January 18-19, 2001

 

ITEM 110-1005-R0101    Approval of Proposal to Convert the Certificate in Practical Nursing to an Associate of Applied Science Degree, College of Technology; The University of Montana-Missoula


THAT:    The Board of Regents of Higher Education authorizes the College of Technology of The University of Montana- Missoula to convert the present Certificate in Practical Nursing to an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Practical Nursing.

EXPLANATION:  The University of Montana-Missoula is the only institution in the State that has not yet converted the Certificate in Practical Nursing to an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Practical Nursing.  This proposal is in response to the recommendation for nursing education made by the Montana University System Task Force on Nursing Education to the Board of Regents at their July 1998 meeting.  This recommendation reads:  "All Montana Practical Nursing programs should begin awarding the Associate of Applied Science Degree within the next decade."

Job duties and performance expectations for licensed practical nurses have increased to include technical nursing skills and expanded skills in interpersonal relations, communications, critical thinking, and problem solving.  The practical nursing program, as proposed, includes experiences to address this expanded role and meets the definition for an Associate of Applied Science degree program.

The completed signature page resides on file at the President's Office, The University of Montana-Missoula.

 

ATTACHMENT:                   Program Description.