Division of Advanced Nursing Practice
Student Handbook
• Master of Science in Nursing Programs
• Post-Master’s (Graduate) Certificate Programs
• Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs
Updated and Approved: August 2021
Effective Date: Fall 2021
Table of Contents
Contents
Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................................ 2
Greetings from the Dean............................................................................................................................. 5
Division Welcome ........................................................................................................................................ 6
General Information .................................................................................................................................... 7
School of Nursing Contact Information................................................................................................... 7
School of Nursing Administrative Structure ............................................................................................ 7
Division of Advanced Nursing Practice Administrative Structure ........................................................... 8
Divisional Deans .................................................................................................................................. 8
Administrative Staff............................................................................................................................. 8
Program/Specialty Directors ................................................................................................................ 8
Academic Programs (Fall 2021) ............................................................................................................... 9
School of Nursing Mission ..................................................................................................................... 10
School of Nursing Vision........................................................................................................................ 10
Student Responsibility .......................................................................................................................... 10
University Code of Conduct ................................................................................................................... 10
Civility/Incivility at Rutgers School of Nursing ........................................................................................ 11
Academic Integrity Policy ....................................................................................................................... 11
Levels of Violations and Sanctions ..................................................................................................... 12
Academic Suspension ............................................................................................................................ 13
Office of the Registrar (School of Nursing) ............................................................................................... 13
Office of Student Services ......................................................................................................................... 14
Office of Student Services ..................................................................................................................... 14
Assistant Dean for Student Engagement and Planning .................................................................... 14
Assistant Director for Graduate Student Engagement ...................................................................... 15
Services for Students with Disabilities ................................................................................................... 15
Religious Accommodation ..................................................................................................................... 15
Financial Aid .......................................................................................................................................... 16
Scholarship Information ........................................................................................................................ 16
Policy Prohibiting Discrimination and Harassment ................................................................................ 16
School of Nursing Anti-Racist and Anti-Bias Commitment ............................................................... 16
Information Technology (IT) ...................................................................................................................... 17
Student Computing and Computing Overview ...................................................................................... 17
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) .............................................................................................................. 17
Student Toolbox .................................................................................................................................... 17
Typhon Student Tracking System ........................................................................................................... 17
Admissions and Registration ..................................................................................................................... 18
Part-time/Full-time Status ..................................................................................................................... 18
Continuous Registration ........................................................................................................................ 18
Maintaining Matriculation ..................................................................................................................... 18
Administrative Withdrawal from the School of Nursing ....................................................................... 19
Change of Registration and Withdrawals ............................................................................................... 19
Withdrawal from the School of Nursing ................................................................................................ 20
Change of Major (Specialty)................................................................................................................... 20
Change of Program ................................................................................................................................ 21
Transfer Credit ....................................................................................................................................... 21
Transfer of Credit Upon Admission to the School of Nursing .......................................................... 21
Transfer of Elective Course After Admission ..................................................................................... 21
Course Waiver and Substitution (Internal Transfer of Credit) .......................................................... 22
Academic Advisement................................................................................................................................ 22
Clinical Clearance and Placement Information .......................................................................................... 23
Grades, Grading, and Academic Progression ............................................................................................. 23
Grades and Grading ............................................................................................................................... 23
Grade Symbols ................................................................................................................................... 23
Grade Conversions ............................................................................................................................ 23
Other Grade Symbols ........................................................................................................................ 24
Graduate Academic Progression Policy .................................................................................................. 25
Incomplete and In-Progress Grades ....................................................................................................... 25
Incomplete Grade (Non-clinical, Non-DNP Project Courses) ............................................................. 25
Incomplete Grade for Clinical Courses ................................................................................................... 26
In-Progress Grades ................................................................................................................................ 27
Midterm/Mid-semester Warnings ........................................................................................................ 29
Course Withdrawal ................................................................................................................................ 30
Academic Probation .............................................................................................................................. 30
Academic Dismissal................................................................................................................................ 31
Academic Dismissal Appeal.................................................................................................................... 31
Readmission Following Academic Dismissal .......................................................................................... 31
Grade Grievance and Appeal ................................................................................................................. 32
Degree Completion and Graduation Requirements................................................................................... 32
Time Limit .............................................................................................................................................. 32
Graduation ............................................................................................................................................ 32
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Greetings from the Dean
A hearty welcome to the students of the Advanced
Practice Division, Rutgers School of Nursing!
Congratulations and best wishes as you continue
your education. You are our future leaders in expert
nursing practice, and we are very proud of you.
We are so glad that you have chosen Rutgers School of Nursing. As part of a comprehensive
academic health center, the students and faculty of Rutgers School of Nursing enjoy access to
interdisciplinary collaboration and a host of clinical practice opportunities. Not surprisingly, U.S
News & World Report has again ranked the Master’s and DNP programs of Rutgers School of
Nursing as among the top best programs in the country. Our faculty, staff, and administrators
strive every day to maintain our reputation as academic and clinical excellence in action.
Time passes quickly, and before you know it, you will be ready for graduation. Remember, that
Rutgers School of Nursing has a very active Alumni Association! Once part of the Rutgers
family…always part of the Rutgers family.
This Handbook contains valuable information regarding our specialty programs, policies, and
structure. Please take time to review it; I am sure that you will find it helpful. Again, welcome to
the Rutgers School of Nursing!
Sincerely,
Linda Flynn, PhD, RN, FAAN
Dean & Professor
Rutgers School of Nursing
lflynn@sn.rutgers.edu
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Division Welcome
Welcome to the Division of Advanced Nursing Practice. Our exemplary nurse educators and
leaders, skilled clinicians and advanced practice nurses, and outstanding scholars immersed in
community, state, and national health care delivery and policy are here to help you meet your
academic and professional goals. Our rigorous curricula incorporate innovative classroom,
clinical, and a range of acute to community care experiences to prepare students to promote,
maintain, and restore the health of populations into the 22nd century.
This handbook was developed as a student resource and replaces all previously published
handbooks. It provides access to University, School of Nursing, Division-specific
policies/processes, and highlights areas in which students often have questions and/or are
looking for a resource. Admittedly, not every possible question or scenario is outlined within
this document so if you have a question or do not see a particular situation/circumstance
addressed, please reach out to your Specialty/Program Director or one of the Divisional Deans
for clarification. We keep a running list of needed updates so if you notice something missing or
confusing, please let us know so we can make any necessary updates/clarifications in the
future.
Our division strives for “Excellence in Action” and as such, we are always looking for ways to do
and be better. We hold ourselves and each student in high regard and strive to ensure
academic excellence and clinical competency to improve health and provide inclusive and
equitable health care to diverse populations.
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General Information
School of Nursing Contact Information
Mailing Address
Rutgers School of Nursing
Division of Advanced Nursing Practice
Stanley S. Bergen, Jr. Building
65 Bergen Street, Suite 1126
Newark, NJ 07107
Phone Numbers
Main Number (with prompts to reach various Departments within the School)
973.972.4309
Division of Advanced Nursing Practice
973.972.7448
Office of the Registrar
973.972.5531
School of Nursing Administrative Structure
Dean
Executive Vice Dean
Senior Vice Dean
Linda Flynn, PhD, RN, FAAN
Professor
Susan W. Salmond, EdD, RN
ANEF, FAAN
Professor
Kyle D. Warren, PhD, MAE
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Division of Advanced Nursing Practice Administrative Structure
Divisional Deans
Caroline Dorsen, PhD, APN, FNP-BC
Associate Dean of Advanced Practice and Clinical Partnerships
Clinical Associate Professor
Nadine Aktan, PhD, FNP-BC
Assistant Dean
Professor
Sharon Anderson, DNP, APN, NNP-BC, AGN-BC, CNE
Assistant Dean
Associate Professor
Administrative Staff
Maureen Thomas
Program Coordinator
Dani Scarmozzino, BS-BA, MS-HEA
Administrative Academic Support Services
Sandra Romero
Program Assistant, Nurse Anesthesia Program
Program/Specialty Directors
Sharon Anderson, DNP, APN, NNP-BC, AGN-BC, CNE
Interim Specialty Director, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Program
Amita Avadhani, PhD, DNP, DCC, CNE, ACNP-BC, NP-BC, CCRN, FAANP, FCCM
Specialty Director, Post Masters DNP-Practice (Executive Model) Program
Interim Specialty Director, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program
Mary DiGiulio, DNP, APN, FAANP
Specialty Director, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program
Interim Specialty Director, Family Nurse Practitioner Program
Melinda L. Jenkins, PhD, APN, FNP
Specialty Director, Informatics Program
Mary Kamienski, PhD, APN, CEN, FAEN, FAAN
Specialty Director, Family Nurse Practitioner-Emergency Care Program
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Thomas J. Pallaria, DNP, APN, CRNA
Program Director, Nurse Anesthesia Program
Laura A. Mularz, DNP, MSN, RN, APN, ACNS-BC, NE-BC, CRRN
Specialty Director, Nursing Leadership Programs
Margaret Quinn, DNP, APN, CPNP
Specialty Director, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs
Mamilda Robinson, DNP, APN, PMHNP-BC
Specialty Director, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program
Robyn Schafer, MSN, EdM, CNM, IBCLC, CNE, FACNM
Interim Program Director, Nurse Midwifery and Dual Women’s Health/Nurse Midwifery
Programs
Tracy R. Vitale, DNP, RNC-OB, C-EFM, NE-BC
Specialty Director, Doctor of Nursing Practice Project/Project Courses
Academic Programs (Fall 2021)
Master of Science in Nursing
Nursing Informatics
37 credits
225 clinical hours
Nursing Leadership
42 credits
500 clinical hours
Post-Master’s Certificate
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
30 credits
720 clinical hours
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
24 credits
630 clinical hours
Family Nurse Practitioner
30 credits
810 clinical hours
Family Nurse Practitioner in Emergency Care
36 credits
945 clinical hours
Nursing Informatics
25 credits
225 clinical hours
Nurse-Midwifery
30 credits
675 clinical hours
Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
22 credits
540 clinical hours
Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
32 credits
585 clinical hours
Baccalaureate to Doctor of Nursing Practice
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
75 credits
720 clinical hours
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
69 credits
630 clinical hours
Family Nurse Practitioner
75 credits
810 clinical hours
Family Nurse Practitioner in Emergency Care
81 credits
945 clinical hours
Nursing Leadership
60 credits
680 clinical hours
Nurse Anesthesia
85 credits
2500 clinical hours
Nurse-Midwifery
81 credits
810 clinical hours
Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
72 (74) credits
585 clinical hours
Dual Pediatric Primary/Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
85 credits
900 clinical hours
Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
78 credits
720 clinical hours
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Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
72 credits
630 clinical hours
Dual Women’s Health/Nurse-Midwifery
82 credits
855 clinical hours
The minimum number of combined clinical practicum and DNP project experience hours is 1,000. Students, however, may be required to
complete more than 1,000 hours to meet minimum competency requirements for graduation and certification (when applicable).
Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice
Practice (Executive Weekend Model)
39 credits
See below
Leadership
42 credits
See below
The minimum number of combined clinical practicum and DNP project experience hours is 1,000. Students, however, may be required to
complete more than 1,000 hours to meet minimum competency requirements for graduation and certification (when applicable).
School of Nursing Mission
To educate students; advance the discipline of nursing through research, scholarship, and
practice; provide service responsive to the health care needs of diverse populations; and
demonstrate local, national, and international leadership.
School of Nursing Vision
Rutgers School of Nursing will be a national and global leader in nursing education, research
and scholarship, and clinical care contributing to the improvement of health.
Student Responsibility
This handbook provides a summary of policies governing graduate work at Rutgers University,
of Nursing Catalogs and familiarize themselves with the principal rules and regulations
contained within it. All academic and other regulations established by Rutgers School of
Nursing and Board of Governors of the university are subject to amendment at any time. Any
significant changes made after the publication of this handbook will be circulated to registered
students through the Division of Advanced Nursing Practice and/or Office of Student Services.
The Rutgers School of Nursing Catalog is available here (to access the catalog, please cut and
paste the hyperlink):
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/catalog/
University Code of Conduct
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is dedicated to teaching that meets the highest
standards of excellence; conducting research that breaks new ground; and turning knowledge
into solutions for local, national, and global communities. As it was at our founding in 1766, the
heart of our mission is preparing students to become productive members of society and good
citizens of the world. When students choose to accept admission to Rutgers, they accept the
rights and responsibilities of membership in the university's academic and social community. As
members of the university community, students are expected to uphold our stated values by
maintaining a high standard of conduct. Because the university establishes high standards for
membership, its standards of conduct may exceed federal, state, or local requirements.
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The primary purpose of the student conduct process should be to foster the personal,
educational, and social development of students. The process should also serve as deterrence
to misconduct to enhance the safety and security of the community. Students are expected to
take responsibility for their conduct. Disciplinary consequences, therefore, serve both
educational and deterrence objectives.
The complete Student Code of Conduct Policy is available here:
http://studentconduct.rutgers.edu/disciplinary-processes/university-code-of-student-
conduct/
The Rutgers School of Nursing Student Standards of Conduct Policy is available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/students/conduct/
Civility/Incivility at Rutgers School of Nursing
Any form of incivility is unacceptable at the Rutgers School of Nursing. Incivility is defined as
disruptive, ill-mannered, or offensive behavior contrary to the well-being of the classroom
community. This includes any and all forms of disrespect or disregard for instruction, the
instructor, or a fellow student.
The complete Incivility Policy and Reporting Form is available here:
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/civility/index.html
Academic Integrity Policy
As an academic community dedicated to the creation, dissemination, and application of
knowledge, Rutgers is committed to fostering an intellectual and ethical environment based on
the principles of academic integrity. Academic integrity is essential to the success of the
university's educational and research missions, and violations of academic integrity constitute
serious offenses against the entire academic community. This academic integrity policy is
designed to guide students as they prepare assignments, take examinations, and perform the
work necessary to complete their degree requirements.
The principles of academic integrity require students to:
• Properly acknowledge and cite all use of the ideas, results, and words of others or
oneself (self-plagiarism).
• Properly acknowledge all contributors to a given piece of work.
• Ensure all work submitted is their own in a course or other academic activity is
produced without the aid of unsanctioned materials or unsanctioned collaboration.
• Obtain all data or results by ethical means and report them accurately without
suppressing any results inconsistent with their interpretation or conclusions.
• Ethically treat all other students, respecting their integrity and right to pursue their
educational goals without interference. This requires that a student neither facilitate
academic dishonesty by others nor obstruct their academic progress.
• Uphold the canons of the ethical or professional code of the profession for which they
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are preparing.
Adherence to these principles ensures that:
• Everyone is given proper credit for their ideas, words, results, and other scholarly
accomplishments.
• All student work is evaluated fairly, and no student has an inappropriate advantage over
others.
• The academic and ethical development of all students is fostered.
• The reputation of the university for its integrity in teaching, research, and scholarship is
maintained and enhanced.
Failure to uphold these principles of academic integrity threatens the reputation of the
university and the value of the degrees awarded to its students. Every member of the university
community, therefore, bears a responsibility for ensuring that the highest standards of
academic integrity are upheld. The university administration is responsible for working with
faculty and students to foster a strong institutional culture of academic integrity, providing
effective educational programs that create an understanding of and commitment to academic
integrity, and establishing equitable and effective procedures to deal with allegations of
violations of academic integrity.
Faculty shares with administration the responsibility for educating students about the
importance and principles of academic integrity. Faculty members (for purposes of the
Academic Integrity Policy, the term faculty member includes not only tenured, tenure-track,
and non-tenure track faculty members, but also part-time lecturers, per diem faculty,
coadjutants, TAs, staff members, and administrators who are serving as the instructor of record
in a course; i.e., the instructor responsible for assigning final course grades) are expected to
inform students of the specific requirements regarding academic integrity within individual
courses, make efforts to minimize academic dishonesty and respond appropriately to violations
of academic integrity. Students are responsible for understanding the principles of academic
integrity and abiding by them in all aspects of their work at the university.
Students are also encouraged to help educate fellow students about academic integrity and
bring all alleged violations of academic integrity they encounter to the attention of the
appropriate authorities.
The complete Academic Integrity Policy is available here:
http://academicintegrity.rutgers.edu/
Levels of Violations and Sanctions
Any violation of academic integrity is a serious offense and therefore, subject to an appropriate
sanction or penalty. Violations of academic integrity are generally divided into three categories:
• Level 1 violations may occur as a result of inexperience or lack of malicious intent by
the person committing the violation.
• Level 2 violations include misconduct of a more serious character or misconduct that
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affects a major, significant, or essential portion of work done to meet course
requirements. These violations demonstrate premeditation or may have posed harm to
others. The student alleged to have committed the violation may have one or more
previous violations.
• Level 3 violations represent the most serious breaches of conduct. They may involve a
serious violation of a professional code of conduct; may include extreme cases of
dishonesty and maliciousness or violations of law; and/or are likely to cause direct harm
to others.
Examples of violations along with a list of potential sanctions are available in the University
Catalog (section titled Academic Integrity Violations - Levels of Violations and Sanctions).
Academic Suspension
Violation of School or University policies such as the Academic Integrity Policy, University Code
of Student Conduct, or School of Nursing Standards of Conduct (violations are specified in the
policies) may result in disciplinary suspension or expulsion from the university.
Office of the Registrar (School of Nursing)
The School of Nursing Office of the Registrar is responsible for official academic records for
current and former nursing students which includes the creation, maintenance, preservation,
and transmission of student academic records and course-related data and information. It
maintains updated and secure student data files and makes this information available as
appropriate and in compliance with FERPA and School and University policy. Its priority is
record security and privacy.
It is the goal of the Office of the Registrar to serve the needs of School of Nursing students
and alumni by providing quality service and timely response to requests for information. The
Office of the Registrar strives to support academic excellence by providing an effective
method of course registration; maintaining updated and complete course files (course
catalog); managing the use of the classrooms for instruction; providing official transcripts,
verifications, and other student and course-based reports as required; and performing other
academic administration responsibilities.
Some of the services provided include:
• Coordination of course enrollment and student registration
• Enrollment verifications
• Degree conferral and issuing diplomas
• Preserving student academic records and releasing transcripts
• Diploma orders
• Posting of final grades/change of grade
• Registration and re-enrollment
• Veteran's Affairs Certification
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Graduate Program Forms are available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/students/forms/graduate/
The Office of the Registrar is located in the Stanley S Bergen Jr. Building, 65 Bergen Street,
Room 623, Newark, NJ 07107 and can be reached at: registr[email protected] (preferred) or
(973) 972- 5531.
Office of the Registrar-School of Nursing
Yvonne McClendon
Registrar
Manager of Clinical Clearance
Genesie Burgos
Assistant Registrar
Tiana Perez
Registration Coordinator
Alyssa Cross
Office Assistant
Helpful Links:
RBHS Billing and Collections: billingandcollections@sa.rutgers.edu
RBHS Newark Financial Aid: rbhs_nwk@ofa.rutgers.edu
Office of Student Services
The Office of Student Services at Rutgers School of Nursing is available to serve both
prospective and enrolled students. The goal of the Office of Student Services is to support
student recruitment, admission, progression, and graduation, as well as function as a resource
for faculty and students with university-related student issues. Student Services staff is
available to ensure each student’s academic journey is both educationally enriching and
personally rewarding.
The Office of Student Services is located in the Stanley S. Bergen, Jr. Building, 65 Bergen Street,
Room 624, Newark NJ 07107 and open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.
Students are seen by appointment but are welcomed on a walk-in basis as well. Students with
an emergency may request an appointment with the Assistant Director for Graduate Student
Engagement or Assistant Dean for Student Engagement.
Office of Student Services
Main Contact Information
Phone: 973.353.1178
Contact Student Services
Assistant Dean for Student Engagement and Planning
Mehtap Ferrazzano, MSW
Ackerson Hall, Student Services Suite
Email: Mehtap.Ferrazzano@rutgers.edu
Phone: 973.353.3689
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Assistant Director for Graduate Student Engagement
The role of the Assistant Director for Graduate Student Engagement is to plan and implement
new student orientations, execute graduate nursing-specific programming, and assist individual
students as they navigate programs. In addition, the Assistant Director for Graduate Student
Engagement can assist students with accessing academic support and student wellness
resources and serves as a resource for students who are unsure how or to whom to address an
academic or personal concern.
Delores Sarfo-Darko, EdD, MSW
Stanley S. Bergen Building, Room 624
Email: delores.sarfodarko@rutgers.edu
Phone: 973.972.9569
Academic Support Resources through the Office of Student Services are available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/students/success/
https://sites.rutgers.edu/sn-oas/
Personal Counseling and Health Services available to graduate students and information
regarding Student Wellness is available here:
https://ubhc.rutgers.edu/swp/index.html
Information regarding Sexual Assault: When You Are The Victim and Title IX including how to
report an incident, confidential and non-confidential resources are available here:
https://uec.rutgers.edu/programs/title-ix/coordinators/
Services for Students with Disabilities
The School of Nursing provides students with confidential advising and accommodation services
to allow students with documented physical, mental, and learning disabilities to complete their
course of study at Rutgers School of Nursing. The school provides for confidential
documentation and verification of student accommodations and communicates with faculty
and staff regarding disabilities and accommodations. Students seeking accommodation services
should review the information provided on the website hyperlinks listed below.
Accommodation Request/Resources are available here:
School of Nursing website: http://nursing.rutgers.edu/students/disability.html
Rutgers University website: https://ods.rutgers.edu/
Religious Accommodation
Rutgers University respects the religious diversity of its students, faculty, and staff. The
University prohibits discrimination based on religion and will provide reasonable
accommodations for students to enable them to exercise their sincerely held religious
beliefs unless the accommodation imposes an undue hardship on the university.
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A reasonable religious accommodation is any adjustment to the work and/or academic
environment that will allow the individual to practice their religion. Religious
accommodation can only be provided to students with formal documentation.
The Religious Accommodation Request Form is available here:
https://rutgersnursing.wufoo.com/forms/rw0lwmj0byt3c1/
Additional information regarding the School of Nursing Classroom and Clinical Attendance
Policy is available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/SON-Classroom-and-Clinical-
Attendance.pdf
Financial Aid
Financial Aid information is available here:
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/students/financial-aid.html
Scholarship Information
School of Nursing Scholarship information is available here:
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/scholarships/index.html
Policy Prohibiting Discrimination and Harassment
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey prohibits discrimination and harassment based
upon race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy,
gender identity and expression, disability, genetic information, atypical hereditary cellular or
blood trait, marital status, civil union status, domestic partnership status, military service,
veteran status, and any other category protected by law. Discrimination and harassment
compromise the integrity of the university and unfairly interfere with the opportunity for all
persons to fully participate in the academic, work, and living environment of the university.
The Rutgers University Policy Prohibiting Discrimination and Harassment Policy is available
here:
http://catalogs.rutgers.edu/generated/spaa_current/pg84.html
School of Nursing Anti-Racist and Anti-Bias Commitment
Rutgers School of Nursing is committed to diversity and inclusion and dedicated to maintaining
its history as an anti-racist and anti-bias organization. To that end, School of Nursing
leadership openly invites members of the community to discuss concerns without fear of
retribution. When they do occur, racist and bias incidences can be difficult to report and/or
some may prefer anonymous means. As such, any School of Nursing community member can
anonymously submit concerns through the below form.
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The Racism and Bias Reporting Electronic Hotline is available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/anti-racism-bias-hotline/
This form requires no personal identifying information, nor will an IP address be tracked.
Submissions will be sent directly to School of Nursing Dean, Dr. Linda Flynn. It is the sincere
hope that through open dialogue and understanding, we can continue to grow in tolerance
and understanding of one another and the many valuable differences that make us a strong
community.
Information Technology (IT)
Student Computing and Computing Overview
Student Computing Information including information about computer labs, printing, and
computing technology is available here:
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/technology/student-computing.html
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
Bring your own device (BYOD) is a policy that requires School of Nursing students to bring
personally- owned computing and mobile devices onto the campus to access Rutgers University
and School of Nursing resources such as email, file servers, and databases as well as their
personal applications and data. Students will need access to a personally-owned computing
device to complete course and programmatic requirements.
BYOD Information and recommended device types are available here:
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/technology/bring-your-own-device.html
Student Toolbox
The Student Toolbox is a central starting point for students to access various resources such as
interdepartmental information, schedules, and calendars, Typhon, Canvas, etc.
Frequently used links can be found in the Student Toolbox on the School of Nursing Website:
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/students/toolbox.html
Typhon Student Tracking System
The Typhon NPST™ (Nurse Practitioner Student Tracking) and NAST™ (Nurse Anesthesia Student
Tracking) systems function as a complete electronic student tracking system and will provide a
comprehensive collection of each student patient encounter during clinical rotations.
The system is web-based, HIPAA compliant, and allows students to quickly and easily enter
patient encounter information such as demographics, clinical information, diagnosis and
procedure codes, medications, and brief clinical notes.
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All students enrolled in Nurse Practitioner, Nurse-Midwifery, or Nurse Anesthesia programs
are required to purchase and install this product on their desktop/laptop computer for use in
all clinical courses.
Additional information regarding Typhon and how to purchase, establish an account, and
easily access it through the School of Nursing website is available here:
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/students/typhon.html
Admissions and Registration
Admissions and registration can be complicated processes. Administrators, staff, and faculty are
available to assist you as you navigate these systems. The information below is written to help
students understand the basic information needed for enrollment. Faculty, staff, and
administrators are accessible for guidance as needed.
Part-time/Full-time Status
Students enrolled in 9 or more credits per semester are full-time, whereas students enrolled in
less than 9 credits are considered part-time.
Continuous Registration
Students are expected to be continuously registered every semester (Fall, Spring, Summer)
from the date of matriculation. If a student needs/decides to take a semester off, the student
must file for maintaining matriculation (see Maintaining Matriculation).
For semesters in which a student is not taking classes, they must pay any associated fees for
maintaining matriculation (see below). Continuous registration applies to all students,
regardless of whether they are attending in-person, remote, hybrid, or online classes. In other
words, there are no formal student “leaves of absences” once matriculated. Students receiving
financial aid should be aware of any implications of not taking any classes for a semester.
Please consult with the financial aid office for additional information.
Students with any type of hold (financial, registrar, compliance, and/or student health) will not
be permitted to register for classes until the hold is resolved.
Maintaining Matriculation
Students who are obliged to interrupt their studies may, with approval from their
Specialty/Program Director and Divisional Dean, register for Maintaining Matriculation (see
form below).
The Maintaining Matriculation form is available here:
https://rutgersnursing.wufoo.com/forms/w1bhik5k0fm7e6f/
Maintaining Matriculation (Matriculation Continued) Tuition/Fees is available on the RBHS
Billing and Collections Office website:
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https://studentabc.rutgers.edu/tuition-fees/tuition-fees-rates
This category of registration is available only to students not using faculty time or
university/research facilities. Students may apply for maintaining matriculation a maximum of
two consecutive semesters at any one time during their tenure as a graduate student.
Permission to register for maintaining matriculation for additional semesters (beyond 2
consecutive semesters) may be requested for extenuating circumstances and will be reviewed
on a case-by-case basis by the Divisional Dean. In the absence of this waiver, the student must
reapply to the program (and readmission is not guaranteed).
Administrative Withdrawal from the School of Nursing
Inactive students (not registered for a course or Maintaining Matriculation) will be
administratively withdrawn ONE WEEK AFTER THE END OF THE ADD DROP PERIOD and
notified by the Office of the Registrar. Students who are administratively withdrawn will need
to reapply to the program.
Change of Registration and Withdrawals
All students, regardless of program, are required to speak with their course faculty and
Specialty/Program Director/Faculty Advisor before course withdrawal to ensure there is
complete understanding regarding its effect on their academic plan of study and a new plan is
developed. For graduate students, prerequisite/corequisite course requirements will not be
waived. Because all courses are not offered every semester, a student may have to wait more
than one semester to reenroll in a course. For some, this may delay academic progression and
anticipated program completion.
The schedule for any change of registration and withdrawals without academic penalty is as
follows:
• Students must refer to the Add/Drop and Withdrawal Schedule for specific dates.
The Add/Drop and Withdrawal Schedule is available here:
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/policies/withdrawal.html
• Students enrolled in Executive Model courses are asked to adhere to the above
schedule. Exceptions may be made for extenuating circumstances for Executive Model
students given the varied course start and completion dates.
• Any courses dropped after the last day of the Add/Drop period will receive a grade of
“W” on the official transcript depending on the academic standing of the student at the
time of course withdrawal.
• Any courses dropped after the posted “Last day to withdraw” date will receive a grade
of “F”.
• A student who drops a course without notifying the registrar automatically receives a
course grade of “F”.
• All course withdrawals must be reviewed and approved by the student’s Specialty
Director/Program Director/Academic Advisor before processing by the Office of the
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Registrar.
• Students receiving financial aid who are considering withdrawal should contact the
Financial Aid Office to learn of any impact course withdrawal may have on their ability
to receive financial aid.
The School of Nursing Add/Drop Form is available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/ADD-DROP.pdf
The School of Nursing Course Withdrawal Form is available here:
https://rutgersnursing.wufoo.com/forms/zygkg5u0mdbkk1/
Withdrawal from the School of Nursing
Students may withdraw from the school and withdrawal will be processed according to the
Add/Drop and Withdrawal Schedules. Students who withdraw from the School of Nursing but
wish to return at a later date must reapply and readmission is not guaranteed.
A student who withdraws from the School of Nursing without notifying the Office of the
Registrar automatically receives a grade of “F” in all courses. No program withdrawals of any
kind are permitted during the last two weeks of classes. Students who leave the university
during this period are still considered officially enrolled and receive final grades for the
semester. Students are encouraged to speak with their Specialty/Program Directors and/or
course faculty to discuss alternative options and obtain appropriate advisement.
The School of Nursing Program Withdrawal Form is available here:
https://rutgersnursing.wufoo.com/forms/z1o4sk5c01xmaua/
Change of Major (Specialty)
Students who wish to change their program specialty (major) within Rutgers School of Nursing
should seek advisement from their Specialty/Program Director. After consulting with the
Specialty/Program Director, students must complete and submit a Change of Major form to
admissions. Change of major is not guaranteed. Of note, current student applicants will be
reviewed with new applicants and program specialty change will be granted or declined based
on the applicant pool.
Change of Major requests for graduate students are reviewed twice a year and students have
until the below deadlines to submit the required request form. Decision notifications will be
communicated by email shortly after the corresponding deadline date.
• Fall: April 15th
• Spring: October 15
th
The Change of Major Form is available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/students/forms/graduate/
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Change of Program
Students who wish to change their field of study within Rutgers School of Nursing or the
Graduate School-Newark (DNP to PhD, MSN to BS to DNP, BS to DNP to Post Master’s
Certificate) must apply to the graduate program in which they intend to pursue their degree.
This should be done through the respective Rutgers School of Nursing
(http://nursing.rutgers.edu/) or Graduate Admission (http://gradstudy.rutgers.edu/) websites.
Students should be mindful of program application deadlines.
Transfer Credit
Transfer of Credit Upon Admission to the School of Nursing
Request for transfer of credits for graduate courses completed at another accredited
institution will only be reviewed upon admission (before the start of the first semester) to the
School of Nursing. The school will consider applications for transfer credit based on the
following criteria:
• Course documents support comparable graduate or doctoral level coursework at
an accredited college or university.
• The student earned a B or better in the course(s) being transferred.
• The course(s) was/were not taken more than 7 years before the transfer request.
Please note, advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, and advanced
health assessment must have been completed less than 5 years before admission.
• The maximum number of credits that can be transferred is 12 credits
• Credits transferred for a course will not exceed the number of credits for the
course offered at Rutgers School of Nursing.
• Credits transferred for the course will not exceed the number of credits granted by
the outside school.
• Clinical theory and practicum courses are not transferrable.
• The student is considered admitted if currently enrolled in one of the Master’s,
Post-Master’s Certificate, DNP, or PhD programs.
The Request for Transfer Credit form, official transcript(s) with final grade posted, and
supporting documents (syllabus including course description/objectives and content outline)
must be submitted to the student's Specialty/Program Director for review before admission.
The Request for Transfer of Credit form is available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/transfer_credit_request.pdf
Transfer of Elective Course After Admission
In the rare instance when a student identifies a specialty/project-relevant ELECTIVE course they
would like to take at an outside institution after matriculation, this must be discussed with their
Specialty/Program Director before course enrollment and written approval must be received
from the Specialty/Program Director and Divisional Dean. There is no guarantee external or
22 | Page
internal courses submitted for transfer/waiver/substitution will be accepted.
The Request for Transfer of Credit form is available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/transfer_credit_request.pdf
Course Waiver and Substitution (Internal Transfer of Credit)
Students applying credits previously earned at Rutgers University/the School of Nursing must
meet with their Specialty/Program Director to review which courses may be applied to their
program of study. This is not a “transfer of credit” per se, but a process to apply for credits
previously earned at Rutgers to replace or substitute required courses in the student’s plan of
study.
The form to be completed and submitted by the student to the Specialty/Program Director is
entitled Course Waiver and Substitution Form. If upon review, the Specialty/Program Director
deems the course is deemed equivalent or acceptable for transfer (see criteria for transfer of
credit above), the Specialty/Program Director will submit the completed form to the Divisional
Dean for review and final review/authorization/approval. When a course substitution/waiver
is granted and approved, the Office of the Registrar will record/note the application of
credit(s) on the student’s transcript/in the student file.
The Course Waiver and Substitution Form is available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Course-Waiver-and-
Substitution.pdf
Academic Advisement
Specialty/Program Directors serve as the student’s faculty advisor and provide academic and
professional guidance throughout a student’s course of study. The advisor assists students to
identify strengths and weaknesses and establish short- and long-range academic and
professional goals.
The student and advisor should meet at least once each term to review the student’s progress
and discuss goals. At the time of initial registration, the Specialty/Program Director and the
student review the plan of study which assures the student can meet all program and degree
requirements. This plan reflects the student’s course selections for each term of enrollment and
outlines the course sequence for completion of degree requirements. Modifications in the
program plan may be made, if necessary, in collaboration with the Specialty/Program Director.
It is the student’s responsibility to register for courses based upon the agreed plan of study. In the
case of unforeseen circumstances, changes to program plans will be considered. Any questions
regarding the course of study should be discussed with the Specialty/Program Director. Students
who deviate from their program plan without consulting their Specialty/Program Director may
jeopardize their graduation date and/or successful program completion.
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Clinical Clearance and Placement Information
Advanced Nursing Practice students who have classroom or clinical responsibilities/coursework
must be compliant with all immunization and health requirements. Students with any type of
hold (financial, registrar, compliance, and/or student health) will not be permitted to register for
classes.
If you are uncertain about the requirements, School of Nursing Program-Specific Clinical
Compliance Information is available here:
http://njms.rutgers.edu/departments/family_medicine/shs//immun_son.cfm
Other valuable resources for students enrolled in clinical programs are outlined below.
• Clinical Clearance Requirements are available here:
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/clinical/clinical-clearance-requirements.html
• Clinical Placement/Graduate Program Clinical Process Information including tips for
successful placement and site etiquette are available here:
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/clinical/index.html
• The Clinical Placement Form is available here:
http://nursing.rutgers.edu/forms/clinicalplacement.html
Grades, Grading, and Academic Progression
Grades and Grading
Grade Symbols
Grades represent the quality of the student's performance measured against standards of
knowledge, skill, and understanding as evaluated by faculty. Grades are reported to the
university registrar at the end of each semester using the following symbols:
Grade
Definition
Numerical Equivalent
A
Outstanding
4.0
B+
Very Good
3.5
B
Good
3.0
C+
Less than Satisfactory
2.5
C
Failure
2.0
D
Failure
1.0
F
Failure
0.0
Grade Conversions
The School of Nursing employs the same grading system as other schools in the university. The
faculty has approved the use of the following grade conversions:
Grade
Percentage Equivalent
A
89.5-100
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B+
84.5-89.49
B
79.5-84.49
C+
74.5-79.49
C
69.5-74.49
D
59.5-69.49
F
0-59.49
Other Grade Symbols
I (Incomplete). A grade of “I” may be assigned only when a student is unable to finish a
non-DNP Project course due to an unanticipated event. It is at the discretion of the
course faculty member whether the request will be granted. The student and faculty
members are urged to reach an agreement as soon as possible outlining how the course
will be completed. The “I” will have no immediate effect on a student's GPA. If the
incomplete grade is not resolved by the end of the Add/Drop period of the next
semester, the “I” will convert to the grade earned in the absence of the completed work
(which may be an “F”), and GPA is recalculated. Please see additional information about
“I” grades under Incomplete and In-Progress grades.
IP (In-Progress). A grade of “IP” grade may be assigned to allow a student currently
enrolled in a DNP Project course a time-limited opportunity to complete DNP Project
course requirements (e.g., awaiting DNP proposal approval from their chair/faculty, IRB
approval, or delays with project implementation, data collection, analysis, or
dissemination). The student and faculty members are urged to reach an agreement as
soon as possible regarding how and when the course will be completed. Please see
additional information about “IP” grades under Incomplete and In-Progress grades.
IN (Terminal Incomplete). A non-numerical grade of “IN” is assigned to a DNP Project
course when a student has failed to complete outstanding coursework within the 12
months permitted to resolve an In-progress (“IP”) grade. The “IN” grade will not affect a
student's GPA. Students who earn an “IN” and wish to continue to the program must
request permission from the Divisional Dean to repeat the course for which the grade
was earned. Please note, an “IN” grade can be awarded for the same course only once.
??? A terminal incomplete (IN) can only be awarded for a project course once. If for
some unforeseen reason a student is unsuccessful with the course a second time, the
grade earned will be an “F” and result in program dismissal.
P/F (Pass/Fail). A non-numerical grade of “P” (equivalent to grades of A, B+, B, C+) or
“F” (equivalent to grades of C, D, and F) is assigned to any student registered for a
clinical course in the Nurse Anesthesia Program. Degree credit is given for a grade of
Pass. Neither Pass nor Fail grades are included in the grade point average.
SA/US (Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory). A non-numerical grade of “SA” (equivalent to
25 | Page
grades of A, B+, B, C+) or “US” (equivalent to grades of C, D, and F) is assigned to any
student registered for the Project Continuation course based on the extent to which
the student has met deliverables in the Project Continuation Agreement Form. Degree
credit is given for a grade of Satisfactory. Neither “SA” nor “US” grades are included in
the grade point average.
NG (Not graded). A non-numerical grade submitted for Maintaining Matriculation.
W (Withdrawn without evaluation). A non-numerical grade of “W” may be used when
a student has withdrawn from an individual course or the School of Nursing. In no case
shall the assignment of “W” be allowed when withdrawal from the School of Nursing is
dated in the last two full weeks of instruction in any term. A “W” may be assigned for a
course dropped after the Course Withdrawal Schedule deadlines only when there are
documented extenuating circumstances and authorized by the Divisional Dean.
Graduate Academic Progression Policy
This policy describes the academic conditions which are considered unsatisfactory and
jeopardize a student’s scholastic standing at Rutgers School of Nursing. Unsatisfactory
academic performance may result in academic probation or dismissal.
The School of Nursing Graduate Academic Progression Policy is available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/SON-Graduate-Academic-
Progression.pdf
Please note: Students earning a less than satisfactory grade for corequisite theory or
practicum courses are required to repeat (and pay tuition for) both/all courses together.
Incomplete and In-Progress Grades
Incomplete grades are used for non-DNP Project courses whereas In-Progress grades are used
for DNP Project courses only. These two grades have been differentiated to allow students
additional time to complete work associated with the DNP courses if needed.
Incomplete Grade (Non-clinical, Non-DNP Project Courses)
The purpose of an incomplete (“I”) grade is to allow students who may have experienced an
unanticipated, late-semester event a time-limited opportunity to complete their coursework
and earn a grade for a specific course.
To qualify for an “I” grade:
• The student must have a documented/verifiable/legitimate reason for incomplete or
missing coursework during the regular semester and,
• The faculty must agree and approve an “I” grade is appropriate.
26 | Page
If an “I” grade is agreed upon:
• The student and faculty member develop and sign the Incomplete Grade, Course
Completion Agreement and submit the signed contract to the Administrative Staff of
the Division of Advanced Nursing Practice for processing (review by the Divisional Dean
and electronic filing).
• If the student has no other courses within which to enroll during the semester the “I”
will be completed, the student must enroll in Maintaining Matriculation for the
semester. Enrollment in maintaining matriculation is not required if the student is
enrolled in other courses during which they complete the work to resolve the “I” grade.
• When the coursework is completed within the timeframe outlined in the Incomplete
Grade, Course Completion Agreement, the course faculty will submit a change of grade
form to replace the “I” with the grade earned and the student may progress as per
school policy.
• If the student is unable to complete the required coursework within the established
timeframe, the student will be awarded the grade earned in the absence of the
completed work (which may be an “F”).
• The Incomplete Grade Policy supersedes the absence of an Incomplete Grade, Course
Completion Agreement. Under those circumstances, the earned grade (which may be
an “F”) will be posted after the Add/Drop period of the next semester (see below).
“I” course grades are awarded to allow students to complete outstanding work within a brief
timeframe. “I” grades must be resolved by the end of the Add/Drop period of the next
semester. A more specific semester-to-semester course completion timeline is outlined
below.
• Fall semester “I” grades must be completed by the end of the Add/Drop of the summer
semester.
• Spring semester “I” grades must be completed by the end of the Add/Drop of the fall
semester.
• Summer semester “I” grades must be completed by the end of the Add/Drop of the
spring semester.
The Incomplete Grade, Course Completion Agreement to be completed and submitted will
be provided by the course faculty. The date for completion of course work may be adjusted
on a case-by-case basis by the Divisional Dean depending upon extraordinary circumstances.
Incomplete Grade for Clinical Courses
Incomplete grades for clinical courses are only offered to students due to unexpected, last-
minute (end of the semester) student/preceptor/site emergencies. Untimely submissions of
clinical sites, lack of clinical clearance, changes in employment impacting ability to complete
clinical hours, or other similar circumstances are unacceptable reasons for “I” grades.
If there are internal/external scheduling conflicts that suggest the clinical hours are unable to
be completed within the expected time frame, it is the student’s responsibility to withdraw
27 | Page
from the course(s) before the end of the withdrawal period.
To qualify for an “I” grade for a clinical course:
• The student must have a documented/verifiable/legitimate reason for not completing
the clinical course work during the regular semester.
• The faculty must agree and approve an “I” grade is appropriate.
• The student must have completed 75% of the course/clinical hours/assignments before
the time of the request.
• Any student with less than 45% of the required clinical hours completed at midterm
will be unable to receive an “I” grade.
The process for awarding an incomplete grade and Incomplete Grade, Course Completion
Agreement is outlined above (Incomplete Grade).
In-Progress Grades
In-Progress or (“IP”) grades may only be applied to DNP Project Courses. This allows currently
enrolled DNP students an extended, but time-limited, opportunity to complete DNP
course/project requirements. Examples for which an “IP” grade is appropriate are as follows:
(1) students awaiting approval of their initial proposal by faculty or IRB or (2) students in the
data collection, analysis, or dissemination phase of the project who need extra time for
completion. Courses with “IP” grades must be completed within 12 months whether the
student is enrolled in Project Continuation or Maintaining Matriculation. Any prolongation
beyond 12 months may result in an update or change to the project resulting in delayed
program progression. Requests for extensions beyond the 12-month timeframe will be
reviewed and approved/denied by the Divisional Dean in collaboration with the DNP Project
Chair and Specialty Director for DNP Projects. Students not granted an extension for a project
course will earn a terminal incomplete (IN) and with permission from the Divisional Dean,
must repeat the course for which the “IN” grade was earned. All programs must be completed
within the required timeline (five [5] years of admission for MSN to DNP programs and six [6]
years for BSN-DNP programs).
To qualify for an “IP” grade:
• The student must have a documented/verifiable/legitimate reason for not completing
outstanding coursework and the faculty agrees an In-Progress grade should be offered.
• The course faculty will collaborate with the DNP Project Chair and agree/approve an
“IP” grade should be offered.
If an “IP” grade is agreed upon,
• The student and faculty member complete, sign, and submit the DNP Project
Continuation Course Agreement to the Administrative Staff, Division of Advanced
Nursing Practice for processing (forwarding to Specialty Director for DNP Projects and
electronic filing).
• Students for whom the form is received will be bulk registered for Project Continuation
28 | Page
by the Office of the Registrar as per the Specialty Director for DNP Projects.
• The student is unable to progress to the next course for which the course with an “IP”
is a prerequisite.
• To complete the pending work, the student will be enrolled in Project Continuation (1
credit course).
• Any student still working on any part of their DNP Project must be enrolled in the
appropriate DNP Project/Project Continuation course.
• The student can enroll in Project Continuation a maximum of 3 times per course not to
exceed 12-months in duration per course. For example:
o A spring course must be completed by the end of the Add/Drop period of
the next summer semester.
o A summer course must be completed by the end of the Add/Drop period
of the next fall semester.
o A fall course must be completed by the end of the Add/Drop period of the
next spring semester.
• Although a student has 3 consecutive semesters during which they can enroll in Project
Continuation to resolve an “IP” grade for a DNP Project course, students should
carefully review their plan of study and course offerings to avoid missing the next
offering of a DNP Project Course which may delay progression and graduation.
• The Project Continuation (1 credit) course is graded as Satisfactory (SA)/Unsatisfactory
(US). Failure to complete the agreed-upon deliverables outlined in the DNP Project
Continuation Course Completion Agreement will result in a “US” grade.
• A student may earn up to one “US” for Project Continuation which will result in
academic probation. The “US” will, however, remain on the student transcript. Earning
two (2) “US” grades for the same course will result in program dismissal. Please note,
upon program dismissal, the grade for any Project course with an outstanding “IP”
grade will convert to an “F”.
• Of note, each semester the student is enrolled in Project Continuation will require a
current DNP Project Continuation Course Agreement. The course faculty and/or DNP
Project Chair, however, must communicate this information with the Specialty Director
for DNP Projects to facilitate student registration for Project Continuation.
• If the student is unable to work on the project during the upcoming semester and there
are no other courses for which the student can be/is registered, the student must
request Maintaining Matriculation (see information about Maintaining Matriculation
under Admissions and Registration). Students who register for Maintaining
Matriculation, however, will receive no faculty/DNP Chair support during the semester
and this time is included in the 12-month time limit within which all course
requirements must be completed.
• Of note, if a signed DNP Project Continuation Course Agreement between the course
faculty and student is not submitted by the end of the Add/Drop period, the student
will be dropped from the course and enrolled in Maintaining Matriculation (and
charged the associated fee). While enrolled in maintaining matriculation, students are
unable to receive faculty support or have any project materials reviewed or presented
during the semester.
29 | Page
For students who complete the required work within the established timeframe:
• The course faculty will submit a change of grade form to replace the “IP” with the
grade earned and the student may progress as per school policy.
• DNP Project Courses are offered during designated semesters so the student may
complete coursework and be required to enroll in Maintaining Matriculation until the
next course is offered. All course work must be completed within five (5) years of
admission for BSN to MSN and MSN to DNP programs and six (6) years for BSN-DNP
programs.
For students who are unable to complete the required coursework within the established 12-
month timeframe but have demonstrated consistent and ongoing effort to complete the work
but have been presented with unexpected challenges, may be offered an extension to
complete the work. Requests and decisions surrounding extensions to complete “IP” grades
are individual and will be approved/denied by the Divisional Dean in collaboration with
information provided from the student, DNP Chair, and Specialty Director for DNP Projects. If
approved, a revised course completion/DNP Project Continuation Agreement Form and
curriculum plan must be reviewed and approved to assure course completion within five (5)
years of admission for BS to DNP programs and six (6) years for BS to DNP programs. Students
not granted an extension for a project course will earn a terminal incomplete (IN) and with
permission from the Divisional Dean, must repeat the course for which the “IN” grade was
earned. Lacking sufficient time to complete the DNP Project and associated course work will
result in a dismissal from the program.
The DNP Project Continuation Agreement Form to be completed and submitted will be
provided by either the course faculty, DNP Project Chair, or Specialty Director for DNP
Projects.
Midterm/Mid-semester Warnings
At course mid-semester, students in jeopardy of unsatisfactory performance in a nursing
course may receive written or electronic notification from the course faculty or course
leader/coordinator. A mid-semester academic warning is assigned to any student for reasons
including, but not limited to, an average nursing course grade less than “B”; unsatisfactory,
unsafe, unethical clinical performance; and/or poor attendance. Following a mid-semester
academic warning, it is the responsibility of the student to contact the faculty who issued the
warning and develop an action plan. In the event the warning is for unsatisfactory clinical
performance, the course leader/coordinator and Specialty/Program Director will be notified to
develop and review the remediation/action plan. Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
students must also contact their EOF advisor.
Students are responsible for monitoring their own progress in the course to ensure they are
performing at a satisfactory level. Absence of a mid-semester warning does not guarantee a
student will pass the clinical and/or didactic portion of a course(s).
30 | Page
More information regarding the School of Nursing Graduate Academic Progression Policy is
available here:
https://nursing.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/SON-Graduate-Academic-
Progression.pdf
Course Withdrawal
All students, regardless of program, are required to speak with their Course Faculty and
Specialty/Program Director/Faculty Advisor before course withdrawal to ensure 1) there is
complete understanding regarding its possible effect on their academic plan of study and 2) a
new plan of study is developed. For graduate students, prerequisite courses will not be waived
in the absence of an established plan developed in collaboration with the Specialty/Program
Director before course withdrawal. Because all courses are not offered every semester, a
student may have to wait more than one semester to re-enroll in a course. For some students,
this may delay academic progression and anticipated program completion. If no courses are
available for the student, an application for maintaining matriculation must be submitted by
the student. All course work/clinical hours must be completed within the specified time limit
for the student’s program of study.
Below please find some considerations regarding course withdrawal:
• Students may only withdraw from the same course one time. Second withdrawal from
the same course results in Academic Probation unless documentation of extenuating
circumstances is provided to, and accepted by, the Specialty/Program Director and
Divisional Dean.
• With appropriate documentation and approval from the Specialty/Program Director and
Divisional Dean, individual consideration may be provided to students forced to
withdrawal from several courses in one semester for an unplanned extenuating
circumstance/event, documentation of which may be requested.
• Regardless of course withdrawal, students must complete their respective programs
within the program-specific time frames.
• Withdrawal from all courses using the web registration system is NOT accepted. The
student must file and have an approved withdrawal form signed by their
Specialty/Program Director and processed by the Office of the Registrar.
• Billing adjustments will not be made for students who do not attend class.
• Students receiving financial aid who are considering withdrawal should contact the
Financial Aid Office so they understand any impact course withdrawal may have on
their ability to receive financial aid.
Additional information and hyperlinks to the School of Nursing Withdrawal Schedule and
Course Withdrawal Form are available under Admissions and Registration.
Academic Probation
Students meeting any of the following conditions will be placed on academic probation and
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will receive written notice of their status:
• Earning one grade of C+.
• Earning one grade of C. In this case, the course in which the C grade was earned must
be repeated and a grade of B or higher must be earned to progress. Students may only
repeat a course once. Repeating a course does not expunge the original grade, which
remains on the student record.
• Earning one unsatisfactory (“US”) grade for Project Continuation.
• Second withdrawal from the same course (unless documentation of extenuating
circumstances is provided).
Academic Dismissal
Students meeting any of the following conditions are subject to academic dismissal and will
receive written notice of their status:
• Earning any two or more grades below B (79.5%).
• Earning a D or below (69.5%).
• Earning two Unsatisfactory (“US”) grades for Project Continuation.
• Unsatisfactory (F), unsafe, or unethical clinical practice.
• Failure to complete degree requirements within allowable time limits.
• Violation of School or University policies such as the Academic Integrity Policy,
University Code of Student Conduct, or School of Nursing Standards of Conduct
(violations are specified in the policies).
Academic Dismissal Appeal
A student may appeal academic dismissal. These appeals go directly to the Dean of the School
of Nursing. Anyone wishing to appeal a dismissal must submit a letter in writing within 10
school days (days on which the university is open for business) of receipt of the decision for
dismissal. The appeal letter must state the basis for the appeal and must be consistent with
the following grounds: (1) technical error, (2) new information, or (3) extenuating
circumstances. The Dean, whose decision is final, shall render a decision within 10 school days
of receiving the appeal. During the dismissal appeal process, the student may maintain active
within the university to ensure access to email and other resources pending dismissal. All
letters of appeal should be forwarded to Ms. Doris Salinas-Parker, Assistant to the Dean
(dsparker@sn.rutgers.edu).
Readmission Following Academic Dismissal
Students who are academically dismissed or who voluntarily withdraw from the School may
apply for readmission during the open application period. Applications for readmission are
reviewed by the Admissions Committee and Divisional Dean. Readmission is not
guaranteed.
Students who were academically dismissed and offered readmission will undergo an
individual assessment by the Specialty/Program Director in collaboration with the
32 | Page
Divisional Dean to determine the conditions of readmission including courses to be taken
and/or repeated and the timeline for program completion.
Grade Grievance and Appeal
Students have the right to know the components of their final grade included in each course
syllabi. If a student perceives their final course grade was based on anything other than academic
performance, an appeal may be filed.
While students have the right to file an appeal, dissatisfaction with a grade or failure to notify
the faculty of personal circumstances which may have affected academic performance are not
grounds for a grade appeal. A grade appeal is unnecessary when a mathematical error occurs but
should instead be brought to the attention of the faculty
.
Information about the School of Nursing Grade Grievance Policy is available here:
SON-Grade-Grievance-Policy.pdf (rutgers.edu)
In the case of a successful grievance, the committee will make recommendations as to appropriate
student and faculty measures to be taken for resolution.
Degree Completion and Graduation Requirements
Time Limit
The time limit for completion of degree requirements from the initial date of matriculation
(including periods during which a student has applied for Maintaining Matriculation) are as
follows:
• BS to MSN programs must be completed within 5 years.
• MSN to DNP programs must be completed within 5 years.
• BS to DNP programs must be completed within 6 years.
• Post-Master’s Certificate programs must be completed within 4 years.
Graduation
When entering the final semester, students who anticipate faculty recommendation for
conferral of the degree are required to follow the procedures listed below:
• Ensure all academic and clinical requirements have been or will be completed,
• Make certain related fees and any outstanding debts to the university are paid, and
• Submit an Application for Graduation (January, May, and October).
The Application for Graduation is available here:
https://rutgersnursing.wufoo.com/forms/zdlm8571h5zlhl/
The degree will only be conferred as scheduled (January, May, and October). Graduation will
be delayed if an Application for Graduation is submitted after the deadline. If a student fails
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to complete degree requirements by the graduation date, a new graduation application must
be submitted for the next available graduation.
