DNP Academic Policies and Procedures

Standards for Academic Integrity

The School of Nursing adheres to the University policy of academic integrity as stipulated in the University Student Handbook and as stated below. Student appeals related to allegations of academic fraud are heard by Academic Council of the School of Nursing.

Academic Integrity Statement Widener University strongly supports the concepts of academic freedom and academic integrity and expects students and all other members of the Widener University community to be honest in all academic endeavors. Cheating, plagiarism, and all other forms of academic fraud are serious and unacceptable violations of university policies on academic honesty, and Widener will not accept a claim of ignorance - either of the policy itself or of what constitutes academic fraud as a valid defense against such a charge.

Definition of Violations of the Standards of Academic Integrity

Violations of the standard of Academic Integrity constitute academic fraud. Academic fraud consists of any actions that serve to undermine the integrity of the academic process, including but not limited to:

1. unauthorized inspection or duplication of test materials;
2. cheating, attempting to cheat, or assisting others to cheat in a classroom test, take home examination or final examination;
3. post-test alteration of examination responses;
4. plagiarism;
5. electronic or computer fraud.

In addition to but not limited to the above, for the School of Nursing violations of academic integrity include:

1. unauthorized possession or disposition of academic material not formally released by course faculty;
2. falsifying or altering clinical/patient records or other recordings;
3. not reporting patient safety errors, etc.;
4. falsifying research data or data analysis; and
5. specific clinical behaviors identified in nursing courses.

Definition of Plagiarism

Plagiarism—submitting the work of others as one’s own—is a serious offense. In the academic world, plagiarism is theft. Information from sources—whether quoted, paraphrased, or summarized—must be given credit through specific citations. When a student paraphrases a work, it is still necessary to cite the original source. Merely rearranging a sentence or changing a few words is not sufficient. The citation style should be appropriate for the discipline and should clearly indicate the beginning and ending of the referenced material. All sources used in the preparation of an academic paper must also be listed with full bibliographic details at the end of the paper, as appropriate in the discipline.

Statement of Plagiarism

Plagiarism - passing off the work of others as one’s own - is a serious offense. In the academic world, plagiarism is theft. Information from sources - whether quoted, paraphrased, or summarized -must be given credit through specific in-text citations. All sources used in the preparation of an academic paper must also be listed with full biographic details at the end of the paper. It is especially important that paraphrase be both cited and put into one’s own words. Merely rearranging a sentence or changing a few words is not sufficient.

Self-Plagiarism

Is the presentation of your own previously published work as original.  Incorporating previous classwork into one’s thesis or dissertation and building on one’s own existing writing may be permissible; graduate students who wish to do this should first disclose and discuss their ideas with their instructor or advisor (https://apastyle.apa.org/style-grammar-guidelines/citations/plagiarism). Submitting all or part of a paper used in a previous graduate class as part of a current graduate class assignment should not be done without first discussing with instructor.

Penalties

The minimal penalty for individuals found to have engaged in academic fraud will be failure in the course.

For a second offense, the penalty will be failure in the course and expulsion from the University.

For attempting to steal or stealing an examination, students found guilty will be failed in the course and expelled from the University.

The minimal penalty for individuals in the Doctoral program will be failure in the course and expulsion from the School of Nursing.

Student Conduct

All students are expected to be honest, mature, and responsible and to respect the rights and property of others. The purpose of the Student Code is to promote, preserve, and protect the educational mission of the university. All students must be aware of and conform to the Widener University “Student Code of Conduct” that is published online in all Widener University Student Handbooks. The Student Code of Conduct applies to all student behavior in class, lab, clinical settings, and public places.

Nursing is a profession requiring the highest level of ethical behavior. Students are held to the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics.
This code is available online at: https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/nursing-excellence/ethics/code-of-ethics-for-nurses/.

Violating the Widener University Code of Conduct, the School of Nursing Code of Conduct or the American Nurses Association code of ethics is a serious offense and may result in the student’s dismissal from the School of Nursing.

In addition to the general University Student Code of Conduct, the following student behaviors may result in disciplinary action by the School of Nursing. Even a single incident of one of these behaviors may result in dismissal. This may mean permanent separation from the School of Nursing. These issues of professionally related conduct may include but are not limited to:

• a breach of client confidentiality.
• a behavior that jeopardizes a client, student, Widener University personnel or clinical agency personnel.
• other unprofessional behaviors, based on faculty judgment.

Student Policy for Using Mobile Technology Devices

Mobile information technology devices may be used in clinical, simulation, and classrooms if permitted by the agency and faculty. If those devices also include a cell phone, instant messaging/text messaging, or camera feature, these features are
NOT ALLOWED to be used in any of these settings. The use of the internet through the use of these devices in these settings is limited to educational purposes ONLY.

Students are expected to comply with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations. All patient related information (simulated and/or real) is confidential. Patient related information (simulated and/or real) is defined as all information related to the health, business, or personal matters of the patient or patient’s family. This includes but is not limited to Protected Health Information (PHI) that is based on a patient’s diagnosis, examination, treatment, observation, or conversation, and information maintained in data bases that contain diagnostic or treatment related information. (*HIPAA violations are a dismissal offense: See dismissal section in student handbook for details)

Admission/Transfer/Matriculation Policies

ADMISSIONS POST MASTER’S DNP

Graduates of an accredited master’s programs are invited to apply for admission by submitting evidence of:

•  A completed online application.
• Transcripts from all previously attended higher education institutions.
•  Minimum of 500 clinical clock hours in master’s level course work.
•  A minimum of 3.2 grade-point average (on a 4.0 scale) in the MSN program.
•  An undergraduate or graduate statistics course with a grade of at least C (2.0).
• Two references—one from an educator or an advanced practice nurse and one from an employer with a graduate degree.
• Goal Statement that highlights the applicant’s interests with emphasis on health care practice improvement.
• Interview with a School of Nursing faculty member (this is arranged after a preliminary review of application materials).
• Current national APRN certification in an advanced practice nursing role and population as appropriate.
• Valid RN and APRN licenses.
• Curriculum vitae.
• Graduate level epidemiology course pre-/co-requisite.
• GRE scores are not required. International applicants, as well as applicants whose native language is not English, must submit Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores with a minimum score of 213 for computer-based test or 550 for paper test.

More information can also be found online at https://www.widener.edu/student-experience/student-success-support/international-student-support.International Student Services Office at 610-499-4499.

ADMISSIONS BSN-DNP  (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, Adult-Gerontology CNS, Family(Individual Across the Lifespan) NP or Health Systems Leadership)

Graduates of an accredited BSN-DNP Program are eligible to apply for admissions by submitted evidence of:

• Completed online application.
• Transcripts from all previously attended higher education institutions.
• A minimum of 3.0 grade-point average (on a 4.0 scale) in the BSN program.
• An undergraduate or graduate statistics course with a grade of at least C (2.0).
• Two references—one from an educator or an advanced practice nurse and one from an employer with a graduate degree.
• Goal Statement that highlights the applicant’s interests with emphasis on health care practice improvement.
• Interview with a School of Nursing faculty member (this is arranged after a preliminary review if application materials).
• Valid RN license.
• Curriculum vitae.

MATRICULATION

A matriculated student is one who has been accepted officially into the doctoral degree program. Two doctoral level courses may be taken before matriculation. Students may be required to complete supplemental course work either prior to admission or as part of the course of studies.

A non-matriculated student is one who is taking a course for credit, but has not yet been accepted officially into the doctoral program. These students must submit the usual application for admission. No more than two courses earned by a student in a non-matriculated status may be applied toward the degree upon acceptance as a matriculated student.

TRANSFER OF CREDITS

The following guidelines have been established by the School of Nursing for acceptance of doctoral level course work taken previously at Widener University or at other institutions:

• A maximum of two doctoral level courses earned at another accredited institution within the five-year period preceding admission may be accepted for transfer upon admission to the doctoral program.
• Once admitted, a student may only take one course for transfer credit at another institution.
• Courses taken prior to admission to the DNP program, either within or outside the university, will be accepted only if the student has earned a grade of A or B in the courses under consideration. Grades of “Satisfactory” or “Pass” are transferable as elective courses. The process in considering requests for transfer of graduate credit is as follows:
  • An official request for transfer credit must be submitted to the Program Director. If transfer credit is requested in lieu of required courses in the program, a course syllabus must accompany the request.
  • Requests for transfer of graduate credit will be approved upon recommendation of the Academic Program Director in collaboration with the faculty expert on the topic.
  • Required graduate courses in statistics and conceptual models/theories may not be used for transfer credit because they are prerequisites for admission.

Grading Policies

GRADING SCALE FOR THE SCHOOL OF NURSING GRADUATE COURSES

NOTE: Individual instructors may elect, at their discretion, not to use plus/minus grades.

Advisement

ACADEMIC ADVISING

All students are assigned a School of Nursing advisor upon admission.

ACADEMIC RECORDS

Graduate students records are kept in the Graduate Nursing Office. The record contains such information as course grades, clinical evaluations, correspondence, course planning form, etc. The academic record is the property of the University. Students are permitted to view this record in the presence of their advisor. Written permission must be obtained from the student for any release of documents.

COURSE OVERLOAD

Nine credits in the fall and spring semesters and six credits in one summer session are recognized as normal course load for full-time students. Students, as adult learners, have the right to make decisions related to their learning needs. However, faculty believe a course load above nine credits for fall/spring or six credits in one summer session has potential for creating academic jeopardy. Students enrolling for more than nine credits during fall/spring semester or six credits in one summer session must have approval from their faculty advisor and the Program Director. Students are required to complete and sign the Course Overload Acknowledgment form (including rationale for request), which must also be signed by the faculty advisor and academic program director prior to enrolling in the courses. The form is intended to communicate to students written acceptance of their responsibility for this decision.

REGISTRATION

 Students are emailed a specific date and time after which they may register at any time during the registration window. 

NOTE: A program of study should be developed with your advisor. Your advisor will place 1 copy in your file and you will retain 1 copy to assist you with your course planning.

SPECIAL ACADEMIC POLICIES 

• When a course is taken as a prerequisite for doctoral study, the grade will be recorded on the transcript with an asterisk, indicating that the course is not included in calculating the doctoral program grade point average.
• Following a request from the student, including an explanation of the extenuating circumstances involved, a professor may give a course grade of incomplete (I) if circumstances justify an extension of time required to complete the course. A student with an “I” in any course that is a prerequisite to another course will not be allowed to enroll in the subsequent course until the “I” in the prerequisite has been removed and replaced by a satisfactory grade. An “I” must be resolved within one calendar year from the end of the semester in which the course was taken or it will convert to an F.
• An independent study course may be taken when a required course is not available in a timely manner. Approval for the independent study is required from the student’s academic advisor and the Program Director. Independent studies are offered for students requiring mastery of additional content in order to proceed with the capstone project. Students may request an independent study for a topic of special interest if the independent study credits are not needed to meet graduation requirements. The same approval process as noted above is required.
• All requests for exceptions to these policies should be referred to the Program Director.

WITHDRAWAL

Student may withdraw from the course at any time prior to the final examination and receive the grade of W. If a course offered through these programs does not include a final examination, the deadline for withdrawing from the course with a grade of W is the final class meeting for the course.  

Students are permitted only one unsuccessful attempt to complete a course throughout the program.  A course withdrawal counts as one unsuccessful attempt (see Dismissal Policies below for additional details).

Progression Policies

ACADEMIC PROGRESS TIME LIMIT

A maximum of seven (7) calendar years from the date of matriculation is allowed for completion of the requirements for the doctoral degree. Students must enroll in both fall and spring semesters of the academic year through the completion of required DNP course work. Students must register for “DNP Project Advisement” each fall, spring, and summer until the DNP project is completed. Students who do not follow this policy may be dismissed from the program.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE (LOA)

Students who do not take at least one course per semester must submit a written request for a leave of absence, including the rationale, to the Program Director for the semester in which they are not enrolled. Those who do not do so will be dismissed from the program.

A leave of absence will extend the time limit for completion of the doctoral degree by the length of the leave. The total cumulative leave time applied to extensions shall not exceed two academic years. Exceptions to the policy will be referred to the Program Director.

REINSTATEMENT TO THE PROGRAM

Students who have withdrawn from the program may petition for readmission by filing a new application. Such requests must be sent to the Program Director no later than 30 days prior to the start of the semester in which the student expects to enroll.

Dismissal Policies

DISMISSAL POLICIES

• Students are expected to maintain satisfactory progress towards a degree. A student’s doctoral studies record begins with the first course credited to the doctoral degree program and includes subsequent courses.
• Students are permitted only one unsuccessful attempt to complete a course throughout the program.  Both course withdrawals and failures count as an attempt. 
• DNP students are required to maintain at least a B (3.0) average. Only students with a 3.0 or better GPA will graduate. Courses for which grades lower than B (3.0; not B-) are received must be repeated. No more than two repetitions total and only one repetition of a particular course is allowed. If a course is repeated, both grades will be recorded on the transcript, but only the most recent grade is used in calculating the grade point average. However, if a student is found to be in violation of Widener’s academic fraud policies, that student is prohibited from exercising the repeat of course option to remove the F grade (given as a result of fraud) from the GPA calculation. A student whose academic performance is considered inadequate will be dismissed from the program.
• Conduct inconsistent with the ethical and professional standards of discipline, whether it occurs before or after matriculation, is also grounds for dismissal from the program. Such conduct includes academic fraud. A student dismissed for academic fraud may no longer enroll in the graduate programs of the university may not apply for admission into another division of the university. Please see the section entitled “Standards for Academic Integrity” in the Widener University Graduate Student Catalog.

Practice Project Policies and Procedures

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of the DNP project is to provide a formal written document describing the nature and scope of the project in detail. The project will also highlight the contribution to population health and/or healthcare system quality improvement.

The student, throughout the program, is responsible for exploring evidenced-based practice change topics as a focus for the DNP project. By the time students enroll in the DNP clinical course sequence, it is anticipated that they will have identified a clinical site, preceptor, and scholarly project topic.

DNP PROJECT PROCEDURES

The DNP student will prepare an exhaustive document substantiating that advanced practice competencies have been achieved. The DNP project may include but is not limited to an individual comprehensive disease management care case study, population systems change project, health promotion/disease management program design and evaluation, and/or quality improvement inquiry. The DNP project will be individualized to the career focus of the DNP student and supervised by the DNP Project Advisors. The DNP project topic will be selected by the DNP student and approved by the DNP Project Advisors. The DNP student will design the project in NURS 885 - DNP I, implement the project in NURS 886 - DNP II, and evaluate the project in NURS 887 - DNP III. NURS 889 DNP Project Advisement will be taken as needed. The student will disseminate the results of the DNP project through formal written documentation, presentations, and/or manuscripts. Guidelines for the DNP Project Documentation are provided to the student in the DNP project courses and are available from the DNP Program Director.

DNP PROJECT ADVISEMENT

The doctoral student may be required to take DNP Project Advisement (NURS 889) until successful completion of the DNP project and completion of program requirements. Students may be required by their advisor to complete additional elective coursework over and above the minimum course requirements in support of the content area or methodology. See the Graduate Catalog for additional policies.

DNP PROJECT REPORT

The DNP student will prepare an exhaustive document substantiating that advanced practice competencies have been achieved. The DNP project may include but is not limited to an individual comprehensive disease management care case study, population systems change project, health promotion/disease management program design and evaluation, and/or quality improvement inquiry. The DNP project will be individualized to the career focus of the DNP student and supervised by the DNP Project Advisors. The DNP project topic will be selected by the DNP student and approved by the DNP Project Advisors. The DNP student will design the project in NURS 885 - DNP I, implement the project in NURS 886 - DNP II, and evaluate the project in NURS 887 - DNP III. NURS 889 DNP Project Advisement will be taken as needed. The student will disseminate the results of the DNP project through formal written documentation, presentations, and/or manuscripts. Guidelines for the DNP Project Documentation are provided to the student in the DNP project courses and are available from the DNP Program Director.

DNP PROJECT ADVISORS

The DNP Project Advisors will be appointed by the DNP Program Director and in consultation with the student. The DNP Project Advisors will supervise the DNP Project.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

In order to be cleared for graduation, students must submit required corrected copies of the completed DNP Project to the DNP Program Director by the deadline set in NURS 887. The DNP Director will submit the final DNP Project Documentation to the Wolfgram Library.

Note: If the anticipated graduation date is missed, a new petition for graduation must be completed and submitted to the Graduate Nursing Office. The Registrar’s Office will not issue a graduation diploma without a petition for the appropriate semester.

Graduation Policies

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

Students must complete at least 37 credits of approved DNP course work beyond the master’s level requirements in nursing. Students must also successfully complete the DNP project. Only doctoral courses will be accepted for doctoral transfer credit. Please note that a waiver of any requirement must be approved in writing by the Program Director. DNP candidates are not permitted to participate in graduation and commencement activities prior to completion of all degree requirements.

PETITION FOR GRADUATION

A student anticipating graduation must submit a graduation petition by the end of the pre-registration period in the semester prior to the one in which his/her program will be completed. Incomplete grades must be removed by May 1, August 1, or December 1 in order for your petition to be completed in time for graduation.

A student must re-petition (complete another Graduation Petition form) if graduation does not occur in the semester of the original petition. Forms are available online. A one time petition for graduation fee must be remitted with the petition as designated by the registrar’s office.

NOTE: A graduation fee will be charged that includes the cost of the diploma and doctoral hood component of the academic regalia.

Due Process Policy

Students in the School of Nursing are afforded opportunities to express their interests, issues, and concerns through student representation as voting members on selected SON standing committees, including Undergraduate Programs Committee, Graduate Programs Committee, and Student Affairs Committee. Students may also voice concerns by completion of Course and Faculty Evaluations at the end of each course.

Grievance issues related to discrimination and harassment, and or violation of the Widener Compact shall be addressed by the University policies and procedures outlined in the Undergraduate and Graduate University Catalogs.

Formal Grade Appeal Policy

It is the policy of the School of Nursing to allow students to appeal the final course grade if they believe their grade has been derived in a manner not consistent with the fair and equitable application of evaluation criteria specified in the syllabus.

DEFINITION

A grade subject to the Grade Appeal Policy is a final grade the student believes to be derived in a manner not consistent with the fair and equitable application of grading criteria found in the course syllabus and/or a grade the student believes to have been miscalculated, again based on the criteria specified within the course syllabus.

See School of Nursing Appeal Policy  in Navigation Bar of this Handbook

Shared Governance/Committee

Student representation on Graduate Program Committee is an important aspect in the development and advancement of the nursing curricula and programs. 

GRADUATE PROGRAM COMMITTEE

Functions:

1. To consider, study, analyze, develop and evaluate the curriculum and course changes submitted by the faculty and/or students.
2. To develop, review and recommend graduate curriculum changes to the faculty.
3. To develop, review and recommend policies for graduate programs.
4. Develop and implement admission policies for graduate programs.
5. To review and recommend changes to the committee bylaws and submit changes to the Faculty Affairs committee by March 1 of each year.
6. By March 1 of each year, review and recommend changes, if appropriate, to the following sections of the SON Faculty Handbook and submit changes to the Faculty Affairs committee: Goals and Outcomes of the Masters Program, Goals and Outcomes of the Doctoral Programs, Standards of Professional Practice.

Student Membership:

1. Students will be invited by the Committee Chair to serve as directed in the Bylaws. Students represented on the Graduate Program Committee shall be granted voting privileges.
2. Student representation shall include one (1) Masters, one (1) DNP, and one (1) PhD student

Graduate Student Award and Nursing Honor Society

Dean’s Award for Excellence: DNP

The Dean’s Award for Doctor of Nursing Practice Excellence is given annually to a student who is granted the degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice. This award recognizes a student whose practice improvement project is exceptional and exemplifies high standards of scholarship and knowledge development.

DNP projects will be considered based on the following criteria.

1. The practice improvement is significant for the discipline of nursing and health care system improvement.
2. The practice improvement reflects clearly defined conceptual or theoretical basis. 
3. The practice improvement methods are valid and consistent with the evidence-based practice.
4. The project impact contributes to health care systems improvement.

Procedures for Consideration

1. The Academic Program Director will circulate a list of those will complete the DNP program by May to the faculty. All graduate faculty members will be requested to submit names of students they consider eligible for the Dean’s Award. Students can self- nominate. 
2. Faculty members for each student who is nominated must submit a letter of support addressing the criteria for the Award. Any faculty member may submit more than one student name. 
3. The Dean of the School of Nursing and appropriate Academic Program Director will select the student who, in their judgment, best meets the criteria for the program. Faculty recommendations will be important in the final selection process.

SIGMA THETA TAU INTERNATIONAL NURSING HONOR SOCIETY: ETA BETA CHAPTER

A Eta Beta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, International, the Nursing Honor Society, was established in 1984. The purposes of the Society include:

1. Recognizing superior achievement;
2. Developing leadership qualities;
3. Fostering high professional standards;
4. Encouraging exploration, innovation and research in nursing;
5. Strengthening commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession.

Membership:

The requirements for membership on the graduate level include:

1. A minimum academic average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
2. Completion of at least one quarter of the curriculum requirements and in good academic standing.
3. Submission of a curriculum vitae and a 250-word essay describing leadership abilities in school or work environments and a plan to demonstrate this leadership in the nursing honor society.

Candidates are invited to apply for membership. An induction ceremony is held each academic year. For further information regarding the chapter and faculty counselors please refer to the Sigma Theta Tau International Eta Beta chapter website. https://etabeta.sigmanursing.org/etabetachapter/aboutus/aboutus92

General Administrative Polices and Procedures

See General University Information   

Clinical Hours and Gap Analysis

DNP CLINICAL HOURS

The WUSON DNP Program prepares graduates to attain the highest level of nursing practice and to demonstrate synthesis and application of the ten Domains of the AACN Essentials (AACN, 2021). All DNP students are required to complete a minimum of 1,000 practice hours, which include direct clinical/practicum hours, DNP project hours, and DNP professional role development opportunities (defined below). These hours are completed under the supervision of WUSON faculty teaching the advanced practice registered nursing role (i.e., FNP, AG-ACNP, CNS), HSL specialization, and the DNP project courses. For Post-Masters DNP students, clinical hours accrued during the MSN program resulting in national certification (e.g., NP, CNS) may be applied to the 1,000 hours (see “Gap Analysis” below).

DIRECT CLINICAL / PRACTICUM HOURS

Direct clinical/practicum hours are direct patient care hours in which the student gains experience in a nursing specialty (e.g. FNP, AG-ACNP, CNS, HSL). Direct patient care hours can only be accrued by BSN-DNP students in the MSN specialization courses. No direct patient care hours can be accrued in the DNP project courses.

DNP PROJECT HOURS

DNP project hours are accrued during the final three courses of the program (DNP Project Courses). Activities that can be counted towards DNP project hours include meetings with the course/clinical faculty, meetings with preceptors/mentors at the clinical site, meetings with internal and external stakeholders, and via planning the implementation and evaluation of the project. More details and examples are provided in the Guidelines for DNP Clinical Hours (available from the DNP Program Director).

DNP PROFESSIONAL ROLE DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Also completed during the DNP Program Courses, hours for DNP professional role development opportunities reflect time spent engaged in student-identified experiences related to the DNP program outcomes, professional role competencies, and/or graduate standards. Students accrue hours towards DNP professional role development opportunities by engaging in experiences, activities, and/or events during the DNP program related to the role and responsibilities of the doctorally-prepared advanced practice nurse. More details and examples are provided in the Guidelines for DNP Clinical Hours (available from the DNP Program Director).

GAP ANALYSIS : POST-MASTER’S DNP PROGRAMS

For Post-Masters DNP students, clinical hours accrued during the MSN program resulting in national certification (e.g., NP, CNS) may be applied to the 1,000 hours. A gap analysis will be conducted for each Post-MSN DNP student. Verification of completed supervised clinical practice hours during the MSN must be provided by the nursing program where the clinical hours were completed. Remaining clinical hours will be completed across the three DNP Project Courses. Please note: For Post-Master’s DNP/HSL students, additional clinical hours in the HSL specialization courses may need to be completed to total 1,000 hours. This will be determined in consultation with the DNP and HSL Program Directors.

Clinical Requirements

INITIAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Upon admission, students matriculating into the graduate program are required to complete and/or provide the following as a pre-condition of their acceptance:

• Proof of Current unencumbered PA or Multi-state licensure as a Registered Nurse;
• Proof of Advanced Practice and Advanced Practice Certification if appropriate;
• Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) - Background Check;
• Pennsylvania Child Abuse History and Clearance;
• Sex Offender / Violent Offender Registry Screen;
• FBI National Data Base Finger Prints; and
• Office of the Inspector General - Federal Fraud and Abuse Search (OIG/GSA) 

Failure to meet any of the mandatory requirements outlined above may result in denial of acceptance into the program or dismissal from the program.  These mandatory requirements relate to institutional standards for safety and professional conduct among other things. Applicants are urged to address any potential issues in advance to avoid delays or complications in their academic journey.
 

CLINICAL ORIENTATION

Prior to the commencement of clinical course work, students are required to attend clinical orientation, covering pre-clinical on-boarding, clinical placement planning, clearances, and clinical expectations. students will be required to complete a detailed clinical profile Students who do not attend clinical orientation may not start clinical coursework.

GRADUATE CLINICAL COURSE CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

In addition to meeting the initial admission criteria, students will be required to complete a detailed clinical profile as set forth in the link below.

2025 Fall WUSON Graduate Programs Onboarding -Revised 06 30 2025_1443.pdf

The following pre-clinical requirements apply to DNP and Post-DNP certificate students. These requirements need to be met for participation in required clinical experiences. The requirements are as follows:

Clinical Requirements

• Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) - Background Check
• 12-Panel Urine Drug Screen 
• Pennsylvania Child Abuse History and Clearance 
• Sex Offender / Violent Offender Registry Screen
• FBI National Data Base Finger Prints
• Current unencumbered PA or Multi-State Registered Nurse License required*
• Students holding an RN license in PA are strongly encouraged to also be licensed in either NJ or DE to facilitate clinical placements
• Documentation of Health Insurance Coverage 
• Pre-Clinical Health History and Physical
• Signed HIPAA Acknowledgment Form
• Signed FERPA Acknowledgment Form (if required for clinical placement)
• Professional Liability Insurance
• CPR Certification
• Documentation of Serologic Immunity (Titer)
• Tuberculosis screening
• Annual Flu vaccination each Fall
• Additional Clinical Requirements may be mandated by facilities

*All students must have a valid and active RN license. If a student’s license is suspended or revoked during the program, they will be dismissed without a tuition refund.

CONFIDENTIALITY OF CRIMINAL BACKGROUND

Criminal background results and drug/alcohol screen results of licensed nurses are subject to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Code Title 49. Professional and Vocation Standards issued by the Department of State. Section 14.1 (f) states that “Any hospital or health care facility, peer or colleague who has substantial evidence that a professional has an active addictive disease for which the professional is not receiving treatment, is diverting a controlled substance or is mentally or physically incompetent to carry out the duties of his license shall make or cause to be made a report to the Board”.

 Pennsylvania Code - Title 49 Professional And Vocational Standards 
 

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK

The curriculum for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science, Post Master’s and Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nursing degrees require clinical experiences to occur within hospitals, clinics, private practices, and other healthcare organizations (Collectively “Clinical Agencies”). Clinical agencies require a criminal background check before students are permitted to engage in clinical experiences.  Students may be required to complete additional background investigations during their course of study, dependent upon specific agency policies. Such requirements are beyond the control of the School of Nursing. The expenses of all background investigations are the responsibility of the student. Criminal background checks will be performed by a third-party company selected by the School of Nursing. Students will authorize the background screening company to release results to the School of Nursing. Failure to meet deadlines established by the School of Nursing may negatively impact clinical placements.

 Failure to complete the background check will preclude entry into clinical courses and may result in dismissal from the program.

Should the criminal background check reveal findings other than a misdemeanor, further investigation will be undertaken by the School of Nursing through the office of the appropriate Academic Program Director.

The following criteria may prevent admission, progression, clinical placement, or completion of clinical courses, and may result in program dismissal.

• Narcotics or controlled substances
• Crimes of violence (homicide, aggravated assault, child or elder abuse, domestic violence)
• Listing on the National Terrorist Watch list
• Listing on the Sex Offender/Violent Offender registry
• RN license that is suspended or revoked

Students with unacceptable criminal background checks may face interruptions in their studies or be unable to complete the nursing program.

A student who does not comply with the terms of the assigned clinic agency contractual agreement may be removed from the program.
 

MARIJUANA USE

As a Widener University nursing student, you are expected to uphold the highest professional standards and our commitment to safe, competent caregiving. Despite state laws on recreational and medical marijuana, we maintain a drug-free policy throughout the year. Marijuana use, even if legal elsewhere, is prohibited in the School of Nursing. Medical marijuana is not an approved prescription. Violations of these guidelines will lead to disciplinary action, including possible dismissal.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES POLICY

Federal law requires that for an institution of higher education to receive federal funds, it must adopt and implement a program to prevent the possession, use, or distribution of illegal or illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees.  In keeping with the foregoing, all students are required to strictly adhere to the Widener University Code of Conduct.
Student Code of Conduct - Widener University - Modern Campus Catalog™

Students are required to complete a standardized drug screening prior to entering the clinical environment.  This screening involves a 12-panel urine drug test, with the expectation that results will be negative for all tested substances and free from evidence of adulteration or dilution.  A positive result for any illegal substance, or for a controlled substance without a valid prescription, or any indication of alcohol intoxication, will lead to an interruption in the student’s course of study or prevent entry into the clinical environment.

A positive result requires the student to provide medical clearance from the appropriate individual coordinating the therapeutic intervention. 
Expectations, Rights, and Responsibilities: The Widener Compact - Widener University - Modern Campus Catalog™

Purpose

The School of Nursing recognizes that substance abuse can impair the professional judgment required of the student nurse and that drug testing is a reliable, objective, evidence-based tool to identify those who are currently engaging in the unauthorized or improper use of controlled substances.  Substance abuse jeopardizes the ability of the student nurse to administer safe, competent patient care.  Safety in the delivery of patient care is the basis for drug testing.  The purpose of this policy is to set forth the requirement of the School of Nursing that all students undergo a 12-panel urine drug screen and test negative before being permitted to engage in any clinical activity through the School of Nursing. A student is not permitted to select a testing facility to conduct any drug testing.

The School of Nursing at Widener University shall (a) support faculty in meeting their obligation to comply with section § 21.18. Standards of nursing conduct of the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing which states that “A registered nurse shall: Act to safeguard the patient from the incompetent, abusive or illegal practice of any individual and (b) assure compliance with agency’s Drug and Alcohol screening policies. Students who are under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol are deemed to be impaired and, therefore, incompetent to provide care to patients.

49 Pa. Code Chapter 21. State Board Of Nursing

Policy

• Students in the School of Nursing are required to complete a 12-panel urine drug screen with a negative test result as part of the requirements for approval to participate in a clinical placement. The drug testing shall be conducted initially and additional testing may be required by the healthcare agency. 
• Drug tests shall be performed through a testing facility designated by the School of Nursing or the Healthcare Organization.  
• All test results are returned to the student’s secure online medical document manager system and are viewable by the student.
• A positive test result will be reviewed by the Medical Review Officer (“MRO”) utilized by the vendor prior to release to a student.  An MRO is a nationally certified, licensed professional.
• The student may be requested to provide medical clearance from the appropriate individual coordinating their therapeutic intervention.
• The vendor will advise the Associate Dean of Graduate Programs and/or Director of Graduate Clinical Placement. 
• Any attempt to delay, hinder or tamper with any testing or to alter the result of testing shall be considered a refusal to comply with this policy.  As required by law, a student who is licensed as a nurse and who tests positive or is suspected of substance abuse will be reported to the appropriate State Board of Nursing issuing the license. 
• All documentation regarding drug testing results and a student’s medical condition will remain in a secure location in the custody of the Compliance Department.  Such records will be maintained separately from the student’s permanent program file.

VOLUNTARY RECOVERY PROGRAM

Noncompliance with substance use guidelines may affect academic standing. This includes refusing drug or alcohol testing, tampering with samples, submitting another person’s sample as your own, or failing to complete required paperwork.

Applicants who voluntarily disclose a history of substance abuse must provide documentation verifying their participation in a Voluntary Recovery Program (VRP).

Students who are involved in substance abuse while enrolled in the program will undergo evaluation for potential termination. Those seeking readmission must enroll in a VRP at their own cost. Readmission will be considered based on the following criteria:

• The student must provide proof of three years in a VRP and show they have been drug and alcohol-free during that period.

• The student must consent to the University informing clinical agencies about their VRP involvement and drug/alcohol-free status.

• The student must consent to random drug testing without prior notice during the program.

Consideration for readmission is at the Program Director’s discretion and not guaranteed.

Voluntary Recovery Program | Department of State | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

CLINICAL BEHAVIOR

All graduate students are required to provide patients with safe, high-quality care. Faculty assign students to clinical sites and preceptors, expecting them to practice according to their level within the program. A graduate student may be dismissed or barred from returning to the clinical setting during a clinical course if their clinical performance or behavior fails to meet the standards of practice, course objectives, or policies of the College and/or facility. Examples of unacceptable conduct include, but are not limited to:

The School of Nursing is not obligated to offer alternative clinical experience if a student is excluded from a site.

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

1. Prohibition of Sharing: Students are strictly prohibited from sharing any PHI (Personal Health Information) or information about the clinical agency on social media platforms.
2. Professional Conduct: Students must maintain professional conduct on social media, avoiding any posts that could compromise patient privacy or the reputation of the healthcare institution or university.
3. Monitoring and Reporting: Any suspected breaches of this policy on social media must be reported to the clinical instructor and course coordinator immediately.
4. Consequences: Violations of the social media policy will be treated as a HIPAA violation and subject to the same procedures and disciplinary actions.

Confidentiality Agreement

All nursing students are required to sign a confidentiality agreement acknowledging their understanding of HIPAA regulations and the consequences of violations.

These policies are effective as of June 2025, and may be amended, revised, or revoked by the School of Nursing in its sole discretion at any time.​

INCIDENT REPORT FOR STUDENTS

A School of Nursing Student Incident Report is filed when any unusual event occurs (such as needle sticks, falls, being struck by a patient, etc.) which may cause harm to students. The Academic Program Director should be notified as soon as the clinical faculty member has knowledge of such an event. The completed form should then be sent to the office of the Academic Program Director for processing. Incidents involving exposure to infectious disease, hazardous material, or serious injury must be reported to the Academic Program Director and University Student Health Services immediately. Clinical instructors must contact the Academic Program Director. The Clinical Faculty and the Academic Program Director will work together to complete documentation of the incident by the next business day.
 

BLOOD AND BODY FLUID EXPOSURES/NEEDLE STICK INJURIES

“An exposure that might place a health care professional at risk for HIV is defined as a percutaneous injury (e.g. a needle-stick or cut with a sharp object) or contact of mucous membrane or non-intact skin (e.g. exposed skin that is chapped, abraded, or afflicted with dermatitis) with blood, tissue, or other body fluids that are potentially infectious” Students who sustain a needle-stick injury, or get blood or other potentially infectious materials in their eyes, nose, mouth, or on broken skin should “immediately flood the exposed area with water and clean any wound with soap and water or a skin disinfectant if available”

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/bloodbornepathogens/worker_protections.html
 

PRACTICUM AGENCY REQUIREMENTS

1. Widener SON faculty and students are guests of clinical agencies. As such, the utmost care is required to adhere to professional dress, conduct and agency policies.
2. Students are expected to comply with all clinical agency policies related to identification badges, confidentiality, HIPAA privacy regulations, criminal record check, drug free work environment, health records, immunizations, parking, meals, and mandatory procedural reviews, etc. Failure to comply with clinical agency policies may result in denial of clinical experience. Clinical agencies may require the students’ signature, verifying their understanding of specific policies.
3. Clinical agencies have the right to remove students from duty when in the judgment of the agency they cannot carry out their duties due to physical or mental impairment. If such impairment is suspected to be due to drug and/or alcohol use, the agency may require drug testing and/or alcohol and/or counseling. If the student refuses, the agency may request the student be removed.
4. Clinical agencies have the right to bar SON students and/or faculty from the agency. Such an occurrence is to be reported immediately to the Academic Program Director, Associate Dean, and Dean, who will then investigate the issues leading to such an action.
   
    

CLINICAL ABSENCES 

DNP and Post DNP certificate students who are unable to attend their clinical experiences due to illness or personal emergency must promptly inform their preceptors, clinical faculty, and course faculty. Notification should occur as soon as possible, and no later than two hours prior to the scheduled experience.
 

CLINICAL LATENESS

Students must arrive on time for clinical experiences. If late, they must notify their preceptors. Considering Tri-State traffic, students should plan for up to thirty minutes of potential delays.
 

CLINICAL/THEORY COURSES

Both the theory and clinical/laboratory portions of a nursing course must be successfully completed to earn a passing grade. A failing clinical grade will result in a final course grade of ‘F’, regardless of the theory grade.
 

CONFIDENTIALITY

Confidentiality is both an ethical and legal responsibility of all professional nurses. Annual review of the HIPAA Privacy Regulations is required. Students are to maintain the confidentiality of all clients. Information concerning any client’s identity, diagnosis, treatment, family problem or life style is considered confidential and shall not be discussed or otherwise passed on to any individuals outside of the agency.
 

EMERGENCY CARE

In the event of a health issue during a clinical experience, students will be directed to the nearest appropriate acute care facility. Students are responsible for any medical expenses incurred; the University does not assume this responsibility. Before resuming clinical activities, students must provide documentation from their primary health provider indicating clearance to return to the clinical environment.
 

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

Students must meet the “The Essential Functions for Nursing Practice   ” specified in this Handbook.
 

PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE

The appearance of a student in the School of Nursing communicates definite messages about the profession and the School. As a student, professional attire is required for School of Nursing activities.

Professional attire includes:

1. Minimal jewelry, closed-toe shoes, and modest choices for necklines and hemlines. No jeans are permitted.
2. Widener University scrubs, lab jackets, student name pins and University ID’s (must be visible at all times).
3. Hair must be styled off the face and collar.
4. Beards and mustaches must be neatly groomed.
5. Make-up is permitted in moderation.
6. Fingernails must not extend beyond the end of the finger. Nail polish is not permitted. 
7. Artificial nails or nail extenders are not permitted. See CDC information at www.cdc.gov.
8. Tattoos must not be visible.
9. Wedding bands, watches, and one small post earring per ear are the only articles of jewelry permitted. No additional body adornments are permitted.
10. Students may wear a head covering as required by their religious beliefs.
11. In addition to Widener SON professional attire, the student will follow all agency professional dress codes. 
     

CLINICAL SKILLS AND RETESTING FOR RETURNING STUDENTS

Students who do not maintain consecutive enrollment in the clinical nursing curriculum sequence need to demonstrate competence in skills before starting their next clinical nursing course.

The Program Director identifies the specific skills that students must demonstrate for clinical competency.

The Essential Functions for Nursing Practice

See The Essential Functions for Nursing Practice