Combined BSN/MSN Nursing option, FlexPath option Effective January 8, 2018
Combined BSN/MSN Nursing option, FlexPath option Learners will be awarded a bachelor s degree upon successful completion of all bachelor s degree program requirements. Upon successful completion of the remaining master s degree program requirements, learners will be awarded a master s degree. Combined bachelor s/master s options are designated bachelor s offerings with a set of master s-level courses that are applied to the requirements for a bachelor s degree and may also be applied in a subsequent master s degree program. To qualify for a FlexPath combined option, learners must enroll in an eligible bachelor s degree program and earn a minimum evaluation of Proficient on all competencies while completing the first 50 program points of bachelor s-level coursework, which includes a minimum of 9 program points earned at Capella University (first course and 6 program points of core and/or specialization or minor courses). After completing 50 program points of bachelor s-level coursework, learners may request to be enrolled in an eligible combined option during which they complete 6 7.5 program points of master s-level coursework. Learners must earn a minimum Proficient evaluation on all master s-level competencies and a Proficient evaluation on all competencies in their program to remain enrolled in the combined option. Once learners have successfully completed the requirements for their bachelor s degree program and their degree has been awarded, they may apply for the master s degree program that corresponds to their chosen combined option. Learners are encouraged to enroll in their master s degree program within one year of graduating from their bachelor s degree program to ensure all master s-level courses are relevant and applicable to the graduate program s degree requirements. The 6 7.5 program points of master s-level coursework completed as part of the requirements for their bachelor s degree program will be applied toward those for their master s degree program. Learners pursuing the Combined BSN/MSN option, FlexPath option may apply these courses toward Master of Science in Nursing FlexPath specializations in Care Coordination, Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, or Nursing Leadership and Administration. After learners complete at least 50 program points of BSN FlexPath coursework, they complete 6 program points of MSN FlexPath coursework. These 6 program points of MSN FlexPath coursework will reduce the number of required program points in the BSN FlexPath degree program by 6 as well. 2 This guide is intended to provide an overview of the specialization and is subject to change. Your enrollment counselor can provide updates, details, and Capella s official University Catalog that specifies your program requirements.
Combined BSN/MSN Nursing option, FlexPath option, continued FlexPath option Capella University is one of the first institutions to measure student learning through a direct assessment approach, eliminating the credit hour requirement and focusing on demonstrating specific competencies expected for the degree and needed for success in the workplace. Capella University s FlexPath option allows you to leverage your knowledge and experience when earning your degree, offering you an even more efficient pathway while maintaining the academic rigor for which Capella is known. Each FlexPath course contains a series of authentic assessments designed by faculty who are experts in their fields. These competency-based assessments allow you to demonstrate those skills and knowledge you need to be successful in the workplace. You ll complete the assessments at your own pace, without preset due dates for your work. Once you complete an assessment, faculty will typically review and provide feedback within 48 hours. When you demonstrate mastery of all competencies within a course, you move forward to the next course. Throughout your program, you ll continue to have access to a wide range of support, including dedicated coaches, tutoring resources, and an online community where you can connect with other learners earning their degrees through our FlexPath option. FlexPath courses give you the freedom to achieve the competencies in your own way, on your own time. Because of this, assessment preparation will vary, depending on your learning style. FlexPath is designed to support you in developing the same competencies as Capella s traditional online courses. With specific assessment instructions and clear guidelines on how your work is assessed you ll always know exactly what s expected of you. Faculty serve as evaluators for each assessment, providing detailed feedback regarding the level of competency being demonstrated. 3
Capella s Career Center proactively assists learners and alumni in developing and implementing their unique career management goals. The Career Center staff is committed to helping you move forward in your career. Career Information RELATED EMPLOYMENT SETTINGS TO EXPLORE Hospital Medical clinic Assisted living facility Long-term care facility Nursing home RELATED JOB TITLES TO EXPLORE* Home health agency Public health clinic School (P 12) Pharmaceutical company Insurance company Governmental agency Community college Vocational college Registered nurse Home health nurse Community health nurse School nurse Industrial health nurse Case management nurse Licensed practical nurse (LPN) instructor PROGRAM OUTCOMES With FlexPath, you ll build career-enhancing skills that employers and industry experts seek, but in a more efficient, personalized way. Step Into FlexPath is an option for those who don t qualify for FlexPath. Start a program in our structured, online format, and then transition into FlexPath upon successful completion of one course, at a 3.0 GPA or higher. Conduct comprehensive and focused assessments of health and illness parameters in individuals, groups, and vulnerable populations Incorporate concepts of patient safety, clinical management, and quality improvement to improve patient outcomes Understand the scope and role of policy, finance, and regulatory environments in relationship to individual and population outcomes Apply knowledge of organizational behavior, nursing theory, and systems (micro and macro) as appropriate for the scope and role of one s own practice Communicate effectively with all members of the health care team, including interdepartmental and interdisciplinary collaboration for quality outcomes Incorporate evidence-based practice interventions (e.g., information systems, patient care technologies) as appropriate for managing the acute and chronic care of patients promoting health across the lifespan Apply and incorporate a basic understanding of the concepts of health promotion and disease as a means of improving health at the individual, population, and community level Incorporate a holistic, caring, culturally appropriate nursing approach that contributes to the wellness and the health of individuals, groups, and vulnerable populations Incorporate the qualities, skills, behaviors, and knowledge required to function as a patient advocate, practice high quality care, assess and evaluate patient outcomes, and provide leadership in improving care Integrate a holistic approach to local, regional, national, and global dynamics in nursing and health care system delivery 4 * These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title.
TRANSFER CREDIT Learners must complete a minimum of 48 quarter credits within the core and program requirements at Capella University. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Diploma or associate s degree in nursing from an institution accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency or an internationally recognized institution. Grade point average of 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale Current, unrestricted RN license to practice in the United States Applicants who do not have any credits eligible for college/university transfer must successfully complete a university-approved examination. This Combined BSN/ MSN option is available to learners enrolled in the BSN degree program. Curriculum 22.5 general education program requirements 15 foundational nursing course program requirements 30 core course program requirements 19.5 elective course program points 3 capstone course program requirements Total program credits: 90 program points GENERAL EDUCATION COURSES A minimum of 22.5 program points ADDITIONAL PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Foundational nursing courses - 15 program points Undergraduate nursing skills coursework totaling 15 program points. REQUIRED COURSES NHS-FP4000 Developing a Health Care Perspective... 3 program points BSN-FP4002 Assessment, Communication, and Collaboration.. 3 program points BSN-FP4004 Nursing Research and Informatics... 3 program points BSN-FP4008 Organizational and Systems Management for Quality Outcomes... 3 program points BSN-FP4010 Health Promotion and Disease Prevention in Vulnerable and Diverse Populations... 3 program points BSN-FP4014 Global Perspectives of Community and Public Service... 3 program points BSN-FP4016 Pharmacology for Patient Safety... 3 program points BSN-FP4017 Collaborative Group Process for Nursing Professionals... 3 program points Learners enrolled in the Combined BSN/MSN Nursing option, FlexPath option complete the following master s-level courses in lieu of BSN-FP4006 and BSN-FP4012. NHS-FP5004 Collaboration, Communication, and Case Analysis for Health Care Master s Learners... 2 program points NHS-FP6004 Health Care Law and Policy... 2 program points MSN-FP6011 Evidence-Based Practice for Patient-Centered Care and Population Health... 2 program points These courses are taken in addition to the general education and remaining required courses. ELECTIVE COURSES Choose 19.5 program points of additional undergraduate courses. CAPSTONE COURSE Taken during the learner s final quarter: BSN-FP4020 Nursing Capstone Project... 3 program points 5 Admission to the Combined BSN/MSN option, FlexPath option requires learners to have a current, unrestricted RN license. Washington residents are currently not eligible to enroll in this specialization. The BSN degree program requires learners to maintain a current, independently verifiable, and unrestricted RN license throughout their program. The courses in this program may require live web conferencing activities and/or learner audio/video recordings. Learners who require assistive technology or alternative communication methods to participate in these activities should contact Disability Services to request accommodations.
You ll complete a required orientation that helps you understand the course format and expectations before you begin your program. Required Course Descriptions NHS-FP4000 Developing a Health Care Perspective In this course, learners build and strengthen the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to succeed in their program and in the workplace. Learners engage in interactive activities that help them develop and demonstrate a health care administration perspective and expand their organizational, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Other course topics include ethics, information literacy, and effectively writing for health care administration. For BSN, FlexPath option learners only. Must be taken during the learner s first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or prior learning assessment. BSN-FP4002 Assessment, Communication, and Collaboration In this course, learners analyze effective health assessment methods, communication strategies, and interdisciplinary collaboration techniques used in a variety of health care settings. Learners conduct a comprehensive evidence-based health assessment and examine and explain the communication skills members of collaborative teams need for evidencebased quality care. Before beginning each course, you ll complete a course plan to help you identify your key milestones and assessments. Competencies you successfully demonstrate through FlexPath are equivalent to credits earned through Capella s traditional online courses, should you wish to use those credits for transfer or applied credit. BSN-FP4004 Nursing Research and Informatics This course is an introduction to the application of research and information technology in the nursing profession. Learners identify the ways information systems and patient care technologies have contributed to improved patient outcomes; demonstrate competence in incorporating safeguards, secure practices, and ethical standards needed to promote and support data security, patient confidentiality, and regulatory requirements; and analyze effective use of patient care technologies, communication systems, and information systems across the health-illness continuum. Learners also examine ethics in nursing research and scholarship and the relationships among theory, research, and behavior in the application of evidence-based nursing practice. BSN-FP4006 Policy, Law, Ethics, and Regulations Learners in this course examine the role of health care policy and legal, regulatory, and quality control in ethical decision making in professional nursing practice. Learners develop and demonstrate their knowledge of concepts and principles of health care policy, legal control, ethical conduct, and regulatory environments and their application to the health care environment and the nursing profession. Learners analyze the impact of health care policy and multicultural, socioeconomic, political, legal, and regulatory factors on health care access disparities and practice articulating the needs of individuals, communities, and vulnerable populations to consumers and appropriate officials. Learners also focus on the importance of cultural competence and ethical decision making in professional nursing practice. BSN-FP4008 Organizational and Systems Management for Quality Outcomes In this course, learners acquire and demonstrate the fundamental concepts and principles of individual and organizational leadership necessary for successful nursing practice in integrated and nonintegrated health care systems and environments. Learners develop and demonstrate awareness of nursing leadership concepts, research, and models and evaluate best practices of organizational and systems leadership to apply to professional nursing practice. Learners integrate the concept of quality improvement with patient safety and examine the influence of complex organizational and leadership system issues on quality and patient safety initiatives. Learners also analyze techniques for monitoring individual and organizational performance in promoting safe and caring patient-centered environments. 6
Competency-based education is important to meet this country s, and adult learners, educational needs. FlexPath allows us to serve students with significant work experience, who are comfortable learning independently, and who can demonstrate job-ready skills through authentic assessments. Assessments are designed by a team of subjectmatter-expert faculty, assessment specialists, and instructional designers, who help clearly measure competencies as they apply to the workplace. BSN-FP4010 Health Promotion and Disease Prevention in Vulnerable and Diverse Populations Learners in this course develop and demonstrate competence in their understanding of concepts, frameworks, and models used to foster health promotion and disease prevention, particularly in multicultural and vulnerable populations. Learners evaluate the health care needs of individuals and populations from multicultural, ethnic, traditional, and spiritual perspectives and examine factors that cause wellness disparities among people in vulnerable populations. Learners analyze the ways health care access barriers are created and identify evidence-based best practices for developing a population-focused approach to health promotion and disease prevention. BSN-FP4012 Nursing Leadership and Management In this course, learners examine theoretical concepts of leadership and management for the professional nurse, particularly those associated with health care finance, human resources, and materials allocation. Learners build and apply a working knowledge of evidence-based best practices and behaviors that support effective nursing leadership in a variety of health care settings and analyze strategies for developing effective skills in coordination, delegation, collaboration, negotiation, conflict management, goal setting, performance improvement, and lifelong learning. Throughout the course, learners also integrate ethical interpersonal communication skills necessary for positive interdisciplinary working relationships. BSN-FP4014 Global Perspectives of Community and Public Service In this course, learners develop the knowledge, skills, and techniques needed to function as effective team members in public- or community service-based health care settings. Learners apply collaborative and innovative strategies for enhancing and improving current health care system approaches based on national and global holistic needs assessments and identify ways to advocate for quality patient and community outcomes and apply tribal, community, and global wellness strategies to professional practice. BSN-FP4016 Pharmacology for Patient Safety Learners in this course further develop their knowledge of pharmacology as they apply skills, attitudes, and techniques to evidence-based nursing practice. Learners demonstrate an understanding of general pharmacology, drug categories, and patient safety in a variety of health care settings. Learners also develop a multicultural and patient-centered perspective that addresses disease processes, pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies, teamwork, and patient safety initiatives. BSN-FP4017 Collaborative Group Process for Nursing Professionals In this course, learners build and strengthen the knowledge, skills, and techniques needed to initiate, lead, and function in collaborative group processes for the purpose of enhancing the health and wellness of individuals, groups, communities, and populations. Learners also identify group process barriers and interventions, particularly those associated with special and vulnerable populations and community and national directives. MSN-FP6011 Evidence-Based Practice for Patient-Centered Care and Population Health 2 PROGRAM POINTS Learners in this course acquire an understanding of the nature of evidence and its relative value and weight in making clinical decisions that impact patient and population outcomes. In particular, learners assess appropriate methods and analytic approaches in order to investigate, evaluate, and synthesize the best available evidence for potential solutions and innovations. 7
NHS-FP5004 Collaboration, Communication, and Case Analysis for Health Care Master s Learners 2 PROGRAM POINTS This course prepares learners for master s-level coursework in the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. Throughout the course, learners analyze how the role of the practitionerscholar guides leadership in the field of health care and determine the ways in which they can effectively use communication strategies expected of health care professionals. In particular, learners examine the attributes that contribute to effective and ethical health care leadership, including professional collaboration, communication, inclusion, and decision making. NHS-FP5004 must be taken by learners in their first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. NHS-FP6004 Health Care Law and Policy 2 PROGRAM POINTS In this course, learners examine the political, legal, and regulatory issues impacting health care organizations and environments. Learners analyze the effects of health care policy on health care practice and service delivery, with particular emphasis on the strategies used to monitor and maintain legal and regulatory compliance. Learners also identify and apply health care policy and law concepts that promote organizational improvement. Capstone Course Description BSN-FP4020 Nursing Capstone Project Learners in this course focus on synthesizing and applying the nursing knowledge and skills gained during their program. Learners demonstrate proficiency by integrating nursing theories, research, and best practices into a single practice model of health promotion or disease prevention for a specific community or population group. Learners create and customize an evidence-based project plan and develop and implement strategies for achieving desired project outcomes. For BSN learners only. Must be taken during the learner s final quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or prior learning assessment. 8
To maximize the financial benefit of FlexPath, it is recommended that learners take two or more courses per session. Tuition This tuition estimate is effective July 10, 2017, and is subject to change. For current pricing, visit the Capella University website at www.capella.edu. TUITION Tuition per 12-week session* $2,700 FlexPath provides a more flexible and efficient way to earn your degree by allowing you to complete courses at your own pace while paying a flat tuition rate. Courses can take anywhere from one week to a full academic session to complete. *Only learners enrolled in the BSN degree program may take the Combined BSN/MSN option. There are many financial aid options available to help you offset tuition costs. Contact an enrollment counselor at 1.888. CAPELLA (227.3552) to discuss your financial aid opportunities. Financial Aid Capella University offers assistance to learners who qualify and would like to secure educational funding to help finance their academic program. A number of options are available, given the diverse needs and backgrounds of prospective learners. Options include: Federal Direct Stafford Loan Program Federal Direct PLUS Loan Program Non-federal loans through preferred lenders and financial institutions Capella scholarships External scholarships Veterans educational benefits and U.S. armed forces discounts Corporate and higher education alliances Employer tuition reimbursement Regarding loan programs, interest rates for Stafford student loans are low compared to other types of consumer loans, and repayment can be deferred until after graduation. In compliance with federal and state laws, Capella University has established policies for all learners regarding satisfactory academic progress, which is necessary for financial aid eligibility. 9
Academic Leadership F. Patrick Robinson, PhD, RN, FAAN Dean Dr. Patrick Robinson serves as the dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences at Capella University. Prior to joining Capella, Dr. Robinson served as Senior Vice President of Academics for Orbis Education, Dean of Curriculum and Instruction at Chamberlain College of Nursing, Executive Assistant Dean of the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Nursing, and Chair of the Department of Health Management and Risk Reduction at the Niehoff School of Nursing at Loyola University Chicago. Additionally, Dr. Robinson is a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN). He holds a BSN and MSN from Indiana University, a PhD in Nursing Science from Loyola University Chicago and has completed a post-doctoral fellowship in biobehavioral nursing research at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Christy Davidson, DNP, RN Associate Dean and Director of Nursing Dr. Christy Davidson serves as associate dean and director of nursing for Capella University s School of Nursing and Health Sciences. Dr. Davidson has been with Capella since 2010, and has been a registered nurse for almost 18 years, having previously served as a staff nurse, clinical nurse specialist, legal nurse consultant, and nurse manager. Her areas of specialty and interest include women s and children s health, leadership and management, and quality improvement. Dr. Davidson holds a DNP in Leadership from the University of South Alabama and holds both an MSN in Adult Health and a BSN from the University of Mobile. Constance Hall, EdD/CI, RN Faculty Chair Dr. Constance Hall serves as the faculty chair for graduate nursing. Dr. Hall brings over twentyfive years of nursing education and clinical nursing experience to her new role. Her career has included nursing service administrative positions, faculty, and academic leadership roles. She has demonstrated expertise in nursing education curriculum development and her area of research focuses on nursing students perceptions of stress producing situations. Dr. Hall holds both an EdD/CI in Leadership with a specialty in curriculum and instruction and an MSN in Educational Leadership from the University of Phoenix, School of Advanced Studies. She also holds a BA in Biology from Hendrix College. Bridget Roberts, DNP Faculty Chair Dr. Bridget Roberts serves as the faculty chair for undergraduate and doctoral nursing and has been with Capella since 2014. Dr. Roberts brings over 17 years of experience in clinical nursing, nursing leadership, and nursing education to her role. Her career has included nursing service in clinical positions in adult health, leadership positions in quality improvement and staff development, and faculty and academic leadership positions in undergraduate and graduate nursing. She has demonstrated expertise in nursing education and is a certified nurse educator, published author, and a reviewer for peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Roberts holds a DNP in nursing leadership, an MSN in nursing administration and community health, and a BSN all from Eastern Kentucky University. 10
Move Forward with Capella University Important Information about the educational debt, earnings, and completion rates of students who attended this program: http://capellaresults.com/assets/ includes/gainfulemployment/ cta/ge/ge15/flexpath/bsn_fp_ Gedt.html. WORKING SCHOLARS Capella provides an online, flexible learning environment for working adults who are also determined scholars. That connection between academic and professional work infuses the entire Capella experience from the faculty we recruit to the course projects you complete. The theories discussed in the courseroom are designed to develop working knowledge for everyday situations. AN ACCREDITED UNIVERSITY Our accreditation* is an assurance to students, employers, and the public that Capella University meets established standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, and learner services. It is also an important factor in the ability to transfer credits among higher education institutions. Regional accreditation, the type held by Capella, is the most common type for major public, state, and private institutions in the United States. VALUING YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE Adults bring a wealth of experience and learning to their education. Capella courses are designed to bring out your perspectives just as you gain from others ideas. Your knowledge can also be worth time and money: An enrollment counselor can help you estimate how much of your prior learning may apply toward your Capella degree program. Capella Tower 225 South Sixth Street, Ninth Floor Minneapolis, MN 55402 1.888.CAPELLA (227.3552) www.capella.edu *ACCREDITATION Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. HIGHER LEARNING COMMISSION https://www.hlcommission.org 800.621.7440 2018 Capella University. All rights reserved.