V.RN Work Experience Policy

RN Work Experience Policy Approved by Faculty Assembly on 7/8/2021

The Tan Chingfen Graduate School of Nursing believes professional nursing (RN) practice is the foundation for advanced nursing roles. After successfully passing the NCLEX-RN, the Tan Chingfen Graduate School of Nursing requires all students admitted through the GEP to DNP program to seek employment and work as an RN while completing the chosen program of study. Additionally, it is recommended that new RN graduates applying to the Tan Chingfen Graduate School of Nursing DNP Program should have the equivalent of one year of full-time RN work experience by the time the student matriculates. The goal is to sharpen assessment, communication, and technical skills, while gaining experience applying the nursing process, advancing critical thinking, and developing organizational skills. This RN experience enhances fundamental nursing skills, provides a sense of how healthcare institutions and systems operate, entices curiosity about topics and situations that warrant research, introduces quality and safety initiatives, and solidifies the value of establishing a relationship with patients and their families. These skills are essential for credibility, gaining trust, and enhancing advocacy for patients.

The Tan Chingfen Graduate School of Nursing expects students to gain experience as a Registered Nurse in a health care institution or community agency. They will continue to be enrolled as a graduate student and should therefore negotiate an orientation and work schedule that accommodates the academic schedule. In general, appropriate positions will be those that allow students to provide direct, hands-on patient care. Appropriate RN positions will be determined in consultation with the GEP director or track coordinator. GEP to DNP students must complete a minimum of 1000 practice hours before completion of the advanced practice clinical year. A total of 500 of the 1000 practice hours must be completed before the start of advanced clinical courses. Redacted pay stubs (showing hours worked only) or a payroll audit or verification letter from HR will serve as documentation of hours worked. Documentation of RN hours is due at the following 2-time points: August 15th, before the start of NP clinical experiences, and August 15th when students become eligible to sit for NP certification exams. Documentation is to be completed and submitted at both timepoints to the track coordinator. Students completing the GEP program who have not secured an RN position by February 1st following the GEP year must meet to discuss with the GEP director and track coordinator.

GEP to PhD students are encouraged to obtain experience as an RN throughout the educational program. Practice will inform the development of research questions and for students who anticipate teaching in a future role this will provide a solid foundation, enhance credibility with future students, and may be expected by many employers.

Issues with securing employment and accruing the documented hours according to the above timelines may will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Verification of hours worked may be

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