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and are eligible to apply for state licensure. Objectives The Master of Science Program in Communication Disorders (CD) offers a comprehensive combination of academic and clinical education for students to become speech-language pathologists in accordance with ASHA certiLcation guidelines and licensure requirements of New York State. The objective of the Program is to instill in students the solid theoretical, clinical and research components of speech-language pathology. The Program seeks to: " Develop academic and clinical excellence through commitment to teaching, research and service; " Promote a culture of scholarship and respect of individuals; and " Provide a foundation of knowledge and skills that foster competent, autonomous, clinical practice for the professional lifetime. School of Health and Natural Sciences / 131 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES Expectations of the Graduate Graduates of the Mercy College Master of Science Program in Communication Disorders will: " Demonstrate understanding of anatomic, biologic, neurologic, physiologic and psychologic bases of speech, language and hearing. " Demonstrate understanding of the nature of communication disorders. " Demonstrate knowledge of the professions of Speech/Language Pathology and Audiology. " Recognize the relevance of cultural and linguistic diversity in all aspects of the profession. " Exhibit competency in academic and clinical skill areas. " Exhibit understanding of scientiLc inquiry and research methods. " Demonstrate ability to counsel clients and families. " Demonstrate knowledge of hearing problems across the life span and in a variety of populations. " Demonstrate knowledge of assessment techniques for identifying hearing loss. " Demonstrate ability to screen hearing ability according to ASHA guidelines. " Demonstrate ability to develop and execute appropriate aural re/habilitation programs within the scope of practice of speech-language pathology. Undergraduate Prerequisites " Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Hearing Mechanisms " Phonetics " Speech and Hearing Science " Introduction to Communication Disorders (Speech Pathology I) " Introduction to Audiology " Normal Speech and Language Development " Statistics* " Aural Rehabilitation* " Physical Science** " Biological Science** " Language Science or Introduction to Linguistics * May be taken for undergraduate credit during the )rst year of graduate study. ** Required for ASHA Certi)cation; must be taken prior to graduation. 132 / School of Health and Natural Sciences Admission Requirements Please refer to the general requirements for admission and matriculation in the Admission Regulations and Procedures section of this catalog. Program Requirements: Requirements for matriculation and admission into the Master of Science Program in Communication Disorders include: " Bachelor 9s degree from an accredited college or university. " OfLcial transcripts from all colleges attended. " Overall GPA of 3.2 in the undergraduate record or GPA of 3.2 in the last two years. " GPA of 3.2 in the undergraduate major. Applicants with a lower average may be considered for admission. The student may be required to complete a speci)ed number of credits as a part-time student with an overall GPA of 3.0. " Completion of prerequisite course work with a GPA of 3.2. " Oral communication skills necessary to provide services to a wide range of clients. " Adequate written communication skills. " Typewritten essay, limited to two pages, of applicant 9s reasons for pursuing CD degree. " Completion of application. " Resume " Two letters of recommendation including at least one from faculty/clinical supervisor attesting to applicant 9s capacity to successfully complete graduate study. " Submission of entire application packet by January 10 th for early admission, or February 15 th for regular admission. Applications are accepted for fall admission only. The number of applicants accepted is limited by the training facilities available; therefore, applicants who otherwise meet minimum requirements for matriculation may not necessarily be admitted. 1. Documents will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee of the CD Program. 2. Applications will be reviewed and ranked according to GPA, essay, and letters of recommendation. 3. Representatives of the CD Program will interview applicants before Lnal accep - tance decisions are made. Interview requirement may be waived for students in the undergraduate or prerequisite CD programs. 4. Applicants whose native language is not English must submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The minimum acceptable TOEFL score is 600. School of Health and Natural Sciences / 133 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES 5. Intent to enroll as full- or part-time student must be indicated on application. 6. Request for acceptance of up to six transfer credits must be submitted at the time of application. A transcript of these courses must be included with course outlines and will be evaluated after acceptance to the program. 7. Intent to fulLll New York State Department of Education certiLcation as a Teacher of students with Speech and Language Disability (TSSLD) must be made at the time of acceptance. 8. Students accepted into the Program will be required to pay a nonrefundable de- posit of $250 at the time of acceptance. This fee will be applied to the fall tuition payment. 9. Students accepted into the program will be required to take a Lve-week, hour long "pre-clinic" for a fee of $100. Students can test out of pre-clinic by passing an assessment to be administered at orientation. Advising Upon acceptance into the Masters Program in Communication Disorders, students will be assigned a faculty member who will serve as their advisor. Students accepted into the program will be required to pay a non-refundable deposit of $250 at the time of acceptance. This fee will be applied to the fall tuition payment. The advisor will meet with students to counsel them on Program and ASHA certiLcation requirements, and to develop a plan of study and a future professional development plan. Program Design The Graduate Program in CD is designed for full-time and part-time students and can be completed in two years and two summers. The Program consists of academic and clinical components that are organized in a progressive sequence. Courses are primarily offered in the evening. Some courses may be offered in various scheduling formats. Clinical practicum schedules require days, evenings and/or Saturdays. The College deLnes full time as nine-credits. For the purpose of completing the CD program in two years (including two summers), the student must follow the projected curriculum sequence established by the Program. Part-time students must follow the required course projections. Students who graduate from the Program may sit for the National Examination in Speech-Language Pathology (Specialty Area Test of the Praxis Series by the Educational Testing Service). Students then complete their Clinical Fellowship (CF). Upon successful completion of the degree, the examination, and the CF, the individual will be certiLed as a Speech-Language Pathologist by ASHA. Successful completion of the educational and clinical requirements of the graduate program will prepare students for eligibility for the New York State License as a Speech- Language Pathologist. 134 / School of Health and Natural Sciences Degree Requirements Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in Communication Disorders include: Required Coursework ......................................................................44 credits Elective Coursework ..........................................................................6 credits Clinical Education .............................................................................7 credits Total Credits ......................................................................................57 credits In order to qualify for graduation, students must demonstrate competency by: a) completing program requirements and b) Passing the PRAXIS or demonstrating proLciency in failed areas of the examina - tion. Curriculum Year 1 Fall Semester CMDS 510 Neuroanatomy of Human Communication ......................................3 credits CMDS 515 Advanced Speech and Hearing Science and Instrumentation ............3 credits CMDS 520 Language Disorders in Children ........................................................3 credits CMDS 555 Diagnostic Process in Communication Disorders ............................4 credits Spring Semester CMDS 525 Disorders of Articulation and Phonology .........................................3 credits CMDS 530 Advanced Audiology ...........................................................................3 credits CMDS 540 Dysphagia and Acquired Motor Speech Disorders .........................4 credits CMDS 550 Communication Disorders in Adults .................................................3 credits CMDS 620 Introduction to Clinical Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology ................................................................................................1 credit CMDS 621 Advanced In-House Clinical Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology ................................................................................................1 credit Summer Semester CMDS 505 Professional Issues .................................................................................1 credit Elective .................................................................................................................3 cr edits CMDS 625* Clinical Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology II ....................2 credits CMDS 640 Clinical Practicum in Audiology .........................................................1 credit Year 2 Fall Semester CMDS 535 Fluency Disorders ..................................................................................3 credits CMDS 600 Research Methods in Communication Disorders ..............................4 credits CMDS 611 Research Colloquium I...........................................................................2 credits CMDS 630* Clinical Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology III ...................2 credits School of Health and Natural Sciences / 135 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES Spring Semester CMDS 545 Voice Disorders .......................................................................................3 credits CMDS 587 Language, Learning and Literacy in School-Age Children..............3 credits Elective .................................................................................................................3 cr edits CMDS 612 Research Colloquium II .........................................................................2 credits * CMDS 635 may replace CMDS 625 or 630 to ful)ll student teaching experience. Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disability (TSSLD) Certifcation The Program is registered with the New York State Education Department to offer Teacher of Students with Speech and Language Disabilities (TSSLD) certiLcation. Students who wish to obtain the academic and clinical requisites for Initial TSSLD certiLcation must complete the following requirements in addition to program requirements: 1. 12 credits in Education, including 6 credits in Literacy 2. 36 credits in Speech/Language Pathology and Audiology 3. Student Teaching: a minimum of 150 cdirect contact d hours 4. Achievement of passing grades on New York State Teacher CertiLcation exams: a. Liberal Arts and Sciences Test (LAST) b. Assessment of Teaching Skills - Written (ATS-W) 5. Completion of Workshops a. Child Abuse IdentiLcation b. School Violence Prevention 6. Fingerprint Clearance Attendance Attendance and punctuality in all classes and clinical education assignments is required, unless the student is excused for extenuating and extraordinary life circumstances. A maximum of three undocumented absences from class will result in failure in the course and may jeopardize the student 9s standing in the Program. Absence from a clinical assignment is subject to the rules and regulations of the institution. Student Classifcation A student will be classiLed as a matriculant when admitted to the CD Program. Students may attend the Program on a full-time or part-time basis. However, all students must fulLll a full-time residency requirement of one semester that may be fulLlled during the summer. Students must complete all degree requirements within Lve years from the time of acceptance. A maximum of six transfer graduate credits comparable to graduate courses offered at Mercy College will be accepted. Request for transfer credit should be made at the time of application. All graduate clinical hours must be completed at Mercy College. 136 / School of Health and Natural Sciences Maintenance of Good Academic Standing The cumulative GPA for both good academic standing and degree conferral is a 3.00. A CD student admitted as a Special Matriculant is required to achieve a 3.00 average or better for the Lrst nine credits as stipulated by the CD program. Grades are subject to review by the faculty advisor and program director at the end of each term. If the academic average falls below 3.00 the student will be placed on academic probation and may be subject to dismissal from the CD program. . Clinical Probation and Continuation Students who earn a grade of below cB d in CMDS 620 will be placed on Clinical Probation and will have to repeat CMDS 620 the following semester. Continuation in the Program is contingent upon obtaining a grade of cB d or above in CMDS 620 and CMDS 621. Furthermore, students who fail CMDS 620 or CMDS 621 in the fall or spring semester will not be allowed to register for academic classes in the following semester. Academic Probation All students who have a cumulative GPA of below 3.00 will be placed on academic probation and will be subject to dismissal from program. If a student will not be able to achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.00 within a reasonable time, the student will be dismissed from the program. If a student receives a grade of cF d or cFW d in any course the student may be subject to dismissal from the college. For all students on probation, future registrations must be reviewed and approved by the Director of the student 9s program as well as the School Dean. In all subsequent terms in which the student is on probation the student is required to achieve a term GPA of 3.00 or better. If the 3.00 or higher is not achieved the student will be dismissed. Students who receive a grade of less than cB d may be required to repeat the course. Students will be allowed to repeat a course only once. Program Accreditation The graduate program in Communication Disorders is accredited in Speech-language Pathology by the Council for Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech- Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Maintenance of Matriculation It is expected that students will fulLll the requirements for their graduate degree by registering over successive sessions. For cohort programs, registration is required during summer session(s). For non-cohort programs, summer registration is not required. Registration is accomplished by either enrolling in classes or Maintaining Matriculation. The Maintaining Matriculation fee is $100 per session and is processed as a registration. Students who have not maintained matriculation and wish to return to their program within one year after their last course will be charged the Maintaining Matriculation fee of $100 for each missed session. Maintenance of Matriculation without attending classes is limited to one year. Activated U.S. Military Reservists are not required to pay the Maintenance of Matriculation fee. School of Health and Natural Sciences / 137 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES Capstone Advisement It is expected that Capstone students shall make satisfactory progress with their program 9s culminating activity. After the student registers for all sections of their Capstone requirement, they will be given one subsequent term to complete their work. The Maintaining Matriculation registration must be completed for this subsequent term if no other courses are taken. After this period, a Capstone Continuation fee (equal to the cost of one graduate credit) will be charged for each additional term required to complete the project. Students can only register for Capstone Continuation for two terms. A student's degree will not be released until all Maintaining Matriculation and Capstone Continuation registration and fees are recorded appropriately on a student 9s record. A student who fails to register for a semester without having obtained a leave of absence is considered to have withdrawn from the College and must apply for re-admission. 4 Course Descriptions 4 Communication Disorders CMDS 505 Professional Issues In Speech-Language Pathology And Audiology This course provides an introduction to issues related to the professional practice of speech-language pathology and audiology. These issues affect the delivery of service according to the political, cultural, linguistic, economic, social, health care and educational priorities of the country. The course will acquaint students with strategies for coping with a variety of professional clinical issues and continuous changes in the Leld. Information pertaining to professional ethics, credentials, contractual aspects of the client-clinician relationship, malpractice, legislation, managed health care, copyright, documentation, patient rights and scope of practice will be included. 1 credit. CMDS 510 Neuroanatomy Of Human Communication Prerequisite: Undergraduate course in Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Hearing Mechanisms. An analysis of the structure and function of the brain and the brainstem germane to speech, language, hearing, auditory perception, and related disorders. ClassiLcation of brain function, organization of speech and motor function, and speciLc clinical correlates of CNS dysfunction are included. $50 lab fee. 3 credits. CMDS 515 Advanced Speech And Hearing Science And Instrumentation Prerequisite: Undergraduate course in Speech and Hearing Science. A study of the application of acoustic and physiological principles to the production and perception of speech and voice in children and adults. Relationship of normal speech and voice production to pathologies found in children and adults. Relationship of normal speech perception to perceptual problems found in children with hearing 138 / School of Health and Natural Sciences losses (i.e., conductive and sensorineural hearing loss). Applications of various instrumentation in the diagnosis and treatment of these production and perceptual disorders in children. 3 credits. CMDS 520 Language Disorders In Children This course will investigate normal language acquisition to the study of preschool and school-age language and learning disorders with an emphasis on assessment and the intervention of children with language and learning disorders. A transdisciplinary view of the child with speech, language, and communication challenges, social- emotional and cognitive development related to speciLc language impairment, pervasive developmental disorders, cognitive disabilities, and developmental apraxia will be addressed. SpeciLc attention will be given to the challenges related to language and learning in the classroom and to culturally and linguistically diverse learners. 3 credits. CMDS 525 Disorders Of Articulation And Phonology Application of the study of the underlying phonological and articulatory systems involved in language learning, language use, and the foundations of literacy from preschool to school-age children. Units include research in normal articulation and phonological development, the oral-motor and articulatory processes and their impact on the phonological systems. Options for clinical and school environments in assessment, treatment principles and facilitative techniques that pertain to children acquiring native language, culturally and linguistically diverse, and individuals with speech-language disorders will be provided. 3 credits. CMDS 530 Advanced Audiology Prerequisite: CMDS 510. Advanced clinical and diagnostic testing, interpretation of test results, analysis of client histories and the study of various phenomena of audition in children and adults will be presented. There will also be an emphasis on the role of the educational audiologist, the use of FM systems in the classroom, classroom acoustics and measurement and sound Leld ampliLcation systems. 3 credits. CMDS 535 Fluency Disorders This course will provide a study of Muency and its disorders. Diagnosis and management of children and adults who demonstrate Muency disorders (e.g., developmental stuttering, cluttering, neurogenic stuttering) will be explored. Differential diagnosis of stuttering and cluttering (a language-based Muency disorder) will be particularly helpful to the school-based clinician who is treating school-age children with a variety of speech and language problems. Cultural and linguistic differences among individuals will be discussed. 3 credits. CMDS 540 Dysphagia and Acquired Motor Speech Disorders Prerequisite: CMDS 510 Diagnosis and treatment of motor speech disorders, with primary emphasis on dysphagia and secondary emphasis of dysarthria and apraxia. The use of augmentative systems for persons with severe motor speech dysfunction will be included. In-depth exploration of instrumentation used in dysphagia assessment will be provided. Although the course is primarily adult-oriented, attention will be given to oral motor assessment across the life span. Several multicultural issues that relate to treatment of clients with dysphagia and motor speech disorders will be explored. This course requires several offsite clinical assignments. 4 credits. School of Health and Natural Sciences / 139 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES CMDS 545 Voice Disorders Prerequisite: CMDS 515 A study of normal and disordered phonatory processes of voice. Attention is given to procedures, materials, and instrumentation used in diagnosis and treatment of individuals of all ages with voice disorders. SpeciLc management of children in educational settings, laryngectomies, clients with neurogenic disorders and the geriatric population will be included. 3 credits. CMDS 550 Communication Disorders In Adults Prerequisite: CMDS 510 Differential diagnosis, treatment, historical perspective and theories of aphasia and related disorders in adults. The social, emotional, perceptual, physical, and cognitive factors associated with aging and their effect on communication will also be studied. The role of professionals who work with these populations as well as family interaction will be included. Issues relating to patients and families from a variety of cultures will be discussed. 3 credits. CMDS 555 Diagnostic Process In Communication Disorders Theoretical and practical approaches to the evaluation of speech, language and hearing disorders in children and adults. Procedures for intake and case history, selection criteria for assessment methods, consideration of cultural and linguistic variables, analysis of data, and report writing will be presented. Units will include assessment of language interactions in home, clinic-based and school settings. Diagnostic variables and requirements related to school-age populations will be included. Emphasis will be placed on the use of diagnostic information to develop an intervention plan. Students will be required to administer several diagnostic tests. 4 credits. CMDS 587 Language, Learning and Literacy in School-Age Children Prerequisite: CMDS 520 This course will integrate the study of students who are language-learning disabled and of the multifaceted role of the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) in school settings. A focus of the course will be the impact of language disorders in school-age children and adolescents on their acquisition of academic skills required for the development of literacy skills, written language, cognitive, and social aspects of communication. An emphasis will be placed on the relationship between spoken and written language and the roles and responsibilities of the school-based SLP related to reading and writing in school-age children and adolescents. A comprehensive overview of service delivery models; collaborative management strategies; informal and formal assessment; national and state legislation and regulations; rights and responsibilities of staff, parents and teachers; and Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) planning will be provided. 3 credits. CMDS 600 Research Methods In Communication Disorders Prerequisite: a statistic course This course encompasses the study of research design and methods used in speech- language pathology and audiology. The critical analysis of research and professional and scientiLc writing will be emphasized. The course will include development of a proposal for a research project. This proposal will be done as a group project for the class to use as a basis for generating an application for the Institutional Review Board (IRB). In addition, students will complete the on-line course offered by the NIH in the Protection of Human Subjects in research. Research to be addressed includes 140 / School of Health and Natural Sciences the developmental processes, speech and language acquisition and disabilities, multicultural issues, diagnostic and intervention strategies in clinical and school environments, instructional and assistive technology, validation of instructional strategies and program evaluation. A scheduled series of labs will instruct students in the application of statistics in communication research analysis. 4 credits. CMDS 611 Colloquium I Co-requisite: CMDS 600 As a follow-up to the Research Methods course, this course is designed to facilitate successful participation as an investigator in a research project. Students will either individually or in small collaborative groups, in conjunction with a faculty Mentor, develop a research project. In this course, students will develop the following components of research: literature review, research design and methodology, and initial data collection including initial consultation with statistician. If course requirements are not completed within two semesters, students will be registered for CMDS 890 Capstone Continuation. 2 credits. CMDS 612 Colloquium II Prerequisite: CMDS 611 This course is a continuation of the research project began in CMDS 611. In this course, students will develop the following components of the project: continue data collection, analyze data including statistical analysis, develop results, and discuss Lndings. Students are required to present the Lnal project, including a Power Point presentation, to a group of faculty and peers. If course requirements are not completed within two semesters, students will register for CMDS 890 Capstone Continuation. 2 Credits. CMDS 620 Introduction to Clinical Practicum In Speech-Language Pathology Prerequisite: Completion of 25 observation hours and determination of eligibility by Clinic director. The Lrst of a two-course sequence, this practicum serves as an introductory experience in the prevention, evaluation, and treatment of clients across the life span with communication disorders. Students will have an opportunity to apply theoretical information, clinical diagnostic and treatment models, as well as relevant research Lndings to the clinical process. The practicum is conducted in the Mercy College Speech and Hearing Center and is supervised by Communication Disorders faculty and clinical educators. A seminar class will meet weekly to review clinical procedures, conduct peer supervision, and discuss professionally related topics. $150 lab fee. 1 credit. CMDS 621 Advanced In-House Clinical Practicum in Speech-Language Pathology Prerequisite: Successful completion of CMDS 620 (a grade of B or better) and determination of eligibility by Communication Disorders Clinical educators. This course serves as continuation of the two-course, in-house practicum experience in the prevention, evaluation, and treatment of clients across the life span with communication disorders. In this second course, clients assigned to student clinicians will increase in complexity, students will conduct evaluations in a team setting, and a greater degree of independence in session planning and implementation will be expected. The practicum is conducted in the Mercy College Speech and Hearing Center (with the possibility of community outreach) and is supervised by Communication Disorders faculty and clinical educators. $150 lab fee. 1 credit. School of Health and Natural Sciences / 141 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES CMDS 625 Clinical Practicum In Speech-Language Pathology II Prerequisites: CMDS 620 and CMDS 621 Supervised clinical practicum and seminar with children and/or adults located on- campus or off-campus at afLliated practicum sites. Consideration is given to obtaining sites with culturally and linguistically diverse clients. 2 credits. CMDS 630 Clinical Practicum In Speech-language Pathology III Prerequisites: CMDS 625 or 635 Supervised clinical practicum and seminar with children and/or adults located on- campus or off-campus at afLliated practicum sites. Consideration is given to obtaining sites with culturally and linguistically diverse clients. 2 credits. CMDS 635 School-based Clinical Practicum In Speech-language Pathology Prerequisite: CMDS 620 and CMDS 621 Supervised clinical practicum in a school setting equivalent to a student teaching experience. A letter of authorization must be Lled with the NYS Department of Education if this practicum is used to fulLll state teacher certiLcation requirements (TSSLD). May be used in lieu of an outside child-based clinical practicum. 2 credits. CMDS 640 Clinical Practicum In Audiology Prerequisite: CMDS 530 Advanced Audiology and undergraduate course in aural rehabilitation Supervised clinical practice in assessment of disorders of the auditory system and rehabilitative management of persons with auditory problems. Designed to meet the certiLcation requirements for the minor area of study. May be repeated. 1 credit. CMDS 890 Capstone Continuation Students who have completed all coursework but have not completed their capstone project within the required subsequent term must register for this course each subsequent term until the project is completed. No credit but cost is equivalent to one credit. Only two consecutive terms of capstone continuation registration permitted. CMDS 891 Clinical Practicum Continuation Students who have not successfully fulLlled the requirements for Clinical Practi - cum (i.e., CMDS 620, 621, 625, 635, or 630) will register for CMDS 891 each term. No credit but cost is equivalent to 1/2 credit. CMDS 899 Maintenance of Matriculation Students are expected to register in successive terms to maintain status as a matriculated student. However, if a student cannot enroll in a term, maintenance of matriculation is required. The fee is $100 per term and is processed as a registration. Maintenance of Matriculation without attending class is limited to one year. Students who have not maintained matriculation and wish to return to their program within one year after their last course will be charged the fee for each missed term. Activated U.S. Military Reservists are not required to pay the fee. No credit. 142 / School of Health and Natural Sciences ELECTIVES CMDS 565 Counseling The Communicatively Disordered And Their Families A study of various approaches to counseling the communicatively disordered and their families with emphasis on a client-centered approach will be presented. Attention will be paid to the needs of culturally diverse populations. The impact of the communication disorder on the educational achievement of the child in the classroom will be stressed. Application and hands-on practice of counseling techniques with a variety of clients in both clinical and educational settings will be provided. 3 credits. CMDS 575 Communication Disorders In Early Childhood A study of communication behaviors of at-risk and disordered infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Emphasis on clinical assessment and intervention in natural social contexts and delivering family centered services. 3 credits CMDS 580 The Communicatively Disordered Bilingual Client This course focuses on nonbiased assessment, differential diagnosis, and intervention with communicatively disordered bilingual children and adults. Topics encompass selecting appropriate diagnostic instruments, establishing relevant intervention goals, using culturally appropriate intervention materials, working with interpreters, and counseling clients and families. Emphasis will be placed on socio and psycholinguistic factors that may affect the therapeutic process. In addition, issues related to intervention with clients who speak accented English or regional and social dialects will be discussed. The content would be of particular importance to students working with English Language Learners, bilingual and bidialectal populations. 3 credits. CMDS 590 Special Topics In Communication Disorders A variety of topics pertinent to Communication Disorders will be offered. 3 credits. CMDS 595 Central Auditory Processing Disorders A study of the central auditory nervous system (CANS), evaluation of central auditory processing (CAP), identiLcation of central auditory processing disorders (CAPD) and the management and remediation techniques for CAPD in the classroom will be provided. A presentation of the various therapies and assistive technologies that can be incorporated into everyday instruction in the school environment will also be reviewed. The effects of CAPD in households where a second language is present will also be addressed. 3 credits. School of Health and Natural Sciences / 143 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES n ursing p rograMs Miriam Ford, MSN, ARPN, BC, Director, Nursing Programs (914) 674-7865 mford@mercy.edu Overview The Master 9s of Science Degree Program in Nursing prepare nurses for roles in advanced leadership, and education. Graduate study in nursing is grounded in the theoretical and research bases of the discipline, which provide a foundation for advanced practice and doctoral work. Graduate Nursing Program Goals: The graduate nursing program is designed to prepare students in Nursing Administration and Nursing Education to: a. Assume leadership roles b. Support and engage in nursing research c. Contribute to the advancement of the nursing profession d. Participate in lifelong learning e. Collaborate with other disciplines to enhance the quality of healthcare f. Prepare for doctoral study. Expectations of the Graduate Graduates of the Mercy College Master 9s of Science Degree Programs in Nursing will be expected to: 1. Synthesize selected theories from the liberal arts, sciences, nursing, and allied health professions to support the development of advanced nursing practice roles. 2. Explore the paradigms and moral-ethical principles on which advanced nursing practice roles are based. 3. Use the research process to formulate signiLcant questions about phenomena pertinent to nursing, investigate nursing problems, and foster the use of research Lndings. 4. Demonstrate competency and independence in advanced nursing practice roles. 5. Demonstrate leadership behaviors within the framework of advanced nursing practice roles. 6. InMuence policy that affects health and the advancement of nursing. 7. Evaluate advances in science and technology related to health care. 8. Integrate the concepts of culture, gender, race and socio-economic class within advanced nursing practice roles. 144 / School of Health and Natural Sciences Admission Requirements Please refer to the general requirements for admission and matriculation in the Admission Regulations and Procedures section of this catalog. Program Requirements Requirements for matriculation and admission into the Master 9s of Science Programs in Nursing include: 1. Baccalaureate Degree with a nursing major from a professionally accredited program (or for Baccalaureate Degrees in other Lelds, see the Bridge Program below); 2. Current R.N. registration in the U.S.; 3. Two letters of reference or contact information for two references; 4. Interview/assessment; 5. A year of professional nursing experience or approval of the director; 6 On-site essay. Bridge Admission Requirements R.N. 9s with bachelor 9s degrees in a Leld other than nursing may apply for admission to the master 9s programs. All admission and program requirements to the master 9s programs must be met. The applicant must complete the following courses with a grade of B or above prior to admission into the graduate programs: 1. Undergraduate Statistics 2. Undergraduate Research 3. NURS 369: Community Health Nursing: A Global Perspective RN-BS-MS Requirements RN 9s with 3.0 GPAs from an associate degree program are eligible to apply for the accelerated RN-BS-MS program. In this program, 12 graduate credits are substituted for undergraduate credits. After 120 credits, students earn a bachelor 9s degree and are able to enter either the Master 9s in Nursing Education or Master 9s in Nursing Administration track. Advisement Upon admission students are assigned a faculty advisor. The faculty advisor or the program director is available to meet with the student to assess the credit requirements necessary for completion of the program and to develop a long-term plan of study. Transfer Credits Graduate courses taken at other institutions prior to admission at Mercy College may, if pertinent to the plan of study, be credited to the graduate degree. Transfer credit is limited to six credits taken within the last Lve years in which the student has received a grade of cB d or above. Transfer courses taken prior to admission will not be computed in the quality point average. After matriculation, students wishing to take a course at another institution School of Health and Natural Sciences / 145 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES with intention of transferring credit to Mercy College must receive written permission from the program director prior to registering for the course. If prior approval is not obtained, transfer credit may not be accepted. Maintenance of Matriculation It is expected that students will fulLll the requirements for their graduate degree by registering over successive sessions. For non-cohort programs, summer registration is not required. Registration is accomplished by either enrolling in classes or Maintaining Matriculation. The Maintaining Matriculation fee is $100 per session and is processed as a registration. Students who have not maintained matriculation and wish to return to their program within one year after their last course will be charged the Maintaining Matriculation fee of $100 for each missed term. Maintenance of Matriculation without attending classes is limited to one year. Activated U.S. Military Reservists are not required to pay the Maintenance of Matriculation fee. Capstone Advisement It is expected that Capstone students shall make satisfactory progress with their program 9s culminating activity. After the student registers for all sections of their Capstone requirement, they will be given one subsequent term to complete their work. The Maintaining Matriculation registration must be completed for this term if no other courses are taken. After this period, a Capstone Continuation fee (equal to the cost of one graduate credit) will be charged for each additional term required to complete the project. A student 9s degree will not be released until all Maintaining Matriculation and Capstone Continuation registration and fees are recorded appropriately on a student 9s record. Maintenance of Good Academic Standing The cumulative GPA for both good academic standing and degree conferral is a 3.00. A student admitted as a Special Matriculant is required to achieve a 3.00 average or better after completing a certain number of credits as stipulated by their respective program. Grades are subject to review by the faculty advisor and program director at the end of each term. If the academic average falls below 3.00 the student will be placed on academic probation. Academic Probation All students who have a GPA below 3.00 will be placed on academic probation. If a student will not be able to achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.00 within a reasonable time, the student will be dismissed from the program. If a student receives a grade of cF d in any course the student may be subject to dismissal from the College. For all students on probation, future registrations must be reviewed and approved by the Director of the student 9s program as well as the School Dean. In all subsequent terms in which the student is on probation the student is required to achieve a term of 3.00 or better. If the 3.00 or higher is not achieved the student will be dismissed. Students who receive a grade of less than cB d may be required to repeat the course. Students will be allowed to repeat a course only once. 146 / School of Health and Natural Sciences Degree Requirements To be eligible for graduation students must complete all coursework with a grade point average of 3.00 or better. The words cWith Distinction d will appear on the diploma of a student whose grade point average, upon meeting all requirements for graduation, is 3.75 or above. Time Limit Requirements for the degree must be completed within Lve years from the candidate 9s date of matriculation (exclusive of time spent in the Armed Forces). Exception may be made by the director of the Program if the student 9s request demonstrates circumstances beyond his or her control that temporarily interfere with the ability to complete the program on time. M aster 9 s of s cience in n ursing / n ursing a dMinistration Overview The Nursing Administration Program prepares nurse administrators for multidisciplinary practice in the health care environment of the 21st century. Courses taken with students in the Health Services Management Program provide opportunities for discussion and understanding of diverse management roles. Application of generic management principles is applied to nursing in the practicum course. Program Design The program is designed for both full and part-time students taking six to nine credits per semester. The curriculum is organized so that the core and support courses are offered prior to the specialization courses. Specialization courses are offered prior to the capstone and the practicum courses. Capstone Requirement The Nursing Administration Program requires completion of a written comprehensive project as part of the degree requirements. Degree Requirements Requirements for the Nursing Administration Program include: Core .....................................................................................................12 credits Specialization ....................................................................................24 credits Total ....................................................................................................36 credits School of Health and Natural Sciences / 147 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES Nursing Administration Curriculum I. Core NURS 505 Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing .................3 credits NURS 510 Diversity .................................................................................................3 credits NURS 512 Health Policy .........................................................................................3 credits NURS 520 Research Perspectives and Methods ..................................................3 credits II. Specialization NURS 611 (HSMG 611) Health Services Management .......................................3 credits NURS 621 (HSMG 621) /Health Care Financing ................................................3 credits NURS 631 (HSMG 631) Human Resources Management for the Health Care Organization ....................................................................3 credits NURS 701 (HSMG701) Strategic Planning for the Health Care Organization ..........................................................................................3 credits NURS 721 (HSMG721) Measuring and Enhancing Organizational Performance ...........................................................................................3 credits NURS 667 Nursing Education or Administration Practicum ............................ 2 credits NURS 668 Role Development for Advanced Nursing Practice..........................1 credit NURS 640 Capstone .................................................................................................3 credits NURS 641 Capstone .................................................................................................3 credits Total ....................................................................................................36 credits 148 / School of Health and Natural Sciences M aster 9 s of s cience in n ursing / n ursing e ducation Overview The Nursing Education Program prepares Nurse Educators for faculty positions in Associate Degree Programs and for staff development positions in health care agencies. Students are prepared to use state of the art technology in the planning, implementing and delivery of educational programs. Program Design The program is designed for both full and part-time students taking six to ten credits per semester. The curriculum is organized so that the core and support courses are offered prior to the specialization courses. Specialization courses are offered prior to the capstone and the practicum courses. Capstone Requirement The Nursing Education Program requires the production of a comprehensive project as part of the degree requirements. Details are available from the program director. Degree Requirements Requirements for the Nursing Education Program include: Core ........................................................................................................12 credits Specialization ........................................................................................ 24 credits TOTAL ...............................................................................................36 credits Nursing Education Curriculum I. Core NURS 505 Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing .................3 credits NURS 510 Diversity .................................................................................................3 credits NURS 512 Health Policy .........................................................................................3 credits NURS 520 Research Perspectives and Methods ..................................................3 credits II. Specialization NURS 533 Advance Health Assessment ...............................................................3 credits NURS 606 Curriculum Process ..............................................................................3 credits NURS 609 Instructional Strategies .........................................................................3 credits NURS 612 Computer Technology in Nursing Education...................................3 credits NURS 614 Student Evaluation ...............................................................................3 credits NURS 667 Nursing Education or Administration Practicum ............................2 credits NURS 668 Role Development for Advanced Nursing Practice..........................1 credit NURS 640 Capstone Project Part I .........................................................................3 credits NURS 641 Capstone Project Part II ........................................................................3 credits Total ....................................................................................................36 credits School of Health and Natural Sciences / 149 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES n ursing a dMinistration p ost M aster 9 s c ertificate Overview: The Nursing Administration Post Master 9s CertiLcate is designed to prepare registered nurses who hold a Master 9s of Science Degree in Nursing for roles as administrators in a variety of health care agencies. Students are able to both draw on and complement their previous academic and professional experience. Specialty courses taken with students in the Health Services Management Program provide opportunities for discussion and understanding of diverse management roles. Admission Requirements a. Graduate degree in nursing from a CCNE or NLN accredited program b. Current R.N. registration in the U.S.A. c. Two letters of reference d. Pre-Admission interview e. One Year of professional practice f. On-site essay Certifcate Requirements Specialty .............................................................................................18 credits Total ................................................................................................... 18 credits Required Courses HSMG 611/NURS 611 Health Services Management ..........................................3 credits HSMG 621/NURS 621 Health Care Financing ......................................................3 credits HSMG 631/NURS 631 Human Resources Management for the Health Care Organization .................................................................................3 credits HSMG 701/NURS 701 Strategic Planning for the Health Care Organization ..........................................................................................3 credits HSMG 721/NURS 721 Measuring and Enhancing Organizational Performance ...........................................................................................3 credits NURS 667 Nursing Education or Administration Practicum (120 hrs) .............2 credits NURS 668 Role Development for Advanced Nursing Practice ........................1 credits Total ....................................................................................................18 credits 150 / School of Health and Natural Sciences n ursing e ducation p ost M aster 9 s c ertificate Overview: The Nursing Education Post Master's CertiLcate is designed to prepare registered nurses who hold a Master 9s of Science Degree in Nursing for roles as nurse educators. Students build on previous knowledge and experience to prepare for faculty positions in Associate Degree Programs and for staff development positions in health care agencies. Admission Requirements a. Graduate degree in nursing from a CCNE or NLN accredited program b. Current R.N. registration in the U.S.A. c. Two letters of reference d. Pre-Admission interview e. One Year of professional practice f. On-site essay Certifcate Requirements Specialty .............................................................................................15 credits Total ....................................................................................................15 credits Required Courses NURS 606 Curriculum Process ..............................................................................3 credits NURS 609 Instructional Strategies .........................................................................3 credits NURS 612 Computer Technology for Nursing Education .................................3 credits NURS 614 Student Evaluation ...............................................................................3 credits NURS 667 Nursing Education or administration Practicum (120 hrs) ............2 credits NURS 668 Role Development for Advanced Nursing Practice ........................1 credits Total ....................................................................................................15 credits School of Health and Natural Sciences / 151 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES 4 Course Descriptions 4 Nursing NURS 501 Contemporary Issues in Professional Nursing Prerequisites: A current RN license in the U.S. and a baccalaureate degree in a discipline other than nursing. This course focuses on the professional nurse and professional nursing practice. The major topics of discourse include the history and nature of nursing, professional responsibility, ethics, and accountability; health care policy, legislation, reform, and advocacy; leadership, management and collaboration in the ever changing health care system and; the public 9s health and community health nursing. This course is a bridge admissions requirement. 4 credits. NURS 505 Philosophical and Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Prerequisite: Matriculation in graduate nursing program or permission of Nursing Program director. This course explores the development of nursing as a scholarly discipline. Theories and models related to the phenomena of concern to nursing are explored and evaluated with application made to nursing practice, education and administration. Students develop an understanding of the ethical and moral issues relevant to contemporary nursing. 3 credits. NURS 510 Diversity Prerequisite: Matriculation in graduate nursing program or permission of Nursing Program director. This course examines diversity in culture, ethnicity, religion, social class, gender and sexual orientation and the inMuence such diversity has on health behaviors. An understanding and appreciation of the varied perspectives and experiences will enable both the Nurse Educator and Nurse Administrator to provide competent care, educate patients and students, develop organizations and affect changes on local, national and international level. 3 credits. NURS 512 Health Policy Prerequisite: Matriculation in graduate nursing program or permission of Nursing program director. This course is designed to provide an overview of the politics and economics of health care. Key policy issues are presented as well as the organization of the health care system, health care Lnancing and barriers to care. Special emphasis is placed on the role of the masters prepared nurse in shaping health care policy. 3 credits. NURS 520 Research Perspectives and Methods Prerequisite: Matriculation in graduate nursing program and successful completion of undergraduate statistics, or permission of Nursing program director. This course focuses on the principles and methods of quantitative and qualitative research as applied to nursing and the ethical implications inherent in conducting research. The steps of the research process are examined in depth by critically analyzing published studies of interest to nursing. The vital role of research in evidenced based practice, quality management and outcomes evaluation is explored. 3 credits. 152 / School of Health and Natural Sciences NURS 525 Independent Study An original course of study planned by the student in conjunction with a graduate faculty member to provide the graduate student the opportunity to pursue an area of educational interest or to conduct a project that advances professional preparation. 1 to 3 credits. NURS 533 Advanced Health Assessment Prerequisite: Undergraduate physical assessment or permission of Nursing Program director. This course enhances physical assessment skills necessary for the Nurse Educator. Assessment goals and strategies are developed for application with students in acute and primary care settings. Written, oral and curricular presentations aid in the teaching of students. 3 credits. NURS 535 Advanced Pathophysiology Prerequisite: Undergraduate pathophysiology or permission of the Nursing Program director. This course examines the essential mechanisms involved in the developmental and functional changes associated with disease. Intrinsic and extrinsic etiological factors, cell processes, pharmacological mechanisms, and the development of the biochemical, physiological, and morphological lesions will be discussed. The physiological and pharmacological changes that occur as a consequence of disease processes will be delineated, including problems of compromised body defense systems, such as immunodeLciency and autoimmunity. A systemic approach exemplifying disease processes will be used. 3 credits. NURS 606 Curriculum Processes Prerequisite: Successful completion of core and support courses or permission of the Nursing Program director. This course focuses on curriculum development and evaluation within the context of continuously evolving nursing, health care and educational systems. The mission and philosophy of the educational setting are considered, as are external accreditation criteria. Program and course design and evaluation models and procedures are examined. 3 credits. NURS 609 Instructional Strategies Prerequisite: Successful completion of core and support courses or permission of the Nursing Program director. This course provides an overview of educational theory, methods and strategies for classroom, clinical and online instruction. The inMuence of student diversity on the teaching/learning process is examined. Ethical and legal issues inherent in classroom and clinical teaching are explored. Methods to assess teaching effectiveness are examined. 3 credits. NURS 611 (HSMG611) Nursing &Health Care Management This graduate course in Health Care Management will focus on the responsibility of nursing administrators for decisions affecting health care services. Such decisions are shared by many people, including nursing administrators, at several organizational levels. This course will study the management of healthcare services and lead the student to better insights about organizational design and behavior. Today 9s health care managers are faced with many challenges-consumer demands for comprehensive services, payers 9 desires for efLciency and cost control, requests for the latest School of Health and Natural Sciences / 153 SCHOOL OF HEALTH & NATURAL SCIENCES technologies with a renewed emphasis on quality care. Nurse administrators must pursue strategic goals to ensure progress. Such challenges call for excellent management and imaginative leadership that embrace customer mindedness, Lnancial strength and productivity. 3 credits. NURS 612 Computer Technology in Nursing Education Prerequisites: Successful completion of core and support courses or permission of the Nursing Program director. This course examines a variety of innovative computer technologies that support the teaching-learning process in classroom and clinical settings. Principles of distance learning, use of the internet and the integration of computer technologies into the teaching-learning process are explored. 3 credits. NURS 614 Student Evaluation Prerequisites: Successful completion of core and support courses or permission of the Nursing Program director. This course focuses on evaluating student performance in classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings. Major emphasis is on the examination of current evaluation models, the establishment of measurable outcomes and the development and critique of tools designed to evaluate classroom and clinical performance. 3 credits. NURS 621 (HSMG 621) Nursing and Health Care Financing The course will present Lnancial transactions that are typical for a health care organization and the construction of the Lnancial statements. By comparing the results of these statements with industry benchmarks, the student nurse administrator will be able to determine if the organization is Lnancially strong or weak as compared to its peers. Cash Mow and expense budgets will be developed and the methods to track and report on their results. The latest developments in healthcare Lnance such as contract negotiations will be considered. 3 credits NURS 631 (HSMG 631) Nursing and Human Resource Management for the Health Care Organization This course presents an examination of the role and responsibilities of nurse administrators in human resource management in health care; job analysis and evaluation; compensation administration; performance evaluation; employee beneLt programs; labor relations; motivation; training programs. 3 credits. NURS 640 Capstone 3Part I Prerequisite: Completion of course work or permission of the Nursing Program director. This capstone course is devised for students to synthesize their nursing education by beginning, under the guidance of a faculty mentor, a capstone project. In this course, students identify a topic of interest related to nursing education or nursing administration. Once the topic is identiLed, students develop a proposal that includes purpose, signiLcance, literature review and methodology. The proposal will be written and formatted according to the Nursing Program and American Psychological Association Guidelines. Pass/Fail 3 credits. 154 / School of Health and Natural Sciences NURS 641 Capstone 3Part II Prerequisite: Completion of course work or permission of the Nursing Program director. The capstone course is devised for students to synthesize their nursing education by completing a capstone project. In this course, students, under the guidance of a faculty mentor, implement the project begun in NURS640, evaluate it and make recommendations for future work. Pass/Fail 3 credits. NURS 667 Nursing Education OR Administration Practicum Students develop advanced practice roles either as an administrator or educator.. Students work with staff or nursing students to develop advanced nursing practice roles within institutions and to broaden accountability for solving health problems and promoting quality care for patients and their families in primary, secondary and/or tertiary settings or educational institutions. The application of research knowledge and skills is emphasized. 2 credits of clinical experience. (Pass/Fail). NURS 668 Role Development for the Nurse Educator or Nurse Administrator Co-requisite: NURS 667 In this course students identify and discuss issues encountered in the development and implementation of advanced nursing practice roles. Role theory is utilized to understand role change and adaption to role stress. This course is taken concurrently with the practicum. 1 credit. NURS 701 (HSMG 701DL) Strategic Planning of the Health Care Organization for Nurse Administrators This graduate course in Healthcare Strategic Planning for Nurse Administrators will focus on the analysis of the principles of strategic planning in the health care industry; how it has evolved;

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