Three Graduate Nursing Degree Options Now 100% Online
Health care professionals interested in advancing their careers can now choose from a variety of fully-online degree programs from Eastern Kentucky University, which has been educating leaders in the field for more than 40 years.
Applications are now being accepted for Master of Science (MSN) programs in Public Health Nursing and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, as well as a new Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. Certificate programs are also available. The new offerings continue EKU’s efforts to make education accessible to all through EKU Online.
EKU has offered quality nursing programs on its main campus for generations and has served as a catalyst for positive change through distance education. As a pioneer in the use of interactive television as a medium to expand educational opportunities, for example, the university played a significant role in enhancing the quality of health care in rural Kentucky. The MSN has been available through distance learning since 1995, supplementing ITV with more online courses over time. Graduates regularly praise the faculty for their ability to offer the challenging, respected curriculum they expect from EKU in a format that is convenient to adult learners seeking career advancement. Success is due in large part to the faculty’s hands-on approach to online learning.
“We strive to get to know our students, support them and encourage their growth,” explained Dr. Pam Schlomann, EKU professor and coordinator of the graduate Public Health Nursing option.
Fully online options are available in three areas with relevance in today’s changing health care climate.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program, which focuses on organizational leadership, was established in response to a recommendation from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing that the level of preparation needed for advanced nursing practice be elevated to the doctoral degree by 2015.
The Advanced Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program has enjoyed high certification exam passage rates since its inception in 2004. In keeping with the changes of advanced practice nursing education, the program has been revised to meet the requirements of the Consensus Model for APRN Regulation (Licensing, Accreditation, Certification and Education), while emphasizing a lifespan approach with clients. Students may earn an MSN or a post-master’s certificate in this area. A similar post-master’s certificate with a focus on family is also available.
The MSN in Public Health Nursing is in demand because of an increased emphasis on population health and prevention and to changes in the national healthcare system. Students choose either a concentration in administration or education. Graduates from the administration concentration are employed in leadership positions in acute care, community, and public health agencies. Graduates from the education concentration teach in schools of nursing and in staff development. Post-master’s certificates are available in Nursing Administration, Nursing Education and Public Health Nursing.
Applications are due Nov. 30. Classes begin in January 2013. For more information, visit www.eku.edu/nursing or www.ekuonline.eku.edu or call 859-622-7927.
Named one of the Top 10 Online Colleges in the Nation by "Best Colleges" in 2010, EKU strives to make quality education accessible to everyone. EKU is an accredited, brick-and-mortar institution celebrating more than 100 years of student success. EKU Online offers more than 20 degree options in a variety of fields, including Education, Psychology, Paralegal Studies, Police Studies, Corrections, Juvenile Justice, Occupational Safety, Fire Protection and Homeland Security.
Contact Information
Michelle Gorin
michelle.gorin@eku.edu
859-622-8407
Published on November 12, 2012