This course provides an overview of the principles and best practices for using psychopharmacology to treat mental disorders across the lifespan. Clinical uses, neuropharmacological mechanisms, risks, benefits, and outcomes of commonly used psychotropic drugs in the context of a comprehensive treatment plan will be explored. This course requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills to apply psychopharmacologic principles for treating chronic and acute clinical conditions across the lifespan. Part 1 of a 2- part course.

This course focuses on models and methods of translating evidence into practice, including synthesis of evidence, program planning and evaluation, and preparation of an evidence-based research proposal. Students lay the foundation for their DNP Scholarly Project and may begin their 500 required clinical hours.

This final course focuses on interpretation and presentation of findings of the DNP Project and a clinical immersion. Students identify additional goals and activities to meet the minimum requirement of 500 practicum hours.

This course provides an introduction to standardized bio-psycho-social data collecting tools and psychiatric rating scales will provide structure for the assessment/interview process. Students will further their development and progression of mental disorders with an overview of the classification system in the DSM 5 and introduction of medical/psychiatric disorders. The culmination of these activities is designed to foster critical thinking and help students develop a broader view of mental disorder formulation.