Apr 29, 2026  
2025-2026 Catalog 
    
2025-2026 Catalog

Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, M.S.N.

Location(s): Blue Ash Center, Salem Center


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Major Code: (7144)

University of Rio Grande
Contact:

Renee Ingel, PhD, MSN, RN
Program Director
Masters of Science Nursing (MSN) Program
College of Professional and Technical Studies
Email: ringel@rio.edu
Office Phone: 740-245-7289
 

Misson Statement

To provide evidence-based quality education for future nurse leaders who advance nursing science knowledge into the transformation of global healthcare through holistic care for aging adults.

Vision Statement

To impact healthcare worldwide by increasing the availability of advanced, educated nurses who promote health and wellness through innovative education and technology for vulnerable populations.

Philosophy Statement

The MSN program is dedicated to cultivating advanced nursing knowledge through the integration of arts and sciences, fostering a dynamic and inquiry-driven learning environment. We empower future nurse leaders to excel in clinical practice by promoting holistic, person-centered care and encouraging critical thinking and innovation. Our curriculum emphasizes the importance of addressing disparities in healthcare by grounding education in evidence-based practice. We prepare graduates to lead transformative health initiatives, promote wellness, and prevent disease within their communities, ensuring they are equipped to meet the evolving demands of healthcare and uphold the highest standards of professional excellence.

Accreditation

The University of Rio Grande is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The MSN Program is approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education and the Higher Learning Commission. The application to apply for accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN) has been approved, and the application for accreditation will be filed after one year of starting the program.

Master of Science in Nursing Learning Outcomes

Students will:

  1. Integrate knowledge and evidence from nursing and related disciplines to inform clinical judgment in advanced practice nursing. 

  2. Critique evidence-based, ethical, and equitable patient-centered care for diverse young to older adults at the individual and system levels 

  3. Create a plan with interprofessional team members to solve complex health care problems and improve outcomes for adult populations. 

  4. Evaluate current evidence-based research to influence care for patient, nursing practice, and systems leadership  

  5. Implement principles of quality and safety to mitigate risks for patients, nursing practice, and systems leadership

  6. Demonstrate leadership skills and advanced clinical expertise in designing cost-effective, evidence-based policies across the care continuum. 

  7. Combine information and technology to manage and improve healthcare delivery in accordance with best practices and policies 

  8. Exhibit responsibility and accountability for one’s personal health and professional values and identity as an advanced practice nurse 

  9. Demonstrate role competencies as a clinical nurse specialist in the care of adult patients, families, and populations and advancement of nursing practice

Admission to the MSN Program

All students seeking admission to the MSN program should contact the URG Admissions Office for details.

Please see the MSN Student Handbook for re-admission policies.

MSN Grading Scale

Grade Description
Value
Point  
A (96-100) Excellent 4.00  
A- (93-95) 3.70  
B+ (91-92) 3.30  
B (87-90) Good 3.00  
B- (84-89) 2.70  
C+ (81-83) 2.30  
C (77-80) Average 2.00  
F (0-76) Failing (far below average) .0  

Academic Progression Requirements

  • It is necessary to obtain a seventy-seven percent (77%) final grade in each lecture course.
  • It is necessary to obtain a seventy-seven percent (77%) final grade in each clinical lab course.
  • It is necessary to obtain a seventy-seven percent (77%) final grade in each Clinical Preceptorship course.

 

Completion of courses according to the program of study sequence, with an overall grade point average of 3.25 or higher each semester, demonstrates successful progression in the AG-CNS program.

If a student gets out of sequence, it is necessary to work with faculty to establish a modified program of study to ensure timely completion.

Academic Probation and Suspension

1. Students in the MSN program are expected to maintain a grade point average (GPA) of 3.25, a grade of ≥77% in every course, including clinical, and demonstrate exceptional clinical performance and/or professional behavior.

2. If a student achieves a GPA of less than 3.25, final grade less than 77% in any course, receives an Unsatisfactory in clinical, or demonstrates unprofessional behavior (late attendance, poor engagement, lack of enthusiasm, unethical behavior, etc.), they will be placed on an Academic Intervention Plan with possible academic warning or probation. If this occurs in more than one course, they face possible academic suspension.

Academic Integrity Policy

Please see the Statement of Academic Integrity section of this catalog or the MSN Student Handbook.

Graduation

Students must have successfully completed all MSN courses, Laboratory, Clinicals, and Projects and have earned a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher to graduate. All MSN students must apply for graduation with the Office of the Registrar.

Degree Requirements


Total Semester Hours: 8


Total Semester Hours: 7


Total Semester Hours: 3


Total Semester Hours: 5


Total Semester Hours: 5


Total Semester Hours: 3


Total Semester Hours: 6


Total Semester Hours: 10


Total Semester Hours for Program: 47


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