Course Descriptions

NA798 Portfolio IV (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of NA797  
In this course students document their preparation to assume the role of a CRNA through the creation of a professional portfolio over a period of time. The purpose of the portfolio is to provide evidence and analysis of personal and professional growth, reflect on achievement in relation to learning needs, and critically address contemporary clinical and professional issues, and demonstrate progress towards the program outcome objectives.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Demonstrate progress achievement towards the program outcome objectives.

DNP801 Advanced Human Physiology and Pathophysiology I (3 cr.)

This course is the first in a series of three courses. This initial course builds on the Registered Nurse’s prior baccalaureate curriculum in anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology to provide an advanced study in physiology and pathophysiology across the lifespan.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Describe normal anatomy and physiology for body systems across the lifespan, including cell biology, genetics, general physiology, membrane physiology, muscle physiology, and the autonomic and central nervous systems.
2. Apply the principles of physiology to recognize pathophysiologic states.
3. Synthesize knowledge of altered physiology to articulate appropriate differential diagnosis of pathophysiologic states.
4. Formulate a care plan based on a patient’s differential diagnosis.
5. Interpret the implications of pathophysiological alterations across the lifespan.
6. Describe the development of clinical manifestations of a disease based on the interrelatedness of pathophysiologic changes.

DNP802 Advanced Human Physiology and Pathophysiology II (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP801  
This course is the second course in a three course series. This course builds on the first course and provides intermediate concepts and applications in anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology to provide an advanced study in physiology and pathophysiology across the lifespan.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Describe normal anatomy and physiology for body systems across the lifespan, including the respiratory system, coagulation and transfusion, cardiac system, and the circulatory system.
2. Apply the principles of physiology to recognize pathophysiologic states.
3. Synthesize knowledge of altered physiology to articulate appropriate differential diagnosis of pathophysiologic states.
4. Formulate a care plan based on a patient’s differential diagnosis.
5. Interpret the implications of pathophysiological alterations across the lifespan.
6. Describe the development of clinical manifestations of a disease based on the interrelatedness of pathophysiologic changes.

DNP803 Advanced Human Physiology and Pathophysiology III (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP802 
This course is the third course in a three course series. This final course builds on the first two courses by providing advanced curriculum in anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology to provide a thorough study in physiology and pathophysiology across the lifespan.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Describe normal anatomy and physiology for body systems across the lifespan, including body fluids and kidneys, endocrinology, reproduction, the hepatic system, gastrointestinal physiology, and metabolism and temperature regulation.
2. Apply the principles of physiology to recognize pathophysiologic states.
3. Synthesize knowledge of altered physiology to articulate appropriate differential diagnosis of pathophysiologic states.
4. Formulate a care plan based on a patient’s differential diagnosis.
5. Interpret the implications of pathophysiological alterations across the lifespan.
6. Describe the development of clinical manifestations of a disease based on the interrelatedness of pathophysiologic changes.

DNP804 Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Reasoning (3 cr.)

This course builds upon health assessment skills of the practicing critical care nurse and focuses on health assessment across the human lifespan. Skills for efficiently obtaining a patient’s history with regard to social determinants of health including psychosocial, economic, and cultural differences are discussed. Students perform a focused history and physical assessment, incorporating diagnostic information, and determine an appropriate plan of care.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Utilize interpersonal and communication skills that result in the effective exchange of information and collaboration with patients and their families.
2. Distinguish physiological differences found throughout the lifespan.
3. Demonstrate the ability to obtain a comprehensive patient history and conduct a logically-sequenced physical assessment.
4. Document problems and needs in individuals from data discovered during the health history and physical examination.
5. Discuss the implications of social determinants of health including cultural values, socio-economic status, psychosocial characteristics, and environmental conditions on overall wellness. 
6. Demonstrate the ability to identify basic abnormal physiologic conditions and to describe their nature.

DNP805 Applied Chemistry and Physics for Nurse Anesthesia (3 cr.)

This course examines the principles of inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and physics as they apply to the practice of anesthesia. Topics include fluid and gas mechanics, physiologic monitoring, anesthesia delivery systems, and inhalation anesthesia. Other applied technologies including surgical lasers, radiology, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, and nuclear medicine are discussed with an emphasis on patient and provider safety. Application is demonstrated through the use of simulation software and clinical labs.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Synthesize and apply relevant principles of organic and inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, and physics to anesthesia technology and practice.
2. Discuss how physiologic and hemodynamic parameters are safely monitored in patients undergoing anesthesia care.
3. Apply principles of fluid and gas mechanics to pharmacology, hemodynamic monitoring, and anesthesia delivery systems.
4. Interpret and utilize data obtained from noninvasive and invasive monitoring modalities.
5. Integrate principles of ultrasonography to identify relevant landmarks prior to the administration of regional anesthetics or arterial or vascular cannulation.
6. Summarize and discuss safe use of anesthesia delivery systems and patient monitoring devices with a focus on recognizing and reacting to equipment-related malfunctions.
7. Create a care plan that provides for safe care of the provider and patient undergoing procedures that involve the use of surgical lasers, interventional radiology, nuclear medicine, and magnetic resonance imaging.

DNP806 Advanced Pharmacology I (3 cr.)

This course focuses on those drugs most often used in the practice of anesthesia. Initially, basic principles of pharmacology will be reviewed from prior nursing education and nursing experience. The course provides an overview of common anesthetic drug actions, interactions, metabolism, and methods of administration, dosages, side effects, precautions, and contraindications. This course offers case-based lectures to demonstrate the therapeutic application of these pharmacologic principles and how this translated into efficacy and potential toxicity.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Describe the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics, clinical uses, indications and contraindications, potential drug interactions, and therapeutic doses for anesthetic agents.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of pharmacokinetics when developing an individualized anesthetic plan that maximizes the therapeutic effectiveness while minimizing adverse reactions.
3. Examine appropriate guidelines for the anesthetic pharmacological management of selected healthcare syndromes/diseases commonly encountered with awareness of patient’s social determinants of health including nutrition, culture, ethnicity and socioeconomic status.
4. Provide appropriate patient education regarding furnished anesthetic agents and adjunct medications.

DNP807 Advanced Pharmacology II (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP806 
This course focuses on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of major drug classifications. The course provides an overview of common drug actions, interactions, metabolism, and methods of administration, dosages, side effects, precautions, and contraindications. Their interactions with anesthetic agents are discussed. This course offers case-based lectures to demonstrate the therapeutic application of these pharmacologic principles and how this translated into efficacy and potential toxicity.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Describe the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics, clinical uses, indications and contraindications, potential drug interactions, and therapeutic doses for anesthetic adjunctive agents.
2. Evaluate the patient’s medication history and describe additional diagnostic data needed prior to the administration of anesthesia.
3. Examine appropriate guidelines for the anesthetic pharmacological management of selected healthcare syndromes/diseases commonly encountered with awareness of patient’s social determinants of health including nutrition, culture, ethnicity and socioeconomic status.
4. Describe the interaction between an anesthetic and a patient’s chronic medication regime.
5. Integrate pharmacologic principles related to differing classifications of drugs into patient care plans.
6. Provide appropriate patient education regarding furnished anesthetic agents and adjunct medications.

DNP808 Research Design and Statistical Analysis in Nursing (3 cr.)

The focus of this course is critical analysis of the researcher role, the research process, and research ethics within a nursing framework. This course includes statistical methods used in epidemiologic research and health outcome studies. The interpretation of population data is addressed, including incidence, mortality, morbidity, and efficacy. Comparative and causal methods are presented in order to design evidence-based practice studies and evaluate programs. Emphasis is placed on ethical issues encountered by researchers.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate population data based on various epidemiological methods.
2. Discuss the role of research and evidence-based practice in contemporary healthcare.
3. Utilize qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to evaluate commonly used research designs including randomized clinical trials, crossover designs, quasi experimental designs, and case control studies.
4. Describe the normal curve, standardized scores, and basis for inferential statistics.
5. Interpret the results of common statistical procedures including t-tests, chi-square tests, correlation and regression, analysis of variance, effect sizes, survival analysis, odds ratios, and meta-analysis.
6. Analyze the reliability and validity of measures, interpret graphs and charts, and interpret confidence intervals.
7. Evaluate research according to internal and external validity, appropriateness of statistics used, methodologies paradigm, and generalizability of results.

DNP809 Advanced Research Writing in Nursing (3 cr.)

This course focuses on developing and refining a writing process for extensive research projects in nursing. Emphasis is on identifying and strengthening one’s voice as an academic writer; establishing a relationship with readers; achieving advanced skills in development, analysis, revision of ideas, and editing to mastery of research writing. APA style is a key component of the class.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Engage the research writing process.
2. Accurately apply APA writing style.
3. Evaluate the use of primary and secondary sources of research.
4. Conduct and evaluate effective manual and electronic literature searches.
5. Create a literature review employing an academic/scholarly research writing format.
6. Evaluate literature content.
7. Evaluate research ethics.
8. Evaluate the nature of research.

DNP810 Healthcare System Leadership 1: Professional Aspects and Role Development of the Nurse Anesthetist (2 cr.)

This course provides the graduate nurse anesthesia student an opportunity to focus on a variety of professional practice components and role development. Reading and discussion topics include the evolution of the profession, practice regulation, wellness and substance use disorder, business practices, and legal implications associated with anesthesia practice. Access to professional resources is also discussed.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Compare and contrast the processes and methods used by individual states, state boards of nursing, and healthcare organizations to regulate CRNA practice and credential providers.
2. Distinguish federal and state laws, regulatory agencies, and institutional policies that are applicable to the definition of practice, the assignment of liability, and the definition of malpractice.
3. Integrate and apply the essential elements of patient care documentation in relation to the AANA scope and standards of practice.
4. Define professional responsibility.
5. Consider the history of the nurse anesthesia profession in relation to today’s practice.
6. Demonstrate knowledge of wellness and chemical dependency in the anesthesia profession through completion of content in wellness and chemical dependency.
7. Determine strategies to inform the public and other stakeholders of the roles and practice of the CRNA.

DNP811 Healthcare System Leadership 2: Professional Ethics and Social Determinants of Health and Healthcare (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP810 
This course explores avenues for nurse anesthetists to promote societal well-being as a justice initiative through healthcare policy. The cultural, ethical, political, legal, economic, religious and secular forces affecting policy are examined along with strategies for effecting improvement in the health of the world. This course enables individuals to reflect on their personal ethical stances and to analyze and critique ethical issues related to a variety of contexts and situations.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Distinguish among cultural norms, ethical principles, professional codes, organizational policies, and personal values.
2. Analyze policies and laws impacting the structure and financing of healthcare delivery.
3. Define social determinants of health and describe impacts to local and national communities.
4. Evaluate an ethical decision-making framework that integrates professional standards and personal morals.
5. Analyze the interactions between applicable healthcare law, regulatory standards, and ethical practice.
6. Apply frameworks for administrative decision making, including access to quality care for all members of society.
7. Synthesize an approach for influencing the development, implementation, and evaluation of healthcare policy.
8. Propose health policy change to improve patient care and advance the specialty of nurse anesthesia.
9. Propose strategies to improve patient outcomes and quality of care.
10. Identify examples of effective local, regional, and national strategies for improving systems and policies.

DNP812 Healthcare System Leadership 3: Healthcare Policy, Finance, and Business Management for Nurse Anesthetists (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP810 , DNP811 
This course examines the practices and procedures associated with leading a healthcare organization. This course examines the tools of financial forecasting, planning, auditing programs, reporting systems, and control needed to make managerial decisions within the health sector. This course provides an overview of how to interpret financial statements, create and evaluate operating and capital budgets, and incorporate general principles of financial management.  This course also examines leadership processes, including strategic planning, problem solving and decision making, team building, supervision, and project management. These leadership skills are discussed within the context of providing effective patient care.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply a variety of approaches to the leadership challenges of clinical practice.
2. Create approaches for determining the effectiveness of leadership initiatives.
3. Integrate critical and reflective thinking in a leadership approach.
4. Relate the historical context of healthcare financial management, theory, and concepts to the current state of the health sector.
5. Create and evaluate an operating and capital budget for an organization.
6. Examine the reimbursement requirements and regulatory compliance on financial performance, including exploration billing and collections practices.
7. Analyze and evaluate the financial statements of organizations in the health or human service sectors.
8. Analyze business practices encountered in nurse anesthesia delivery settings.

DNP813 Scholarly Teaching and Learning in Nursing (2 cr.)

This course gives students the opportunity to explore their role as a learner and an educator in the healthcare environment.  Students gain practical experience and develop competency in determining teaching methods that can be used for academic, simulation, clinical, and patient education. Topics covered include instructional design, evaluation, and technology. Professional, cultural, social, and ethical issues are explored as they relate to the academic role.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Develop strategies to increase personal effectiveness as an educator.
2. Identify the benefits of proper time management.
3. Describe strategies to improve academic productivity and efficiency.
4. Appropriately select and apply technology to support the teaching-learning process.
5. Analyze and evaluate the social, cultural, and ethical implications of teaching and learning.
6. Synthesize and apply principles of curriculum and instructional design while planning the development, implementation, and evaluation of an academic course or clinical project.
7. Select appropriate classroom and clinical instructional and evaluation strategies based on course objectives which utilize appropriate technological developments in nursing education.
8. Explain the importance of simulation in advanced practice nursing education.

DNP814 Health Informatics and Technology for Transforming Nursing and Healthcare Systems (2 cr.)

This course covers collection and analysis of data to support administrative, operational, financial, clinical decision-making, and regulatory compliance. Roles that information systems and technologies serve in the health sector; types of computer-based health information systems; and issues related to data privacy, confidentiality, integrity, stewardship, and availability are addressed. Lastly, library research skills are also discussed.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Locate and describe regulations and strategic uses of data and information for healthcare, long-term care, or human services.
2. Use of historical and real-time data to make decisions through predictive analytics.
3. Differentiate between advantages (opportunities) and disadvantages (risks) of information technology when applied to the delivery of care and services within current and anticipated systems.
4. Identify specific technologies available for the collection, analysis, retrieval, storage, and dissemination of information.
5. Address how technology and predictive analytics can support the planning, implementation, and evaluation of current and future administrative, clinical, financial, and operational service programs.
6. Analyze the effectiveness of standardized vocabularies and classification systems, and identify how these systems impact delivery of care.
7. Articulate the ethical and management challenges that exist with information technologies in the health and human services sectors.

DNP820 Introduction to Principles of Anesthesia Practice (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): Concurrent course: DNP821  
This course is the first of three courses that explores basic anesthetic principles, equipment, monitors, and techniques. Principles courses are intended to build upon content learned in Advanced Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, allowing students to translate information learned into anesthesia practice. Anesthesia care plans are created for individual patients of all ages. Differing patient populations, including those with acute and chronic conditions, are explored in depth.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Create an individualized anesthetic management based on knowledge of pharmacology, normal physiology, and physiologic changes across the lifespan, and pathophysiologic alterations to provide safe anesthetic care for patients of all ages and states of health.
2. Integrate the professional standards of practice for the certified registered nurse anesthetist into patient care, with emphasis on patient safety, documentation, and legal aspects of care.
3. Summarize the use of monitoring technology and its application to planning care, ongoing patient assessment, and diagnosis.
4. Integrate psychosocial needs of the patient and family into the overall plan of care.
5. Plan for managing challenges and complications related to anesthetic technique and surgical procedure.
6. Create a plan for acute or chronic pain management of the patient depending upon the patient’s surgical procedure needs.

DNP821 Introduction to Principles of Anesthesia Practice Lab (1 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): none
Concurrent course: DNP820 
This lab is the first of three simulation courses that applies content learned in the principles of anesthesia classroom setting. The purpose of this lab is to provide clinical training for student registered nurse anesthetists in a simulation setting. Application is demonstrated via individual simulated patient scenarios and collaborative, team-based anesthesia delivery scenarios to improve students’ patient care skills and clinical decision making abilities.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Provide competent and evidence-based anesthesia care based on the clinical scenario provided.
2. Describe anatomical and physiologic changes that impact anesthesia care delivery planning.
3. Identify how delivery of anesthesia care affects patient outcome if they have an altered state of physical health according to the topic presented.
4. Illustrate alternate patient care strategies that could be expected to yield alternate outcomes to develop modifications to behavior and judgment based on evidence and best practices.
5. Plan for alterations and/ or changes in practice to insure negative patient outcomes are avoided.

DNP822 Advanced Principles of Anesthesia Practice I (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP820 , DNP821 
Concurrent Course: DNP823
This course is the second of three courses that explores advanced anesthetic principles, equipment, monitors, and techniques. Principles courses are intended to build upon content learned in Advanced Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, allowing students to translate information learned into anesthesia practice.  Anesthesia care plans are created for individual patients of all ages. Differing patient populations, including those with acute and chronic conditions are explored in depth.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Create an individualized anesthetic management based on knowledge of pharmacology, normal physiology, and physiologic changes across the lifespan, and pathophysiologic alterations to provide safe anesthetic care for patients of all ages and states of health.
2. Integrate the professional standards of practice for the certified registered nurse anesthetist into patient care, with emphasis on patient safety, documentation, and legal aspects of care.
3. Summarize the use of monitoring technology and its application to planning care, ongoing patient assessment, and diagnosis.
4. Integrate psychosocial needs of the patient and family into the overall plan of care.
5. Plan for managing challenges and complications related to anesthetic technique and surgical procedure.
6. Create a plan for acute or chronic pain management of the patient depending upon the patient’s surgical procedure needs.

DNP823 Advanced Principles of Anesthesia Practice I Lab (1 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP820 , DNP821 
Concurrent course: DNP822 
This lab is the second of three simulation courses that applies content learned in the principles of anesthesia classroom setting. The purpose of this lab is to provide clinical training for student registered nurse anesthetists in a simulation setting. Application is demonstrated via individual simulated patient scenarios and collaborative, team-based anesthesia delivery scenarios to improve students’ patient care skills and clinical decision making abilities.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Provide competent and evidence-based anesthesia care based on the clinical scenario provided.
2. Describe anatomical and physiologic changes that impact anesthesia care delivery planning.
3. Identify how delivery of anesthesia care affects patient outcome if they have an altered state of physical health according to the topic presented.
4. Illustrate alternate patient care strategies that could be expected to yield alternate outcomes to develop modifications to behavior and judgment based on evidence and best practices.
5. Plan for alterations and/ or changes in practice to insure negative patient outcomes are avoided.

DNP824 Advanced Principles of Anesthesia Practice II (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP820 , DNP821 , DNP822 , DNP823 
Concurrent course: DNP825 
This course is the third of three courses that explores advanced anesthetic principles, equipment, monitors, and techniques. Principles courses are intended to build upon content learned in Advanced Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, allowing students to translate information learned into anesthesia practice.  Anesthesia care plans are created for individual patients of all ages. Differing patient populations, including those with acute and chronic conditions are explored in depth. Application is demonstrated through the use of simulation software and clinical labs.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Create an individualized anesthetic management based on knowledge of pharmacology, normal physiology, and physiologic changes across the lifespan, and pathophysiologic alterations to provide safe anesthetic care for patients of all ages and states of health.
2. Integrate the professional standards of practice for the certified registered nurse anesthetist into patient care, with emphasis on patient safety, documentation, and legal aspects of care.
3. Summarize the use of monitoring technology and its application to planning care, ongoing patient assessment, and diagnosis.
4. Integrate psychosocial needs of the patient and family into the overall plan of care.
5. Plan for managing challenges and complications related to anesthetic technique and surgical procedure.
6. Create a plan for acute or chronic pain management of the patient depending upon the patient’s surgical procedure needs.

DNP825 Principles of Anesthesia Practice II Lab (1 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP820 , DNP821 , DNP822 , DNP823 
Concurrent course: DNP824 
This lab is the third of three simulation courses that applies content learned in the principles of anesthesia classroom setting. The purpose of this lab is to provide clinical training for student registered nurse anesthetists in a simulation setting. Application is demonstrated via individual simulated patient scenarios and collaborative, team-based anesthesia delivery scenarios to improve students’ patient care skills and clinical decision making abilities.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Provide competent and evidence-based anesthesia care based on the clinical scenario provided.
2. Describe anatomical and physiologic changes that impact anesthesia care delivery planning.
3. Identify how delivery of anesthesia care affects patient outcome if they have an altered state of physical health according to the topic presented.
4. Illustrate alternate patient care strategies that could be expected to yield alternate outcomes to develop modifications to behavior and judgment based on evidence and best practices.
5. Plan for alterations and/ or changes in practice to insure negative patient outcomes are avoided.

DNP830 Introduction to Nurse Anesthesia Clinical Practicum and Integration (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP820 , DNP821  
Concurrent courses: DNP822 , DNP823 
This course focuses on the application of evidence-based research principles to nurse anesthesia practice. Discussions are facilitated by practitioners in a care conference format. Activities include reviewing principles of evidence-based practice interventions and critical analysis of actual case scenarios. Students attend senior student presentations as a requirement of this course. Professional issues are also addressed.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze patient care outcomes in terms of planned or actual care delivered, cultural awareness, cost, and contemporary evidence-based principles.
2. Demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving skills while evaluating actual patient care.
3. Effectively share confidential clinical correlation information with classmates in a professional manner.
4. Discuss strategies to ensure provider wellness and how they can be integrated into anesthesia practice.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of individualized anesthetic management based on knowledge of pharmacology, normal physiology, and physiologic changes across the lifespan, and pathophysiologic alterations to provide safe anesthetic care for patients of all ages and states of health.
6. Evaluate and discuss key concepts presented by senior students during their formal presentations.

DNP831 Clinical Practicum I (120 hours) (1 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP830 
Concurrent courses: DNP822 , DNP823  
Clinical Practicum I provides the student with opportunities to apply the didactic principles of anesthesia to patient care. Students must master the basic skills and routines associated with anesthesia practice by spending time observing anesthesia and surgery in an urban medical center. This course also includes 90 minute clinical correlative conferences every other week (8 conferences total) in addition to time at practicum sites.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Formulate an individualized, physiologically sound, evidence based and culturally competent anesthesia plan of care for patients from diverse populations across the lifespan, while taking into account the surgical procedures and comorbid conditions.
2. Implement a formulated anesthesia plan of care in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner to ensure the best possible patient outcome.
3. Analyze physiologic responses to the anesthetic and implement scientifically sound interventions.
4. Evaluate nurse anesthesia care to positively impact patient outcomes, reduce complications, and improve the safety and quality of nurse anesthesia care.
5. Demonstrate the highest legal, ethical, and practice standards for nurse anesthesia while accepting responsibility and accountability for one’s own actions as a healthcare professional.        

DNP832 Clinical Practicum II (360 hours) (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP830 , DNP831 
Concurrent course: DNP840 
Clinical practicum provides the student with the opportunity to apply the principles of anesthesia to direct patient care. Students provide supervised care in a variety of settings and specialty rotations to demonstrate proficiency in advanced anesthetic techniques.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Formulate an individualized, physiologically sound, evidence based and culturally competent anesthesia plan of care for patients from diverse populations across the lifespan, while taking into account the surgical procedures and comorbid conditions.
2. Implement a formulated anesthesia plan of care in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner to ensure the best possible patient outcome.
3. Analyze physiologic responses to the anesthetic and implement scientifically sound interventions.
4. Evaluate nurse anesthesia care to positively impact patient outcomes, reduce complications, and improve the safety and quality of nurse anesthesia care.
5. Demonstrate the highest legal, ethical, and practice standards for nurse anesthesia while accepting responsibility and accountability for one’s own actions as a healthcare professional.

DNP833 Clinical Practicum III (480 hours) (4 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP830 , DNP831 , DNP832 
Concurrent course: DNP841  
Clinical practicum provides the student with the opportunity to apply the principles of anesthesia to direct patient care. Students provide supervised care in a variety of settings and specialty rotations to demonstrate proficiency in advanced anesthetic techniques.

Upon completion of this course students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Formulate an individualized, physiologically sound, evidence based and culturally competent anesthesia plan of care for patients from diverse populations across the lifespan, while taking into account the surgical procedures and comorbid conditions.
2. Implement a formulated anesthesia plan of care in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner to ensure the best possible patient outcome.
3. Analyze physiologic responses to the anesthetic and implement scientifically sound interventions.
4. Evaluate nurse anesthesia care to positively impact patient outcomes, reduce complications, and improve the safety and quality of nurse anesthesia care.
5. Demonstrate the highest legal, ethical, and practice standards for nurse anesthesia while accepting responsibility and accountability for one’s own actions as a healthcare professional.      

DNP834 Clinical Practicum IV (480 hours) (4 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP830 , DNP831 , DNP832 , DNP833 
Concurrent course: DNP842  
Clinical practicum provides the student with the opportunity to apply the principles of anesthesia to direct patient care. Students provide supervised care in a variety of settings and specialty rotations to demonstrate proficiency in advanced anesthetic techniques.

Upon completion of this course students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Formulate an individualized, physiologically sound, evidence based and culturally competent anesthesia plan of care for patients from diverse populations across the lifespan, while taking into account the surgical procedures and comorbid conditions.
2. Implement a formulated anesthesia plan of care in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner to ensure the best possible patient outcome.
3. Analyze physiologic responses to the anesthetic and implement scientifically sound interventions.
4. Evaluate nurse anesthesia care to positively impact patient outcomes, reduce complications, and improve the safety and quality of nurse anesthesia care.
5. Demonstrate the highest legal, ethical, and practice standards for nurse anesthesia while accepting responsibility and accountability for one’s own actions as a healthcare professional.

DNP835 Clinical Practicum V (600 hours (5 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP830 , DNP831 , DNP832 , DNP833 , DNP834 
Concurrent course: DNP843 
Clinical practicum provides the student with the opportunity to apply the principles of anesthesia to direct patient care. Students provide supervised care in a variety of settings and specialty rotations to demonstrate proficiency in advanced anesthetic techniques.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Formulate an individualized, physiologically sound, evidence based and culturally competent anesthesia plan of care for patients from diverse populations across the lifespan, while taking into account the surgical procedures and comorbid conditions.
2. Implement a formulated anesthesia plan of care in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner to ensure the best possible patient outcome.
3. Analyze physiologic responses to the anesthetic and implement scientifically sound interventions.
4. Evaluate nurse anesthesia care to positively impact patient outcomes, reduce complications, and improve the safety and quality of nurse anesthesia care.
5. Demonstrate the highest legal, ethical, and practice standards for nurse anesthesia while accepting responsibility and accountability for one’s own actions as a healthcare professional.

DNP836 Clinical Practicum VI (600 hours) (5 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP830 , DNP831 , DNP832 , DNP833 , DNP834 , DNP835  
Concurrent course: DNP844 
Clinical practicum provide the student with the opportunity to apply the principles of anesthesia to direct patient care. Students provide supervised care in a variety of settings and specialty rotations to demonstrate proficiency in advanced anesthetic techniques.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Formulate an individualized, physiologically sound, evidence based and culturally competent anesthesia plan of care for patients from diverse populations across the lifespan, while taking into account the surgical procedures and comorbid conditions.
2. Implement a formulated anesthesia plan of care in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner to ensure the best possible patient outcome.
3. Analyze physiologic responses to the anesthetic and implement scientifically sound interventions.
4. Evaluate nurse anesthesia care to positively impact patient outcomes, reduce complications, and improve the safety and quality of nurse anesthesia care.
5. Demonstrate the highest legal, ethical, and practice standards for nurse anesthesia while accepting responsibility and accountability for one’s own actions as a healthcare professional.

DNP837 Clinical Practicum VII (480 hours) (4 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP830 , DNP831 , DNP832 , DNP833 , DNP834 , DNP835 , DNP836  
Concurrent course: DNP850  
Clinical practicum provides the student with the opportunity to apply the principles of anesthesia to direct patient care. Students provide supervised care in a variety of settings and specialty rotations to demonstrate proficiency in advanced anesthetic techniques.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Formulate an individualized, physiologically sound, evidence based and culturally competent anesthesia plan of care for patients from diverse populations across the lifespan, while taking into account the surgical procedures and comorbid conditions.
2. Implement a formulated anesthesia plan of care in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner to ensure the best possible patient outcome.
3. Analyze physiologic responses to the anesthetic and implement scientifically sound interventions.
4. Evaluate nurse anesthesia care to positively impact patient outcomes, reduce complications, and improve the safety and quality of nurse anesthesia care.
5. Demonstrate the highest legal, ethical, and practice standards for nurse anesthesia while accepting responsibility and accountability for one’s own actions as a healthcare professional.

DNP840 Applied Epidemiology in Evidence Based Practice (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP808 , DNP809 , DNP820 , DNP821 , DNP822 , DNP823 , DNP824 , and DNP825 
This course provides basic epidemiologic concepts and operationalizes the evidence-based practice perspective of advanced practice nursing. The types and robustness of evidence from multiple sources are emphasized. Logic trails and triangulation are studied as related to specific healthcare delivery problems. The course includes an overview of chronic and infectious disease epidemiology using historical and current public health challenges, specifically focusing on social determinants of health. How genetics impact diseases is also studied. In addition to studying various aspects of disease in populations, the importance and types of disease prevention are included. This course provides an opportunity for students to determine their area of interest for their DNP scholarly project.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate professional practice in the context of supporting scientific evidence.
2. Apply knowledge to practice in decision-making and problem solving.
3.  Analyze strategies to improve patient outcomes and quality of care. 
4.  Analyze health outcomes in a variety of populations, systems and clinical settings.
5. Distinguish between a clinical and a population approach to risk factors and disease.
6. Explain the range of personal, social, economic, and environmental factors that influence determinants of health.
7. Articulate biological and genetic factors that affect a population’s health.
8. List major causes and trends in morbidity and mortality in the United States or other large population.
9. Interpret and discuss how various epidemiologic studies (cross-sectional, case-control, cohort, ecologic, and intervention) are used to study statistical associations between risk factors and disease or death outcomes.
10. Differentiate between a statistical association and a causal relationship between a risk factor and a health outcome. 

DNP841 DNP Scholarly Project I -Planning (100 clinical hours) (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP808 , DNP809 , DNP813 , and DNP840  
The DNP Scholarly Project is the culmination of the nurse anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) curriculum. Successful completion of the final Scholarly Project provides verification that the student has achieved competency in the scholarship skills relevant to the DNP Degree.

This is the first in a series of four scholarly project courses that span four semesters of the program. This course is offered in Year 2 of the program and focuses on the initial development of the DNP Scholarly Project, including system evaluation, gathering evidence to support the project, the development of a PICO(T) question, and identification of project stakeholders/facilitators/ barriers. Students must evaluate social determinants of health that could be impacted by the project and identify strategies to eliminate barriers to project implementation. Students are expected to work in groups of two or three. Much of this course will consist of literature review, collaboration with advisors and other relevant project personnel, and laying the initial foundation for the project. Students also gain an appreciation for the role of the IRB and complete all mandated CITI training. The course culminates with the Scholarly Project Proposal, an oral presentation delivered to faculty and classmates that offers an opportunity for idea sharing and project refinement. Each student is responsible for completing equal parts of the project. Students complete a self-assessment as well as an assessment of each team member, which contributes to the final grade for the course. In addition, monthly review assignments and exams are tied to this course for an individual final score that is earned by the student.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Implement an established timeline for completion of the project.
2. Employ advanced inter and intra-professional collaboration skills with numerous key stakeholders to improve health outcomes.
3. Demonstrate leadership through the development of innovations that incorporate aspects of change theories.
4. Demonstrate leadership in the translation of best evidence into practice to improve healthcare quality, safety and outcomes.
5. Define social determinants of health impacted by the project and identify strategies to eliminate barriers to project implementation.
6. Develop a scholarly work in the form of a manuscript suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.
7. Deliver an oral presentation of the final project before a Scholarly Project Committee and peers.
8. External dissemination through the development of a poster and/ or oral presentation for delivery at a state or national meeting.

DNP842 Scholarly Project II - Implementation (50 clinical hours) (1 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP808 , DNP809 , DNP813 , DNP840 , and DNP841  
The DNP Scholarly Project is the culmination of the nurse anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) curriculum. Successful completion of the final Scholarly Project will provide verification that the student has achieved competency in the scholarship skills relevant to the DNP Degree.

This course is the second in a series of DNP Scholarly Project courses and focuses on the steps of identifying and refining the DNP Scholarly Project’s methodology and on project implementation. Students must evaluate social determinants of health that could be impacted by the project and identify strategies to eliminate barriers prior to project implementation. Activities associated with this course may include, but are not limited to: the development of the study design, determining plans for statistical analysis, the development and distribution of surveys/ assessments, continued communication and engagement with stakeholders, system change needs, and educational interventions that may be part of the project. IRB approval is obtained at this time if it is determined to be necessary based upon the project. Each student is responsible for completing equal parts of the project. Students complete a self-assessment as well as an assessment of each team member, which contributes to the final grade for the course. In addition, monthly review exams and assignments are tied to this course for an individual final score that is earned by the student.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Implement an established timeline for completion of the project.
2. Employ advanced inter and intra-professional collaboration skills with numerous key stakeholders to improve health outcomes.
3. Demonstrate leadership through the development of innovations that incorporate aspects of change theories.
4. Demonstrate leadership in the translation of best evidence into practice to improve healthcare quality, safety and outcomes.
5. Define social determinants of health impacted by the project and identify strategies to eliminate barriers to project implementation.
6. Develop a scholarly work in the form of a manuscript suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.
7. Deliver an oral presentation of the final project before a Scholarly Project Committee and peers.
8. External dissemination through the development of a poster and/ or oral presentation for delivery at a state or national meeting.

DNP843 DNP Scholarly Project III - Analysis (50 clinical hours) (1 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP808 , DNP809 , DNP813 , DNP840 , DNP841 , and DNP842  
The DNP Scholarly Project is the culmination of the nurse anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) curriculum. Successful completion of the final Scholarly Project provides verification that the student has achieved competency in the scholarship skills relevant to the DNP Degree.

This course is the third in a series of DNP Scholarly Project courses and focuses on the “Analysis” phase of the Scholarly Project. Activities associated with this course include, but are not limited to: analyzing survey results, working with statistics personnel to ensure that appropriate statistical analysis is performed, conducting meetings for follow up or clarification of results, and generating conclusions from the results of data gathered. Students must evaluate social determinants of health that were unexpectedly created or impacted by project implementation. Each student is responsible for completing equal parts of the project. Students complete a self-assessment as well as an assessment of each team member, which contributes to the final grade for the course. In addition, monthly review exams and assignments are tied to this course for an individual final score that is earned by the student.

Upon completion of the scholarly project, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Implement an established timeline for completion of the project.
2. Employ advanced inter and intra-professional collaboration skills with numerous key stakeholders to improve health outcomes.
3. Demonstrate leadership through the development of innovations that incorporate aspects of change theories.
4. Demonstrate leadership in the translation of best evidence into practice to improve healthcare quality, safety and outcomes.
5. Define social determinants of health impacted by the project and identify strategies to eliminate barriers to project implementation.
6. Develop a scholarly work in the form of a manuscript suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.
7. Deliver an oral presentation of the final project before a Scholarly Project Committee and peers.
8. External dissemination through the development of a poster and/ or oral presentation for delivery at a state or national meeting.

DNP844 DNP Scholarly Project IV - Conclusion and Dissemination (50 clinical hours) (1 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP808 , DNP809 , DNP813 , DNP840 , DNP841 , DNP842 , and DNP843  
The DNP Scholarly Project is the culmination of the nurse anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) curriculum. Successful completion of the final Scholarly Project provides verification that the student has achieved competency in the scholarship skills relevant to the DNP Degree.

This course is the fourth and final course in the DNP Scholarly Project series. This course focuses on the “conclusions and dissemination” phase of the Scholarly Project. Activities associated with this course include, but are not limited to: discussing how the outcomes of the project impacts the population/ practice area in which the project was conducted, sharing this information with relevant stakeholders and project participants, and identifying future implications of the project. Students must comment on social determinants of health that were revealed or impacted by the project throughout their work. During this course, each graduating student participates in formally presenting an analysis of their evidence-based scholarly project findings during the final project presentation. First year students, scholarly work and faculty advisors, and other relevant stakeholders are in the audience to critique each presentation and provide feedback. These presentations  provides the student with an opportunity to explain his or her project aims and outcomes, as well as articulate an understanding of the processes necessary to successfully execute a DNP Scholarly Project. As part of this course, students also prepare a manuscript for submission to a peer-reviewed journal, and prepare either a poster or podium presentation (or both) for a state or national meeting. The grade for the course are based on the student’s final project presentation, along with an evaluation of individual SRNA’s scholarly and professional behaviors throughout the project continuum. Each student is responsible for completing equal parts of the project including the dissemination. Students complete a self-assessment as well as an assessment of each team member, which contributes to the final grade for the course. In addition, monthly review exams and assignments are tied to this course for an individual final score that is earned by the student.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Implement an established timeline for completion of the project.
2. Employ advanced inter and intra-professional collaboration skills with numerous key stakeholders to improve health outcomes.
3. Demonstrate leadership through the development of innovations that incorporate aspects of change theories.
4. Demonstrate leadership in the translation of best evidence into practice to improve healthcare quality, safety and outcomes.
5. Define social determinants of health impacted by the project and identify strategies to eliminate barriers to project implementation.
6. Develop a scholarly work in the form of a manuscript suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.
7. Oral presentation of final project before a Scholarly Project Committee and peers.
8. External dissemination through the development of a poster and/ or oral presentation for delivery at a state or national meeting.

DNP850 Program Comprehensive Exams (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): DNP801 , DNP802 , DNP803 , DNP804 , DNP805 , DNP806 , DNP807 , DNP821 , DNP821 , DNP822 , DNP823 , DNP824 , DNP825 , and DNP840 
The student’s mastery of their anesthesia knowledge base is assessed via a series of comprehensive examinations. Examination topics include all content studied throughout the program.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Demonstrate a mastery of the anesthesia knowledge base by obtaining a passing score achievement level on each comprehensive examination.

OL614 Leadership and Ethics (3 cr.)

This course focuses on theories and styles of leadership and the ways in which outcomes are influenced through increased awareness of personal style and skills. Personal and professional ethics are analyzed, and ethical issues in organizations are explored.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate personal leadership strengths and opportunities for leadership success.
2. Analyze the role of the leader in the context of organizational issues.
3. Analyze one’s learning and communication style as it applies to leadership in a technological world.
4. Distinguish emotional intelligence competencies that contribute to leadership success.
5. Analyze ethical principles that affect decision making.
6. Analyze ethical dilemmas within organizations.
7. Synthesize the individual, organizational, and systemic issues in ethical situations.
8. Construct a process for ethically responsible decision making and apply this model to ethical decision points.

OL615 Critical Thinking and Research (3 cr.)

This course focuses on exploring, analyzing, and evaluating information in order to think critically when creating leadership strategy.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Assess the foundational criteria, assumptions, and sources of beliefs and values.
2. Use creativity and innovation as an aspect of critical thinking for leadership practice.
3. Articulate the complexity inherent in controversial issues.
4. Analyze an issue from several points of view.
5. Create a research design and protocol for a research question.
6. Synthesize information from multiple sources in planning for change.
7. Engage constituents in using research to address organizational needs.
8. Apply ethical considerations in research.

OL624 Collaboration and Teambuilding (3 cr.)

This course focuses on collaboration skills in developing high performing teams. Personal power, conflict, and influence are examined. Team building communication techniques are also included.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Develop strategies for high-performing teams.
2. Evaluate the role of influence and personal power in building relationships.
3. Analyze and apply appropriate conflict management approaches.
4. Evaluate collaboration skills for team building.
5. Assess cultural situations in organizations.
6. Evaluate supportive communication techniques.
7. Analyze an emotional competence framework and apply it to teams.
8. Apply systems theory, team collaboration, and shared vision to organizations.

OL625 Communication Strategies (3 cr.)

This course focuses on tools, techniques, and strategies for effective communication in organizational excellence. Presentation, negotiation, and advocacy are examined.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate how communication tools, channels, and techniques affect strategy.
2. Demonstrate interpersonal communication to manage relationships via technology.
3. Demonstrate effective and supportive listening skills in respectful engagement of others’ ideas, behaviors, and beliefs.
4. Demonstrate the use of narrative and storytelling as a communication strategy.
5. Demonstrate successful negotiating skills.
6. Match vocabulary and voice to audience needs.
7. Argue for and influence an audience on a critical topic.
8. Present material in a visually appealing manner.

OL634 Economic and Political Contexts (3 cr.)

This course focuses on global, economic, and political issues influencing today’s organizations. Contextual factors and trends in world economics and politics are examined.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze the factors influencing the international political economy and the management of organizations.
2. Analyze the viewpoints identified in global politics.
3. Analyze the influence of organizational beliefs and policies on global economies.
4. Synthesize the cultural, economic, political, and social perspectives that impact organizations.
5. Evaluate global trends important for effective local management.
6. Articulate the challenges unique to organizations that operate globally.

OL635 Social and Cultural Perspectives (3 cr.)

This course focuses on the ethical stewardship of an organization within a contextual environment. Increased awareness of social responsibility and global citizenship is addressed along with cultural influences that impact organizations.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Demonstrate appropriate cultural and contextual communication.
2. Evaluate components of and influences on organizational culture.
3. Evaluate strategies for an organizational culture of diversity and inclusion.
4. Respect viewpoints that differ from the view most dominant in cultures.
5. Evaluate the choices and decisions required for social responsibility.
6. Synthesize ethical requirements with organizational ethical frameworks.
7. Analyze compliance issues and principles that affect an organizational operating internationally.

OL640 Power and Influence (3 cr.)

This course focuses on the dynamics of power and influence within organizations.  It explores the role of power in leadership and how to appropriately exercise it.  An overview of the nature and types of power in leadership roles is examined, along with the relationship between power and influence.  Communication, relationship building, and organizational politics are also addressed in relation to power and influence.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze the role that power plays in leadership within today’s society
2. Describe the relationship among leadership, power, and influence.
3. Evaluate the connections between power and leadership as they relate to ethical conduct.
4. Define the nature and characteristics of power, as it exists in the workplace.
5. Articulate how power influences leadership abilities, including communication, conflict management, and decision making.

OL644 Talent Management (3 cr.)

This course focuses on talent analysis of the whole organization while advancing development of its mission delivery. Performance management principles are examined.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze organizational talent demands.
2. Assess an organization’s life cycle stage and plan for growth.
3. Evaluate talent management models to address organizational needs.
4. Evaluate recruitment and retention strategies for alignment with organizational values.
5. Distinguish between talent management and leadership development.
6. Synthesize intellectual capital issues related to talent management and knowledge management.

OL646 Organization Development (3 cr.)

This course focuses on an overview of the fundamental components of organization development.  It is designed to provide students with different perspectives on organization development at the individual, group, and organizational levels of analysis. Students learn theoretical models to evaluate organizational performance, as well as techniques that develop the organization’s ability to manage change.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Describe the theoretical components of organization development and theory.
2. Analyze challenges and opportunities of an internal/external consultant.
3. Articulate the dynamics of the change process and resistance to change in organizations.
4. Assess opportunities for planned and emergent change within an organization.
5. Evaluate various organization interventions at the individual, group, and organizational level.

OL650 Organizational Effectiveness (3 cr.)

This course focuses on assessing the overall effectiveness of various organizations and their approaches to change. Students learn how to apply theoretical models to evaluate organizational performance, techniques to manage interventions, and methods of evaluating and institutionalizing change. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply an organization development model to a design change strategy that may promote organizational effectiveness.
2. Articulate organizational problems at the individual, group (including team or unit), and organization levels of analysis.
3. Recommend solutions to address organizational problems.
4. Identify institutionalized evaluation techniques for planned change.

OL654 Strategy and Innovation (3 cr.)

This course focuses on strategic thinking and creativity in organizational leadership. Innovation is examined as a process to develop the strengths of a system or organization, and to deliver positive results.  Evaluation, analysis, and integration based on previous course learning is expected.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate the creative process.
2. Apply the principles of strategic thinking, planning, and development.
3. Evaluate the processes for developing a strategic initiative.
4. Analyze the blocks and enhancements to developing creativity.
5. Integrate creative thinking strategies in a system or an organization to build and/or foster its capacity to innovate, change, and develop.
6. Analyze trends in technology which influence innovation and leadership.
7. Assemble thoughtful, innovative strategies with creative practices for organizational/systems learning.

OL655 Capstone Symposium (3 cr.)

This course focuses on integrating the knowledge, skill, and experience from all leadership coursework through research, writing, and a proposal for creative change.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Integrate, synthesize, and apply coursework in order to assess the role of the leader and leadership practice, and its interconnection with organizational/systems functioning.
2. Evaluate information and its sources critically.
3. Synthesize knowledge, skills, and experiences with leaders and leadership.
4. Evaluate peer presentations using a supportive communication style.

PHDE607 Introduction to Philanthropy and Development (3 cr.)

This course examines two areas key to the work of today’s development professional. The first is an understanding of the historical contexts, the theological and philosophical traditions, and the roles of philanthropy and development that continue to shape the field. The second is an exploration of critical thinking: raising vital questions, gathering and assessing relevant information in an open-minded manner, and creating well-reasoned solutions.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Distinguish philanthropy from development.
2. Analyze the social and faith-tradition contexts that influence philanthropy.
3. Evaluate historical practices and their influence on today’s development approaches.
4. Develop a personal philanthropic vision.
5. Apply critical thinking skills.
6. Evaluate an expansive vision of philanthropic work and understand our public roles as philanthropic leaders in delivering programs that create positive change for the common good.

PHDE622 Foundations of Development (3 cr.)

This course provides an overview of the foundational concepts of fund development, explores the critical components of a comprehensive fund development program, provides the framework for developing an integrated development plan, and examines the infrastructure necessary to support a strong development effort.  The course focuses on understanding organizational readiness for a successful development program, establishing the key elements of a development program, and creating a development plan. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Define and explain primary roles of the development operation including direct mail, special events, grant proposal writing, corporate and foundation giving, gift planning, major gifts, memorial and tribute gifts and emerging giving trends including crowdsourcing, Giving Days and cryptocurrency.    
2. Understand the role of advancement services including prospect research, gift processing, gift metrics, relationship-management systems, and stewardship in the overall development operation.
3. Develop skills to create a development plan and successfully execute and evaluate the outcomes of the plan.

PHDE634 Strategic Giving (3 cr.)

This course provides an overview of major, planned and capital gift fundraising including the design, planning and successful implementation of a major and planned gifts program for nonprofit organizations. The course focuses on establishing an effective major and planned gifts program, developing a donor stewardship program and making the ask.  Students are expected to participate in simulated cultivation and solicitation calls as part of this class. Students become familiar with instruments for planned giving, estate planning and the roles of different professionals in charitable gift planning.

 Additionally, students explore the role of the capital campaign as part of the development operation.  When should a campaign be considered?  Course content focuses on how to go about planning for and implementing a successful campaign.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Define the key elements of a successful major gifts program.
2. Examine the major gift process including identifying, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding gifts.
3. Develop and implement specific solicitation plans for targeted constituencies.
4. Ask for and secure gifts from current and prospective donors in order to generate financial support for the organization.
5. Successfully plan, prepare for and execute a capital campaign.      
6. Compare and contrast the various motivations of philanthropic donors and evaluate the values that underlie the different motivations for giving.

PHDE650 Transformational Leadership (3 cr.)

This course focuses on leadership needs in the nonprofit sector and explores how it shapes an organization’s philanthropic culture.  The course also covers styles of leadership and the ways in which outcomes are influenced through increased awareness of personal approach, character, values, and skills. Leaders are those who set goals individually and cooperatively and move themselves and others closer to them; various personal and institutional behaviors are reviewed. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Reflect on the different styles of leadership and how and when to employ them.
2. Articulate the differences between managing and leading a development team.
3. Deepen personal leadership skills and develop new tools to employ as an effective leader.
4. Explore the importance of character as a core value of a successful leader.

PHDE656 Strategic Planning (3 cr.)

This course focuses on designing and implementing the strategic planning process for a nonprofit organization. Students learn about the key elements of strategic planning including data gathering, setting goals and objectives, evaluating progress against the plan and securing resources to fund the plan.  The final course project challenges students to create a plan outlining how they would implement the strategic planning process within a nonprofit organization of their choice.  

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Articulate the role of planning in a nonprofit organization.
2. Create, orient, and manage an effective strategic planning team.
3. Implement the data-gathering, visioning, critical issues, goals, objectives and evaluation steps in a strategic planning process.
4. Identify how the completed plan would be communicated to stakeholders.    
5. Define the importance and process of creating a plan to secure gifts in support of the plan.

PHDE658 Donor Relations and Communications (3 cr.)

This course focuses on the subtle science of persuading people to make a gift and remain loyal to an organization.  Students explore the importance of building donor relationships via effective communication and thoughtful cultivation.  In addition, students analyze donor communications materials including recent successful direct mail campaigns, newsletters and e-solicitations.  Students learn how direct mail and other donor communication vehicles work, how to set achievable expectations and how to write donor communications that engage and inspire the reader.  

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Prepare engaging print and digital solicitations, acknowledgments and stewardship communications.
2. Develop the case for support for a nonprofit organization.
3. Create materials that use words and images to attract and retain donors. 
4. Employ electronic media including email and social media in effective donor communications and solicitations.
5. Reflect on the neuroscience of persuasion as it relates to donor communication.

PHDE661 Legal and Ethical Issues in Nonprofit Organizations (3 cr.)

This course explores the role of ethics and values in our lives as philanthropic leaders and professionals as well as the legal concepts and principles that regulate nonprofit organizations.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Articulate the role of ethics in organizational settings.
2. Apply a values-based approach to leading and managing fundraising programs.
3. Analyze the importance of the Donor Bill of Rights and International Statement of Ethical Principles in Fundraising.
4. Examine state and federal laws that govern charitable giving.
5. Describe basic legal concepts and principles that regulate nonprofit organizations.

PHDE663 Board and Volunteer Management (3 cr.)

This course focuses on the complexities of volunteer management and board governance and the scope of volunteer and board participation in fund development.  The course explores the board’s legal and fiduciary responsibilities, and the complexities of recruiting, motivating and developing an effective board.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Assess the value of volunteers and board members associated with a nonprofit organization.
2. Compare and contrast the roles of volunteers, board members, development professionals and CEOs in fund development.
3. Define the development professional’s role in volunteer management.
4. Create processes and plans to develop volunteers and board members.
5. Develop strategies to engage board members in advancing the mission of the organization.
6. Synthesize the principles of governance for enhanced board functioning.

PHDE698 Capstone (3 cr.)

This course provides an opportunity for students to synthesize and present the concepts, knowledge and experiences gained from coursework and a literature review on a topic that contributes new knowledge to the field.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Conduct a comprehensive literature review on a topic related to philanthropy and development.
2. Demonstrate the ability to integrate, synthesize, and evaluate professional literature.
3. Deliver a Capstone paper that results in new knowledge, perspectives or resources to the field of philanthropy.

PRM600 Foundations of Project Management (3 cr.)

This foundation course covers key terminology, project management context, and the project management framework. This framework focuses on project leadership, business environment, and processes for agile and predictive approaches.
 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply key project management terms.
2. Analyze the environment in which projects operate.
3. Describe a generalized view of the agile and predictive approaches.
4. Identify project management principles and domains needed for projects.  
5. Analyze stakeholder needs and expectations.
6. Interpret the role of the project manager or leader in both the agile and predictive approaches.
7. Initiate a project by developing necessary documents for both the agile and predictive approaches.
8. Apply university and workplace citation and documentation carefully to all assignments.

PRM601 Predictive Project Management (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PRM600  
This course examines activities related to the predictive project management approach, including initiating, planning, estimating, and managing project integration, scope, schedule, resources, and cost.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Plan and estimate project scope, resources, schedule, and cost in a predictive project.
2. Evaluate the project environment and artifacts to determine which approach aligns and delivers value.
3. Prepare scope baseline, including requirements traceability matrix, scope statement, and work breakdown structure. 
4. Prepare schedule baseline by developing a network diagram, estimating activities durations, and developing project schedule.
5. Prepare an integrated project schedule incorporating resources using automated scheduling tools. 
6. Identify indicators and implement methods to tailor processes.
7. Apply and document integration processes throughout a predictive project.

PRM606 Global Project Management (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PRM600 , PRM601 
This course focuses on the various considerations project managers must make for successful global projects. It addresses the differences between differing political climates and stages of economic development. Social and cultural differences of countries are examined for their impact on project processes.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Describe a systems approach to cultural identities.
2. Analyze the viewpoint of another culture to gain new knowledge and insights.
3. Evaluate variables in the communication process in project presentation.
4. Describe transnational differences and organizational cultures.
5. Identify various approaches to cross-cultural assessments in project management.
6. Evaluate multicultural teamwork and collaboration in project management.
7. Identify legal and government limitations on projects.
    

PRM607 Project Management Portfolio & Program Management (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PRM600 , PRM601 
This course examines a documented set of processes for managing multiple projects. Program and portfolio management knowledge areas, processes, tools, and practices, and their integration into successful business and organizational contexts are explored.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply key program and portfolio management terms.
2. Evaluate the environment in which programs and portfolios operate.
3. Describe a generalized view of how the various project, program, and portfolio management processes commonly interact.
4. Analyze program and portfolio management process inputs, tools and techniques, and outputs.
5. Promote efficient and effective communication and coordination among various project management groups.
6. Express all relevant points of view that bear on the issue.

PRM611 Technical Communication (3 cr.)

This course strengthens and deepens communication skills for technical professionals. Organization of information for multiple audiences and purposes is engaged for project managers and technologists. Students work hands-on with technological tools to document and present project outcomes. Professionalism in both oral and written communication is expected.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Design and revise business/workplace documents for a specific audience and purpose.
2. Compose and apply discipline-specific voice, style, and terminology to achieve communication goals.
3. Distinguish, formulate, and evaluate design principles to assist with visual, written, and oral communication.
4. Assess and employ technology to assist in achieving communication objectives.
5. Assemble and interpret relevant research materials.
6. Prepare professional documentation consistent with university and workplace standards.
    

PRM612 Project Leadership Team and Stakeholder Management (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PRM600 , PRM601 , PRM611 , PRM620  
This course examines strategies used to effectively complete projects through people and stakeholder groups and the role of the project manager as leader in the agile and predictive approaches.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify, assign, and communicate project roles, responsibilities, and reporting relationships.
2. Synthesize in a balanced manner the individual, organizational, and systemic issues in conflicting situations and negotiations.
3. Develop strategies to identify, address, and manage the diverse expectations of the project team and other stakeholder groups.
4. Evaluate attributes that shape decisions on tailoring project approaches.
5. Demonstrate, select, and adapt communications styles critical to project environments and progress.
6. Adapt personal leadership style for alignment with the organization culture and project needs.
7. Develop facilitation skills for virtual and in-person interactions among teams and groups.
8. Close projects effectively, including staffing, finance, and archiving lessons learned and project documentation.
9. Direct and manage project work by applying project management principles.

PRM613 Project Quality and Quantitative Methods (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PRM600 , PRM601 , PRM611 , PRM620  
This course examines and applies methods used for planning, managing, and controlling quality.  It explores statistical analysis of data for professional applications with an emphasis on quantitative methodologies.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Leverage performance domains, methods, and artifacts to plan, manage and control product and project quality.
2. Apply ethical considerations to project quality decisions.
3. Analyze dependencies between project requirements, specifications, and measurable quality standards on product and project performance.
4. Manage project lessons learned and retrospectives to integrate project knowledge with organizational knowledge base.
5. Apply identified strategies of quantitative problem solving in practical applications.

PRM614 Project Risk and Uncertainty Management (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PRM600 , PRM601 , PRM611 , PRM620  
This course explores the principles and practices of risk management.  Key concepts in managing uncertainty include developing a risk approach and identifying, analyzing, responding to, and monitoring risks in projects in predictive and agile management environments.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Determine the level of risk exposure that is acceptable in pursuit of project objectives and define a risk strategy for the project.
2. Identify and accurately describe potential uncertainty including threats and opportunities associated with a project.
3. Analyze the likelihood of individual threats or opportunities occurring and their potential impact on overall risk of meeting objectives.
4. Determine appropriate responses to significant risks, and evaluate implemented responses.
5. Evaluate uncertainty and risk considerations using adaptive approaches.

PRM615 Project Procurement Management (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PRM600 , PRM601 , PRM611  PRM620  
This course examines the full life cycle of project procurement for predictive and agile approaches, which includes both buyer and seller perspectives and explores cost estimating techniques to develop proposals.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Determine project procurement requirements and schedule.
2. Develop a procurement plan.
3. Analyze contract types and rationale for use.
4. Develop proposal documentation from a buyer and seller perspective.
5. Develop appropriate selection criteria and evaluate bids.
6. Develop strategies to evaluate, manage, and close contract relationships with vendors.
7. Analyze ethics from a procurement perspective.  
8. Conduct estimation to support proposal development.

PRM616 Project Performance and Value (3 cr.)

1. Assess projects’ earned performance management strategies to manage and report project status.
2. Interpret and diagram earned value (EV) data to manage cost, and schedule performance of projects.
3. Evaluate and develop performance measurement baselines and matrices that integrates deliverables, baselines, resources, value, stakeholders, and forecasting.
4. Explain significant variances to appropriate audiences.
5. Analyze significant variances from the plan, and forecast impacts to prepare an estimate of completion based on performance to date and work to be performed.
6. Assess approaches to determine how project costs are estimated, budgeted, managed, monitored, and controlled.
7. Assess the impact of integrated change management on project baselines.

PRM620 Agile Projects (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PRM600  
This course develops the skills, techniques, and mindset to build consensus, collaborate with stakeholders, and support self-managed teams in continuous testing of efficiency and effectiveness through agile project management methods.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply key agile project management terms.
2. Distinguish among project methodologies based upon project requirements.
3. Synthesize the core practices and philosophies behind a number of specific agile methodologies.
4. Apply agile tools and techniques to efficiently deliver value.
5. Articulate the importance of value-driven delivery and continuous process improvement loops ensuring that goals are met.
6. Apply university and workplace citation and documentation carefully to all assignments.

PRM625 Strategic Project and Program Management (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PRM600 , PRM620 , PRM601 , PRM611 , PRM613 , PRM614 , PRM616  
This course examines methods to strategically evaluate the environment, governance, and processes to determine and apply the appropriate approach and tailoring techniques that create value.  The hybrid approach that combines the predictive and agile processes are explored.  Program and portfolio management are also discussed. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following. 

1. Analyze the environment and organizational strategies to define and evaluate project success and value.
2. Determine the management approach for predictive, agile and hybrid.
3. Apply hybrid techniques and processes to achieve project value.
4. Identify and implement appropriate tailoring techniques. 
5. Identify and apply program and portfolio management processes and techniques.

PRM650 Project Management for IT Professionals (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): PRM600 , PRM601  and PRM611  
This course examines the project management framework through the eyes of the IT professional using case studies and scenario-based learning.  Topics include the PMI defined project management knowledge areas, project life cycles, and implementation within varying organizational designs.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Use project management terminology.
2. Shape a project plan to address user needs using a systems approach.
3. Document a complete project plan, including a specification, schedule, and budget in an executable form.
4. Analyze the interdependencies of a typical multi-project environment and address how to effectively manage those interdependencies.
5. Apply common project control methodologies such as earned value systems.
6. Conduct project reviews using accepted methods, including CDR and PDR, and produce the associated documentation.
7. Conduct the close-out of a project in an IT environment.

PRM689 Project Management Capstone (3 cr.)

This course focuses on integrating project management knowledge, skills, and techniques developed in previous courses. It emphasizes critical analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of the theories and application of project management. It includes a major research paper and presentations as well as opportunities for reflection.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply critical thinking and problem solving skills to project knowledge areas and processes.
2. Locate, assess, and integrate current literature on topics associated with project management competencies.
3. Evaluate alternative strategies and implement major aspects of project management for a sample project.
4. Prepare professional documentation and presentations consistent with university and diverse workplace standards
5. Demonstrate interpersonal skills consistent with expectations for project managers.

MAPA600 Public and Nonprofit Administration (3 cr.)

This course focuses on the essence of public administration as it relates to public and nonprofit administration.  Special attention is given to the history and scope of public and nonprofit administration, and how they relate to one another.  An overview of the economic and political contexts and contemporary issues that confront public and nonprofit organizations is introduced.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze how the history of public and nonprofit administration shapes the current practices in the field.
2. Examine the commonalities, differences, and interrelationships between public administration and nonprofit administration.
3. Differentiate between the essence, mission, and vision of public administration and nonprofit administration.
4. Evaluate how the economic and political contexts influence government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

MAPA601 Strategic Nonprofit Management (3 cr.)

This course provides an overview of the management principles used in nonprofit organizations. The course examines the historical and current context for work in the nonprofit sector; strategic leadership, including board governance and executive leadership; concepts of strategic planning, benchmarking and evaluation; and an overview of operations planning. Strategic linkages between an organization’s mission and values, strategic direction, and programming are examined.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze types and characteristics of nonprofit operating principles and structures.
2. Apply concepts of nonprofit accountability and ownership.
3. Explain operations and characteristics of a board governance model.
4. Create measurable benchmarks for monitoring progress against strategy.
5. Evaluate operating goals, objectives, tactics, and implementation tools.
6. Analyze the role of strategic planning within organizational life, explaining the relationship among organizational mission, strategy, vision, and values.

MAPA605 Leading with Effective Communications (3 cr.)

This course focuses on tools, techniques, and strategies for effective communication in public and nonprofit administrations.  Organizational communication structure, ethical communication styles, and executive summary techniques are also examined.  Students also focus on graduate academic writing skills, including voice and style; writing that incorporates source material; ethical use of source materials; and APA writing guidelines.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Integrate source material into academic writing, including correct use of summary, paraphrase, and quotation, along with accurate citations.
2. Demonstrate interpersonal communication to manage relationships.
3. Apply effective and supportive listening skills in respectful engagement of others’ ideas, behaviors, and beliefs.
4. Present material in a visually appealing manner.
5. Apply effective communication techniques in different settings.
6. Evaluate the ethical dimension of organizational communication.
7. Analyze and compare organizational communication structures.
8. Use communication theory to determine the best approach and format to communicate with audiences. 

MAPA610 Leading in Diverse Public Environments (3 cr.)

This course introduces selected theories and styles of leadership, the concept of followership, and understanding one’s own leadership style.  Application of leadership theories in diverse environments is examined.  This course also focuses on how diversity of all kinds influences organizational behavior, including internal/external client relationships within public and nonprofit organizations.  The importance of cultural competency is explored along with the knowledge and skills needed to work with, manage, and serve diverse groups of individuals.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze one’s own leadership style in order to adapt and develop effective leadership behaviors.
2. Evaluate leadership theory and how it relates to followers.
3. Articulate the unique challenges of a leader in diverse environments.
4. Distinguish emotional intelligence competencies that contribute to leadership success.
5. Evaluate the skills necessary for successful public and nonprofit administration leadership.
6. Recognize one’s own biases, preferences, and perceptions.

MAPA615 Community Engagement and Partnerships (3 cr.)

This course examines various strategies for collaboration and engagement in the community.  It focuses on diverse collaborated solution strategies, facilitation skills, and transparent decision-making processes.  This course addresses problem-solving techniques that encourage community involvement, along with facilitation of critical conversations.  Media relations, crisis communications, and use of social media are also discussed.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Evaluate collaboration strategies for community engagement.
2. Analyze and apply appropriate conflict management approaches.
3. Evaluate supportive communication techniques.
4. Develop effective strategies to mediate and resolve differences in the community.
5. Analyze the effective use and limitations of various media and social media formats.
6. Use narrative and storytelling as a community engagement strategy. 
7. Examine the aspects and implications of public and private partnerships.

MAPA620 Managing Public Finances (3 cr.)

This course overviews the components related to managing public finances, including the sources of revenue from various taxes and fees, and the determinations for sharing revenues across competing government priorities.  Cash management, debt management, and government accounting are covered. This course also examines creating and using budgets for planning and decision making, along with transparent processes for internal and external review of budgets.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply fundamentals of public finance.
2. Examine the effective use and limitations of various sources of revenue.
3. Articulate public process for internal and external review of budgets.
4. Identify alternative funding sources.
5. Integrate source materials and forecasting tools to create and manage public budgets.
6. Identify financial trends and their impact on public sector finance.
7. Analyze the ethical practices of financial resource allocation.
8. Analyze financial data for decision making and planning.

MAPA625 Nonprofit Fund Development and Financial Management (3 cr.)

This course overviews the components related to raising and managing nonprofit financial resources, including fund development through grants and alternative funding sources.  Cash management, debt management, audit principles, and nonprofit accounting are addressed.  This course also examines creating and using budgets for planning and decisionmaking, along with transparent processes for internal and external review of budgets.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Connect potential grant sources to projects.
2. Identify alternative funding sources.
3. Create a basic funding proposal, including a budget.
4. Apply fundamentals of nonprofit finance.
5. Apply fund allocations and accounting processes to multiyear grants.
6. Analyze financial data for decision making and planning.
7. Integrate source materials and forecasting tools to create and manage nonprofit budgets.

MAPA630 Public Human Resource Management (3 cr.)

This course focuses on human resource management in the public sector, including the legal and practical contexts for recruitment, selection, development, retention, compensation and benefits, performance evaluation, and labor relations.  Current issues such as diversity training, sexual harassment policies, and rising benefit costs are analyzed.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze the role of human resources in supporting an organization’s strategy.
2. Articulate legal definitions of and distinctions in the employer-employee relationship, including issues related to employment-at-will, independent contractors, volunteers, and casual employees.
3. Evaluate the primary activities of labor relations: organizing, bargaining, contract administration, compensation, and dispute resolution.
4. Appraise employment practices related to recruitment, selection, compensation, and performance management.
5. Describe the collective bargaining process, good faith bargaining, and the inclusion of mandatory and non-mandatory issues.

MAPA635 Nonprofit Human Resource Management (3 cr.)

This course focuses on human resource management in the nonprofit sector, including working with volunteers, boards of directors, contractors, clients/constituents, and external stakeholders. Staffing and hiring processes within an organization, compensation, performance evaluation, and compliance with federal law are covered.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze the role of human resources in the nonprofit sector.
2. Articulate legal definitions of and distinctions in the employer-employee relationship, including issues related to both paid and voluntary roles, consultants, clients, internal/external stakeholders and board members. 
3. Appraise employment practices related to recruitment, selection, compensation, and performance management, including volunteer management.
4. Describe the collective bargaining process, good faith bargaining, and the inclusion of mandatory and non-mandatory issues.

MAPA640 Critical and Design Thinking (3 cr.)

This course focuses on exploring, analyzing, evaluating, and becoming aware of our personal assumptions that frame our actions and thought processes.  Critical thinking, design thinking, and creative strategies are explored as a process to develop solutions to complex and emerging problems.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Assess personal assumptions, and sources of beliefs and values.
2. Describe creativity strategies as an aspect of critical thinking.
3. Evaluate the creative thought process.
4. Articulate the principles of critical thinking.
5. Integrate creative thinking strategies into design thinking.
6. Apply the principles of design thinking to public and nonprofit administration issues.

MAPA645 Effective Strategic Leadership (3 cr.)

This course examines how to develop strategic thinking in response to ongoing change and direct strategic activity toward agreed upon outcomes. An understanding of organizational culture and organizational lifecycles are key aspects of effective strategic leadership. Information on organizational risk management strategies is also included.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze organizational situations using an organizational culture framework.
2. Create measurable outcomes outlining strategic direction.
3. Articulate how organizational lifecycle contributes to determining strategic direction.
4. Develop risk management strategies for selected organizational areas.

MAPA650 The Practice of Ethics (3 cr.)

This course examines various philosophical theories and ethical practices that help guide a student’s ability to think and act ethically.  Personal and professional ethics are analyzed, and ethical issues in public and nonprofit organizations are explored.  Ethical principles and models, including normative concepts and principles for moral reasoning are examined. 

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Analyze ethical principles that affect decision making.
2. Identify and analyze key ethical issues that impact public and nonprofit organizations.
3. Identify professional ethical guidelines for a field of study.
4. Differentiate between ethical and legal rights and responsibilities.
5. Apply ethical theories, models, and principles.
6. Develop a framework for resolving complex ethical dilemmas.

MAPA655 Principles of Policy (3 cr.)

This course takes a critical look at the design and evaluation of public policy through policy topics and issues in a wide range of areas. Also covered are regulatory and administrative law, the role of advocacy, legalities of lobbying, and the effect of policy on nonprofits.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Articulate policy making principles and processes.
2. Analyze the components of effective policy.
3. Apply public policy theory to public administration cases.
4. Analyze how the political, economical, and social culture influences policy.
5. Connect lobbying efforts to the quality and results of policy making.

MAPA660 Inquiry and Data Analysis (3 cr.)

This course explores evaluating the research methodology and findings of relevant literature and reports as well as analysis of data.  Students learn outcome-based approaches to create and conduct program evaluation.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Select relevant research and literature in their field.
2. Evaluate the validity of data collection methodologies.
3. Interpret data sets.
4. Construct an outcome-based program evaluation.
5. Draw well-articulated conclusions.
6. Translate findings into understandable formats appropriate to the audience.

MAPA690 Capstone: Integrating the Capacities (3 cr.)

This course focuses on integrating knowledge, skills, and tools developed during the program.  It emphasizes critical analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of public and nonprofit administration theory and practice.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Conduct research on a topic associated with public and nonprofit administration.
2. Critically assess common assumptions about public and nonprofit administration organizations.
3. Apply critical thinking and design thinking skills.
4. Evaluate lines of reasoning offered in support of a viewpoint.
5. Evaluate program learning outcomes in relationship to personal and professional goals.

BPH300 Human Biology (3 cr.)

This course introduces fundamental aspects of human physiology with emphasis on organ systems, their components, and their functions.  Students compare states of health and disease across the lifespan spectrum.  Topics include introductions to human physiology, organ systems, cell biology, and genetics.  The molecular bases for physiologic processes are introduced.  The roles of exercise, nutrition, lifestyle, aging, and the environment on states of health are introduced in relation to fundamental physiological principles.  

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following. 

1. Describe the functions of different organ systems and their constituent components.
2. Explain what a gene is and how genetic regulation and differences contribute to normal physiology as well as diversity and disease.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of how lifestyle affects physiology and ultimately an individual’s state of health or disease. 

BPH310 The Community Health Worker Role: Role, Advocacy, Outreach and Resources (3 cr.)

This course defines the role of the Community Health Worker (CHW).  Students explain strategies for personal safety in relation to home visits.  Students also gain an understanding of value of self-care and personal wellness.  Students also become familiar with the health-related needs of their communities and cultural considerations.  Students learn about their role as a liaison, connecting clients and appropriate community resources.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify the CHW Scope of Practice as defined by the MN CHW Alliance.
2. Recognize emergency situations and communicate appropriate responses while describing personal safety measures.
3. Identify best practices for self-care and personal wellness by developing time management and SMART goal setting skills.
4. Prescribe effective strategies for collaborating with relevant community agencies and health care providers.
5. Support clients and healthcare providers in “translating” culture specific behaviors in order to promote needed services and resources.
6. Use networking skills to ensure proper engagement of services and resources for clients and their families.
7. Recognize quality resources and develop and format a client focused resource brief with essential agency information.

BPH315 Health Communication, Teaching and Capacity Building (3 cr.)

This course introduces concepts of verbal and non-verbal communication required for the CHW to effectively interact with clients, their families and healthcare providers of all backgrounds. Students apply skills such as active listening and motivational interviewing. 

This course also focuses on the CHW’s role as a teacher to increase the capability of the community and the client to access the health care and social services systems. Course materials emphasize the role of the CHW in empowering clients to become self-sufficient in achieving personal health goals.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Construct an action plan with clients that uses goals to promote health.
2. Demonstrate a variety of teaching techniques with clients to foster healthy behavioral changes.
3. Explain the use of health promotion and preventive health activities to build capacity in the community.
4. Demonstrate effective and culturally appropriate communication skills when collaborating with clients and members of the team.
5. Identify and apply conflict resolution strategies when necessary.
6. Identify client health and cultural beliefs, traditions, and values and how they influence health and incorporate this information into a client action plan.

BPH320 Documentation, Legal, and Ethical Issues in Community Health Work (3 cr.)

This course focuses on the legal and ethical dimensions of the Community Health Worker’s (CHW) role. Included are boundaries of the CHW position, agency policies, confidentiality, liability, mandatory reporting, and cultural issues that can influence legal and ethical responsibilities.

This course also focuses on the importance and ability of the CHW to gather, document and report client visits and other activities. The emphasis is on appropriate, accurate and clear documentation considering legal and agency requirements.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Conduct a needs assessment, identify, and evaluate community resources for an individual’s or group’s needs.
2. Demonstrate the proper writing of documentation guidelines, using medical terminology when appropriate.
3. Recognize and classify ethical concepts of malpractice (liability, negligence, scope of practice).
4. Assess the value of agency policies and recognize confidentiality practices such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
5. Explain the protocol and process of Mandatory Reporting.

BPH325 Health Promotion Competencies (5 cr.)

This course focuses on the role of the Community Health Worker in health promotion and disease prevention/management including cultural navigation, social determinants of health, connections to resources and supporting clients and families. 

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Compare and contrast chronic and infectious disease and explain how to protect self and client from infectious disease.
2. Describe the cycle of birth and maternal health (prenatal, post-partum, breastfeeding, family planning), the cultural implications of birth and mothering and the role CHWs can play in this cycle.
3. Discuss the nutritional needs of mothers and infants and explain the benefits and “how tos” of breast feeding. 
4. Describe the stages of child development, the role of the CHW at each stage and how ACEs impact child development.
5. Discuss the significance of issues such as trauma, sexuality, STDs, substance abuse, violence and domestic violence and their impact on the individual, family and community.
6. Define the condition, risk factors and prevention strategies for diabetes, cancer, heart disease, poor oral health, mental health diseases, and asthma.
7. Discuss specific aspects and treatment of diabetes, cancer, heart disease, poor oral health, mental health, and asthma.
8. Explain socioeconomic, cultural, emotional, aspects of diabetes, cancer, heart disease, poor oral health, mental health, and asthma.
9. Demonstrate the health promotion role of the CHW in diabetes, cancer, heart disease, poor oral health, mental health disease, asthma, maternal child health, infant feeding including health promotion strategies, connections/access to resources, cultural implications, and educating and supporting the client and family.

BPH390 Internship (2 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): BPH310 , BPH315 , BPH320  
Concurrent enrollment: BPH325  
80 hours of supervised practical experience that allows opportunities for the student to prepare for independent work in the Community Health Worker (CHW) role.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Work within agency program/design to participate in some aspect(s) of the CHW role.
2. Integrate content from CHW classes into the Internship experience.
3. Promote personal safety and safety of client.
4. Adhere to agency policies, such as confidentiality.
5. Apply the role and scope of practice of a CHW to client and community work.

BPH400 Foundations of Public Health (3 cr.)

This course provides an overview of the discipline of public health by introducing concepts and structures essential to the promotion of a healthy society.  Emphasis is placed on viewing health and disease from a population perspective in comparison to that of the individual.  The history of the field of public health, the major institutions in the U.S. and worldwide, and critical concepts such as the roles of communication, human behavior, and cultural competence are introduced. 

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Differentiate between the concepts of individual health and public health.
2. Discuss the history of public health initiatives and their impact on local and global health. 
3. Examine the relationship between biological, environmental, developmental, and socio-economic domains of health and disease.
4. Describe interventions of epidemiological research, primary prevention, program development, and the evaluation of the effectiveness of such interventions.
5. Discuss the concept of social determinants of health.
6. Outline the structures and functions of the U.S. public health system.

BPH405 Measurement and Statistics for Health Professionals (3 cr.)

This course introduces students to the use of data, measurement, and basic statistics in the field of public health. This introduction to biostatistics provides an overview of data collection, sample sizes, normality of data sets, basic measurement statistics, parametric and non-parametric statistical comparisons, and statistical significance. Students apply concepts through in-class labs and real world data collection.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1.  Apply basic statistical methods.          
2.  Describe the role of data in making inferences and decisions about comparison groups, treatments, and interventions. 
3.  Examine data sets for suitability for statistical analysis.
4.  Use a statistical software package to perform basic statistical analyses. 
5.  Understand approaches to data collection, data evaluation, and statistical comparisons.

BPH410 Introduction to Epidemiology (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): BPH400 , BPH405 , HHSM304  
This introductory course considers the meaning, scope, and applications of epidemiology to public health practice and the uses of vital statistical data in the scientific appraisal of community health. Students learn and apply basic epidemiology concepts within a population-based framework, and examine the study of determinants and distributions of disease in the population.  More broadly, students analyze and research health outcomes using a population health lens. Students actively apply epidemiological concepts to current health environments, health trends, emerging research, acute and chronic diseases, infectious diseases, and evolving public health concerns/problems.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1.  Define elements of the field of epidemiology and examples of problems that are addressed by epidemiologists. 
2.  Describe the contributions of the field of epidemiology to public health.
3.  Discuss how health data are collected, analyzed, and used to study diseases in populations.
4.  Differentiate between a statistical association and a causal relationship. 

BPH415 Health Policy and Ethics (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): BPH400 , HHSM304  
This course explores the concepts of legal, ethical, economical, and regulatory dimensions of healthcare and public health policy, and the roles, influences and responsibilities of the different agencies and branches of government.
 

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Examine the relationship between policy decisions and their effects on community systems and social change.
2. Understand the roles of both governmental and non-governmental agencies in healthcare and public health policy.
3. Identify and relate codes, regulations, and laws to public health issues, including vaccination, drinking water, workplace safety, food safety, gun violence, and motor vehicle safety.
4. Analyze the significance of ethical values and beliefs, and the roles they play in decision making.

BPH425 Principles of Population Health and Disease (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): BPH300 , BPH400 , HHSM304  
This course provides an introduction to common diseases and their biological and behavioral bases. The relationship between individual health and behavior, and population health and behavior are explored. Acute and chronic diseases, infectious diseases, and their prevention and treatments are described and discussed. The roles that social determinants play in health and diseases are examined.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Discuss current diseases of societal importance and their biological and behavioral bases.
2. Identify the determinants of health outcomes both within and across groups of individuals.
3. Analyze the socio-economic impact on health status within populations.
4. Articulate the socio-ecological models of population health, including community organizations, social networks, institutional factors, public policy, and individual characteristics.
5. Describe the interaction between biological, genetic, psychosocial, and environmental factors on health across the lifespan continuum.
6. Identify a spectrum of public health interventions that address specific diseases, including the challenges to their implementation.

BPH430 Community and Behavioral Aspects of Public Health (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): BPH400  
This course introduces students to theories and approaches behind health behavior change.  It is an overview of health behaviors that contribute most dramatically to morbidity and mortality.  This course emphasizes public health interventions and strategies to transform unhealthy behaviors into healthy behaviors, how to promote that change, and barriers to affecting such change.  Behaviors are examined from multiple perspectives – individual, social, environmental – with a systems perspective in mind. Current research and theory are applied to behavior change interventions to better understand the roles of health disparities, policy, current political environments, and contemporary research.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify aspects of human psychology and sociology that impact the ability to change behavior.
2. Describe successes and failures in directed health-behavioral changes and causes related to change management.
3. Develop example behavioral change programs, and evaluate their likelihood for success.
4. Examine patterns, outcomes, risk factors, and interventions related to behaviors and associated health problems.  

BPH435 Public Health Communication (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): BPH400  
This course explores fundamentals of public health communication’s role in the healthcare delivery structures, the evolution of healthcare reform, and emergency preparedness. Students explore the roles that health literacy and overall public understanding of health-related concepts and data play in development and implementation of communication strategies.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Build skills needed to inform and educate people about health issues, including understanding and using appropriate health literacy approaches.
2. Apply skills needed to influence people to adopt healthy behaviors and lifestyles using multiple media, including written, verbal, and technological modalities.
3. Identify best practices in using social marketing and media as part of a strategy for designing an effective public health campaign.
4. Examine the latest communication innovations, tools, technologies, research, and strategies used in the public health field.

BPH440 Introduction to Public Health Program Planning and Development (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): BPH400 , BPH410 , BPH435 , HHSM304  
This class provides students with the tools for planning effective public health interventions. Students learn about conducting needs assessments, developing intervention strategies involving community stakeholders, project and budget management, and writing grant proposals.  

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Identify and study a public health organization based on an intervention topic.
2. Review best practice methods and techniques in relation to program development, including stakeholder involvement and needs assessment tools.
3. Propose a program and develop goals and objectives, using a health education logic model.
4. Plan an intervention strategy based on appropriate behavior change models.
5. Identify a project management system and action plan for implementing a program.
6. Understand funding sources/cycles and grant application writing and submission as part of the program planning and development process.

BPH445 Introduction to Public Health Program Implementation and Evaluation (3 cr.)

Prerequisite(s): BPH400 , BPH410 , BPH430 , BPH435 , HHSM304  
This class provides students with the tools for implementing and evaluating public health programs, following the planning and development stages.  Students learn applicable skills such as project management, working with community stakeholders, and collecting and analyzing data.  Effective program evaluation, compliance, reporting, and quality improvement techniques are explored.

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Discuss application of an intervention strategy based on appropriate behavior change models.
2. Demonstrate how to effectively identify and engage a community stakeholder gathering.
3. Review and analyze data related to measuring the effectiveness of public health programs.
4. Assess quality improvement techniques to determine if public health project goals have been met.
5. Demonstrate how to effectively communicate public health programs and supporting information through written and oral methods.