Honor/thesis students conduct an independent research project, relevant to the student's area of specialization in the major, under the direction of a faculty sponsor. Students submit a research proposal, write a final report, and provide an oral presentation. One or two semester sequence.

The contemporary nurse is continually faced with a wide variety of problems encountered in the care of patients. Thus the nurse must have a repertoire of problem-solving skills that is based on sound evidence. Identification, evaluation, application, and/or compilation of evidence from a variety of resources to apply to health-related problems of individuals, families, communities, and the health care delivery system are essential tools of the contemporary nurse. Students will identify problems encountered in practice and find pertinent resources to assist in resolving them. The student will apply specific criteria to assess the quality of evidence, and as part of a team, will discuss whether it could feasibly and ethically be applied to care of patients. In addition, students will identify a problem or aspect of a problem to be researched, find relevant resources and/or literature, and determine what additional information is needed to resolve the problem. In collaboration with team members, a method of gathering pertinent data will be developed. Active R.N. License, or transfer credit in Statistics accepted as requirements prior to taking this course.

Encompasses peoples' responses to death throughout the lifecycle. Theories of death, dying, and grieving discussed. Students explore cultural influences, legal, and ethical dilemmas; the biopsychosocial needs of people facing life-threatening situations; resources for care of the dying; death rituals; and surviving a major loss.

This course is designed to apply and analyze clinical reasoning and judgement in a variety of situations, focusing on the ability to prioritize and individualize evidence-based nursing interventions.