2017 Fact Book

60 The fifth option for the B.S.N. degree is the R.N. to M.S.N. program. Students in this program complete three terms of B.S.N. coursework and then matriculate into either the nonclinical or clinical M.S.N. program. This program of study provides the student with the ability to receive both a B.S.N. and an M.S.N. degree. The nonclinical master’s offers three specializations in the program that include health systems leadership, education, or nursing informatics. To proceed in the clinical M.S.N. as an advanced practice registered nurse (A.P.R.N.), the student must demonstrate clinical competency to be successful in this program. Master of Science in Nursing Degree (M.S.N.) Options The online nonclinical Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) Program offers three unique specializations to earn the M.S.N. (as stated above). The master’s degree in nursing prepares the experienced nurse to advance in nursing leadership, education, or nursing informatics. Our M.S.N. specializations offer in-depth education by faculty members who are experts in these fields. The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (A.P.R.N.) Program provides the opportunity for an R.N. with a baccalaureate degree (B.S.N.) to prepare for advanced- level nursing practice related to the primary care of families and individuals throughout the lifecycle in primary care settings. The program provides preparation for the family nurse practitioner (FNP) and the gero-adult acute care nurse practitioner (GAACNP), and is offered in a hybrid format at the Palm Beach Campus. In the fall of 2016, the college will begin offering the FNP program on the Tampa Campus. The FNP and GAACNP programs are both offered in a hybrid format, blending the use of online and classroom environments, depending on the course content and educational requirements. Graduates of either program receive an M.S.N. degree. Doctoral Degree Options The Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) is a practice- focused terminal degree that prepares graduates to practice at the highest level in a specialty practice or executive leadership role. The D.N.P. curriculum builds on current M.S.N. programs by supporting evidence- based practice, quality improvement, and systems thinking. Graduates of this program are prepared to lead and engage in practical, clinically focused scholarship and research utilization. The online Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing education prepares nurse scholars to develop evidence-based practice guidelines and organize new and innovative nursing care delivery systems. This degree also prepares nurse scholars for placement in research/evidence-based practice positions within their education departments. Nova Southeastern University’s Ph.D. in Nursing helps to address the current and projected national shortage of nursing faculty members at all levels of nursing education. College of Optometry One of humanity’s most precious gifts is sight and the optometric physician is dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of this gift. The optometric physician, through academic and clinical training, is able to examine, diagnose, treat, and manage disorders and diseases of the visual system and associated structures. The profession of optometry offers many challenges and rewards to those willing to devote themselves to serving others through a lifetime of study and dedication to saving vision. In urban and rural communities throughout the nation, today’s optometric physician serves as the primary eye care practitioner in individual or group practices, hospital settings, public health organizations, educational institutions, and centers for vision research. Nova Southeastern University’s College of Optometry is the only optometric academic institution in the state of Florida. The College of Optometry admitted its charter class in 1989, and its graduates provide primary eye care as well as specialty care in such areas as contact lenses; ocular disease; low-vision rehabilitation; and binocular, geriatric, and pediatric vision evaluation and treatment. Furthermore, the college benefits from the integrated, interprofessional health care programs of the university’s Health Professions Division. The College of Optometry offers a fully accredited, full- time, four-year course of study leading to the Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree. The College of Optometry also has established a five-year, extended program leading to the Doctor of Optometry degree. Students