Mission: Congruent with the Mission of Saint Mary’s College, the Department of Nursing Science is a learning community comprised of students, faculty, staff, and healthcare professionals. The community supports each other in preparing competent, empowered professional nurses at all levels, assuming leadership roles, promoting health and healing for diverse persons, communities, and healthcare systems. The learning community fosters scholarship, clinical judgment in nursing practice, spiritual inclusion and ethical decision-making, lifelong learning, and an obligation to social responsibility and service.
Philosophy: Congruent with the core values of Saint Mary’s College, the Department of Nursing Science empowers lifelong learners to actively engage in the process of personal and professional transformation through these values:
Learning
Community
Faith/Spirituality
Justice
Diversity and Inclusion
Leadership with Integrity
The curriculum includes four years of study designed to provide the student with a foundation in the liberal arts as well as the knowledge and skills needed to function as a professional nurse upon graduation. Liberal arts courses are prerequisite to or concurrent with the professional studies and are arranged so that these two components are mutually supportive.
The nursing program is accredited by Indiana State Board of Nursing (ISBN) and The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The curriculum adopts the educational guidelines set forth by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice. Graduates earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and have the educational background required to apply for graduate programs in nursing.
Intended nursing students petition for admission to the nursing major during the fall of the sophomore year. (See criteria for acceptance below.) Transfer students will be evaluated on an individual basis. Students who wish to transfer from other nursing programs must meet the standards required for regularly enrolled students.
Upon successful completion of the degree requirements, the student is eligible to apply for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for licensure as a registered professional nurse. Students may choose to take the examination for registration in any state or territory in the U.S.
Nursing students are required to adhere to all policies and procedures as published in this Bulletin as well as those stated in the official Department of Nursing Science Student Handbook.
In order to maintain the quality and integrity of the nursing program, the Department of Nursing Science reserves the right to update and/or revise departmental policy.
Saint Mary’s has a long history of providing quality international programs as an essential part of our educational mission—forming women leaders who will make a difference in the world. As this world becomes increasingly interdependent, the College offers an expanding range of semester, year, semester break, and summer study and service programs in a wide variety of countries, and encourages students to take advantage of them. Learn more about the various Study Abroad opportunities.
Students may study abroad during the fall semester of sophomore year (or during the summer). Those who intend to study abroad in the fall must take Pathophysiology and Microbiology in the summer prior to departure (exceptions are Cyprus and Puerto Rico which offer those courses on site). Students should meet with a Nursing advisor to discuss options.
Some professions (e.g. nursing, teaching, social work, speech therapy, accounting, etc.) require specific requirements for licensure and/or hiring (e.g. acceptable criminal background check, sex offender check, drug and alcohol testing, citizenship or permanent resident status documentation, valid immigration status for nonUS citizens, valid social security number, etc.). Such requirements may also apply to required clinical and fieldwork, or other outofclass room experience necessary to complete degree requirements in the majors related to these professions. These requirements are determined by laws and regulations at both the state and federal levels and are subject to change. Saint Mary’s College strongly urges all admitted and current students to research and understand the appropriate requirements for their intended course of study and profession. Compliance with these requirements is the responsibility of the student and the graduate. You should become informed and continue to monitor such requirements as laws and other legal requirements are subject to change.
Regardless of admission status, criteria for progression into the NURS courses in the second semester of the sophomore year include a cumulative GPA of 2.8 and a prerequisite science GPA of 2.8. Course grades for BIO 141 Human Anatomy and Physiology I, BIO 142 Human Anatomy and Physiology II, BIO 216 Introduction to Microbiology, BIO 224 Introduction to Pathophysiology, and CHEM 118 Integrated General, Organic and Bio-Chemistry are included in this calculation. Only students who are admitted to the Nursing major may take NURS courses.
1. Students must take all science prerequisite courses at Saint Mary’s College for their first attempt. This means completing the course and receiving a letter grade. A course does not count as being taken at Saint Mary's College if the student withdraws from the course or fails the course. This policy does not apply to transfer students; transfer students are evaluated on an individual basis.
Students must earn a grade of C or higher in BIO 141 Human Anatomy and Physiology I and BIO 142 Human Anatomy and Physiology II in order to progress into NURS courses in the second semester of their sophomore year.
If a student plans on studying abroad in the Fall of their Sophomore year and needs to complete their first prerequisite science course attempts for BIO 216 Introduction to Microbiology and BIO 224 Introduction to Pathophysiology during the summer, they must meet with the nursing academic advisor to discuss their options.
2. A student may retake a maximum of two (2) prerequisite science courses in which they earned a grade below B (3.0) to raise their science GPA to progress into NURS courses.
It is preferred that prerequisite science courses be retaken at Saint Mary's College when offered. For courses retaken at Saint Mary’s, the higher of the two earned course grades will be used by the Nursing Department to calculate the prerequisite science GPA for progression into NURS courses. Both course attempts are averaged into the cumulative GPA.
It is acceptable for students to retake prerequisite science courses at another institution upon approval by the Biology or Chemistry Department Chair and Student Academic Services. The Nursing Department will calculate the prerequsite science GPA using both the original and retake grade, however transfer course grades do not count toward the cumulative GPA at Saint Mary’s College.
Patricia Keresztes, Interim Director, Director, MSN Program
Regina 1008
574-284-4669
Cibele Webb, Director of BSN Program
Regina 1013
574-284-4690
Scarlet Spain, Director of DNP Program
Regina 1010
574-284-4681
J. Antisdel, J. Bump, R. Becker, L. Caponigro, D. Edson, A. Fullenkamp, P. Keresztes, J. Mack, N. Mentag, L. Pajakowski, A. Peacock-Johnson (emerita), J. Riggs, K. Rohatgi, R. Schutze, K. Sollmann, S. Spain, J. Stroupe, C. Webb
Based on the mission and philosophy of Saint Mary's College Department of Nursing Science, the program outcomes for the graduate of the BSN program are:
This course provides an overview of nursing and the role of the professional nurse as a provider of patient-centered care, member of the healthcare team, and member of the nursing profession. Topics covered include clinical nursing judgment, basics of medical terminology and concepts associated with next-generation NCLEX (NGN) testing. Prerequisite:Nursing major
Using a forensic nursing lens and a trauma-informed care approach, this class is designed to help young women foster self-awareness, cultivate self-love, and develop the skills necessary to engage in healthy, supportive partnerships. Whether navigating friendships, family dynamics, or romantic relationships, this course will equip students with practical tools to set healthy boundaries, communicate effectively, and recognize the signs of toxic partnerships. Please be aware that some of the material covered in this class includes sensitive topics that may be distressing or triggering to some students. Students will be introduced to different types of interpersonal violence as well as campus and community resources which exist to provide compassionate care for victims of violence. The aim of the course is to empower women with the knowledge needed to live safely, confidently and courageously.
This course uses didactic and simulated clinical experiences to develop a beginning skill level to conduct a comprehensive health assessment with adults in various settings. The course emphasizes the integration of observations, systematic data collection, and effective communication in performing client-centered health assessments that includes risk assessment and risk reduction and health promotion. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing with at least a grade of C in BIO 141 and BIO 142.
This course uses the nursing process, interpersonal communication, critical thinking, and safety as foundational concepts for the provision of essential skills for nursing practice with individuals. Nursing skills related to physiologic health processes, mobility, comfort, infection, protection, fatigue, sleep oxygenation, and elimination are emphasized. The course builds on knowledge gained through the liberal arts and sciences to encourage the delivery of nursing care to promote and/or maintain health in the context of the experience of the individual in a variety of settings. Prerequisite: admission to Nursing major.
This course provides a foundational understanding of the basics of pharmacology. The course content focuses on basic drug classification, medication calculation, and basic principles of pharmacology, emphasizing clinical nursing application within the context of the nursing process. Prerequisite:Sophomore Nursing Major
This theory and clinical course focuses on the care of persons of various ages across the lifespan with psychiatric/mental health disorders. The course applies the nursing process within a multi-disciplinary team approach. Emphasis is on the therapeutic use of self with individuals, families, and groups in an acute psychiatric care setting. Students in clinical placements utilize communication skills, mental health assessment, and various therapeutic interventions. Prerequisites: Nursing major and junior standing. Corequisite or successful completion of NURS 334.
This course is designed to support the integration of evidence-based nutrition science content with the lived experience of food choices of individuals, families, and communities. Students will build on their knowledge of chemistry, biology, psychology and relevant research evidence to apply concepts of nutrition science to wellness, health promotion and disease management in nursing practice. The impact of obesity on wellness and health outcomes, intercultural competence, and social responsibility are emphasized. Students will gain experience with the role and meaning of food through integrative learning activities in the community. Prerequisite: Nursing major and junior standing.
This theory and clinical course focuses on the assessment and management of persons with acute medical and surgical conditions. Peri-operative care of the patient and family is emphasized. The ethical, spiritual, psychosocial, and economic impact of the peri-operative experience on the patient and family is explored. Application of scientific principles and decision-making skills are emphasized as students care for persons with acute health conditions in medical-surgical settings. Prerequisite: Nursing major and junior standing. Corequisite or successful completion of NURS 334.
This theory and clinical course provides a foundation of nursing knowledge in the care of women in all phases of the perinatal period. A family-centered approach is emphasized throughout the course. Human development concepts are a central focus of the course. Embryologic and neonatal concepts are emphasized in the nursing care of the normal and high-risk neonate. Current women’s health issues are incorporated in the course. Legal and ethical dimensions specific to the perinatal family are explored. Relevant research findings are acknowledged as basic to establishing and advancing the field of perinatal nursing. The course includes application of specific concepts, principles, and theories in various perinatal settings. Decision-making skills and independent functioning are emphasized. Prerequisite: Nursing major and junior standing. Corequisite or successful completion of NURS 334.
This theory and clinical course focuses on the assessment and management of persons with chronic health conditions. The ethical, spiritual, psychosocial, and economic impact of chronic illness on the patient and family is explored. Application of scientific principles and decision-making skills are emphasized as students care for persons with chronic health conditions in acute care and community settings. In addition, concepts related to palliative and end-of-life care are introduced and applied during the clinical experience. Prerequisite: Nursing major and junior standing. Corequisite or successful completion of NURS 334.
This theory course introduces the study of pharmacology as an understanding of the interactions between drugs and the physiological, psychological, and pathological processes which occur in the body. Major drug classes and individual drugs are studied with an emphasis on the application of pharmacologic principles to the clinical setting. Prerequisite: Nursing major and junior standing.
This course examines essential concepts, principles, and techniques utilized in scientific inquiry and evidence-based practice. The research process is systematically introduced with an emphasis on its application to nursing practice. Prerequisites: Nursing major and junior standing.
The theory and clinical course utilizes the nursing process in caring for persons with multi-system complex health conditions in an acute care environment. Clinical reasoning, decision-making, and professional accountability are emphasized throughout the course. Students will gain experience with critical care concepts and advanced technology in the clinical setting. Prerequisites: Nursing major and senior standing.
This theory and clinical course broadens the concepts of community health nursing introduced across the curriculum and integrates them into a meaningful whole. Emphasis is placed on increasing the student’s self-awareness, communicating effectively, and meeting the community health needs of families and groups. Health education, health promotion, and illness prevention are stressed as strategies for meeting the health needs of population aggregates. Analysis of the health care delivery system includes the impact of political, legal, social, and cultural influences on the health of clients. Public health nursing issues, such as communicable diseases, environmental hazards, and occupational exposures are discussed. Prerequisites: Nursing major and senior standing.
This theory and clinical course introduce the student to leadership theories and concepts of management within the nursing profession. A feminist lens is used to recognize and explain women’s contributions to knowledge and achievement, and to analyze the social constructions and intersectionalities of gender, race, class, sexuality, and other identity categories. Current economic, political, professional, and social issues that affect the nursing profession are explored. The nursing leadership skills of delegation, priority setting, problem-solving, time management, and quality improvement are emphasized throughout the course using QSEN competencies as an overarching framework. The ability to analyze and apply the concepts of leadership and management are provided through clinical experiences. This course provides the beginning of the transition process from student to professional nurse.
This theory and clinical course focuses on assessment and management of well, acutely ill, chronically ill, and special needs children and their families. The effect the child’s illness has on the family in hospital or community settings is emphasized. Principles of growth and development, nutrition, pharmacology, and ethics are reinforced and expanded. Decision-making and independent learning are emphasized. Research as it relates to theory and practice is discussed and applied. Prerequisite: Nursing major and senior standing.
This course provides students the opportunity to study the health care system in other countries. Emphasis is placed on the experiential opportunity to work in a primary care clinic. Assessment of the health care delivery system includes the effects of cultural, social, economic, and political influences on the health care delivery system and health of clients. Public health issues such as communicable diseases and environmental hazards are investigated.
Topics in nursing not covered in the regular department offerings. May be repeated for credit with a different topic. Prerequisite: Senior Nursing major or permission of instructor.
The purpose of this seminar is to prepare students to take the nursing departments comprehensive examination which is a requirement of graduation. The course also provides and prepares nursing students for the NCLEX-RN examination. Students will be connected with online resources, test-taking strategies and individual help as directed to successfully complete this senior level course. Prerequisite: Completion of all junior level courses
Independent readings, seminar discussions, and related clinical experience in selected areas of interest. Readings and experiences are generally supplemental to, not a substitute for, content and learning experiences provided in regular course offerings. Prerequisite: Senior level standing and permission of the instructor and department chair. May be repeated.
This is a sample four year plan for the Nursing major. Please contact April Lane (alane@saintmarys.edu) for individual advising.
Nursing majors can go abroad in the fall of sophomore year or any summer semester. Studying abroad in the fall requires taking two courses in the summer prior to departure (BIO 216 and BIO 224). If a student then takes at least 3 Sophia courses abroad she is on track with the four year plan.
The nursing prerequisites in bold must be taken in this order. Criteria for acceptance into the nursing major at the end of the first semester sophomore year include a cumulative grade point average of 2.8 and a minimum 2.8 cumulative grade point average in the science prerequisites.
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| First Semester | Credits | |
| Gen Ed Language I (3cr) | ||
| CHEM 118 & 118L |
Integrated General, Organic and Bio-Chemistry and Integrated General, Organic and Bio-Chemistry Laboratory ( or Gen Ed course (3-4cr)) |
4 |
| Gen Ed W (3cr/4cr) | ||
| BIO 141 | Human Anatomy and Physiology I | 4 |
| AVE 101 | College in Practice | 1 |
| Elective (1-3cr) | ||
| Credits | 9 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| Gen Ed Language II (3cr) | ||
| MATH (3cr/4cr) 1 | 3 | |
| BIO 142 | Human Anatomy and Physiology II | 4 |
| CHEM 118 & 118L |
Integrated General, Organic and Bio-Chemistry and Integrated General, Organic and Bio-Chemistry Laboratory |
4 |
| Credits | 11 | |
| Second Year | ||
| First Semester | ||
| General Education Course (3cr) | ||
| Gen Ed or PSYC 305/SW 235 (3cr) 4 | 3 | |
| Gen Ed or MATH 114 (3cr) 4 | ||
| BIO 224 | Introduction to Pathophysiology | 3 |
| BIO 216 | Introduction to Microbiology | 4 |
| Elective (0-3 credits) | ||
| Credits | 10 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| Gen Ed or PSYC 305/SW 235 (3cr) 5 | 3 | |
| Gen Ed or MATH 115 (3 cr) | 3 | |
| NURS 101 | Introduction to Professional Nursing | 1 |
| NURS 225 | Health Assessment | 3 |
| NURS 227 & 227L |
Foundations of Nursing Practice and Foundations - Lab |
3 |
| NURS 234 | Basic Principles of Pharmacology for Nursing | 2 |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Third Year | ||
| First Semester | ||
| NURS 321 Adult Nsg.-Acute (5 credits) and NURS 307 Psychiatric (5 credits) or NURS 323 Perinatal (5 credits) and NURS 330 Adult Nsg.-Chronic (5 credits) | 10 | |
| NURS 385 or NURS 310 |
Nursing Research or Nutrition for Health and Healing |
2 |
| NURS 334 | Pharmacotherapeutics | 3 |
| Elective (0-3 cr) | ||
| Credits | 15 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| NURS 321 Adult Nsg.-Acute (5 credits) and NURS 307 Psychiatric (5 credits) or NURS 323 Perinatal (5 credits) and NURS 330 Adult Nsg.-Chronic (5 credits) | 10 | |
| NURS 310 or NURS 385 |
Nutrition for Health and Healing or Nursing Research |
2 |
| General Education Course (3cr) | ||
| Credits | 12 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| First Semester | ||
| NURS 410 Adult Nsg.-Advanced and NURS 414 Community or NURS 415 Leadership and NURS 426 Child Health | 10 | |
| Gen Ed or elective (3 cr) | ||
| Gen Ed or elective (3 cr) | ||
| Credits | 10 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| NURS 410 Adult Nsg.-Advanced and NURS 414 Community or NURS 415 Leadership and NURS 426 Child Health | 10 | |
| Sophia or elective (3 cr) | ||
| Sophia or elective (3 cr) | ||
| NURS 495 | Professional Role Preparation | 1 |
| Credits | 11 | |
| Total Credits | 93 | |
Students should complete MATH 104 or higher by the end of the first year
Nursing majors must take MATH 114 and SW 235 or PSYC 305 prior to junior year as supporting courses.
Two other supporting courses are required: PSYC 156 or 157, and an approved sociology class, both of which may be taken anytime.
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