University of Delaware
Graduate Catalog 1996-1997
College of Nursing
General Information

Betty J. Paulanka, Ed.D. (Temple University), Dean

   The College of Nursing offers a program leading to a Master of Science
in Nursing (M.S.N.) degree. The program is designed to prepare Clinical
Nurse Specialists (CNS), Nurse Administrators, Family Nurse Practitioners
(FNP), and combined CNS/Nurse practitioners. Clinical specialization in the
CNS concentration is offered in gerontology, cardiopulmonary,
oncology/immune deficiency, pediatrics, and perinatal/women's health.
Nursing administration prepares nurses for leadership positions as nurse
managers at a variety of levels. The Family Nurse Practitioner
concentration prepares nurses to provide primary health care to clients of
all ages. The combined CNS/NP programs combine the knowledge of the CNS
with the skills of a nurse practitioner within the specialty. Post-master's
certificate programs are available in all specialties for students who
already hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree. All graduates will be
qualified to sit for the national certifying examinations.

   The graduate program includes core concepts of advanced practice nursing
as well as concepts specific to the area of specialization. The curriculum
is built on the theories and professional practice students have obtained
at the baccalaureate level of nursing education and provides a foundation
for future doctoral study.

   Independent and interdependent functions of nursing are emphasized as
important in achieving the health goals of individuals, families, and
communities. Thus, graduates of the program are prepared to improve the
quality of nursing practice and to influence the delivery of health care.
Clinical resources of the department include a wide variety of facilities
in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New Jersey.

   The majority of students attend classes on a part-time basis. All
classes are held after 3:00 p.m., in order to accommodate working nurses.
Alternative delivery methods are available for selected courses. These may
include videotaping of some courses as well as pic-tel transmission for
long-distance learners to southern Delaware.