Mission

The mission of the School of Nursing furthers the mission of the University as a provider of a strong academic program in nursing with a special commitment to meeting the health care needs of the diverse population of the Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee. The goal of the nursing program is to prepare graduates with a commitment to life-long success as nursing leaders in rural and urban areas who are committed to professional nursing standards, open to the changes occurring in a global health care system, and motivated to improve the health status of individuals, groups, and communities.

The School of Nursing offers an undergraduate course of study leading to a Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing. The program prepares students as generalist professional nurses eligible to take the state licensure exam. The program also provides the opportunity for diploma and associate degree registered nurses to complete their Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing. A Master's Degree in Nursing is offered through the collaborative system of the Tennessee Board of Regents schools through online delivery.

Curriculum development is an ongoing process. The changes in the curriculum are based on the following: the American Association of Colleges of Nursing "The Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice", professional standards, assessment of student needs, program evaluation outcome measures, and the health care marketplace. The faculty considers the research literature and incorporates evidence-based practice in nursing and health care as well as academic and clinical position papers developed by professional groups.

Instruction, which includes classroom teaching and clinical supervision, is the major component of the faculty role in the School of Nursing. Faculty also engages in scholarly activities and University and community service. The faculty provides leadership in many local, regional, and international community groups. Faculty works closely with students, individually, and in groups, to provide support, advising, mentoring, and professional and personal enrichment.

Shared governance is an integral part of the mission of the School of Nursing. Faculty participates in decision making and policy development. Students are members of selected nursing faculty organization committees. Students are encouraged to participate in professional and University organizations.

The School of Nursing provides educational opportunities to all eligible persons without regard to age, gender, color, race, religion, national origin, or disability. Tennessee Technological University School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Approved by the Faculty Organization 4/9/96

Revised by the Faculty Organization 9/10/02; 9/28/06

Revised by the Faculty Organization 5/1/08