Blessed to Heal: Walsh’s Nursing Education Philosophy
Blessed to Heal is a way of saying the power of healing is a gift of God that we hold in our hands.
Walsh University believes that hands have amazing power — the ability to create, to comfort, to learn, and to express love. Hands are capable of restoration and growth. Through our hands, we can brighten and extend life.
Nurses play a one-of-a-kind role in helping patients heal in mind, body and spirit. Our hands are blessed to heal.
Nurses Help Others Heal
The Byers School of Nursing at Walsh University nurtures a commitment to holistic healing.
Grounded in a Christian foundation, programs are designed to help students discover the power of their hands and fulfill their full potential in serving others. Students can choose a nursing track that best suits their needs, including master’s and doctoral degrees.
As students develop their skills in caring for patients, they realize their potential to bless others. They understand they are Blessed to Heal.
Online Advanced Nursing Degree Options at Walsh University
Walsh offers two advanced degree levels – a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), with specialization tracks.
Students may choose from online program track options including:
MSN
*Walsh University also offers hybrid online/campus MSN programs in Adult Gerontology Acute Care and Psychiatric Mental Health.
DNP
- BSN to DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP)
- BSN to DNP – Nurse Educator (DNP-NE)
- DNP (MSN to DNP)
*Walsh University also offers hybrid online/campus DNP programs in Adult Gerontology Acute Care and Psychiatric Mental Health.
Blessed to Heal: The Role Family Nurse Practitioners Play
A Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) serves as a primary care provider for patients of all ages. Blessed to heal, family nurse practitioners fulfill their purpose as they touch the lives of their patients.
Recognizing that individuals are whole persons affects the way that care is delivered. FNPs are educated to care for the entire person, not just address physical symptoms.
FNPs do more than just treat sickness and disease. They are proactively involved in coaching patients to practice wellness. And when a patient is ill, the family nurse practitioner delves into the complexities leading to the symptoms, providing holistic solutions.
Blessed to Heal: The Role Nurse Educators Play
As influential teachers in colleges, universities and clinical settings, nurse educators specialize in teaching the next generation of nurses. They are blessed to heal, following the example of Jesus in teaching others.
More than just instructing the minds of students, impactful educators are concerned for the student as a whole person.
And they teach their students to care holistically as well. Nurse educators can guide students to discover their full potential for healing.
In an increasingly complex and multicultural world, nurse educators also have a unique opportunity to integrate knowledge with mission. They develop leaders who are equipped to shape the future of health care.
Nurse educators hold culture-shaping potential in their hands.
Blessed to Heal: The Role Doctors in Nursing Practice Play
A nurse who has completed an MSN-FNP degree or a DNP-FNP degree is qualified to practice as a family nurse practitioner.
Similarly, a nursing instructor may hold either an MSN-NE degree or a DNP-NE degree.
Doctors in nursing practice (DNPs) are equipped to translate advanced knowledge to systems-level application.
DNP nurses are blessed to heal through leadership as they initiate change and implement improvements in health care.
An FNP who has completed a doctoral degree (DNP-FNP) has the opportunity to apply principles of family care on a macro level.
DNP-FNPs direct the delivery of clinical services within interprofessional settings. They are leading advocates for health promotion, disease prevention and improved patient outcomes.
A nurse educator with a doctoral degree (DNP-NE) is prepared to impart the highest levels of nursing education.
DNP-NEs are trained not only to teach, but also to formulate program outcomes, design curriculum, conduct assessment and evaluation and develop institutional policy. They lead the way in creating learning environments for the next generation of nursing students.
What “Blessed to Heal” Means for Walsh University
Advanced practice nurses are agents of healing and leaders affecting the future of health care.
Nursing education at Walsh University prepares students for these positions of influence by developing mind, body and spirit. This is Walsh’s distinguished tradition and the heart of all of their nursing programs.
Nursing Curriculum at Walsh University
As an independent, Catholic university, Walsh equips individuals to exercise reason guided by the example and teachings of Jesus Christ.
A Judeo-Christian tradition is the framework for nursing education. Walsh graduates are blessed to heal.
Programs also emphasize staying ahead of developments in health care and encourage innovative application of knowledge and skills. Coursework is developed with the input of active nurse practitioners, to focus content in current context.
FNP and NE coursework is 100% online in small classes, including interactive discussions that energize and enrich the learning experience.
Hands-on, experiential and clinical opportunities translate coursework into practice.
Faculty members at Walsh are highly experienced professional nurses with a strong commitment to the university’s values. Walking alongside students as mentors, they bring the curriculum to life.
A Trusted Place for Nursing Education
Walsh University is recognized as a leader in higher education. Accreditations and rankings include:
- #5 ranked nursing school in Ohio Nursing School Almanac
- #46 in Regional Universities Midwest U.S. News & World Report
- #58 Best Value School U.S. News & World Report
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Education at Walsh, though, is about much more than accolades. Students at Walsh find that learning transcends the classroom, as clinical experience puts academics into practice.
Expert faculty help students to achieve goals. Leadership is about impact that serves others.
Blessed to Heal: Opportunities for Influence for Walsh Graduates
Nurses trained for advance practice are in a distinct position for influence, especially as needs escalate in health care.
Demand for nurse practitioners is expected to increase by 28% from 2018 – 2028 (source). The need for FNPs is especially critical. As FNPs fill the gaps in today’s primary care arena, they increase access to care for more people.
The need for nurse educators is on the rise as well. There is an expected 20% increase in employment opportunities from 2018 – 2028 (source). These educators will shape the next generation of nurses.
The opportunity for greater impact is one of the primary reasons students choose to pursue advanced nursing degrees at Walsh University.
Aspiring FNPs often say they are ready for more influence and independence in treating patients. Others would like to move up to higher levels of executive leadership. Nurses who have a passion for mentoring new nurses are pursuing opportunities for influence as educators.
The quality that unites Walsh students is their zeal for serving others. Walsh students recognize that they are blessed to heal.
Blessed to Heal Pathways: Walsh University MSN and DNP Programs
Advanced education expands a nurse’s role beyond quality patient care to leadership and advocacy. The Walsh University online nursing programs prepare active post-baccalaureate registered nurses for an advanced role as a family nurse practitioner or nurse educator.
With nearly no set login times and low residency requirements, students work at their own schedules. All programs are set within a supportive and compassionate community.
Let’s take a look at the details of the program options.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The Walsh University MSN program fosters professional knowledge and confidence, preparing graduates as leaders in the profession.
Program tracks include Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Acute Care. For this blog, we’ll focus on the MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner and MSN – Nurse Educator. Through either track, students discover the unique ways they are blessed to heal.
Why pursue an MSN? There are numerous benefits to nurses who continue their education to the master’s level.
Earning an MSN equips a professional nurse to:
- Define the future. Graduates can choose a path to build a career in a high-demand field.
- Develop a leadership mindset. Training at the post-baccalaureate level broadens practical skills and advanced knowledge.
- Grow in mind, body and spirit. MSN-trained nurses are prepared to provide care and education at an advanced level.
As prospective students consider different schools offering MSN programs, there are many factors to consider.
These are some highlights of a Walsh University MSN:
- Designed for busy lives. Through flexible scheduling, students can continue working while in the program, depending on their work schedules.
- Support at every step. With an average class size of 15–20 students and individual support from professors, the program is a personal experience.
- Quality and value. Walsh nursing programs uphold high academic standards at an affordable cost.
Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) Track
As a family nurse practitioner, graduates will expand their scope of practice to manage patient care across the lifespan.
Completion of the MSN-FNP specialization track requires 58 credits, with classes offered in eight-week and sixteen-week blocks.
Curriculum focuses on key areas such as:
- Advanced health assessment
- Pathophysiology
- Pharmacology
- Health promotion
- Health care policy
Nurse Educator (MSN-NE) Track
Nurse educators use educational research and creative teaching strategies to instruct other nurses and improve nursing education systems.
Completion of the MSN-NE specialization track requires 40 credits, with classes offered in eight-week or sixteen-week blocks.
Curriculum focuses on key areas such as:
- Advanced clinical knowledge
- Nursing research
- Leadership skills
- Analysis of legal and ethical issues
- Teaching strategies
- Assessment and evaluation
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
The Walsh University DNP program positions graduates to change lives as empowered nurse leaders. Blessed to heal, DNPs are improving, advocating and innovating to shape the future of health care.
Program tracks include BSN to DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner, BSN to DNP – Nurse Educator and post-master’s DNP (MSN to DNP). A DNP can be completed in as little as two more semesters than earning an MSN.
In considering educational possibilities, many prospective students wonder whether to pursue a terminal degree in the field.
Here are some key benefits of a doctoral-level program:
- Leadership and advocacy. DNP-prepared nurses are positioned at the highest level of influence in the nursing profession.
- Organizational expertise. Program content delivers advanced knowledge with a strategic perspective for impacting health care.
- Data-driven quality improvement. A DNP program develops skills in analysis and critical thinking applied to health service issues.
Earning a DNP also puts a professional nurse ahead of the curve. As major organizations are raising awareness of the DNP’s value, the importance of the degree is increasing.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing has endorsed a position statement on the current status of doctoral programs (source). Introducing the document, the AACN explains:
“Leading authorities like AACN, the National Academies of Medicine, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation are calling for a rapid increase in the number of nurses holding doctoral degrees to meet the nation’s demand for faculty, researchers, advanced clinicians, and leaders” (source).
Walsh University DNP tracks offer vital benefits for students. These are some distinguishing characteristics of the program:
- Pathway to leadership. A streamlined plan with high flexibility makes achieving goals realistic.
- A distinctive opportunity. Walsh programs are highly regarded for both quality and value.
- Meaningful and Supportive. Students are part of a faith-based community united in a passion for service to others.
Family Nurse Practitioner (BSN to DNP-FNP) Track
As a DNP-trained family nurse practitioner, graduates are prepared as leaders for nursing teams and interdisciplinary teams.
Completion of the DNP-FNP specialization track requires 74 credits, with classes offered in eight-week and sixteen-week blocks.
Curriculum emphasizes the highest level of proficiency in nursing and covers these areas:
- Advanced health assessment
- Advanced pathophysiology
- Advanced pharmacology
- Health promotion
- Health care policy
- Interprofessional collaboration
- Organizational management
- Ethics
- Leadership
- Information technology and data management
Nurse Educator (BSN to DNP-NE) Track
A DNP-trained nurse educator is prepared at the highest level of competence to inspire and educate new generations of nurses. DNP nurse educators are also in a position to affect nursing education at a systematic level.
Completion of the DNP-NE specialization track requires 62 credits, with classes offered in eight-week and sixteen-week blocks.
Curriculum includes key areas such as:
- Advanced clinical knowledge
- Nursing research
- Analysis of legal and ethical issues
- Organizational management
- Information technology
- Teaching strategies
DNP (MSN to DNP)
The post-master’s DNP takes education to the highest level of accomplishment as a nurse practitioner. A DNP graduate is in a position of influence for improving the world of health care.
Completion of the MSN to DNP track requires 34 credits, with classes offered in eight-week and sixteen-week blocks.
Curriculum emphasizes proficiency in these areas:
- Advanced health assessment
- Advanced pathophysiology
- Advanced pharmacology
- Health promotion
- Health care policy
- Interprofessional collaboration
- Organizational management
- Ethics
- Information technology and data management
What Students Are Saying
Students often choose Walsh for the flexibility, the quality of education and the supportive community. Here are just a few examples of why students are happy with what they’ve found.
“My professors are always offering feedback, additional resources, and prompt responses to help with my success at Walsh University. The student success coach checks in often, reminding me that I have extra help if I need it, which is great!”
— Chelsea W., OB/Gyn Nurse, MSN-FNP student
“I was very impressed right from the beginning that every class I have taken has helped me understand something better and take it back to where I work. All the coursework has been applicable in my real life. It's not taking a class just to take a class.”
— Victoria B., Clinical Nurse Specialist, DNP student
“It’s been a great fit, especially with my hectic schedule – I work full-time, and I still teach, plus I have an 18-month-old. The online structure has definitely been beneficial in that regard because it allows me to access the course materials whenever I need to.”
— Tracy P., Nurse Practitioner, DNP student
“Although I like the convenience of the online program, I also truly enjoy the times that we meet on campus as a group. It allows us to put faces to names and instills a greater sense of community among classmates.”
— Mary C., Nursing Instructor, DNP student
Explore Your Own “Blessed to Heal” Pathway
As a nurse, you are blessed to heal. Are you ready to unlock your full potential? One of our online enrollment advisors will be happy to talk with you about starting your own pathway to the next step of your nursing career.
Get started and learn more by clicking here.
Sources:
“AACN Position Statement on the Practice Doctorate in Nursing.” American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Accessed on December 4, 2019 from: https://www.aacnnursing.org/News-Information/Position-Statements-White-Papers/Practice-Doctorate.
“DNP Education.” American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Accessed on December 4, 2019 from: https://www.aacnnursing.org/Nursing-Education-Programs/DNP-Education. “Employment Projections: National Employment Matrix.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed on December 4, 2019 from: https://data.bls.gov/projections/nationalMatrix?queryParams=25-1072&ioType=o.
“Employment Projections: National Employment Matrix.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed on December 4, 2019 from: https://data.bls.gov/projections/nationalMatrix?queryParams=25-1072&ioType=o.
“Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners: Job Outlook.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed on December 3, 2019 from: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm#tab-6.