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Pre-Nursing Student Handbook

2019-2020

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Welcome The School of Nursing staff and faculty of Minnesota State University, Mankato welcomes you

as you begin your academic and professional journey as a pre-nursing student. The Pre-Nursing

Student Handbook is an essential resource for you to read and become informed of the School of

Nursing’s advising structure, program requirements, policies and resources that will impact your

academic plan of study. The Handbook will assist in your communication, understanding and

overall academic success as a pre-nursing student.

Academic Advising

Academic advising is an ongoing process where the student and advisor(s) work together to

clarify goals, establish meaningful educational plans, effectively use resources and seek

opportunities. The end goal is for you to be an involved, independent, self-directed life-long

learner. Within the School of Nursing, pre-nursing students have an opportunity to utilize both

the Student Relations Coordinator (SRC) and the Pre-Nursing Advising Assistant as academic

resources through progression of the pre-nursing curriculum.

Advising Structure

Pre-nursing students will have opportunities to meet with advisors during group advising

sessions, individual appointments, and walk-ins. Group advising sessions are held each

semester for first-year students to provide information regarding the program application

requirements, pre-requisite coursework, admission preparation, policies and academic

planning. It is the expectation for all first-year students to attend a group advising session,

prior to scheduling an individual appointment or walk-in. Second-year students are encouraged

to schedule individual advising appointments to allow time to review progress towards

admission and alternative plans of study.

Student Responsibilities for Advising

Be an active participant in the advising experience.

Accept responsibilities for your decisions.

Follow through with recommended actions and referrals from advisor.

Provide advisor with accurate information about interests, abilities and goals.

Come prepared to each advising session with questions and materials for discussion.

Learn and understand the nursing program’s application and admission requirements.

Read and understand the contents of the Pre-Nursing Student Handbook.

Check MavMAIL daily and be aware of important dates, deadlines and opportunities.

Know how to access and interpret information on E-services including registration,

billing, grades, and Interactive Degree Audit (DARS).

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Table of Contents

Vision and Mission .............................................................................................................. 4 Four-Year Academic Plan of Study ...................................................................................... 6 Admission to Pre-Licensure Program.................................................................................. 7 Admission Ranking .............................................................................................................. 9 HESI Admission Assessment Exam .................................................................................... 10 Group Interview ................................................................................................................ 13 Policies for Pre-Nursing Students ..................................................................................... 14

A. Pre-Requisite Grade Requirement ......................................................................... 14 B. Standard Grading Scale .......................................................................................... 14 C. Double Letter Grading Scale ................................................................................... 14 D. AP and IB Examination Scores ................................................................................ 15 E. Repeat Core Pre-requisite ...................................................................................... 15 F. Course Substitutions .............................................................................................. 15 G. Course Waivers ....................................................................................................... 16 H. Pre-Nursing Appeal................................................................................................. 16 I. 5-Year Limit for Core Science Pre-requisites .......................................................... 17 J. Nursing Assistant Admission Requirement ............................................................ 17 K. English Language Proficiency Requirement ........................................................... 17 L. Minimum Grade Pre-req for NURS 282 and 284 .................................................... 17

Specific Pre-Nursing Resources ......................................................................................... 18 Additional Academic & Student Support Resources ........................................................ 18 Aging Studies Minor for Nursing Students ....................................................................... 21 APPENDICES

A. Aging Studies Minor Declaration Form .................................................................. 22 B. Pre-Nursing Appeal................................................................................................. 23 C. Nursing Assistant Admission Requirement FAQ .................................................... 24

Disclaimer

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the material contained within this handbook. However, all

policies, procedures, and program information are subject to change. The provisions of this handbook do not

constitute a contract between the student, the college, or the School of Nursing. Students will be responsible for

and held to changes in the Pre-Nursing Student Handbook. Pre- Nursing students will be notified of handbook

changes.

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Vision and Mission

SCHOOL OF NURSING

Vision

The School of Nursing is an intellectual community that strives for innovation and excellence

within education, scholarship, and practice in family and societal nursing.

Mission

The mission of the School of Nursing is to influence health care for the individual, family, and

society through the advancement of nursing science, the promotion of clinical scholarship, and

innovative education of practitioners and clinical leaders.

Statements of Values

As a School of Nursing we value the individual, the family, and society, innovation and

excellence, empowerment and social justice, and the discipline of nursing.

Family and Society

Facilitate health and healing of individuals, families, and society by integrating evidence, clinical reasoning, interprofessional perspectives, and client value preferences in providing nursing care.

Provide quality and compassionate health care to individuals, families, and society within a dynamic environment.

Focus on development, validation, and dissemination of nursing practice models that attend to the unique nature of individuals, families, and society.

Support the scholarship of nursing practice with emphasis on advancing family and societal health and healing.

Provide leadership in the development of educational models and policies to improve family and societal nursing within a global health context.

Support individual, family, and societal health as the central purpose for the nursing discipline.

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Innovation and Excellence

Recognize and embrace the importance of change, creativity, courage, flexibility, inquisitiveness, and perseverance in our journey toward excellence.

Value the use of simulation, technologies, information, and communication systems in supporting safe quality nursing practice.

Create a culture of safety and promote quality initiatives by anticipating and responding to changing issues and trends influencing policies and practices in health care.

Promote experiential learning through a variety of pedagogical approaches.

Support the work of the Glen Taylor Nursing Institute for Family and Society and the International Family Nursing Association (IFNA).

Empowerment and Social Justice

Exemplify personal and professional accountability by modeling nursing values and standards.

Respect variations and complexity of care across the continuum of health care environments and allocation of resources in caring for all.

Demonstrate tolerance for uncertainty within the world and its effect on health care.

Enhance the quality of health for all people.

Integrate knowledge of health care, policy, finance, and regulatory environments to enhance political awareness, fiscal responsibility, and advocacy for social justice.

Strive for ethical decision-making in the application of social justice.

The Discipline of Nursing

Provide a scientific basis for nursing actions that guides practice to support family and societal health.

Advance the discipline by developing and disseminating knowledge that enhances nursing scholarship and the quality of health for all people.

Use philosophical foundations to reflect values and beliefs that support family and societal health.

Incorporate the pattern of knowing to promote individual, family, and societal health.

Utilize evidence based practice to promote individual, family, and societal health.

Disseminate paradigms and products of inquiry that promote family and societal health.

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Pre-Licensure Program SCHOOL OF NURSING

FOUR-YEAR ACADEMIC PLAN OF STUDY

*BIOL 220 Human Anatomy (4cr)

*ENG 101 or 104 Composition (4cr)

*GEOG 103 Intro to Cultural Geography (3cr)

General Education - Goal Area 1B (3cr)

*CHEM 111 Chemistry of Life Processes Part II (5cr)

*NURS 101W Courage, Caring & Teambuilding (3cr)

~PSYC 101 Intro to Psychological Science (4cr)

General Education - Goal Area 10 (3cr)

*BIOL 330 Principles of Human Physiology (4cr)

*KSP 235 Human Development (3cr)

*STAT 154 Elementary Statistics (4cr)

~FCS 242 Nutrition for Healthcare Providers (3cr)

General Education - Goal Areas 6, 9, WI (3cr)

~BIOL 270 Microbiology (4cr)

~NURS 282 Pathophysiology for Healthcare Professionals (3cr)

~NURS 284 Pharmacology for Healthcare Professionals (3cr)

~NURS 286 Relationship-based Care in Nursing Practice (3cr)

General Education - Goal Areas 6, 7, Diverse Cultures (3cr)

NURS 333 Professional Nursing (3cr)

NURS 334 Physiologic Integrity I (4cr)

NURS 335 Family & Societal Nursing Inquiry (3cr)

NURS 336 Assessment and Nursing Procedures (5cr)

NURS 363 Critical Inquiry in Nursing (2cr)

NURS 364 Physiologic Integrity II (5cr)

NURS 365 Nursing Care of Families in Transition (7cr)

NURS 366 Quality, Safety & Informatics in Healthcare (2cr)

NURS 433 Community Oriented Nursing Inquiry (4cr)

NURS 434 Physiologic Integrity III (4cr)

NURS 435 Nursing Care of Families in Transition (3cr)

NURS 436 Psychosocial Integrity (4cr)

NURS 463 Nursing Leadership and Management (3cr)

NURS 464 Physiologic Integrity IV (4cr)

NURS 465 Nursing Care of Families in Crisis (2cr)

NURS 466 Professional Role Integration (4cr)

Pre-requisite coursework must be completed with a minimum C letter grade

*Core Pre-requisites - Must be complete prior to application.

~Support Pre-requisites- Must be complete prior to program start date.

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Admission to Pre-Licensure Program

Application for admission to the Pre-Licensure Program is a separate process, and in addition to

University admission. Admission is competitive; meeting minimum requirements does not

guarantee acceptance. Application periods occur twice year. Application deadlines are always

the third Friday of fall and spring semester.

Application Criteria

1. Completion of 30 semester credits.

2. A minimum total cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

3. Completion of required Core Pre-requisites with a minimum C grade.

Pre-requisite Courses

Students must complete pre-requisite courses for application and admission eligibility. All

coursework must be completed with a minimum C letter grade.

Core Pre-requisites must be completed prior to program application.

BIOL 220 Human Anatomy

BIOL 330 Principles of Human Physiology

CHEM 111 Chemistry of Life Processes Part II

ENG 101 Composition

GEOG 103 Intro to Cultural Geography

KSP 235 Human Development

NURS 101W Courage, Caring & Teambuilding

STAT 154 Elementary Statistics 4.

Support Pre-requisites must be completed prior to beginning program.

BIOL 270 Microbiology

FCS 242 Nutrition for Healthcare Professionals

PSYC 101 Intro to Psychological Science

NURS 282 Pathophysiology for Healthcare Professionals

NURS 284 Pharmacology for Healthcare Professionals

NURS 284 Relationship-based Care in Nursing Practice

Application Procedures

a) Applicants must be accepted as an undergraduate student to Minnesota State University, Mankato.

b) Applicants are responsible for being informed of the School of Nursing’s Application

Criteria, along with the specific Core and Support Pre-requisites.

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c) Applicants are responsible for including all of the required information upon submission of the Pre-Licensure Program application. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

d) Official transcripts from ALL post-secondary institutions must be transferred and evaluated by the Registration Office prior to application submission.

e) All pre-requisite course substitutions and/or waivers must be complete and notated on Degree Audit Report (DARS) prior to application submission. A copy of the approved substitutions or waiver is also acceptable, if DARS has not been updated by Registration Office.

f) Applicants must attach a copy of their Degree Audit Report (DARS) to the program application.

g) Applicants using a standardized exam score (e.g. AP, IB, CLEP) as a substitute for a Core Pre-requisite, must attach a copy of their score to the program application.

h) Applicants who submitted a Pre-Nursing Appeal, and received approval from the Pre-Licensure Program Committee, must attach a copy of this appeal to the program application.

i) Applicants must submit the Pre-Licensure Program application, along with the required documents to a Pre-Nursing Advisor by the application deadline. Applicants may schedule or attend a walk-in appointment. Application walk-in dates will be determined by the School of Nursing Advising Office and posted on the program application.

j) Distant student applicants may schedule a telephone appointment with a Pre-Nursing Advisor. The program application and required documents must be mailed to the School of Nursing prior to the scheduled phone appointment, and must be completed by the application deadline. Phone appointments can be made by contacting the School of Nursing Advising Office.

k) Applicants must complete the HESI Admission Assessment Examination for admission consideration. (See HESI Admission Assessment Exam section for details)

l) Applicants must participate in a group interview for admission consideration. (See Group

Interview section for details)

m) The Pre-Licensure Program application can be obtained on the School of Nursing website: http://ahn.mnsu.edu/nursing/undergraduate/basic/admissions.html

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Admission Ranking

a) Each applicant pool is rank ordered using the Core Pre-requisite GPA, the cumulative HESI Admission Assessment Exam score and the group interview score.

o Core Pre-requisite GPA is 50% o Cumulative HESI score is 25% o Group interview score is 25%

b) The School of Nursing will offer admission to the top 56 students from each applicant pool.

Admission Notification

a) Admission notification letters will be emailed on Wednesday, six weeks after the application deadline. All letters will be emailed to the applicant’s MavMAIL address listed on the application.

b) Admitted students are required to attend a mandatory orientation and advising session, held the following week.

Admission

Full admission requires all students to fulfill the following requirements prior to Pre-Licensure Program start date:

1) Certified as a nursing assistant, and listed as active on a Nursing Assistant Registry in the

United States.

2) Completion of Support Pre-requisites with a minimum C grade.

3) Approval to work with patients without supervision from the Minnesota Department of

Health Background check.

Admission Data

The following data should be used to inform and prepare pre-nursing students for eventual application to the Pre-Licensure Program. The data was compiled using the grades and scores from admitted students.

Average Core Pre-requisite GPA: 3.6 – 3.7

Average HESI Examination Score: 87%

Average Group Interview Score: 21.8 / 23

Students are encouraged to track their Core GPA as they prepare for application and admission. ● GPA Calculator: http://www.mnsu.edu/registrar/gpacalc.html

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HESI Admission Assessment Exam

Pre-Licensure Program applicants must complete the HESI Admission Assessment Examination for admission consideration. The HESI is a computerized exam administered by the School of Nursing. Applicants complete the following 6 academic tests:

Anatomy & Physiology: Provides coverage of general terminology and anatomical

structures and systems. (30 items)

Chemistry: Contains test items that cover matter, chemical equations and reactions, the

periodic table, atomic structure, nuclear chemistry, chemical bonding, etc. (30 items)

Grammar: Contains basic grammar, including parts of speech, important terms and their uses in grammar, commonly occurring grammatical errors, etc. (55 items)

Math: Focuses on math skills needed for healthcare fields, including basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, fractions, decimals, ratio and proportion, household measures, general math facts, etc. (55 items)

Reading Comprehension: Provides reading scenarios in order to measure reading comprehension, identifying the main idea, finding meaning of words in context, passage comprehension, making logical inferences, etc. (55 items)

Vocabulary & General Knowledge: Contains vocabulary terms that are used commonly in both general English speaking and in the healthcare fields. (55 items)

Testing Policies a) Applicants are allowed 4 hours to complete the 6 academic tests.

b) Students are eligible to sit for the HESI Exam after completion of BIOL 330: Principles of Human Physiology, an equivalent, or an approved substitution.

c) Applicants are allowed two testing attempts on the HESI Exam each semester during the regular academic school year.

d) The applicant’s highest cumulative score will be used towards admission ranking.

e) HESI Exam scores are valid for 1 year.

f) Calculators are prohibited during the Math academic test.

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Testing Dates

a) On-campus testing will be made available on two Saturdays each semester during the regular academic school year. Testing dates are determined by the School of Nursing and will be posted to the School of Nursing website 2 months prior to the application deadline. Applicants are responsible for being informed of the testing dates and their availability.

b) Scheduling accommodations will be made for students with extenuating circumstances; documentation may be required. These student applicants are required to notify the Student Relations Coordinator one week prior to application deadline; unless extenuating circumstance prevents advanced notification. The Student Relations Coordinator and student will work together to schedule an alternate testing date. HESI exam(s) must be completed 2 weeks prior to admission notification emails.

c) Distant student applicants, or others unable to complete the HESI exam during the on-campus dates, must make arrangements to test at a secure Prometric Test Center. Applicants are responsible for contacting the Student Relations Coordinator to set up testing arrangements 1 week prior to the application deadline. HESI Exam(s) must be completed 2 weeks prior to admission notification emails.

Testing Payment & Registration

a) The cost of the HESI exam is the responsibility of the applicant and must be paid for each testing attempt.

b) To ensure payment, applicants must complete the HESI Admission Assessment Exam Cost Sheet, included in the application materials, and pay the appropriate fee to the Cashiers Office. Distant applicants may mail the Cost Sheet and fee to the Cashiers Office.

c) Confirmation of Payments must be returned to the School of Nursing Office 48 hours prior to scheduled exam.

d) Students can expect to receive an email within 24 hours after submitting the Confirmation of Payment to the School Nursing. The email will instruct applicants to electronically register for the exam.

e) Students must be registered for the exam 48 hours prior to the testing date.

f) No refunds are available.

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Testing Accommodations Every attempt will be made to accommodate qualified students with disabilities. a) Students on file with Accessibility Resources are advised to schedule an individual

appointment with the Student Relations Coordinator (SRC) by contacting the School of Nursing Advising Office.

b) Prior to the appointment, students should pay for the HESI Exam. The Confirmation of

Payment should be submitted directly to the SRC at the scheduled appointment.

c) The following procedures will be completed during advising appointment:

i. Create HESI Account (username and password)

ii. Review testing rules and instructions

iii. Complete School of Nursing Alternative HESI Testing Contract

d) After advising appointment, students must complete Section 1 of the Alternative Test Agreement Form and schedule appointment with Accessibility Resources to:

i. Turn in copy of School of Nursing Alternative HESI Testing Contract

ii. Complete Section 2 of Test Agreement Form.

e) Students must complete one HESI Testing Contract and one Alternative Test Agreement per

semester.

f) Students must contact the Accessibility Resources Testing Coordinator at least 3 school days

prior to exam date to schedule a testing time.

g) Alternative HESI Exams are administered by Accessibility Resources M-F 7:30 a.m. to 4:00

p.m.

h) HESI Exams must be completed 2 weeks prior to receiving the admission notification emails,

as noted on Testing Contract.

HESI Preparation Students can prepare for the HESI by brushing up on basic test taking strategies, and becoming familiar with the content covered by the test and the types of items included. The official study guide, HESI Admission Assessment Exam Review by Evolve (4th edition), can be purchased at the on-campus Barnes & Noble Bookstore. Students will not be tested on the Biology or Physics sections, so there is no need to prepare for these subjects. Unofficial study guides and reference materials may be available at local bookstores or online.

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Group Interview

Pre-Licensure Program applicants must participate in an on-campus group interview for

admission consideration. Each group interview may hold up to 5 students and will be conducted

by two nursing faculty members.

After the application deadline, applicants will be contacted via email with interview information

including available dates, times and sign up. Interviews will take place in October and February

during the respective application periods. Sample interview questions will be provided after

selected interview date and time is confirmed.

The purpose of the interviews are to evaluate the students’:

Ability to communicate independently and within a group.

Ability to critically think and articulate their ideas.

Professional behavior in demeanor, dress, and interactions.

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SCHOOL OF NURSING

POLICIES FOR PRE-NURSING STUDENTS

In addition to the student policies outlined in the Minnesota State University, Mankato Catalog, the

following policies are in effect for pre-nursing students.

A. Pre-Requisite Grade Requirement

All Core and Support pre-requisites must be completed with a minimum C letter grade. Pass/No

credit are not acceptable.

B. Standard Grading Scale

The standard grading scale uses straight A, B, C, D and F letter grades, in addition, faculty

members have the option of using +/- for further differentiation of achievement. Every grade

carries with it a certain number of ‘quality points’ used for GPA calculation.

Grade Quality Points Grade Quality Points Grade Quality Points

A+ 4.00 A 4.00 A- 3.67

B+ 3.33 B 3.00 B- 2.67

C+ 2.33 C 2.00 C- 1.67

D+ 1.33 D 1.00 D- .67

F 0.00

C. Double-Letter Grading Scale

Some post-secondary institutions use the double-letter grading system (e.g. AB, BC). To convert a double-letter grade to the standard scale, the School of Nursing uses the following calculations:

a. Take the standard quality points for the first letter grade, and multiply by the

course credit.

b. Next, take the standard quality points for the second letter grade, and multiply

by the course credit.

c. Add the two outcomes together, and divide it by double the amount of the

course credit.

d. Example: 4-credit course with AB letter grade

A(4.0) x 4cr = 16

B(3.0) x 4cr = 12

(16 + 12) / 8cr = 3.5 quality points

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D. AP and IB Examination Scores

Minnesota State University, Mankato awards credit for Advanced Placement (AP) and

International Baccalaureate (IB) Examinations. This credit may fulfill pre-requisite coursework

with a passing letter grade.

a. If an AP/IB exam score is used to complete a core pre-requisite, a letter grade will be

assigned at the time of application to calculate the Core Pre-requite GPA.

AP/IB Score of 5 = A

AP/IB Score of 4 = B

AP Score of 3 = C

E. Repeat Core Pre-requisite

Core pre-requisites may only be repeated one time each (two overall attempts), regardless of letter

grade. The School of Nursing will use the average grade from the two attempts to calculate the Core

pre-requisite GPA for admission ranking. A withdraw from a Core prerequisite will be considered one

attempt, and a (-0.33) quality point deduction will be assigned to determine the average grade.

Examples:

The average course grade is calculated by using the quality points assigned for each letter grade (see

Policy B., Standard Grading Scale; Policy C., Double-Letter Grading Scale).

1st attempt at 4 credit course: C (2.0 quality points) = 2.0 X 4 credits = 8 GPA points

2nd attempt at 4 credit course: A (4.0 quality points) = 4.0 X 4 credits = 16 GPA points

24 GPA points/8 credits = 3.0 quality points

In this example, the average grade for this 4 credit course will be 3.0, or a “B”.

A withdraw (W) from a course will be considered one attempt at the course. A (-0.33) quality point

deduction will be assigned when one of the course attempts is a W.

1st attempt at 4 credit course: W (-0.33 quality points) = (-0.33) X 4 credits = (-1.32) GPA points

2nd attempt at 4 credit course: B (3.0 quality points) = 3.0 X 4 credits = 12 GPA points

10.68 GPA points/4 credits = 2.67 quality points

In this example, the average grade for this 4 credit course will be 2.67, or a “B-”.

Exception: An exception to this policy applies to students who completed a Core pre-requisite

during high school. These students may choose to repeat the course. This is their final attempt.

The two grades will not be averaged. Their second attempt is the final letter grade that will be

used to calculate the Core Pre-requisite GPA.

F. Course Substitutions

Course substitutions may be awarded when a transfer course was not determined equivalent,

or an exact match, to a pre-requisite. The School of Nursing may award a substitution if the

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transfer course is determined to be comparable in nature, content and level to the pre-

requisite course.

1. It is the responsibility of the student to contact the Student Relations Coordinator when

seeking a course substitution. Students may be asked to provide a course description

and/or course syllabus from the previous institution. Further consultation with the

School of Nursing Chairperson may be necessary.

2. If a substitution is granted, official paperwork will be completed, and a copy is given to

the student for their records. The Registration Office processes all approved

substitutions for official documentation on the Degree Audit Report (DARS).

3. Once a substitution is approved, the Repeat Core Pre-requisite policy applies.

G. Course Waivers

Course waivers may be provided by the School of Nursing when students have satisfied course

pre-requisites through other educational or employment experiences, which do not involve

credit. A course waiver indicates students have the background necessary to continue in the

academic program.

1. Students inquiring about a waiver should meet with the School of Nursing Chairperson

to discuss prior learning experiences. Additional materials that provide further

explanation of the experience may be requested for full consideration.

2. If a waiver is granted, official paperwork will be completed, and a copy is given to the

student for their records. The Registration Office processes all approved waivers for

official documentation on the Degree Audit Report (DARS).

3. Waivers do not provide any college credit towards the degree and will not impact the

Core pre-requisite GPA for admission. Students may need to take additional credit to

meet the requirements of the program.

H. Pre-Nursing Appeal

Students may petition the Pre-Licensure Program Committee when extenuating

circumstances impacted their academic performance, and found themselves to be in

violation of a School of Nursing Policy. The procedure to follow is outlined below:

a. Schedule an appointment with the Student Relations Coordinator (SRC) to discuss

options, including appeal process and deadlines.

b. Complete the “Pre-Nursing Appeal” form. (See Appendix B)

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c. Submit “Pre-Nursing Appeal” form and supporting documents to the SRC.

Submission of document one week prior to the Committee meeting is required so

members have time to carefully review all materials.

d. The SRC will notify the Pre-Licensure Program Committee Chairperson of the

upcoming appeal.

e. The Pre-Licensure Program Committee will make a decision based on a review of the

personal letter, supporting documentation if provided, the academic record of the

student, and the Student Relations Coordinator and faculty member statements.

f. The Pre-Licensure Program Committee Chairperson will notify the student by letter

of their appeal acceptance or denial.

I. 5-Year Limit for Core Science Pre-requisites

All core science pre-requisite courses (BIOL 220, BIOL 330 and CHEM 111) must be completed

within 5 years of the program application deadline. Students with science credits older than

five years will need to retake the applicable coursework. An appeal is not needed if courses are

retaken due to 5-year limit.

J. Nursing Assistant Admission Requirement

All students admitted to the Pre-Licensure Program must be certified as nursing assistants, and

listed as active on a Nursing Assistant Registry in the United States. (See Appendix C)

K. English Language Proficiency Requirement Applicants to the Pre-Licensure Program from non-English speaking countries must

demonstrate minimum English proficiency requirements in one of the following ways:

TOEFL iBT minimum score of 84 with a minimum speaking score of 26

TOEFL PBT minimum score of 560

IELTS overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 on all modules

M. Minimum Grade Pre-req for NURS 282 and 284

Students must have a minimum grade of a C in both BIOL 220 and BIOL 330 in order to enroll in

NURS 282: Pathophysiology for Healthcare Professionals and NURS 284: Pharmacology for

Healthcare Professionals.

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Specific Pre-Nursing Resources

Resource Description Location Phone

School of Nursing Office

Provides academic advising services to all students pursing an undergraduate major in nursing.

360 Wissink Hall

507-389-6022

Student Nurses Association (SNA)

An organization providing knowledge of nursing through volunteer activities, monthly meetings, conventions, fundraising and presentations by health care professionals. Open to pre-nursing and nursing students.

Meetings take place once a month in T-242

507-389-6022

Anatomy and Elements of Nursing Learning Communities

Provides pre-nursing students opportunities to join a community that supports their academic success and transition to college life. Participants gain access to faculty, peer mentoring and advising within their program of study.

C131 Crawford Residence

507-389-1450

GPA Calculator This tool enables pre-nursing students to track their Core Pre-requisite GPA as they prepare for application and admission to the Basic Nursing Program.

Additional Academic & Student Support Resources

Office Description Location Phone

Academic Catalogs Academic requirements listed by catalog year.

Academic Success Strategies Smartstart Study Skills

These resources offer tips and strategies for students to improve and advance their learning experience.

Accessibility Resources

Seeks to create an accessible university community providing equal opportunity in all aspects of the educational environment. Provides support to all students with disabilities

132 Memorial Library

507-389-2825

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Career Development Center

Provides services and resources to assist students and graduate with career planning, and employment searches.

209 Wigley Administration

507-389-6061

Center for Academic Success

Free trained tutors are available on a walk-in basis to assist students with writing, languages, math, science and more.

125 Memorial Library

507-389-1791

Counseling Center Free, confidential counseling services for social, personal, or academic concerns.

285 CSU 507-389-1455

Emergency Grants Emergency grants are available to students who encounter unexpected expenses. Student must meet eligibility criteria, meet with a Grant Advisor and complete the application process for consideration. The School of Nursing SRC is a Grant Advisor.

360 Wissink Hall

507-389-6022

IT Solutions Center Provides technology support to students, staff and faculty.

121 Wissink Hall

507-389-6654

Institutional Diversity

Provides direct services to students and hosts educational programs, cultural activities and conferences for area youth, faculty and staff.

269 CSU 507-389-6300

Kearney International Center

Offers two service areas-International Student and Scholar Services, and the International Programs Office (Study Abroad)

250 CSU 507-389-1281

LGBT Center Provides support, advocacy, referral and sense of community to LGBTQQA students.

194 CSU 507-389-5131

Mathematics and Statistics Learning Center

Free tutoring on a walk-in basis for undergraduate math and statistics courses.

285 Wissink Hall

507-389-5891

MavConnect Students use MavConnect to facilitate communication among academic advisors, instructors, students and others at the University that support student success.

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New Student and Family Programs

Assists new students with adjusting to the rigors of college; assist undecided students

103 Preska Residence

507-389-5498

Policies A to Z Includes all University academic polies and procedures

Registration Resources

All information pertaining to registration including the course schedule, registration deadlines, registration windows, registration problems, polices and forms.

Scholarships Information on University Scholarships and login to Scholarship Finder.

Statement of Student Responsibilities

The "Statement of Student Responsibilities" was established by students, faculty, and staff to clarify behavioral expectations of students.

Student Financial Services

(Campus Hub) Assists with financial aid programs and personal financial managements.

First floor CSU 507-389-1866

800-722-0544

Student Health Services

Provides an on campus clinical with a full-service pharmacy, lab services and health education; low-cost and convenient health services.

21 Carkoski Commons

507-389-6276

Student Support Services

The TRIO program provides one-on-on support and tutoring to first generation, students with disabilities, and low-incomes students.

355 Wiecking Center

507-389-2797

Veterans Resource Center

Provides assistance, peer support, and educational events for all students impacted by military services.

167 CSU 507-389-5726

Veterans Benefits and Assistance

Located in the Office of the Registrar; assists veterans, their dependents, National Guardsmen and Reservists with educational benefits.

132 Wigley Administration

507-389-5251

Women’s Center Provides programs, connections, advocacy, services and leadership opportunities for all MSU students

218 CSU 507-389-6146

21

AGING STUDIES MINOR FOR NURSING STUDENTS

This minor provides undergraduate nursing students the opportunity to explore the biological,

psychological and social perspectives on aging, while enhancing their specific knowledge of

nursing in relation to older persons. Within the next two decades, elders over the age of 65 will

comprise 25% of the population in the United States, leading to a shortage of over one million

nurses to serve the aging population, making this minor particularly beneficial in supporting this

career choice. Students must complete the Pre-Licensure Program and 3 additional courses from

the Gerontology Core and Social & Behavioral Science Core to be awarded this minor.

Nursing Core

The aging-related components of the Pre-Licensure Program curriculum are now integrated

with other areas of the life course. As such, successful completion of the current curriculum

also signifies completion of all aging-related, Nursing-specific coursework for the Aging Studies

Minor for Nursing Students. [NURS 334, 335, 336, 366, 434, 435]

Gerontology Core (3 credits)

· GERO 200 /200W: Family Dynamics of Aging 3cr

Social & Behavioral Science Core (choose 6 credits)

· ANTH 436W: Anthropology of Aging 3cr

· PSYC 466: Psychology of Aging 4cr

· SOC 404: Sociology of Aging 3cr

· SOWK 419: Social Work and Aging 3cr

Course Planning Guide:

ANTH 436W Fall term each even numbered year.

GERO 200W (online) Fall and Spring terms each year

GERO 200 (online) Summer term each year

PSYC 466 Spring term each year

PSYC 466 (online) Summer term each year

SOC 404 (hybrid) Fall term each year

SOWK 419 Spring term each year

22

Appendix A

AGING STUDIES MINOR FOR NURSING STUDENTS

Minor Declaration Form

All students pursuing the Aging Studies Minor for Nursing Students must officially declare. After declaration, minor requirements will be notated on the Degree Audit Report (DARS) and upper division level permission will be granted by the School of Nursing. Students may end-date, or discontinue this minor at any time. Students must successfully complete the Pre-Licensure Nursing Program, the Gerontology Core and Social & Behavioral Science Core to be awarded this minor.

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY

DATE: _________________________________ TECH ID: ______________________________

NAME: _____________________________________________________________________________

MavMAIL: ___________________________________________________________________________

FIRST ATTENDED MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, MANKATO _______________ - _________________ (Semester) (Year) MAJOR: _________________________________

I want to declare the Aging Studies Minor for Nursing Students

Student Signature:________________________________________ Date: _____________________

Return to School of Nursing Advising Office, 360 Wissink Hall

For SON Advising Office Use Only

Upper division entered on__________________ Signature: ____________________________________

(Date)

Return this form to the Department of Aging Studies, 113 Armstrong Hall

23

Appendix B

Pre-Nursing Appeal

Name:___________________________________ Tech ID/Star ID:_______________________

Local Address:_______________________________City:_______________________________

State:__________ Zip Code:_____________ Phone Number: __( ) -______________

Instructions:

Prior to completing the Pre-Nursing Appeal, students must schedule an appointment with the Student

Relations Coordinator to discuss options, including appeal process and deadlines. The Pre-Nursing

Appeal and all supporting documents must be submitted one week prior to a Pre-Licensure Program

Committee.

Appeal Due Date: ________________ Meeting Date: _________________

I. Attach a personal letter which includes the following information:

Your appeal request.

An explanation of the extenuating circumstances which impacted your academic performance.

Your plan on how you have changed these circumstances.

Strategies you plan to use which will enhance your academic performance in the future.

II. Attach documentation from professionals that have assisted you in these circumstances (example:

physician, counselor, etc.) or acknowledgment of no additional supportive documentation.

III. Attach any other supporting documentation you would like the Nursing faculty to review.

Submit your Pre-Nursing Appeal form, personal letter and supporting documents to:

Kasi Johnson, Student Relations Coordinator

School of Nursing

360 Wissink Hall

Mankato, MN 56001

Students’ names and other identifying information is redacted on the appeal documents. Students will

be notified by letter from the Pre-Licensure Program Chairperson of their appeal acceptance or denial.

By signing below, I acknowledge that I understand the appeal process as outlined in the Pre-Nursing

Handbook. Further, I understand that I will be required to meet the conditions outlined in the letter

from the Pre-Licensure Program Chairperson, including a denial. I understand that if my appeal is

denied, I may be unable to pursue nursing at Minnesota State University, Mankato. It is my

responsibility to clarify appeal conditions.

Student Signature:_________________________________________ Date:__________________

24

Appendix C

Nursing Assistant Admission Requirement

All students admitted to the Pre-Licensure Program must be certified as nursing assistants,

and listed as active on a Nursing Assistant Registry in the United States.

What is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?

Certified Nursing Assistants work under a nurse’s supervision and help patients of all ages perform basic daily

tasks. They often work in nursing homes, assisted living, hospice, hospitals, community based long-term care, and

other long-term care settings.

When do I need to be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?

The CNA is not required to apply to the program, but must be completed prior to the program start date.

How do I get on a Nursing Assistant Registry?

1. Successfully complete an approved nursing assistant training and competency test-out. or

2. Successfully pass an approved competency test-out for nursing assistants. Students may secure a Nursing Assistant in Training position at a long term care facility which will

provide the necessary training for the test-out. Students may utilize the free study materials provided by the Minnesota Department of Health and

test-out without taking a course or obtaining a position.

Where can I find an approved training/testing site?

CNA training and testing is offered through approved sites, usually through community/technical colleges,

hospitals and nursing homes. Students are encouraged to complete the training and/or test-out during the

summer months. The Minnesota Department of Health’s Nursing Assistant website has a directory of approved

sites in Minnesota: https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/directory/natrainingsites.html

How do I stay on the Registry?

In Minnesota, nursing assistants must perform at least 8 hours of paid duties every 24 months to stay on the

Registry. If you do not work as a paid nursing assistant, your certification is only valid for 24 months from date of

issue. If certification was not earned in Minnesota, refer to that states guidelines.

I got my CNA in a different state. Do I need to transfer it to Minnesota?

No, however for admission, your CNA must be active on a state Nursing Assistant Registry within the United States.

For program admission, you must submit verification from the Registry on which you are active. Only if you plan to

work in MN as a CNA will you need to transfer your certification.

Do I need to keep my CNA active after I begin the nursing program?

No, you are not required to keep your CNA active after beginning the Pre-Licensure Program, unless you plan on

working as a CNA while finishing the major.

Additional information can be found at the Minnesota Department of Health website or your states Department

of Health website. https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/providers/nursingassistant/index.html