ORVIS SCHOOL OF NURSING
DNP NURSING PROGRAM
STUDENT HANDBOOK
Welcome from the Director of the Orvis School of Nursing
Welcome to the DNP program!!!
Providing quality nursing education to meet the needs of our state and beyond is a priority at
UNR Orvis School of Nursing. Our post-master’s DNP program, in collaboration with the
University of Nevada-Las Vegas School of Nursing, has been developed as a rigorous program
that builds on the strengths and experiences of nursing faculty from both UNR and UNLV.
Designed for Advanced Practice Nurses and Nurse Executives, our program uses an online
format with periodic campus visits, allowing the flexibility needed for today’s graduate-level
nursing students. We are excited about our collaborative program and that you have chosen
UNR and UNLV for your DNP education.
Sincerely,
Patsy L. Ruchala, DNSc, RN
Director, Orvis School of Nursing, UNR
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Welcome from the Coordinator of the UNDNP Program, Reno Campus
Welcome to the UNR Cohort of the UNDNP program, a collaborative program between Orvis School of
Nursing, University of Nevada Reno and the School of Nursing, University of Nevada, Las Vegas. As
you are aware, approximately half of your class is enrolled here at the Orvis School of Nursing at UNR
and the other half at UNLV School of Nursing. Both faculties share in teaching the online courses. You
will have the opportunity to meet the UNR doctoral faculty during orientation and while you work on
your DNP project. In addition, you will have opportunities to work with your classmates on both
campuses throughout the course work and through web-based academic and social sites online.
Throughout the next 2 or 3 years, we welcome your assessment of the program so that we can continue to
improve it and make it the quality program it is designed to be. We are very excited about the program,
and working with and learning from you. Again, welcome and as you progress through the program,
should you have any questions or issues, don’t hesitate to contact me, Christine Aramburu Alegría, at:
aramburu@unr.edu, or by phone: 775.682.7147.
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General Note
It is important for UNR graduate students to be aware of the UNR Graduate School’s policies
and procedures for graduate programs and to understand the policies relevant to the UNDNP
program contained in the General Catalog. For more information about UNR’s Graduate School,
visit its website at: http://www.unr.edu/grad. The following are the key points from Graduate
School materials, plus additional guidelines relevant to the UNDNP program. Most of this
information is also included in the General Catalog. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware
of and meet all requirements.
Table of Contents
Page
1. Introduction
5
2. Information about UNR
5
3. Orvis School of Nursing
7
4. UNDNP Information
7
5. Programs of Study
9
6. Course Descriptions
11
7. UNDNP Project Description
12
8. UNR, UNDNP Program/Graduate School Requirements
15
9. Courses and Course Load
16
10. Academic Standards Policies
16
11. Continuous Enrollment
22
12. FERPA Consent Form
23
13. Graduate Assistantships
25
14. Suggested Timeline
26
15. Fees, Expenses And Financial Assistance
28
16. Appendix A. Graduate Advisory Chair Form
29
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INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Orvis School of Nursing (OSN) at the University of Nevada, Reno. We look
forward to working with you to achieve your academic and professional goals. This handbook is
designed as a resource for information pertinent to the UNDNP Program. If you find there is
additional information you believe should be added to the handbook, please contact the OSN
UNDNP, Coordinator. We welcome your input!
Additional publications students will need and find helpful are listed below:

Graduate Catalog – Policies regarding admission, progress, and graduation
http://www.cis.unr.edu/ecatalog/Default.aspx?article_list_id=16320.

UNR Student Code of Conduct and Policy and Guidelines
http://www.unr.edu/student-conduct/policies/student-code-of-conduct

Doctoral Degree Requirements – Resource for those completing the UNDNP Project at UNR
http://www.cis.unr.edu/ecatalog/Default.aspx?article_list_id=16381
These important documents and others can be accessed on the Graduate School web page at
http://www.unr.edu/academics/graduate-school
INFORMATION ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA RENO
Founded in 1874 as the Silver State's first university, Nevada is a top-caliber, land-grant research
university committed to serving the common good of the state and the world. Nestled at the
intersection of the Great Basin and Sierra Nevada, the 17,000-student campus offers competitive
degree programs and paradigm-shifting research in a world-class setting. The University of
Nevada, Reno is designated as a Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Education as a
Comprehensive Doctoral Institution. It is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on
Colleges and Universities. Both the BSN and MSN programs at the Orvis School of Nursing,
UNR and the School of Nursing at UNLV are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate
Nursing Education (CCNE). The UNDNP Program also has full CCNE accreditation.
RESOURCES ON CAMPUS
Library: The Mathewson-IGT Knowledge center combines the best of traditional library
resources and services with new digital and multimedia technologies and tools. UNDNP students
may access its services by accessing its website: http://knowledgecenter.unr.edu. After reaching
the website, type in your UNDNP student ID and PIN number.
For access to the UNLV Library, students admitted to UNR as their ‘home’ school will need to
log into the UNLV library and register for a barcode that will give them internet access to the
library services. After the middle of August the year of admission. students should log into
http://www.library.unlv.edu/circ/distance_registration.html A barcode will be emailed to the
student that will allow access to the library journals and databases.
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Graduate Student Association (GSA): The UNR GSA offers a variety of services to graduate
students. All enrolled graduate students may take advantage of GSA services. For further
information go to its website at: http://www.unr.edu/gsa.
Student Union: Completed and formally dedicated in November 2007, the Joe Crowley
Student Union is one of the most transformational buildings ever built on campus. The
167,000-square-foot, "green" environmentally friendly facility signals a shift in campus
expansion, offering the campus and community a new centrally located "front door" to the
University from Virginia Street. Named in honor of University President Joe Crowley, whose
23-year tenure as the institution's chief executive is a record, the Joe Crowley Student Union
features a two-story ASUN Bookstore, a variety of food and drink retailers, a 1,200-seat grand
ballroom, a 220-seat, two-level movie theater, a 2,000-square-foot student organization center,
and is home to the Associated Students of the University of Nevada, Graduate Student
Association and the Center for Student Cultural Diversity.
Graduate School Office: Contact information:
Student Services Building, Room 225
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm
Phone: (775)784-6869 Fax: (775)784-6064
Graduate School
Mailstop 0326
University of Nevada, Reno
Reno, NV 89557
Website: http://www.unr.edu/grad
Student Enrollment and Financial Services: This office is responsible for the processes of
registration, withdrawals, and recording graduation. The staff handles students' questions about
their records, provides transcripts and enrollment certification documents, and provides
information about financial aid. Additional information may be found at:
http://www.unr.edu/academic-central.
Veteran Services: The Veteran Services Office at UNR is your liaison to the U. S. Department
of Veterans Affairs for certification of your veteran and veteran related education benefits. Our
goal is to provide students who are veterans or are receiving veteran education benefits
assistance with both applying for and receiving those benefits to further their education. We
accomplish this goal by submitting forms and information directly to the Veteran Affairs
Education Benefits Office on behalf of the student, certifying classes being taken by the student,
education benefit advising, provide contact information to Department of Veterans Affairs
offices, academic advisors contact information, and direction to other on-campus student support
services. The University of Nevada, Reno Veteran Services office is located on the second floor
of the Fitzgerald Student Services Building in the Admissions and Records office.
Mailing address:
Veteran Services
University of Nevada
Reno
Mail Stop 0121
Reno, NV 89557-0121
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Disability Resources Center: For further information and to make arrangements for services,
please contact the Disability Resource Center directly at (775) 784-6000. www.unr.edu.
Counseling: Counseling Services are available at UNR. For information about services go to its
website at: http://www.unr.edu/counseling or call: 775-784-4648.
Student Health Services: The Student Health Center at the University of Nevada, Reno is an
accredited outpatient facility. It provides a wide range of health care services to meet the needs
of the student population. All students enrolled at UNR are eligible to receive services at the
Student Health Center. Phone: 775-784-6598
All graduate nursing students are required to maintain and show proof of current health
insurance, malpractice insurance, and current license as an RN and Advanced Practice
nurse, as applicable.
THE ORVIS SCHOOL OF NURSING
The mission of the Orvis School of Nursing is to prepare individuals for both entry level and
advanced nursing roles by providing excellent academic programs integrating recognized
educational standards. The curriculum emphasizes nursing care of individuals, families and
populations throughout the lifespan; among diverse cultures & beliefs; and across all
socioeconomic groups in the context of their environments by providing a strong foundation for
evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and leadership. As an essential part of its mission as a
land grant institution, Orvis School of Nursing provides service to the state of Nevada and to the
professional community at large.
UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE PROGRAM
Overview and Mission
Orvis School of Nursing, UNR and the School of Nursing at UNLV offer a collaborative Doctor
of Nursing Practice (UNDNP) post-master’s degree with two options: Advanced Practice or
Nurse Executive. Students may enroll in the program at either UNR or UNLV. The program of
study is online and identical on each campus with half of the courses taught by UNR and the
other by UNLV faculty. Graduates of the program receive a Doctor of Nursing Practice issued by
the home campus, i.e., the campus to which they apply. Students are required to attend one twoday on-campus meeting the first year for orientation to the program and one day each for the
defense of the proposed DNP Project and the final defense of the DNP Project. The program is
39 credits and takes five semesters to complete including one summer for full time study and
eight semesters for part time including two summers.
The post-master’s UNDNP program prepares nurses to assume leadership roles in clinical
practice, administration, clinical teaching, and clinical research. The DNP differs from the PhD
in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Science degrees, emphasizing advanced clinical practice,
implementation of best practices, and evaluation of practice and care delivery models rather than
individually initiated research. The University of Nevada DNP program prepares graduates for
advanced clinical practice and leadership roles to serve the health care needs of the people of
Nevada, the nation, and the professional community. DNP graduates are equipped to assume a
wide range of leadership roles in both direct and indirect health care settings. DNP graduates
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may function as specialists in their advanced practice clinical roles, nursing faculty, or as
healthcare executives, program and policy analysts.
The UNDNP program offers two areas of study: post-master’s advanced practice option or the
nurse executive option. The goal and objectives of the UNDNP program are as follows:
The goal of the DNP degree is to prepare nurses to assume leadership roles in clinical
practice, clinical teaching, and health care analysis.
DNP Program Objectives:
At the conclusion of the University of Nevada DNP program, graduates will:
1. Provide advanced nursing care to improve patient and population health care outcomes
in various direct and indirect settings.
2. Take leadership roles in the analysis, delivery and management of nursing care and
health care systems.
3. Provide evidence-based practice through the application of analytical methods,
information systems technology, and clinical research.
4. Collaborate with interprofessional teams to meet the healthcare needs of culturally and
ethnically diverse individuals and populations.
5. Act as change agent, leader, and advocate in the design, implementation, and
evaluation of health care policy as it affects populations and the nursing profession.
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Year 1 Full Time Fall
NURS 725 Scientific Underpinnings of the
DNP in Advanced Practice
Program of Study
CR Year 1 Full time Spring
NURS772 The Nurse as
Leader
2
NURS 729 Translational Evidence for
Healthcare Systems
3
NURS 728 Analysis of Healthcare System
2
N732 The Economics of
Healthcare Delivery
NURS 788 DNP Project
Total credits
Year 2 Full Time Fall
7
CR Year 2 Full Time Spring
NURS 792 Outcomes Management &
Performance Improvement in Nursing
3
NURS 763 Management Strategies for
Nursing & Healthcare Systems OR
NURS 778 GIS for Health
3
CR Year 1 Summer
NURS 767 Collaboration, Communication, &
3
Negotiation for the Nurse Leader
3
NURS 719 Health & Public Policy for
Advanced Nursing Practice
2
NURS745 Healthcare Information systems &
Technology
CR
2
8
CR
8
NURS 765 DNP Residency
4
N788 DNP Project
2
N768 DNP Forum and Role
Transformation
2
3
3
NURS 788 DNP Project
3
Total Credits
2
8
8
Total Credits for Program
39
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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
NURS 719 Health and Public Policy for Advanced Practice Nursing
Prepares nursing leaders to analyze and influence health policy. Defines problems, critiques
potential solutions, assesses political influences, designs interventions for policy-making, and
evaluates outcomes. 3 Credits
NURS 725 Scientific Underpinnings of the DNP in Advanced Practice Nursing
Articulates and supports a role for the nursing doctorate to prepare nurse leaders within the
discipline of nursing. 2 Credits
NURS 728 Analysis of Healthcare Organizations
An introduction to the analysis of the health/human service organization as a particular type of
complex organization. 2 Credits
NURS 729 Translational Evidence for Healthcare Systems
Critical analysis and synthesis of the literature and available data to determine and implement
evidence-based science into healthcare practice. 3 Credits
NURS 732 The Economics of Healthcare Delivery
Addresses basic concepts and techniques for financial management as it relates to clinical
practice, clinical teaching, and research in healthcare programs and organizations. 3 Credits
NURS 745 Healthcare Information Systems and Technology
Leadership models for nurse educator, advanced practice, or management roles. Mentorship,
service, knowledge dissemination and impact of diversity on ethical leadership practices are
included. 3 Credits
NURS 763 Management Strategies for Nursing and Healthcare Systems
Analysis and application of human resource management, public relations, and marketing
strategies for effective and efficient use of human talent to accomplish organizational goals.
3 Credits
NURS 765 DNP Residency: Advanced Practice and Nurse Executive
Students complete residencies to apply program concepts and develop and implement strategies
for practice-level and/or system-wide practice initiatives to improve the quality of care.
4 Credits
NURS 767 Collaboration, Communication and Negotiation for the Nurse Leader
The utilization of collaboration, communication and negotiation for implementation of practice
models, peer review, practice guidelines, health policy, standards of care, and other scholarly
products. 2 Credits
NURS 768 DNP Forum and Role Transformation Students examine issues and challenges in
the DNP role and skills and strategies to conceptualize, articulate, plan, and actualize a career as
a nurse leader. 2 Credits
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NURS 772 The Nurse as Leader Leadership models for nurse educator, advanced practice, or
management roles. Mentorship, service, knowledge dissemination and impact of diversity on
ethical leadership practices are included. 3 Credits
NURS 778 GIS for Health
Introduces the use of epidemiologic methods and modern geographic information systems to
analyze the relationships between socioeconomic, physical, geopolitical, and demographic
factors and population health. 3 Credits
NURS 788 DNP Project
The student will complete the DNP Project design and implementation. The results will be
evaluated, culminating with a final written and oral defense. The course may be repeated up to 6
credits.
NURS 792 Outcomes Management and Performance Improvement in Nursing
Application of concepts of quality improvement and safety to the management of outcomes in
healthcare and nursing systems to ensure delivery of quality interprofessional care.
UNDNP Project
INTRODUCTION
The UNDNP program requires a change project as the culminating experience for the program.
The process for developing the process begins in the second semester of full-time study (fifth
semester of part-time study) and continues throughout the remaining three semesters. A
minimum of six credits of NURS 788 is required to complete the project. Students have three
faculty members on their Project committee; two nursing faculty from the home campus (UNR),
and a third member from another discipline on the student’s home campus who serves as a
representative of the Graduate School. The following describes the project in more detail. Note:
you may alternatively hear the project referred to as the “Capstone.”
DNP Project Guidelines
The purpose of the DNP project is give the student an opportunity to synthesize the advanced
knowledge and skills developed in DNP coursework. One of the ways the student demonstrates
the synthesis of advanced practice and leadership skills is through production of a DNP project
report.
What Constitutes a DNP Project? The DNP project gives the student the opportunity to
develop and ultimately, demonstrate a synthesis of senior leadership and advanced practice
skills within the context of health care improvement. Thus, the setting, purpose, and objectives
of student projects will vary, but every project will include the synthesis of strategic, creative
thinking, decision-making, business planning, project management, and communication skills
that are hallmarks of a DNP-prepared graduate. Students work with a faculty member with the
knowledge and expertise in the student’s selected topic who is designated as the chair of the
student’s project committee. A second member of the nursing faculty with relevant expertise
sits on the committee in an advisory role. The third member is a representative of the campus
Graduate School from another discipline whose knowledge is relevant to the student’s project.
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Timetable: The student is oriented to the process for developing and completing the project
during the initial orientation held on each campus in the first fall term of the DNP program. At
that time, an overview of the project and an introduction to DNP faculty members eligible to
supervise students’ projects takes place. Faculty members present their research, evidence-based
practice, education projects, and/or leadership expertise and interests. This provides students
with information about faculty with similar interests as their own and as possible chairs and
members of project committees as they progress through the DNP program.
Before the end of the first semester of coursework, the student should speak with an advisor
about her/his interests and opportunities for the leadership or advanced practice project. The
exchange should include a discussion of potential chairs and members of the project committee
and their readiness to assume such a role. Although plans may subsequently change after
exposure to new ideas through coursework, student discourses, and employment transitions, a
continuing dialogue about the potential project with the advisor is essential. By the end of the
semester and with the advisor’s approval, the student finalizes the selection of a faculty chair for
the project. In collaboration with the Chair of the Committee, the additional members who
comprise the Project Advisory Committee are selected.
Since the DNP Project is a synthesis of the program objectives and relates to advanced practice
and nursing leadership, students track the hours spent in the Project courses to document their
contribution toward the 540 hours of supervised clinical practice requirement of the program.
In the second semester, the student is engaged in project planning. The Project Advisory
Committee reviews the proposed plan and toward the end of the semester, the student defends
the project proposal. The Project Committee must approve the project plan prior to
implementation.
After the project proposal is approved, the student is able to implement the project. During
implementation, the student applies knowledge from previous and concurrent coursework to
continue activities on the project. The student’s Project Committee chair supports the student by
acting as a resource and reviewing the student’s progress. The student initiates activities on the
project throughout the semester under the guidance of the Chair of the Project Committee.
Throughout the semester, it is the student’s responsibility to stay in contact with the Committee
Chair and set periodic meetings for review of the work.
The student works with the Project Committee chair throughout to finalize the work of the
project and to prepare the final defense of the project to the committee. A PowerPoint
presentation is developed that acts as an outline for the defense of the project.
Once the work on the DNP project has commenced, satisfactory progress must be made each
semester in order to receive a passing grade in Nurs 788. You must communicate with your
chairperson as to what constitutes “satisfactory progress.” A minimum of six credits of Nurs 788
are required to graduate.
ADVISOR AND ADVISORY COMMITTEE
A. Each UNDNP student must form a three-person (minimum) advisory committee. The
advisory committee chair must be a nursing graduate faculty member from the home campus
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(UNR). The second committee member is a nursing graduate faculty member from the home
campus (UNR). The third required member is a graduate faculty member from another discipline
at the UNR campus. If additional members of the committee are desired by the student and
approved by the committee chair, they must meet Graduate School qualification for Graduate
Faculty status. It is never too early to begin to organize the committee, to define and refine the
topic for the project, and to begin to formulate the proposal for this work. Prior to the selection
of an advisor, the UNR, UNDNP Coordinator will be available to assist each student with
curricular and other academic decisions.
B. It is the student’s responsibility to form this committee. This responsibility should begin by
determining the UNDNP home campus graduate faculty member who will serve as the student’s
project chair. All Orvis School of Nursing graduate faculty members are eligible to fill this role,
but the person chosen should be competent in the area of interest in the proposed project or
experienced in leading student project committees. Check the Graduate School website for a list
of approved graduate faculty in nursing and other disciplines at UNR:
http://www.unr.edu/grad/faculty/allfaculty.asp. The chair should be willing to work with the
professionals involved at the student’s workplace or volunteer setting and the other two members
of the committee.
C. The committee chair is the graduate faculty member who will guide the student in developing
the DNP Project, and in implementing the various steps of that proposal. The chair and student
will determine other committee members to complete the committee makeup. Ideally, the second
member should be someone with some understanding of the student’s chosen area of
concentration. The third faculty member is selected from the home campus of the student
university-at-large and may have some or no connection to the student’s interest area. According
to the Graduate School, the university-at-large member is given the role of representing the
graduate school, assuring compliance with graduate school regulations and procedures and
reporting any deviation from prescribed standards to the graduate school.
D. The graduate school rule regarding committees is that they should be formed prior to
completion of 12 graduate credits.
E. Advisory committee members must have graduate faculty status or approval of the Dean of
the Graduate School. Two committee members must be nursing faculty members with the Chair
from Orvis School of Nursing and the second member from Orvis or the UNLV School of
Nursing approved nursing graduate faculty member and one must be from outside the SON
program (i.e. from some other academic unit on the home campus).
F. Students working on a project in the community may find it helpful and even vital to include a
key person from the workplace on their committee. Preferably, this person should be doctorally
prepared (PhD, DNSc, EdD, DPH, M.D., etc.), in which case, it may be possible to obtain
Graduate School approval for their role as an official committee member. If this is not possible,
this person can serve on the committee as ex officio.
G. Once the faculty member who will chair the student’s DNP Project has agreed to serve, the
student completes the Graduate Advisory Chair form and forwards it to the faculty member for
signature. The completed form with the signature should be forwarded to the UNDNP, Reno
Coordinator for filing purposes. See Appendix A for a copy of the form
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H. The student’s committee chair, the student, and other committee members should meet
together to review, approve, and, sign off on the student’s Program of Study, which should be
detailed on the Graduate School’s Program of Study Form.
UNR, UNDNP PROGRAM/GRADUATE SCHOOL REQUIREMENTS
(Forms can be found at the following address: http://www.unr.edu/grad/forms)
A. Students should discuss their program of study with the UNR, UNDNP Coordinator. The
responsibility for approving a student’s program of study lies with the student’s project advisor,
other members of his/her advisory committee, and the DNP program coordinator. This
information is recorded by the student on the Graduate School’s Program of Study Form, which,
once finalized, must be signed by each member of the advisory committee and forwarded to the
Graduate Coordinator for approval.
B. Each student should gain approval for his/her Program of Study Form from her/his project
advisor prior to forwarding it to the student’s Advisory Committee. Elective-course choices
should be made in collaboration with the student’s advisor and support the student’s areas of
specialization and her/his research and professional interests. Once agreement has been reached
between the student and advisor, the Program of Study should be forwarded to the student’s
Advisory Committee who will sign off on the plan. All degree requirements including elective
courses must be included on the Program of Study Form.
Important note: The Program of Study Form should be submitted to the Graduate School as
soon as possible after the completion of 12 credits in the program. Should a student need help
with course decisions prior to selecting an advisor and committee, the DNP program coordinator
can assist in approving and recommending courses. If elective-course choices change, an
amended Program of Study Form should be completed, necessary signatures obtained, and the
form submitted to the Graduate School.
COURSES AND COURSE LOAD
A. Only graduate courses (numbered 600 or higher at UNR) are applicable toward the UNDNP
degree. These can include web-based courses, if available.
B. According to Graduate School policy up to nine transfer graduate credits are permitted.
However, with the approval of the DNP Coordinator, and under special circumstances, a student
can petition the Graduate School to accept additional transfer credits. The Graduate Credit
Transfer Evaluation Request Form should be used to evaluate transfer credits.
C. Graduate credit may not be obtained through Extension courses or Correspondence courses.
ACADEMIC STANDARDS POLICY FOR STUDENTS
All students should be aware of the University of Nevada, Reno academic standards and
dishonesty procedures outlined in the Academic Standards Policy:
Academic Standards:
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Class Conduct: A student may be dropped from class at any time for negligence or misconduct,
upon recommendation of the instructor and with approval of the college dean. Students may also
be dropped for non-attendance upon indication of the instructor.
Subsection A: Definitions
Academic dishonesty is against university as well as the system community standards. Academic
dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, the following:
Plagiarism: defined as submitting the language, ideas, thoughts or work of another as one's own;
or assisting in the act of plagiarism by allowing one's work to be used in this fashion.
Cheating: defined as (1) obtaining or providing unauthorized information during an examination
through verbal, visual or unauthorized use of books, notes, text and other materials; (2) obtaining
or providing information concerning all or part of an examination prior to that examination; (3)
taking an examination for another student, or arranging for another person to take an exam in
one's place; (4) altering or changing test answers after submittal for grading, grades after grades
have been awarded, or other academic records once these are official.
Subsection B: Sanctions for Violation of Academic Standards
Sanctions for violations of university academic standards may include the following:
(1) filing a final grade of "F"; (2) reducing the student's final course grade one or two full grade
points; (3) awarding a failing mark on the test or paper in question; and (4) requiring the student
to retake the test or resubmit the paper.
A student found responsible for violating this policy may not withdraw from the course in
question. A student failed in a course due to academic dishonesty may not utilize the "repeat
option" for that course.
A student may also be subject to discipline for academic dishonesty pursuant to the provisions of
the Board of Regents Code, Title 2, Chapter 6.
The website for the policy and contact information may be found at: http://www.unr.edu/studentconduct/policies/university-policies-and-guidelines/academic-standards/policy
Academic Requirements-Regular Graduate Standing
The following criteria must be met to remain in good graduate standing regardless of academic
program.
Continuous Enrollment
Graduate students must register for a minimum of 3 graduate credits each fall and spring
semester until graduation or obtain online an Approved Leave of Absence Form signed by their
program and the Graduate School. Approved leaves of absence do not abrogate the time
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limitations on course work (6 years for a DNP program). Exceptions to the time clock on course
work accrued during a leave of absence may be granted for valid, compelling reasons by the
Graduate School. For students on assistantships, the department /program will make efforts to
continue the assistantship upon re-entry into the program, but because of the variations that occur
with funding cycles and overall funding availability it cannot be guaranteed. There are no
minimum registration requirements during the summer.
Graduate Courses
Courses numbered 600 and above are for graduate credit (see numbering explanation in the
Course Offerings Section of the catalog). A dual-numbered (400-600) course completed at the
400 level for undergraduate credit may not be retaken at the 600 level for graduate credit.
Courses numbered 500- 599 are post baccalaureate level and not applicable toward a graduate
degree.
Academic Standards (Good Standing/ Probation/Dismissal)
Good Standing: Each graduate course must be completed with a grade of "C" or better for the
credit to be acceptable toward an advanced degree. Some departments, at their discretion, do not
accept any grade lower than "B" for the fulfillment of graduate program requirements*.
In addition, students must maintain good standing with an overall cumulative graduate credit
GPA of at least 3.0 on a scale of 4.0.
*The Graduate Program at Orvis School of Nursing and the UNDNP Program requires a passing
grade of B or higher for all courses.
A student may register for a course only two times. A student who has registered for the
same course twice and has withdrawn, or received a grade less than a “B”, is ineligible for
progression, unless approved by the OSN Associate Director of Graduate Program.
If a student fails (receives less than a “B”) two courses or has withdrawn from two courses,
he/she is ineligible for readmission.
Probation: If the graduate grade-point total is one to six grade points below the requisite 3.0
GPA, the student is placed on probation. The student must then raise his/her cumulative graduate
GPA to 3.0 by the end of the following semester or the student will be dismissed from graduate
standing.
Dismissal: If the graduate grade-point total is seven or more grade points below the requisite 3.0
GPA, the student is dismissed from graduate standing, or if the graduate GPA remains below 3.0
for two (2) consecutive semesters, the student is dismissed from graduate standing.
Course grades will be included in the overall grade point average, even when the required time
period to obtain a degree (6 years for a masters, and 8 years for a doctoral) has expired. Grades
of "D" or "F" are included in the average. Probation/ dismissal recommendations based on GPA
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will be determined by the Graduate School. The student will be notified, and, if appropriate, the
Office of Admissions and Records will also be notified that the student is dismissed from
graduate standing.
A student dismissed from graduate standing because of grade-point deficiencies may only enroll
as a graduate special in undergraduate courses. To enroll in graduate-level courses, advance
written approval must be obtained from the course instructor, the department concerned and the
Graduate School.
Dismissal recommendations other than GPA (i.e. failure to progress) can be forwarded from the
program to the Graduate School and if approved by the Graduate Dean, the student will be
notified. The Office of Admissions and Records will also be notified that the student is dismissed
from graduate standing.
If a student is dismissed from graduate standing for reasons other than grade-point deficiencies,
they may register for either graduate or undergraduate courses as a graduate special.
A student may reapply for graduate standing after elimination of the existing grade-point
deficiency and achieving an overall cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0. The student
must re-file an application for admission to the Graduate School.
NOTE: Application materials are scanned and then are shredded.
Grade Appeal Policy
Revised: July 2012
This policy describes the procedure by which a student may appeal a final course grade. A grade
assigned by an instructor is only subject to the appeals procedure if:



There was a clerical/administrative error in the calculation and/or assignment of the
grade;
The grade assignment was based on factors other than the student’s performance in the
course and/or completion of course requirements; or
The grade assignment meant that the student was held to more demanding standards than
other students in the same section of the course.
The burden of proof of these conditions rests on the student.
The student should not follow this procedure in situations of academic dishonesty. If a student
wishes to appeal a grade received as a sanction for an instance of academic dishonesty, the
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student must follow the Academic Dishonesty procedure: http://www.unr.edu/studentconduct/policies/university-policies-and-guidelines/academic-standards/policy.
There are four possible processes in this grade appeal procedure:
1. Student consults with instructor before filing Grade Appeal Form;
2. Student files a Grade Appeal Form with department chair;
3. Student meets with the department chair or with both the department chair and instructor;
and
4. Department chair appoints a grade appeal review committee.
1. Student Consults with Instructor
In the event that a student disagrees with the final grade received in a course, the student must
discuss the basis for the grade with the instructor. This requirement allows clerical/administrative
grade errors that are discovered to be corrected by the instructor by means of the Change of
Grade Form without the necessity of filing an appeal. If the grade is still in dispute after
consultation, then the student may complete the Grade Appeal Form. The consultation step can
be skipped only if the instructor is unavailable or fails to respond within 10 working days. (For
the purpose of this policy, working days refers to faculty academic contract days.)
2. Student Files a Grade Appeal Form with Department Chair
If after consulting the instructor the student still feels the grade assignment meets one of the three
bulleted criteria above, and/or the student was unable to consult with the instructor, the student
may complete a Grade Appeal Form and file it with the chair of the department offering the
course. (In this policy, the term “chair” may also refer to the director of a program offering the
course, or a designee for the chair or program director.)
The Grade Appeal Form must be filed no later than 10 working days after the start of the next
spring or fall semester (whichever comes first) after the grade is assigned.
3. Student Meets with the Department Chair or with both the Department Chair and Instructor
The chair has a total of 30 working days after receipt of the Grade Appeal Form to contact the
student, request a written response from the instructor, meet with the student or the student and
the instructor to attempt to facilitate a resolution between the student and the instructor, and
provide a written summary of the results of the process. A recommended schedule is as follows:
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




Within 5 working days of the receipt of the Grade Appeal form, the Department chair
should contact the instructor and the student to begin investigation of the situation.
The department chair requests a written response from the instructor.
The instructor has 5 working days to provide a written response to the chair concerning
the appeal.
The chair should arrange a meeting with the student within 5 working days of receiving
the written response from the instructor.
The chair should complete the written summary of the results of that meeting within 5
working days of meeting with the student and student and instructor.
If the chair is able to facilitate an agreement between the student and the instructor on the final
grade within 30 working days after the receipt of the Grade Appeal Form, the agreed-upon grade
is considered final. If this grade is different from the original grade assigned by the instructor, a
Change of Grade form must be filed by the instructor.
4. Department Chair Appoints a Grade Appeal Review Committee
If the chair is unable to reach a resolution between the student and the instructor within 30
working days of receiving the Grade Appeal Form, the chair will appoint a Grade Appeal
Review Committee and forward the Grade Appeal Form, along with the instructor’s response, to
the Committee. The committee will consist of the following four members: one student
currently enrolled at the institution, one faculty member from within the department, one faculty
member from outside the department, and a committee chair (from within or outside the
department). The student on the Grade Appeal Review Committee should have the same status
as the student requesting a grade appeal. For example, an undergraduate student filing a grade
appeal should have an undergraduate student on the Grade Appeal Review Committee, while a
graduate student should have a graduate student on the Grade Appeal Review Committee. The
department chair should not serve on or chair the Grade Appeal Review Committee. The Grade
Appeal Review Committee chair will chair the Committee and act as a non-voting member.
While the instructor and the student may comment on the composition of the committee within 2
working days of its appointment, the final decision on the committee’s composition rests with
the department chair.
The Grade Appeal Review Committee does not have subpoena power. The principals (i.e., the
student and the instructor) may not be represented by counsel. The hearing of the grade appeal
by the committee is a closed meeting to be attended only by the Grade Appeal Committee, the
student, and the instructor. The student or the instructor may waive his or her right to attend.
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The Grade Appeal Review Committee may request additional materials from the student or
instructor within 10 working days of the appointment of the committee, and those materials shall
be provided to the Committee within 5 additional working days.
The Grade Appeal Review Committee will convene no later than 20 working days after it is
appointed and receives the grade appeal materials, and will make a recommendation of grade
assignment within 5 more working days.
The decision of the Grade Appeal Review Committee is determined by vote and a majority
decision rules. The decision does not have to be unanimous. This decision is not subject to
appeal. The dean, department chair, instructor, and student will be notified of the decision, and
in case the decision involves a change from the original grade, the Registrar’s Office will be
notified. A Change of Grade form will be filed by the department chair if the committee
recommends a change of grade.
Student Credit Loads
A full-time graduate student may not register for more than sixteen (16) graduate credits in any
semester, or more than six (6) graduate credits in any six-week summer session. Graduate
assistants may not register for more than twelve (12) graduate credits per semester.
Students who register for nine (9) graduate credits or more in a semester are considered full-time.
For graduate assistants on a 20-hour (half-time) contract, six (6) graduate credits or more
constitute full-time. To be considered full-time for financial aid purposes, all graduate
students, including those on assistantships, must be enrolled in nine (9) graduate credits; to
be considered part-time for financial aid reporting purposes, graduate students must be
enrolled in five (5) graduate credits. For those graduate students who are required to take
Intensive English Language Center Bridge Courses, these courses can be considered part of full
registration upon approval by the Dean of the Graduate School.
Grades and Credit
Courses completed with a grade that is unacceptable to apply to a degree may be retaken.
However, the subsequent grade does not replace the first grade; both are computed in the overall
cumulative GPA. Course grades are included in the overall average even when the required time
period for obtaining the degree has expired. Grades of "D" or "F" are also included in the overall
average.
Transfer Credits
Students may request to apply graduate credit earned at another accredited institution toward an
advanced degree at the University of Nevada, Reno by filing a Credit Transfer Evaluation
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Request Form, available online. The request must be approved by the student's director of
graduate studies and the graduate dean. The student will receive the evaluation results by
mail. The department may access the evaluation results through NOLIJ. The evaluation results
are distributed to the student, advisor, and graduate school for reference in graduate program
planning. Only courses with a grade of "C" or better may be transferred to a master's program;
only courses with a grade of "B" or better may be transferred to a doctoral program.
For master's degree programs, transferred credits must conform to the time limitation on master's
work requiring completion within six (6) calendar years immediately preceding the granting of
the degree. Additionally, no more than nine (9) credits completed either prior to admission to a
graduate program or transferred from another institution may be applied to a master's degree.
For doctoral programs, a maximum of twenty-four (24) credits from a previously completed
master's program or other post-baccalaureate degree program may be applied. Doctoral students
who have completed a master's degree in an appropriate discipline from an accredited institution
may, with the approval of their graduate director, transfer up to twenty-four (24) credits toward a
Ph.D. degree. Students must list each course for which they wish to receive transfer credit on the
Credit Transfer Evaluation Request Form. All credits used to satisfy degree requirements for the
master's degree, except thesis credits, may be acceptable for transfer. Credits from a completed
master's degree are exempt from the eight (8) year time limit on course work for a doctoral
degree.
* "Satisfactory Academic Progress" is the term used to denote your successful completion of
coursework toward a degree or certificate. The University is required to monitor the academic
progress of all recipients of federal, state, and institutional aid. These academic standards apply
for all periods of enrollment at all colleges attended. If you do not meet the minimum academic
standards for grade point average and earned credits you may be ineligible for all types of
federal, state, and institutional aid administered by our office.
To view these policies on the UNR website go to: http://www.cis.unr.edu/ecatalog
CONTINUOUS ENROLLMENT
A. Each graduate student must register for a minimum of 3 graduate credits each fall and
spring semester until graduation.
B. A leave of absence may be requested. The Graduate School’s Application for Leave of
Absence Form should be used for this purpose. The leave request must be approved by the
Graduate Program Director and the Graduate School. The leave period cannot generally exceed
one year. Any leave of absence period will be counted as part of the 6 years allowed for
completion of the UNDNP degree. At the end of a leave-of-absence period, the student must
also complete a Notice of Reinstatement to Graduate Standing Form, which will be reviewed by
both the Graduate Program Coordinator and the Graduate School.
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FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974 (FERPA)
CONSENT FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION
The UNDNP Program is a collaborative post-master’s program between the University of
Nevada, Reno, Orvis School of Nursing and the University of Nevada Las Vegas, School of
nursing. Students enroll in courses and are subject to academic assessment on both campuses.
Therefore, to facilitate academic progression in the program, it is necessary for the institutions to
share educational information about the students’ academic record. Upon admission to the
program students complete the following consent for release of information form.
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FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974 (FERPA) CONSENT
FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION
DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE PROGRAM
WHEREAS, I am an applicant to and/or participant in the collaborative Doctor of Nursing
Practice Program ("Program") offered through the University of Nevada System of Higher
Education, UNLV and UNR (hereinafter "Institutions");
WHEREAS, I desire, as part of that collaborative Program, to take courses taught at both
Institutions, I understand that my academic status and/or progress at the Institution where I am
taking a course in a given semester may impact my academic status and/or progress at my home
Institution. I understand and agree that as an applicant and/or participant in the collaborative
Program that school officials from the two Institutions may need to share my educational
information for the purpose of facilitating assessment of my progress in the Program.
In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 ("FERPA), I permit
UNLV and/or UNR and its school officials to share information from my educational records,
including but not limited to grades and academic standing, but also academic information and
discipline records, as well as any information that may impact my academic status and/or
progress in the Program and/or at my home institution.
I have read and understand the contents of this consent form pertaining to FERPA.
Student's Printed Name:
____________________________________________________________________________
Student's Signature:____________________________________________________________
Date:
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GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS
A. Graduate assistantships may be available for full-time and part-time students who qualify.
Qualifications include being admitted to a degree-granting program and being in good academic
standing. Persons interested in a graduate assistantship should contact the Graduate Program
Coordinator.
B. Assistantships come with a tuition waiver. All graduate students holding an assistantship are
considered Nevada residents for tuition purposes. Non-resident tuition is waived for the duration
of the assistantship.
C. Assistantships may be for 10 or 20 hours of work per week. Typically, graduate assistantship
work is teaching or research related.
D. Full-time (20 hour per week) and part-time (10 hours per week) graduate assistants must have
an overall GPA of at least 3.0, must be continuously enrolled in at least nine graduate-level
credits (full time for spring and fall semesters) (6 credits for part-time GAs per semester), and
must maintain satisfactory work performance during the duration of the assistantship.
International students serving as teaching assistants must meet a minimum Test of English as a
Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 650/280.
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Suggested Timeline
Preparation for the DNP Project may begin as early as the first semester a student is enrolled in
the program. The following timeline covers most key points, but it is crucial to remember that
the number of proposals and paper drafts can vary greatly among individuals’ choices of project
for graduation.
Activity
Date
Select Chair of DNP Project Committee
Select topic and approach
Select Committee Members in collaboration with the Chair
Semesters registered for Projects
Discuss Timeline for project with Chair NURS788
Presenting Drafts to the Committee
First draft of project proposal due to Chair
First draft of project proposal due back from Chair
Second draft of project proposal due to Chair
Second draft of project proposal due back from Chair
Possible Third draft of project proposal due to Chair
Possible Third draft of project proposal due back from Chair
Oral project proposal defends to Committee for approval and changes as recommended
Preparing the Final Project Defense
First draft of final project due to Chair
First draft of final project due back from Chair
Second draft of final project due to Chair
Second draft of final project due back from Chair
Final draft of project due to Chair
Chair/student sends final draft to Committee
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Student defends final Project
After successful defense, finished project ready for committee signatures
Student must complete graduate school paper requirement for graduation before
deadline
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FEES, EXPENSES AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Tuition and Fees
The UNDNP program is a special program administered through the office of Extended Studies.
The tuition schedule is separate from the UNR tuition schedule. Students are charged a flat rate
of $800.00 per semester hour of credit. This rate includes tuition and most fees and is the same
regardless of residency status.
Financial Assistance
Students should check with the Office of Student Financial Services for specific
scholarships/loans available.
Scholarships available to graduate students in all disciplines: Scholarships for which all
graduate students on campus may apply are identified in the Graduate Catalog. Students should
check with the Graduate College web page for the latest information on Graduate Scholarships
and Fellowships.
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Appendix A. Graduate Advisory Chair form
Request for Graduate Advisory Chair
Orvis School of Nursing
University of Nevada, Reno
Student Name: __________________________________________
Program Track: AGACNP_____ CNL_____ FNP_____ Nurse Educator_____ DNP______
Full Time: _____
Part Time: _____
Anticipated Graduation Date: _______________________________
The above student requests _________________________________ (name of faculty) to serve
as chair of their committee for their Thesis/Professional Project/Professional Paper.
My signature below indicates that I agree to serve as chair for this student’s committee.
_____________________________________________
Faculty Signature
_____________________________________________
Printed Name
MSN Students Return Completed Form to: Dr. Stephanie DeBoor ________________________________________
DNP Students Return Completed Form to Dr. Christine Aramburu Alegria _________________________________
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