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Director: Sharon Thompson, Ph.D., RN, MPH
Phone: (814) 871-5345
Email: thompson001@gannon.edu

Overview

The master's degree in medical-surgical nursing offers students the opportunity to function as a clinical specialist in health promotion and restoration in acute or rehabilitative services. Students choose relevant concepts to explore in depth with specified groups of clients and use current research findings, theory and advanced practice skills in order to provide comprehensive nursing care. A variety of clinical sites are used as students meet the challenge of investigating innovative methods of assisting clients to achieve their potential and work toward restoring and/or maintaining health.

As technological advances facilitate earlier discharge from acute care agencies, nurses have the responsibility of follow-up care and teaching clients in different locations. Role courses in this specialty area allow students to develop expertise as a clinical specialist, educator or administrator. Advanced clinical practice with individuals and families, and leadership in investigation of those factors which enhance health and quality of life, are integral components of the medical-surgical focus.

Outcomes

At the conclusion of the program leading to the degree of Master of Science in Nursing, the student:

1. Synthesizes theory and research from nursing, the biopsychosocial sciences, and humanities to provide advanced nursing care to clients of diverse cultures;
2. Is proficient in the utilization of research findings and provides clinical expertise for conducting research, including collaborating in nursing research projects;
3. Implements the advanced practice roles of teacher, researcher, advocate, clinician, consultant, collaborator, and manager of systems;
4. Provides leadership to influence change in health care practice at local, regional, and/or national levels;
5. Articulates and differentiates the discipline of nursing from other professions within the health care system;
6. Has developed and will maintain a program for continued professional growth;
7. Actively engages in collaborative relationships with other health care professionals, providers, and consumers to help improve health care; and
8. Has acquired a foundation for doctoral study.

Admission Requirements

Professional nurses who have a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing are eligible to apply for graduate study. Applicants must:

1. Submit an application for admission
2. Provide official transcripts of all academic work
3. Complete an introductory statistics course and research course with a grade of at least a B in both courses
4. Submit competitive scores from the Graduate Record Examination
5. Provide three letters of recommendation
6. Give evidence of the fulfillment of legal requirements for the practice of nursing in the United States