurse practitioner in most states. Because no graduate program can guarantee that graduates will be permitted to practice as a nurse practitioner upon graduation, we encourage students to consult the appropriate Board of Nursing or state agency to determine specific certification exam requirements. Walden enrollment specialists can provide information relating to national certification exams; however, it remains the individual’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all requirements relating to national certification exams for the state in which he or she resides, as requirements vary widely. Walden makes no representations or guarantee that completion of Walden coursework or programs will permit an individual to obtain national certification. For more information about nurse practitioner certification exams, students should visit the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN), the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCBB), or other nurse practitioner websites.
Note on Licensure
The MSN nurse practitioner specializations are designed to prepare graduates with an active registered nurse (RN) license to practice as nurse practitioners. However, each state Board of Nursing has its own academic and certification requirements and issues its own credential for an RN to be permitted to practice as a nurse practitioner in that state. Because no graduate program can guarantee that graduates will be permitted to practice as a nurse practitioner upon graduation, we encourage students to consult the appropriate Board of Nursing or state agency in the state in which he or she resides to determine specific requirements. Additionally, prospective students are advised if they choose to relocate to carefully review, evaluate, and understand the requirements of the applicable licensure board in the state in which they intend to relocate. Walden enrollment specialists can provide general guidance relating to the state-by-state requirements for practice as a nurse practitioner; however, it remains the individual’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all requirements relating to the practice as a nurse practitioner in the state in which he or she resides, as requirements vary widely. Walden makes no representations or guarantee that completion of Walden coursework or programs will permit an individual to obtain state licensure, authorization, endorsement, or other state credential. For more information about the requirements to practice as a nurse practitioner, students should contact the appropriate Board of Nursing or state agency.
Prospective Alabama students: State approval of a program to offer Alabama licensed nurses’ opportunities for advanced degrees does not indicate eligibility for approval to practice as an advanced nurse in Alabama. Applications for approval in Alabama are required to meet the Alabama requirements for national certification, graduation from a specific-type program for the advanced practice approval, and completion of the appropriate application. Any program offering a pre-licensure track to Alabama students shall meet the requirements of the Alabama regulations for pre-licensure programs or the graduates may not be eligible to take the national licensure examination required by the Alabama Board of Nursing to enter the practice. www.abn.alabama.gov
Prospective Washington students: Walden University is approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission to provide practice experiences in Washington State for a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, Leadership and Management, Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, as well as the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. For more information, go to the following website: https://www.doh.wa.gov/LicensesPermitsandCertificates/NursingCommission/NursingEducation/NursingPrograms.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this program, students will be able to:
- Synthesize organizational/systems leadership for cost-effective specialist nursing practice that contributes to high-quality healthcare delivery, advancement of the nursing profession, and social change.
- Critique evidence-based literature drawing from diverse theoretical perspectives and pertinent research to guide decision making that demonstrates best practices for specialist nursing practice in a global society.
- Integratively assess, diagnose, plan, implement, and evaluate cost-effective healthcare strategies that reduce health disparities by patient/population advocacy for access to specialist nursing care.
- Demonstrate ability to effectively communicate using audience-specific oral, written, and information technology for professional delivery of specialist nursing care.
- Evaluate health needs of diverse populations for necessary teaching/coaching functions based on specialist nursing knowledge to restore/promote health and prevent illness/injury.
- Exhibit ongoing commitment to professional development and value of nursing theories/ethical principles (altruism, autonomy, human dignity, integrity, social justice) in accordance with ethically responsible, legally accountable, specialist nursing practice.
- Implement specialist nursing roles to promote quality improvement of patient-centered care in accordance with professional practice standards that transform health outcomes for diverse populations.
Course-Based Program
Degree Requirements
- BSN-Entry Track: 53 to 63 quarter credits; RN-Entry Track: 79 to 89 quarter credits (depending on specialization)
- Professional Development Plan and program of study
- Core courses (23 credits)
- Specialization courses (30 to 40 credits, depending on specialization)
- Advanced Health Assessment, Advanced Pathophysiology, and Advanced Pharmacology are prerequisites for the Nurse Practitioner practicum component.
- Portfolio (required for Nurse Executive, Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, and Public Health Nursing specializations only)
Course-Based Curriculum
The MSN program has two admission tracks for registered nurses:
- BSN-Entry Track: This track is for students with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
- RN-Entry Track: This track is for students with an associate’s degree in nursing or a diploma in nursing that prepares for licensure in registered nursing. RN-MSN applications will not be accepted without a nursing degree conferred.
BSN-Entry Track: BSN graduates enter the MSN program at the core course level.
RN-Entry Track: Students complete 26 quarter credits of undergraduate-level foundational courses before starting the MSN core courses. The foundational courses contain the essential content and learning activities to prepare students for the core courses but are not equivalent to the degree requirements of a BSN program.
BSN-Entry and RN-Entry Tracks: All students complete the same MSN core and specialization curriculum. The five core courses provide students with graduate-level knowledge in areas of theory, research, diversity, legality/ethics, and healthcare systems. The specialization courses build on the core courses and offer students direction and guidance for influencing nursing practice in selected areas. A portfolio based on the specific outcomes of the program must be submitted and approved before the degree is granted. (Portfolio required for Nurse Executive, Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, and Public Health Nursing specializations only).
Field Experience Preparation
Walden is committed to providing students with resources and support in preparation of field experience(s). To help ease anxiety in the field experience process, Walden offers a 0-credit Field Experience Preparation course, a structured experience that guides students through the application process and currently available readiness resources. The course is designed to complement other pre-requisite courses needed in preparation for field experience(s). The goal is that students submit their field experience application by the end of the course. Of course, there may be reasons why a field experience needs to be postponed, or the readiness course may not be needed if a field experience opportunity has already been secured. In this instance, students may opt-out of the course. By opting out of the Field Experience Preparation course without having submitted a complete field experience application you are notifying Walden that you have chosen to delay the beginning of your field experience indefinitely, it is your responsibility to notify Walden when you plan to begin the field experience component of your program. In some instances, opting out of the Field Experience Preparation course indicates the foundational components of the field experience process have been satisfied and submission of the field experience application is pending. While the course is not yet available for Tempo students, the same readiness resources are available to Tempo students seeking field experience.
Course-Based Foundational and Core Curricula
RN-Entry Track Only: Foundation Courses (26 credits)
BSN-Entry and RN-Entry Tracks: Core Courses (23 credits)*
OR
AND
FECN XXXX – Field Experience Preparation Course (0 credit)
Students will be enrolled in a 0-credit Field Experience Preparation course after NURS 6002 or NURS 6003. The course number and the number of times the course is needed varies per specialization.
* Students in the Public Health Nursing specialization will complete PUBH 6127 instead of NURS 6050.
General Education Courses Available
Courses are available at Walden for those RN-Entry students who have not completed the minimum undergraduate credits of general education courses required for admission to the master’s program. Students who choose to complete general education courses at Walden are admitted provisionally to the RN-Entry Track of the MSN program.
Note: Students must earn a “C” or better in each course and maintain a GPA of 3.0
General Education Courses
Nurse Practitioner Specializations
Specialization in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
In the Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner specialization, students build their core competencies to become nurse practitioners while acquiring the advanced practice skills essential to high-acuity healthcare settings such as hospital emergency rooms, intensive care units, trauma centers, and specialty practices. Coursework prepares students for the challenges of managing the care of acutely or chronically ill adolescents (13+), young adults, adults, and older adults across the entire patient care experience, from initial assessment and diagnosis to developing a treatment and care plan. Graduates of this program will also be prepared to apply research and evidence-based practice to support quality improvement initiatives.
Specialization Courses (35 credits)
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
Course Sequence
MSN – AGAC Course Sequence Example 1
One MSN – AGAC course sequence example is as follows. This quarter sequence is an example for BSN-Entry students. Please note that RN-MSN students must complete all RN Foundation and General Education courses before they can begin working on the MSN Core and Specialization courses listed below.
| Quarter | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6566 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6540 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6550 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6560 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| NURS 6501 – Advanced Pathophysiology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | NURS 6521 – Advanced Pharmacology | 5 credits |
| NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NRNP 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 6 | NRNP 6540 – Advanced Practice Care of Older Adults | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6540 – Advanced Practice Care of Older Adults Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 7 | NRNP 6550 – Advanced Practice Care of Adults in Acute Care Settings II | 3 cr |
| PRAC 6550 – Advanced Practice Care of Adults in Acute Care Settings II Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 8 | NRNP 6560 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings III | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6560 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings III Practicum | 2 credits |
MSN – AGAC Course Sequence Example 2
Another MSN – AGAC course sequence example is as follows. This quarter sequence is an example for BSN-Entry students. Please note that RN-MSN students must complete all RN Foundation and General Education courses before they can begin working on the MSN Core and Specialization courses listed below.
| Quarter | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6501 – Advanced Pathophysiology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6566 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6540 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6550 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6560 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6521 – Advanced Pharmacology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits |
| NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits |
| NRNP 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I | 3 credits | |
| PRAC 6566 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings I Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| NRNP 6540 – Advanced Practice Care of Older Adults | 3 credits | |
| PRAC 6540 – Advanced Practice Care of Older Adults Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 6 | NRNP 6550 – Advanced Practice Care of Adults in Acute Care Settings II | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6550 – Advanced Practice Care of Adults in Acute Care Settings II Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 7 | NRNP 6560 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings III | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6560 – Advanced Care of Adults in Acute Settings III Practicum | 2 credits |
* Due to the nature of this practicum, it is strongly recommended that students take this practicum experience paired only with its didactic course (NRNP) or by itself.
*Note regarding NURS 6051 and NURS 6052: It is recommended that these courses are NOT be taken with a practicum experience.
* Note regarding PRAC 6550 and PRAC 6560: Due to the nature of these practicums, it is strongly recommended that students take these practicum experiences paired only with their corresponding didactic courses (NRNP) or by itself.
Specialization in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioners (AGPCNPs) are advanced practice nurses who hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and have advanced clinical education. AGPCNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, treat, and manage a variety of health issues among adult patients, ages 13 years and older. This specialization explores strategies for improving health outcomes through effective communication and collaboration. Students have the opportunity to explore current health topics through a curriculum developed in collaboration with experts. Courses are rooted in evidence-based practice so that students can gain knowledge in providing quality, comprehensive, accessible, and cost-effective care.
This specialization can prepare students to make a positive difference in today’s dynamic and ever-changing healthcare environment, whether in clinical practice or a related health professional role. Students can prepare to advance their careers. Graduates can pursue national adult-gerontology nurse practitioner certification and state credentialing.
Specialization Courses (35 credits)
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
Course Sequence
MSN – AGPC Course Sequence Example 1
One MSN – AGPC course sequence example is as follows. This quarter sequence is an example for BSN-Entry students. Please note that RN-MSN students must complete all RN Foundation and General Education courses before they can begin working on the MSN Core and Specialization courses listed below.
| Quarter | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6531 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6540 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6552 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6565 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| NURS 6501 – Advanced Pathophysiology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | NURS 6521 – Advanced Pharmacology | 5 credits |
| NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NRNP 6531 – Primary Care of Adults Across the Lifespan | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6531 – Primary Care of Adults Across the Lifespan Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 6 | NRNP 6540 – Advanced Practice Care of Older Adults | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6540 – Advanced Practice Care of Older Adults Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 7 | NRNP 6552 – Advanced Nurse Practice in Reproductive Health Care | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6552 – Advanced Nurse Practice in Reproductive Health Care Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 8 | NRNP 6565 – Synthesis in Advanced Nursing Practice Care of Patients in Primary Care Settings | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6565 – Synthesis in Advanced Nursing Practice of Patients in Primary Care Settings Practicum | 2 credits |
MSN – AGPC Course Sequence Example 2
Another MSN – AGPC course sequence example is as follows. This quarter sequence is an example for BSN-Entry students. Please note that RN-MSN students must complete all RN Foundation and General Education courses before they can begin working on the MSN Core and Specialization courses listed below.
| Quarter | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6501 – Advanced Pathophysiology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6531 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6540 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6552 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6565 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6521 – Advanced Pharmacology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits |
| NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | NRNP 6531 – Primary Care of Adults Across the Lifespan | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6531 – Primary Care of Adults Across the Lifespan Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits |
| NRNP 6540 – Advanced Practice Care of Older Adults | 3 credits | |
| PRAC 6540 – Advanced Practice Care of Older Adults Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 6 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| NRNP 6552 – Advanced Nurse Practice in Reproductive Health Care | 3 credits | |
| PRAC 6552 – Advanced Nurse Practice in Reproductive Health Care Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 7 | NRNP 6565 – Synthesis in Advanced Nursing Practice Care of Patients in Primary Care Settings | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6565 – Synthesis in Advanced Nursing Practice of Patients in Primary Care Settings Practicum | 2 credits |
* Due to the nature of this practicum, it is strongly recommended that students take this practicum experience paired only with its didactic course (NRNP) or by itself.
*Note regarding NURS 6051 and NURS 6052: It is recommended that these courses are NOT taken with a practicum experience.
*Note regarding PRAC 6531: Due to the nature of this practicum, it is strongly recommended that students take this practicum experience paired only with its didactic course (NRNP) or by itself.
Specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner
Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) are advanced practice registered nurses with the knowledge and skills to assess and manage health issues in patients of all ages, from birth through the senior years. This specialization can prepare students to gain autonomy or advance in their career as healthcare professionals. Through a series of courses and well-rounded clinical practice experiences focused on current health issues, students can effectively implement and facilitate disease prevention, health promotion, health maintenance, and restorative care interventions.
This online Family Nurse Practitioner specialization focuses on evidence-based techniques that can enhance the quality of care and outcomes for patients. The program offers strategies that can prepare students to work in primary care outpatient health settings or change the course of their healthcare career. Graduates of the program can pursue national family nurse practitioner certification and state credentialing.
Specialization Courses (35 credits)
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
Course Sequence
MSN – FNP Course Sequence Example 1
One MSN – FNP course sequence example is as follows. This quarter sequence is an example for BSN-Entry students. Please note that RN-MSN students must complete all RN Foundation and General Education courses before they can begin working on the MSN Core and Specialization courses listed below.
| Quarter | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6531 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6541 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6552 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6568 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| NURS 6501 – Advanced Pathophysiology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | NURS 6521 – Advanced Pharmacology | 5 credits |
| NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NRNP 6531 – Primary Care of Adults Across the Lifespan | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6531 – Primary Care of Adults Across the Lifespan Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 6 | NRNP 6541 – Primary Care of Adolescents and Children | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6541 – Primary Care of Adolescents and Children Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 7 | NRNP 6552 – Advanced Nurse Practice in Reproductive Health Care | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6552 – Advanced Nurse Practice in Reproductive Health Care Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 8 | NRNP 6568 – Synthesis in Advanced Nursing Practice of Patients in Family Care Settings | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6568 – Synthesis in Advanced Nursing Practice of Patients in Family Care Settings Practicum | 2 credits |
MSN – FNP Course Sequence Example 2
Another MSN – FNP course sequence example is as follows. This quarter sequence is an example for BSN-Entry students. Please note that RN-MSN students must complete all RN Foundation and General Education courses before they can begin working on the MSN Core and Specialization courses listed below.
| Quarter | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6501 – Advanced Pathophysiology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6531 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6541 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6552 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6568 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6521 – Advanced Pharmacology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits |
| NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | NRNP 6531 – Primary Care of Adults Across the Lifespan | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6531 – Primary Care of Adults Across the Lifespan Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits |
| NRNP 6541 – Primary Care of Adolescents and Children | 3 credits | |
| PRAC 6541 – Primary Care of Adolescents and Children Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 6 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| NRNP 6552 – Advanced Nurse Practice in Reproductive Health Care | 3 credits | |
| PRAC 6552 – Advanced Nurse Practice in Reproductive Health Care Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 7 | NRNP 6568 – Synthesis in Advanced Nursing Practice of Patients in Family Care Settings | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6568 – Synthesis in Advanced Nursing Practice of Patients in Family Care Settings Practicum | 2 credits |
*Due to the nature of this practicum, it is strongly recommended that students take this practicum experience paired only with its didactic course (NRNP) or by itself.
*Note regarding NURS 6051 and NURS 6052: It is recommended that these courses are NOT taken with a practicum experience.
*Note regarding PRAC 6531 and PRAC 6568: Due to the nature of these practicums, it is strongly recommended that students take these practicum experience paired only with their corresponding didactic course (NRNP) or by itself.
Specialization in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care
This specialization will meet the needs of nurses who wish to specialize in pediatrics primary care and will enable nurses to seek their master’s degree and enter practice as a pediatric nurse practitioner primary care (PNP-PC).
Specialization Courses (40 credits)
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
Course Sequence
MSN – PNP Course Sequence Example 1
One MSN – PNP course sequence example is as follows. This quarter sequence is an example for BSN-Entry students. Please note that RN-MSN students must complete all RN Foundation and General Education courses before they can begin working on the MSN Core and Specialization courses listed below.
| Quarter | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6810 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6820 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6830 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6840 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| NURS 6501 – Advanced Pathophysiology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | NURS 6521 – Advanced Pharmacology | 5 credits |
| NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NURS 6800 – Advanced Pediatric Development and Behavior | 5 credits |
| Quarter 6 | NRNP 6810 – Primary Care Approaches for Children | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6810 – Advanced Pediatric Nursing Practicum I: Primary Care | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 7 | NRNP 6820 – Management of Complex Pediatric Conditions | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6820 – Advanced Pediatric Nursing Practicum II: Complex Care | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 8 | NRNP 6830 – Management of Specialized Populations | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6830 – Advanced Pediatric Nursing Practicum III: Specialty Care | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 9 | NRNP 6840 – Synthesis of Pediatric Primary Care | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6840 – Advanced Pediatric Nursing Practicum IV: Synthesis Care | 2 credits |
MSN – PNP Course Sequence Example 2
Another MSN – PNP course sequence example is as follows. This quarter sequence is an example for BSN-Entry students. Please note that RN-MSN students must complete all RN Foundation and General Education courses before they can begin working on the MSN Core and Specialization courses listed below.
| Quarter | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6501 – Advanced Pathophysiology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6810 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6820 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6830 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6840 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6521 – Advanced Pharmacology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits |
| NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits |
| NURS 6800 – Advanced Pediatric Development and Behavior | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NRNP 6810 – Primary Care Approaches for Children | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6810 – Advanced Pediatric Nursing Practicum I: Primary Care | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 6 | NRNP 6820 – Management of Complex Pediatric Conditions | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6820 – Advanced Pediatric Nursing Practicum II: Complex Care | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 7 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| NRNP 6830 – Management of Specialized Populations | 3 credits | |
| PRAC 6830 – Advanced Pediatric Nursing Practicum III: Specialty Care | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 8 | NRNP 6840 – Synthesis of Pediatric Primary Care | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6840 – Advanced Pediatric Nursing Practicum IV: Synthesis Care | 2 credits |
*Note regarding NURS 6051 and NURS 6052: It is recommended that these courses are NOT taken with a practicum experience.
Specialization in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse trained to provide a wide range of mental health services to patients and families in a variety of settings. PMHNPs diagnose, conduct therapy, and prescribe medications for patients who have psychiatric disorders, medical organic brain disorders, or substance abuse problems. They are licensed to provide emergency psychiatric services, conduct psychosocial and physical assessment of their patients, develop and manage treatment plans, and provide ongoing manage patient care. They may also serve as consultants or as educators for families and staff. The PMHNP has a focus on making a psychiatric diagnosis, differentiates between medical disorders with psychiatric symptoms, and orders appropriate medications to treat various psychiatric disorders. A PMHNP can often practice autonomously, depending on state licensure laws.
Graduates of Walden’s program will be eligible to take the national certifying examination, PMHNP—Across the Lifespan, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
Specialization Courses (40 credits)
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
Course Sequence
MSN – PMHNP Course Sequence Example 1
One MSN – PMHNP course sequence example is as follows. This quarter sequence is an example for BSN-Entry students. Please note that RN-MSN students must complete all RN Foundation and General Education courses before they can begin working on the MSN Core and Specialization courses listed below.
| Quarter | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6635 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6645 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6665 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6675 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| NURS 6501 – Advanced Pathophysiology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | NURS 6521 – Advanced Pharmacology | 5 credits |
| NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NURS 6630 – Psychopharmacologic Approaches to Treatment of Psychopathology | 5 credits |
| Quarter 6 | NRNP 6635 – Psychopathology and Diagnostic Reasoning | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6635 – Psychopathology and Diagnostic Reasoning Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 7 | NRNP 6645 – Psychotherapy With Multiple Modalities | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6645 – Psychotherapy With Multiple Modalities Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 8 | NRNP 6665 – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Care Across the Lifespan I | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6665 – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Care Across the Lifespan I Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 9 | NRNP 6675 – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Care Across the Lifespan II | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6675 – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Care Across the Lifespan II Practicum | 2 credits |
MSN – PMHNP Course Sequence Example 2
Another MSN – PMHNP course sequence example is as follows. This quarter sequence is an example for BSN-Entry students. Please note that RN-MSN students must complete all RN Foundation and General Education courses before they can begin working on the MSN Core and Specialization courses listed below.
| Quarter | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6501 – Advanced Pathophysiology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6635 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6645 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6665 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| FECN 6675 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6521 – Advanced Pharmacology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits |
| NURS 6512 – Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits |
| NURS 6630 – Psychopharmacologic Approaches to Treatment of Psychopathology | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NRNP 6635 – Psychopathology and Diagnostic Reasoning | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6635 – Psychopathology and Diagnostic Reasoning Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 6 | NRNP 6645 – Psychotherapy With Multiple Modalities | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6645 – Psychotherapy With Multiple Modalities Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 7 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| NRNP 6665 – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Care Across the Lifespan I | 3 credits | |
| PRAC 6665 – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Care Across the Lifespan I Practicum | 2 credits | |
| Quarter 8 | NRNP 6675 – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Care Across the Lifespan II | 3 credits |
| PRAC 6675 – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Care Across the Lifespan II Practicum | 2 credits |
*Note regarding NURS 6051 and NURS 6052: It is recommended that these courses are NOT taken with a practicum experience.
Specialty Practice Specializations
Specialization in Nurse Executive
In the Nurse Executive specialization, students have the opportunity to prepare for a management role as a nurse administrator through a targeted curriculum designed to help students develop essential management and leadership skills. Coursework helps students gain insight into how effective, collaborative management can support the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes. The program includes options for deepening knowledge through sub-specializations in risk management and health policy: two areas of high demand in the marketplace. Students have the opportunity to gain skills in management strategy, decision-making, planning, finance, patient safety management, and human resources.
Specialization Courses (30 credits)
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
Optional Sub-Specialization: Health Policy (10 credits)
Optional Sub-Specialization: Risk Management (10 credits)
BSN-Entry Track
BSN-Entry Track students may undertake courses in the following sequence.
| Term | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6600 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3+ | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| Specialization courses | 30–40 credits |
RN-Entry Track
RN-Entry Track students undertake courses in the following sequence.
| Term | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 3022 – Professional Nurses as Change Agents (6-week course) | 6 credits |
| NURS 4152 – Nursing Research & Evidence Based Practice (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 4301 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| NURS 4213 – Population Health Nursing (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| NURS 4107 – Patient Safety and Quality Improvement (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 4301 – BSN Capstone (6-week course) | 5 credits |
| NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice (11-week course) | 3 credits | |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | FECN 6600 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership (11-week course) | 5 credits |
| Specialization course | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 6+ | Specialization courses | 25–35 credits |
Specialization in Nursing Education
The Nursing Education specialization prepares nurses for faculty positions in all types of undergraduate nursing programs, as well as for educator roles in diverse practice settings. Graduates have the knowledge to develop, plan, implement, and evaluate educational programs for nursing students and other individuals or groups needing health-related education.
Specialization Courses (30 credits)
BSN-Entry Track
BSN-Entry Track students may undertake courses in the following sequence.
| Term | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6341 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6351 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3+ | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| Specialization courses | 30–40 credits |
RN-Entry Track
RN-Entry Track students undertake courses in the following sequence.
| Term | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 3022 – Professional Nurses as Change Agents (6-week course) | 6 credits |
| NURS 4152 – Nursing Research & Evidence Based Practice (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 4301 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| NURS 4213 – Population Health Nursing (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| NURS 4107 – Patient Safety and Quality Improvement (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 4301 – BSN Capstone (6-week course) | 5 credits |
| NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice (11-week course) | 3 credits | |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | FECN 6341 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6351 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership (11-week course) | 5 credits |
| Specialization course | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 6+ | Specialization courses | 25–35 credits |
Specialization in Nursing Informatics
The Nursing Informatics specialization prepares nurses to more effectively utilize information technology to enhance the quality of patient care. This specialization blends nursing science with computer and information science. Coursework focuses on such key areas as information systems, database concepts, and effective project management. Graduates have the knowledge to integrate data, information, and knowledge to support decision-making processes that affect patients and providers. (Additional software may be required.)
Specialization Courses (30 credits)
BSN-Entry Track
BSN-Entry Track students may undertake courses in the following sequence.
| Term | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6461 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3+ | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| Specialization courses | 30–40 credits |
RN-Entry Track
RN-Entry Track students undertake courses in the following sequence.
| Term | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 3022 – Professional Nurses as Change Agents (6-week course) | 6 credits |
| NURS 4152 – Nursing Research & Evidence Based Practice (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 4301 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| NURS 4213 – Population Health Nursing (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| NURS 4107 – Patient Safety and Quality Improvement (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 4301 – BSN Capstone (6-week course) | 5 credits |
| NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice (11-week course) | 3 credits | |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | FECN 6461 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership (11-week course) | 5 credits |
| Specialization course | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 6+ | Specialization courses | 25–35 credits |
Specialization in Public Health Nursing
Students in the Public Health Nursing specialization are prepared to take a lead role in improving health outcomes for entire populations, particularly those in underserved communities. The focus of the coursework is on skills such as assessing communities and populations; identifying high-risk groups; and developing culturally sensitive, realistic, population-based nursing interventions.
Specialization Courses (30 credits)
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
- Students may take this as a non-degree course.
BSN-Entry Track
BSN-Entry Track students may undertake courses in the following sequence.
| Term | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice | 3 credits |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 6720 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6730 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3+ | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership | 5 credits |
| Specialization courses | 30–40 credits |
RN-Entry Track
RN-Entry Track students undertake courses in the following sequence.
| Term | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter 1 | NURS 3022 – Professional Nurses as Change Agents (6-week course) | 6 credits |
| NURS 4152 – Nursing Research & Evidence Based Practice (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 2 | FECN 4301 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| NURS 4213 – Population Health Nursing (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| NURS 4107 – Patient Safety and Quality Improvement (6-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 3 | NURS 4301 – BSN Capstone (6-week course) | 5 credits |
| NURS 6003 – Perspectives on Graduate Study for Advanced Nursing Practice (11-week course) | 3 credits | |
| NURS 6050 – Policy and Advocacy for Improving Population Health (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 4 | FECN 6720 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits |
| FECN 6730 – Field Experience Preparation | 0 credits | |
| NURS 6051 – Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Through Technology (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| NURS 6052 – Essentials of Evidence-Based Practice (11-week course) | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 5 | NURS 6053 – Interprofessional Organizational and Systems Leadership (11-week course) | 5 credits |
| Specialization course | 5 credits | |
| Quarter 6+ | Specialization courses | 25–35 credits |
Tempo Learning®
Tempo Learning® is Walden’s competency-based education modality, an alternative way of earning a Walden degree offered for some Walden programs. Courses in the Walden Tempo Learning® program are comprised of competencies and rigorous assessments. Students progress through the Tempo Learning® model by successfully passing competency assessments. A student must successfully achieve or master all competency assessments to graduate from the program.
Students earn the same Walden degree whether they choose the course-based or the competency-based modality.
Degree Requirements
- BSN-Entry Track: 53 quarter credits
- Core Courses (23 credits)
- Specialization Courses (30 credits)
- RN-Entry Track: 78 quarter credits
- Foundation Courses (25 credits)
- Core Courses (23 credits)
- Specialization Courses (30 credits)
Curriculum
The MSN (Competency Based) program has two admission tracks for registered nurses:
- BSN-Entry Track: This track is for students with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
- BSN graduates enter the MSN program at the core course level.
- RN-Entry Track: This track is for registered nurses who hold a diploma in nursing, associate degree in nursing, or bachelor’s degree (other than BSN).
- This track requires that students fulfill general education requirements. Once students meet these requirements, they can begin the foundation and core courses for the MSN.
Foundational and Core Curricula
BSN-Entry Track Only: Core Courses (23 credits)
- FG001 Networking for Academic and Professional Success
Develop an academic and professional network. - FG002 Academic and Professional Strategies and Resources
Identify academic resources and strategies for success. - FG003 Academic and Professional Integrity
Apply strategies to promote academic integrity and professional ethics. - FG004 Scholarship and Nursing Practice
Analyze peer-reviewed research related to issues in nursing practice. - FG005 Professional Development Plan
Create professional development plans for academic success and professional practice. - FG006 Standards of Practice
Justify selection of the MSN specialization using standards and scope of practice.
- PA001 Agenda Setting
Evaluate federal agendas to promote healthcare issues within the policymaking system/process. - PA002 Legislation
Advocate a position on a population health-related bill. - PA003 Regulation
Analyze how regulations influence the nurse’s role and the delivery, costs, and access to healthcare. - PA004 Design and Implementation
Analyze advocacy and the role of the nurse in healthcare program design and implementation. - PA005 Healthcare Program/Policy Evaluation
Assess outcomes of population health program/policy evaluations. - PA006 Global Healthcare Issues
Analyze the impact of nurse advocacy on addressing global health issues.
- TN001 What is Informatics?
Analyze frameworks and tools for the role of the nurse as an informaticist and knowledge worker. - TN002 The Role of Nurse Informatics in Healthcare
Analyze the role of the nurse informaticist in nursing informatics projects to improve outcomes or efficiencies in healthcare organizations. - TN003 Data to Information to Knowledge to Wisdom
Analyze how standardized terminologies impact the practice of healthcare and nursing informatics. - TN004 Technologies Supporting Applied Practice and Optimal Patient Outcomes
Analyze nursing informatics research on the application of clinical systems to improve outcomes and efficiencies. - TN005 The Nurse Leader and the Systems Development Life Cycle
Define the role of the nurse for participation on an implementation team as a component of the systems development life cycle. - TN006 Policy and Regulation Supporting Informatics and Technology
Evaluate legislative policies and regulations for health and nursing informatics and their impact on improvement for outcomes and efficiencies in nursing practice.
- EB001 Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) and the Quadruple Aim
Analyze the relationship between evidence-based practice and the Quadruple Aim in healthcare organizations. - EB002 Research Methodology
Analyze research methodologies described in peer-reviewed articles. - EB003 Clinical Inquiry, Problem-Intervention-Comparison-Outcome-Time (PICOT), and Searching Databases
Analyze relevant, peer-reviewed articles in support of PICOT questions. - EB004 Critical Appraisal, Evaluation/Summary, and Synthesis of Evidence
Recommend best practices based on critical appraisal of evidence-based research. - EB005 Evidence-Based Decision-Making
Recommend evidence-based organizational changes using an evidence-based practice approach to decision-making. - EB006 Disseminating Evidenced-Based Practice Changes
Analyze dissemination strategies for evidence-based practice changes in healthcare.
- IO001 Healthcare Environment
Analyze the impact of national healthcare trends on organizational leadership practice. - IO002 Professionalism
Assess organizational policies and the promotion of ethical practice in addressing healthcare issues/stressors. - IO003 Leadership
Create a leadership philosophy to promote transformational leadership in nursing practice. - IO004 Promoting Organizational Health
Recommend evidence-based strategies to create healthy work environments and promote positive organizational health. - IO005 Organizational Change
Create comprehensive plans for meaningful organizational change.
BSN-Entry Track Only: Specialization Competencies (30 credits)
These competencies are dependent upon the particular specialization. Please see the course list on each specialization page. Changing specializations may increase a student’s expected time-to-degree completion and cost.
Tempo Learning® Specializations
Specialization in Nursing Education
The Nursing Education specialization prepares nurses for faculty positions in all types of undergraduate nursing programs, as well as for educator roles in diverse practice settings. Graduates have the knowledge to develop, plan, implement, and evaluate educational programs for nursing students and other individuals or groups needing health-related education.
Specialization Competencies (30 credits)
- AE001 Foundational Concepts of Curriculum Development, Assessment, and Evaluation
Explain foundational concepts and principles related to curriculum development, assessment, and evaluation. - AE002 Introduction to Curriculum Development
Evaluate alignment and congruence of curriculum components. - AE003 Curriculum Design Approaches and Processes
Analyze curriculum design approaches, components, and processes. - AE004 Curriculum and Evaluation Processes
Analyze standards-based nursing curriculum, assessments, and evaluations designed to improve health and performance outcomes.
- TL001 Course Design and Learner Characteristics
Analyze learner characteristics and their influence on lesson design. - TL002 Instructional Strategies and Learning Outcomes
Evaluate instructional strategies and methods to support learning outcomes in nursing education. - TL003 Lesson Planning and Implementation
Design classroom or face-to-face lessons that integrate technology to achieve learning objectives and outcomes. - TL004 Testing and Evaluation
Create appropriate assessments and evaluations to measure desired outcomes for nursing education. - TL005 Digital Learning Experiences
Develop asynchronous, online, and media-based lessons to improve nursing practice and patient care.
- SN001 Focus and Objectives for Advanced Practice
Identify a focus within a clinical specialty and formulate objectives for advanced nursing practice. - SN002 Comprehensive and Systematic Assessment
Plan and conduct comprehensive and systematic assessments on patients using advanced levels of decision-making within a clinical specialty. - SN003 Patient Care
Recommend evidence-based interventions in advanced nursing practice to ensure positive outcomes for patients. - SN004 Self-Assessment in Advanced Practice
Use multiple measures to self-assess performance for advanced skills and practice within a clinical specialty.
- RN001 Nurse Educator Roles and Settings
Analyze roles of nurse educators in a variety of nursing settings. - RN002 Professional Goals and Roles
Identify professional goals as a nurse educator and analyze settings and roles related to those goals. - RN003 Conflict Management
Apply strategies for the nurse educator to prevent and manage conflict in nursing education. - RN004 Supporting All Learners
Apply strategies to create positive learning environments and to support learner needs, perspectives, and performance. - RN005 Career Advancement and Changing Roles
Write résumés, cover letters, and professional profiles to advance in the field of nursing education.
- NE001 The Roles of the Academic Nurse Educator and the Nursing Professional Development Practitioner
Differentiate the roles of the academic nurse educator and the nursing professional development practitioner. - NE002 Learning Theories in Nursing Education
Apply learning theories for nursing education in academic and practice settings. - NE003 Educational Design Process
Apply the educational design process to educational activities that meet defined learning needs. - NE004 Organizational Alignment
Align professional activities with the mission, vision, and strategic plan of a professional organization/institution. - NE005 Nursing Professional Development as a Nursing Specialty Practice
Apply the Nursing Professional Development Scope and Standards of Practice into all areas of professional development practice. - NE006 Role of the Academic Clinical Nurse Educator
Integrate core competencies for academic clinical nurse educators into academic education practice. - NE007 Leadership in Nursing Education in Academic and Practice Settings
Analyze leadership in nursing education in academic and practice settings.
- AH001 Concepts of Advanced Health Assessment for the Nurse Educator
Perform comprehensive and systematic health assessments at an advanced clinical reasoning level. - AH002 Concepts of Advanced Pathophysiology and Pharmacology for the Nurse Educator
Analyze pathophysiology and pharmacotherapeutic interventions of common disorders across the lifespan. - AH003 Case Presentation
Synthesize plans of care for case presentation.
Note on Curriculum
In an effort to ensure competencies are kept up to date and relevant to meet the learning outcomes of the program, the number and subject matter of individual competencies needed to satisfy program course requirements may change. However, program outcomes and the number and subject matter of courses will not be impacted. As a result, the required competencies listed in a student’s individual learning plan may differ from what is currently listed in the catalog.
Specialization in Nurse Executive
In the Nurse Executive specialization, students have the opportunity to prepare for a management role as a nurse administrator through a targeted curriculum designed to help students develop essential management and leadership skills. Coursework helps students gain insight into how effective, collaborative management can support the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes. Students have the opportunity to gain skills in management strategy, decision-making, planning, finance, patient safety management, and human resources.
Specialization Competencies (30 credits)
- LN001 Leadership Models and Styles
Apply leadership styles to address varied situations in healthcare settings. - LN002 Systems Thinking in Nursing Leadership
Apply systems thinking to improve nursing leadership in transitions of care processes. - LN003 Strategies for Conflict Resolution
Apply strategies for conflict resolution. - LN004 Leadership to Support Excellence in Nursing Practice
Analyze transformational leadership behaviors that support evidence-based practice. - LN005 Empowerment of the Nurse Leader in Organizational Structures
Analyze opportunities for the nurse executive to enact, influence, and engage in decision-making to improve health and care delivery.
- FE001 Making a Business Case
Apply concepts and principles of finance and economics to the proposal of new healthcare products and services. - FE002 Health Economics and Financial Analysis
Apply skills for creating and managing healthcare budgets. - FE003 Budgets and Budgeting
Create and manage healthcare budgets. - FE004 Costs and Savings
Evaluate healthcare service costs and savings. - FE005 Financial Health and Nurse Entrepreneurs
Assess financial reports and apply financial concepts for healthcare budget requests.
- MH001 Employee Recruitment and Selection
Apply strategies for effectively recruiting and selecting nursing staff. - MH002 Support and Empowerment of Employees
Develop an employee empowerment plan that supports job performance and satisfaction. - MH003 Performance Management in Nursing Settings
Apply systems thinking in assessing employee performance in nursing settings. - MH004 Diversity as a Human Resource
Apply strategies for embracing, leveraging, and managing diversity and inclusion in nursing settings. - MH005 Leadership, Ethics, and the Law
Apply legal and ethical standards to actions and decision-making in nursing leadership.
- HQ001 Methods and Tools for Quality and Safety
Apply methods and tools for quality and safety in healthcare. - HQ002 Measurement and Evaluation of Quality Outcomes
Apply strategies for measuring and evaluating quality outcomes in healthcare settings. - HQ003 Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Nursing
Analyze interdisciplinary approaches to maximize quality of care and patient outcomes. - HQ004 Innovations to Improve Outcomes
Recommend systems innovations to improve quality outcomes.
- HC001 Key Concepts in Strategic Planning in Healthcare Organizations
Explain concepts related to the purposes and processes of strategic planning in healthcare settings. - HC002 Strategic Planning Needs Analysis
Analyze strategic planning needs for healthcare organizations or issues. - HC003 Goals, Objectives, and Strategies to Inform Strategic Plans
Develop goals, objectives, and strategies to inform strategic plans. - HC004 Resources to Inform Strategic Plans
Apply resources to inform strategic plans.
- SY001 Leadership, Nursing Practice, and Social Change
Apply leadership principles to design programs to enhance nursing practice and promote social change. - SY002 Leadership and Career Advancement
Create plans to participate in leadership and professional growth opportunities to achieve professional goals and objectives.
Note on Curriculum
In an effort to ensure competencies are kept up to date and relevant to meet the learning outcomes of the program, the number and subject matter of individual competencies needed to satisfy program course requirements may change. However, program outcomes and the number and subject matter of courses will not be impacted. As a result, the required competencies listed in a student’s individual learning plan may differ from what is currently listed in the catalog.
Specialization in Nursing Informatics
The Nursing Informatics specialization prepares nurses to more effectively utilize information technology to enhance the quality of patient care. This specialization blends nursing science with computer and information science. Coursework focuses on such key areas as information systems, database concepts, and effective project management. Graduates have the knowledge to integrate data, information, and knowledge to support decision-making processes that affect patients and providers. (Additional software may be required.)
Specialization Competencies (30 credits)
- IF001 Data-Driven Evidence-Based Practice
Apply evidence-based research for integration into clinical decision support to solve problems and improve patient care. - IF002 Perspectives on the Sharing of Healthcare Information
Evaluate the sharing of healthcare data and information between organizations in healthcare contexts. - IF003 Potential Challenges of Informatics Technologies
Analyze the potential challenges of EHR systems. - IF004 ANA Informatics Competencies in Practice
Apply ANA informatics competencies to nursing practice according to ANCC standards. - IF005 Policy-Driven Nursing Informatics
Analyze policy mandates to establish and maintain nursing informatics practices.
- IK001 Electronic Databases: The Backbone of Healthcare Record Keeping
Analyze the evolution of database uses and integration in nursing settings. - IK002 Database Design and Relational Databases
Develop basic relational databases using database design principles. - IK003 Database Queries for Data Analysis
Design database queries for effective data analysis. - IK004 Data Integrity, Security, and Storage
Recommend best practices for ensuring data integrity and security. - IK005 Data Analysis to Improve Patient Care and Outcomes
Recommend ethical data mining and information sharing strategies to improve patient care and outcomes.
- WF001 Workflow Models and the Role of the Nurse Informaticist
Recommend workflow models from the perspective of the nurse informaticist throughout the systems development life cycle (SDLC). - WF002 Workflow Process Improvement for Healthcare Technologies
Develop gap analysis plans to recommend workflow process improvements for healthcare information technologies to prevent workarounds. - WF003 Workflow Redesign Solutions and Implementation Strategies
Apply workflow redesign solutions and implementation strategies to achieve meaningful-use compliance.
- PI001 Change Management in Healthcare Information Technology Projects
Develop a change management plan based on principles of project management and planning. - PI002 Healthcare Information Technology Project Plan
Develop a healthcare information technology project plan to improve quality and safety in healthcare settings. - PI003 Strategies in Healthcare Information Technology Project Management
Evaluate strategies and best practices for effective and ethical healthcare information technology project management.
- EM001 The Role of Health Information Technology (HIT) Evaluation
Analyze the characteristics of health information technology (HIT) evaluation. - EM002 Health Information Technology (HIT) Evaluation Plan
Create an evidence-based practice evaluation plan for a health information technology (HIT) implementation. - EM003 Dissemination and Ethics in Health Information Technology (HIT) Evaluation
Evaluate strategies related to dissemination and ethics in health information technology (HIT) evaluation.
- NS001 Opportunities for Leadership and Professional Growth for the Nurse Informaticist
Develop an evidence-based project to meet nursing informatics needs at a professional organization. - NS002 Leadership and Career Advancement
Prepare a professional portfolio to advance a nurse informaticist role.
Note on Curriculum
In an effort to ensure competencies are kept up to date and relevant to meet the learning outcomes of the program, the number and subject matter of individual competencies needed to satisfy program course requirements may change. However, program outcomes and the number and subject matter of courses will not be impacted. As a result, the required competencies listed in a student’s individual learning plan may differ from what is currently listed in the catalog.
Note on Field Experience and Relocating
Students who are considering relocating are advised to contact their student success advisor or Tempo coach prior to any decision to relocate in order to determine how relocation may impact progress in their program. They can provide information and guidance on how relocating may result in possible changes, restrictions, and/or additional requirements affecting field experience. Each Board of Nursing and Higher Education Authority governs the field experience rules and regulations in their respective states, and students may be unable to complete field experience in the state in which they plan to relocate. While Walden is committed to working collaboratively with students to secure field sites across the United States, it is imperative that students contact their student success advisor or Tempo coach immediately when considering relocating.
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