Welcome & Introduction

Letter from the Undergraduate Director’s Office and Program Coordinator

Dear RN to BSN Student,

Welcome to the RN to BSN nursing program at Wichita State University (WSU). The program is designed to accommodate registered nurses who are returning to school to pursue their bachelor’s degree while employed. The program allows highly motivated students to complete the program of study in 8-week courses over a period not to exceed 6 years. You will be challenged to consider new ideas, to think differently, and to step outside of your comfort zone. Nursing is far more than technical skills; an excellent nurse must be a great communicator, thinker, team player, and leader. The rapidly changing healthcare environment demands that nurses are prepared to lead changes in healthcare. You will provide excellent, evidence-based care to clients and families, which is foundational to quality client care.

You will grow both personally and professionally, it will not always be easy. During times that are difficult you will discover more about yourself and your clients. You may care for a family who is bringing a new life into the world or a family who is saying goodbye to a loved one following a tragic accident. As a nurse, you will have vast opportunities to explore.

The RN to BSN Program is based on the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s (AACN; 2008) of Baccalaureate Nursing Education. Students come to this program with a nursing background and a foundation in liberal arts. The RN to BSN program is designed to increase the registered nurse’s knowledge and competence in seven areas: leadership, quality improvement, evidence-based nursing practice, nursing informatics, population-focused health promotion and disease prevention, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professionalism. Graduates of the program are prepared to assume roles in leadership positions, in the management of complex clinical care coordination, and in community/public health. Completion of the RN to BSN Program also provides the academic foundation for graduate study. The goal of the program is the preparation of a professional nurse who provides competent and compassionate care that is grounded in scientific evidence and serves as the link between the client (as individual, family, or community/population) and the health care environment across the lifespan.

Your learning will not cease at the end of this program. Nurses are responsible for continued life-long learning throughout their career, and we will talk with you about options in advancing your education beyond your BSN. The faculty and academic advisors are here to guide you and facilitate your learning and assist you in achieving your educational goal. Please do not hesitate to seek them out.

Brandy Jackson, MSN, MBA, RN
Director, Undergraduate Nursing Program

Rhonda Williams, DNP, RN, CNE
Program Coordinator, RN to BSN Program
Assistant Educator / Teaching Professor

Welcome to the Wichita State University School of Nursing and the RN to BSN Program!

This handbook provides information to you about the nursing program, resources available, policies and procedures and nursing organizations. The handbook is meant to serve as a guide for many of the questions you may have when entering the RN to BSN nursing program. Some items are subject to change from time to time, so it is best to consult your academic advisor if some items are not clear. Notice of changes will be emailed to you. You are responsible for:

1. Using the handbook as a resource when questions arise as a guide to academic and nonacademic policies and procedures. You are required to acknowledge that you have read and understand the policies and procedures contained within the handbook. You must understand you are responsible for reading the handbook in its entirety.
2. Reviewing and understanding any changes made to the Handbook during the entire time you are enrolled as a student in the School of Nursing (SON).
3. Recognizing that changes made to the policies and procedures may impact you as a student.
4. Using the handbook as a resource to answer questions that may arise as a nursing student.
5. Reviewing and adherence to the policies and guidelines set forth.

The WSU SON RN to BSN 2025–2026 Handbook is available online in the RN to BSN Student Resources Blackboard organization. The policies and procedures contained herein are subject to change during your course of study and it is your responsibility to keep abreast of these changes.

Most students find that the RN to BSN program requires more active participation than in previous college courses. This participation enables your instructors to assess certain personal characteristics more accurately such as the ability to communicate on all levels, the ability to adapt and the ability to take initiative. You will work closely with the Online Academic Advisor and faculty throughout the program. You are expected to participate in the evaluation process, which includes not only self-evaluation, but also course and instructor evaluation.

Important Phone Numbers

• School of Nursing: 316-978-3610
• Undergraduate Nursing Office: 316-978-5801
• School of Nursing Toll Free: 1-800-516-0290
• Rhonda Williams, Coordinator RN to BSN Program: 620-583-0147
• John Sandlin, Online Academic Advisor (RN to BSN): 316-978-7332
• Shocker Inclement Weather Line: 316-978-6633

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School of Nursing Overview

Mission of the School of Nursing

The School of Nursing mission is to advance the health of individuals and communities by empowering excellence in healthcare through innovation in nursing education, scholarship, practice, and service.

Vision of the School of Nursing

Transforming healthcare through innovative excellence in nursing.

Values of the School of Nursing

• Diversity, equity and inclusion
• Innovation
• Lifelong Learning
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Collaboration
• Wellness Advocacy

Philosophy of the School of Nursing

The Wichita State University School of Nursing applies and utilizes Dr. Patricia Benner’s (1984) model of skill acquisition throughout the curricula. This model’s essential concepts include competence, skill acquisition, experience, clinical knowledge, and practical knowledge (Benner, 1984).

In Benner’s (1984) framework, there are five stages of skill acquisition: novice, advanced beginner, competent, proficient, and expert. In addition, there are 7 domains: the helping role, the teaching-coaching function, effective management of rapidly changing situations, monitoring and ensuring the quality of healthcare practice, and organizational, work-role competencies and the diagnostic and patient monitoring function, administering and monitoring therapeutic interventions and regimens. For graduate nursing, the last two domains are combined into one more reflective of advanced practice nursing, designated as management of patient health and illness status (Brykczynski, 1985). Benner's (1984) framework, "From Novice to Expert," emphasizes the nature of nursing practice, specifically how nursing knowledge is acquired and develops over time.

The undergraduate RN to BSN Program prepares students for beginning nursing practice in any setting where clients are in need of care. The baccalaureate nurse uses scholarly evidence and individual/population outcome data as a basis for clinical decision making and ongoing improvement of quality of care. The nurse promotes the safety of individual clients by effective communication and collaboration with other members of the health care team and the client/family/community to promote optimal health and manage health care needs.

The Graduate Program prepares students for advanced roles in nursing and to be accountable for clinical and organizational decision making based on scholarly evidence, principles of ethics, relevant theories and health care policy. Upon completion of the Graduate Program, the MSN and DNP students are prepared to provide leadership in the analysis of factors in influencing health and the subsequent implementation and evaluation of strategies for improving health in an inter-professional, globally aware, culturally sensitive manner.

Notice of Accreditation

The SON has been accredited since 1973. Currently, “the baccalaureate, master's, and DNP programs at Wichita State University School of Nursing are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791."

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Academic Honors & Policies

Dorothy and Bill Cohen Honors College

Interested students can find more information at the Dorothy and Bill Cohen Honors College website.

College of Health Professions Honor Roll

The Dean’s Honor Roll is published each semester and lists students enrolled in twelve or more semester hours.

Graduation with Honors

You qualify for honors and may purchase the gold honor cords to wear at commencement if your Overall GPA and WSU Institutional GPA are both 3.250 or above. Bachelor’s degree candidates graduating with honors may purchase the gold honor cord at the WSU Bookstore.

GPA Honors
3.250 - 3.549 Cum Laude
3.550 - 3.899 Magna Cum Laude
3.900 - 4.000 Summa Cum Laude

Notice of Nondiscrimination

Please refer to Wichita State University (WSU) Policy 3.02 for the Notice of Nondiscrimination.

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Program Overview & Outcomes

Undergraduate RN to BSN Program

The RN to BSN program allows students who have earned an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or diploma to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree by completing a series of online nursing courses and a capstone course in the practicum setting. You should consult the RN to BSN Online Academic Advisor or the coordinator of the RN to BSN program for specific details of your progression through the program.

Program Outcomes

The purpose of the School of Nursing RN to BSN Program is to prepare baccalaureate graduate nurses from diverse populations for practice in beginning leadership/management positions in health care agencies. The professional nursing curriculum is supported by a broad-based liberal education of arts, sciences, and humanities and builds on each student’s foundational associate degree program.

The curriculum of the SON is based on the integration of the art and science of professional nursing practice with the expanded roles and responsibilities required to provide excellent client centered care. These expanded nursing roles are presented in a tiered process.

• The initial emphasis is on the foundations of nursing care.
• The second area of emphasis is on a broad spectrum of population-focused care.
• The third area of emphasis integrates increasingly complex knowledge, skills, technologies and patient care activities with leadership and management skills required for professional nursing practice.

The SON has identified six outcomes for graduates of the program. These include communication, client centered care, evidence-based practice, health promotion, collaborative care, and quality improvement.

Communication

The graduate imparts and exchanges ideas and information with others verbally, non-verbal, and through written and electronic communication.

Patient Centered Care

The graduate performs culturally sensitive nursing practice based on scientific rationale to maintain or improve the biopsychosocial and spiritual outcome of individuals.

Evidence-based Practice

The graduate examines problems and issues through the synthesis of information in an analytical, evaluative, and decisive manner.

Health Promotion

The graduate promotes strategies that enhance the health continuum of the individual, family and community extending through local and global levels.

Collaborative Care

The graduate coordinates and manages the care of the individual, family and/or community either independently or collaboratively with health care team members.

Quality Improvement

The graduate evaluates care processes and uses methods to implement change for continuous improvement of the quality of health care systems while minimizing risk to patients and providers.

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Advising & Curriculum

Student Advising and Graduation Requirements

You are responsible for meeting with an RN to BSN advisor to determine your plan of study.

1. All RN to BSN prerequisite courses and program courses must be completed with a C/2.0 or higher.
2. Graduation requirements:
   1. 30 credit hours must be taken at WSU
   2. Last 24 of 30 credit hours must be at WSU
   3. 45 upper division hours (30 come from Credit for Life Experience upon passing NCLEX)
3. 120 credit hours total required for Bachelor of Science in Nursing
4. 2.5 cumulative GPA for admission to the SON
5. Licensed RN (must be obtained within the first 8-weeks of beginning the program).

Overview of RN to BSN Curriculum

A nursing prerequisite list is available and you are strongly encouraged to meet with the online academic advisor to determine readiness for entry into the nursing program. Students with an ADN from a regionally accredited university will meet WSU's General Education Program requirements.

You may review the RN to BSN professional curriculum in the WSU Undergraduate Catalog.

RN to BSN Program Student Employment

The SON recognizes that many students will be fulfilling employment obligations while in school. All students are required to meet the same course outcomes for any course, regardless of their employment status.

During any time you are functioning as an employee, you should be presented to the consumer as an employee and not as a student. You may not wear the school photo identification badge or uniform and may not use “nursing student” within your signature.

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Academic & Technical Standards

All academic and technical skills necessary to practice nursing in an effective and safe manner are incorporated into the program curriculum. To successfully complete and meet all graduation requirements, you must be able to meet all academic and technical standards in a satisfactory manner. Program faculty will meet with each student periodically to assess progress in the program and implement a plan for improvement if necessary.

Academic Standards

Academic Standards required for admission to the Program:

• Be enrolled in, or admitted to, WSU and admitted to the RN to BSN Program.
• Achieve a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 for all complete courses.
  No grade lower than a 2.0 in any of the prerequisite coursework.

Technical Standards

Wichita State University Nursing Programs have a responsibility to educate competent nurses to care for their patients (persons, families and/or communities) with critical judgment, broad-based knowledge, and well-honed technical skills. All individuals admitted to the WSU Nursing Programs will be asked to verify that they can meet these standards with or without accommodation(s).

Wichita State University Nursing Programs provide the following description/examples of technical standards to inform prospective and enrolled students of a sampling of technical standards required in completing their nursing science curriculum.

1. These technical standards reflect a sample of the performance abilities and characteristics that are necessary to successfully complete the requirements of the Nursing Programs. Please note: the standards are not requirements of admission into the Nursing Programs and the examples are not all-inclusive.
2. Individuals interested in applying for admission to the Nursing Programs should review these standards to develop a better understanding of the skills, abilities and behavioral characteristics required to successfully complete the Programs. Key areas include:
   • Sensory and motor coordination and function
   • Communication skills
   • Assessment skills
   • Cognitive skills
   • Behavioral and social attributes

Accommodation(s)

Wichita State University is committed to providing educational opportunities to otherwise qualified students with disabilities to afford such students an opportunity equal to that provided to non-disabled students to achieve a desired educational outcome. The Office of Student Accommodations and Testing (OSAT) provides support for students with learning, mental, or physical disabilities. Students wishing to request accommodation(s) must contact OSAT.

The School of Nursing will work with students to accommodate disability-related needs, but is not required to provide accommodations that fundamentally alter or waive essential program requirements. Contact OSAT at OSAT@wichita.edu or 316-978-3309.

Sensory & Motor Coordination & Functions

Students must be able to execute gross and fine motor movements required to provide assessment, general care, and emergency treatment of patients.

1. Perform and/or assist appropriately to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
2. Obtain accurate information from patients using gross and fine motor skills appropriate to the technique required.
3. Strength sufficient to move, transfer, and/or position patients or equipment safely under a variety of circumstances.
4. Perform and/or assist with procedures using sterile or clean techniques.
5. Execute motor movements required to provide nursing care and emergency response (e.g. IV insertion, venous blood draw, urinary catheter insertion, etc.).

Rationale:

1. Must possess current Healthcare Provider CPR certification issued by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.
2. Must be able to provide safe and effective care.

Assessment

Students must be able to safely assess the health needs of patients.

1. Ability to assess patient conditions and responses to health and illness.
2. Ability to assess and monitor health needs.
3. Computational thinking.
4. Cognitive load management.

Rationale:

1. Nursing student competencies include the knowledge, attitude, and skills necessary to provide quality and safe patient care to patients across the continuum.
2. Use and interpret information obtained from digital, analog, and waveform diagnostic tools (e.g., sphygmomanometer, otoscope, stethoscope, ophthalmoscope, EKG, IVs) and other diagnostic tools.
3. Assess a patient during the course of comprehensive or focused assessments.
4. Translate data into abstract concepts and understand data-based reasoning.
5. Obtain and interpret information for evaluation of responses to nursing actions.

Communication

Students must be able to communicate accurate assessments of client status. Communication includes verbal, reading, writing, non-verbal, and electronic behaviors with patients and the healthcare team that reflect sensitivity, clarity, and mutual comprehension.

1. Communication abilities for sensitive and effective interactions with patients/clients (persons, families, and/or communities).
2. Communication abilities for effective interdisciplinary collaboration with the healthcare team (patients, their supports, other professional and non- professional team members).
3. Sense-making of information gathered from communication.
4. Social intelligence.

Rationale:

1. Must be able to initiate and maintain nurse-patient relationships.
2. Must be able to give professional (using standard nursing and medical terminology) verbal and/or written reports to other healthcare team members with clarity.
3. Must be able to document accurately and clearly in written and/or electronic format.
4. Must be able to accurately convey information and interpretation of information using one or more means of communication (verbal, written, assisted (e.g., TTY) and/or electronic) to patients/the healthcare team.
5. Must be able to determine a deeper meaning or significance in what is being expressed.

Cognitive

Students must have sufficient critical thinking skills. The student will need to solve problems with clinical issues and situations by synthesizing information in an analytical, deliberative, evaluative, and decisive manner. Students must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to provide quality and safe patient care in all health care settings.

1. Accurately measure, calculate, reason, analyze, and synthesize subjective and objective data to carry out the nursing process in relation to patient assessment, diagnosis, goals, plan of care/interventions, and evaluation.
2. Analyze data to prioritize all aspects of the client’s health care needs and nursing diagnoses.
3. Use synthesized data to develop a plan and implement nursing interventions relevant to client’s needs which integrates client preferences to deliver appropriate, evidence-based, quality and safe patient care.
4. Demonstrate intellectual and conceptual abilities to accomplish the essentials of the nursing program (for example, baccalaureate essentials).
5. Demonstrate cognitive abilities related to course and program outcomes, which include intellectual, conceptual, integrative, quantitative, critical thinking, and comprehension skills that indicate that the student is able to carry out the nursing process in the care of patients.
6. Comprehend extensive information from written documents, visual and/or oral presentations, and patient computer information.
7. Accurately follow course syllabi, assignment directions, patient protocols, and any action plan(s) developed by deans, faculty, administrators, or health care agency staff.
8. Media literacy

Rationale:

1. Accomplish, direct, or interpret assessment of persons, families and/or communities and develop, implement, and evaluate plans of care or direct the development, implementation, and evaluation of care.
2. Make proper judgments regarding safe and quality care.
3. Critically assess and develop content that uses new media forms, and to leverage these media for persuasive communication.
4. Literacy in and ability to understand concepts across disciplines.
5. Represent and develop tasks and work processes for desired outcomes.

Behavioral and Social Attributes

1. Students must possess emotional stability to enable them to develop therapeutic relationships and successfully communicate with individuals and aggregates from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds. Students should possess the qualities of self-awareness, emotional maturity, objectivity, flexibility, empathy, and integrity. Students should be emotionally able to handle demanding workloads and to function effectively under stress.
2. Concern for others, integrity, ethical conduct, accountability, interest and motivation.
3. Acquire interpersonal skills for professional interactions with a diverse population of individuals, families and communities
4. Acquire interpersonal skills for professional interactions with members of the health care team including patients, their supports, other health care professionals and team members.
5. Acquire the skills necessary for promoting change for necessary quality health care.
6. Cross-cultural competency.

Rationale:

1. Maintain effective, mature, and sensitive relationships with patients, students, faculty, staff and other professionals under all circumstances.
2. Function effectively under stress and adapt to changing environments inherent in clinical practice
3. Demonstrate professional role in interactions with patients, intra and inter professional teams.
4. Operate in diverse settings.
   

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Online Learning & Technology

Introduction To Online Learning

Online students are encouraged to learn more about online learning, readiness for online learning, computer skills, and computer prep by visiting About Online Learning. RN to BSN students should complete the online readiness assessment to prepare for taking online courses.

Computing in the RN to BSN Program

You must have access to a computer (desktop, laptop, tablet) while enrolled to complete the coursework in the RN to BSN program. Please see Computer Skills Preparation for complete information on technical preparation, computer system requirements, computer skills, and managing your WSU email.

Blackboard is WSU’s Online Learning Management System used for courses.

Requirements

• High speed internet connection
• Ethernet Port
• Ethernet Cable
• Blackboard Supported Browsers
• Microsoft Office 2016 or newer (Office 365 free to students)
• Unity Web Player for Shadow Health (free)
• Adobe Reader (free)
• Adobe Flash Player (free)
• Windows Media Player (free)
• Antivirus solution (avoid Web Root or AVG)

Other Important Considerations

• Basic computer skills (searching online, uploading/downloading docs, email, software installation).
• Proficiency using productivity tools (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Ability to use Blackboard LMS.

You must possess knowledge of your own device, including, but not limited to:

• Connecting to WSU secured/guest WiFi
• Using Microsoft 365
• Using multiple browsers (Firefox, Chrome, Edge, Safari)
• Installing software and verifying compatibility
• Updating and maintaining your device
• Managing your security suite
• Troubleshooting issues
• Assessing your device to ensure it is in good working order
• Contacting IT support for any troubleshooting needs
• Navigating Blackboard LMS and contacting WSU OneStop for assistance in using Blackboard
• Being an administrator on your device

WSU Learning Management System LMS – Blackboard

Features:

• Course Instructional Materials
  • Access to assignments, reading materials, videos, discussion forums, etc
  • Access to course assessments – quizzes, knowledge checks, etc
• Grade Book
  • Grades are delivered to you securely
  • Full-featured grade book that includes categories and weighted grades
• Communication Tools
  • Class announcements
  • You may e-mail classmates and course faculty
  • Chat room
  • Discussion Forums, Blogs, journals, and wikis.
  • Paperless classroom
  • Work submitted and graded online in Blackboard.

Where to access Blackboard:

• myWSU portal
• Direct link: https://blackboard.wichita.edu/ 

Need help with technology? Visit WSU Student Technology Help Desk.

Student E-Mail Requirements

All students automatically become members of a SON user group. Only your uniquename@shockers.wichita.edu address is used in these groups. The SON is not responsible for any information not received from e-mails sent to the SON student body e-mail groups that may be of importance to students, including scholarships, employment, and event and class information. Emails received by the SON from an email address other than your assigned WSU email will be deleted and will NOT be responded to. Forwarding your @shockers.wichita.edu email to a personal email account introduces unwelcome challenges and is not recommended.

You need to check your e-mail messages at least every other day. In some cases, email responses are required within a 2-day period of being sent. You are held responsible for SON, course, and University information communicated via e-mail. You must use your @shockers.wichita.edu account to communicate by e-mail for any SON and University business.

For more information regarding your WSU email account, please see Managing WSU Email.

Policy for Turning in Assignments

All assignments must be submitted through Blackboard unless otherwise stated in the course syllabus or other arrangements made with the instructor.

Writing Style Requirement

The American Psychology Association (APA), 7th edition is the expected writing style format:

• American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). Author.
• You are expected to have ready access to APA current guidelines and use them when writing formal papers. Information can be found at https://apastyle.apa.org  or Wichita State University Libraries have resources for APA style at https://libraries.wichita.edu/citing-sources-apa.

Use of Student Materials

The Wichita State University SON is fully accredited. As a part of the accreditation process, there is ongoing program evaluation to continue and improve the quality of the nursing program. To assist in the evaluation of the nursing program, selected course work from students is used as examples of meeting course outcomes. Faculty may also use your papers and other coursework for educational purposes, i.e., past papers as samples that meet the course outcomes. The name of each student whose materials are used for this purpose will remain confidential. Consent to use your papers or coursework for program review and educational purposes is hereby implied. If you do not want the school or faculty member to use your papers or other course work, you may withdraw your consent by putting your wishes in writing to the course instructor. Your decision to withdraw consent will be kept confidential and will not affect the student/faculty relationship nor grades in the course.

Disability Statement

Wichita State University Policies and Procedures Manual contains a section that outlines university policies for students with physical or mental disabilities. (See Section 8.10) The Office of Student Accommodations and Testing (OSAT) also provides academic accommodations for students who experience physical or mental disabilities.

You are required to provide appropriate documentation to OSAT before classroom services are provided. Contact the OSAT to get started. The office is in the Shocker Success Center, Room 118, (316) 978- 3309, or via email at OSAT@wichita.edu. OSAT will review your concerns and determine, with you, what academic accommodations are necessary and appropriate for you. All information and documentation of your disability is confidential and will not be released by OSAT without your written permission.

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Evaluation & Meetings

Nursing Program Evaluation

Your input is vital to the maintenance of a quality nursing program. You are asked to be active in evaluating faculty and courses in the nursing program. Graduates will be asked to evaluate the program and preparation for professional practice at intervals following graduation. This feedback is used by faculty in ongoing curriculum development and revision.

Leave for Professional Meetings

• You may request absence from class to attend professional nursing meetings provided:
  • A written request, presented in advance, is approved by the instructor.
  • Advance arrangements to compensate for missed learning experiences are made in conjunction with your instructor(s).

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Academic Policies & Student Success

Academic Rules, Policies & Procedures

The following academic policies, and any additional SON policies and operating procedures relative to your records, publications, grievances, and discipline, are consistent with the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 ("FERPA" or the "Buckley Amendment"; United States Department of Education, n.d.). Please see University’s Student Records Policy for more information.

Student Success

Each of you define success differently. The Office of Student Success is available to help you maximize your academic potential and reach your personal goals through a range of programs and services, regardless of personal background. The goal is to help you develop skills and plans to graduate in a timely manner while engaging with our community of learners.

The SON also supports your success by encouraging you to meet with your instructors, participate in the partner for success program, and be proactive with any issues or concerns.

Guidelines for Resolving Problems

The SON strives to create an atmosphere conducive to learning. There should be mutual respect between faculty and students. If a problem should arise, the issue can usually be resolved by direct communication between you and the instructor. To facilitate the problem-solving process, it is suggested that you take the following steps:

1. Speak with the instructor as soon as a problem or concern arises. Please use faculty office hours to discuss concerns or problems. In the event office hours are not available, arrange a meeting with your instructor via a phone call, video conference, etc.
2. Ask questions — utilize the mechanism(s) the instructor has established in Blackboard, for example Student Questions discussion forum.
3. Seek help from the instructor on an individual basis.
4. Do not ignore the situation, wait until the last minute, or expect someone else to take care of your problems.
5. If your concerns are not resolved, please refer to the chain of command to resolve conflicts.

Chain of Command for Resolving Student/Faculty Conflicts

Conflict should be resolved where the conflict originates if possible. At any step, you may be asked to meet with all the faculty with whom you have spoken. You are encouraged to resolve conflicts in the following manner:

Step 1. Schedule an appointment to talk with the instructor of the course. Professional conduct is expected. If resolved, the process concludes. If not, proceed to Step 2.

Step 2. Schedule an appointment with the Coordinator of the RN to BSN Program. If resolved, the process concludes. If not, proceed to Step 3.

Step 3. Schedule an appointment with the Undergraduate Program Director. If resolved, the process concludes. If not, proceed to Step 4.

Step 4. Schedule an appointment with the SON Chairperson.

Online Nurse Development Products

Students enrolled in NURS 346, Health Assessment for the Practicing RN, will purchase access for a third-party virtual simulation program. Virtual simulation provides a dynamic, immersive experience through simulation designed to improve student assessment skills and clinical reasoning through the examination of digital standardized patients (Rose et. al, 2024). Students in NURS 346 will be accessing and completing virtual simulation assignments throughout the course.

Expected Academic Performance and Behavior

You must possess the ability to reason morally and practice nursing in an ethical manner American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics (2015). You must be willing to learn and abide by professional standards of practice, the WSU Student Code of Conduct Handbook, and WSU Student Code of Conduct (policy 8.05). Candidates must not engage in unprofessional conduct, as defined by the Kansas State Board of Nursing (KSBN) Nurse Practice Act (2025) and must possess attributes that include compassion, empathy, altruism, integrity, honesty, responsibility, and tolerance. You must be able to engage in patient care delivery in all settings and be able to deliver care to all patient populations including but not limited to children, adolescents, adults, developmentally disabled persons, medically compromised patients, and vulnerable adults. You are expected to follow all policies and procedures while on practicum rotation. Wichita State University Student Code of Conduct outlines the university’s expectations of all students; you are expected to follow these policies.

Professional socialization begins in school. The WSU SON expands on your ability to function professionally in the real world. Therefore, you are expected to always conduct yourself professionally - not only with patients and families - but also with faculty, staff, and peers as well. Employers have urged nursing educators to prepare you with more than technical skills. Meeting deadlines, being on time, alert, and prepared, attentive listening and respectful disagreement with others are expected in this program and in the workforce. Treat your nursing education as your professional job and your instructor as your supervisor. Professional nursing students are expected to refrain from sharing gossip, using profanity, bullying, and from verbal or written forms of slanderous and libelous behaviors against each other, faculty, and staff.

Grading Scale and Passing Standard

You must achieve a C (73%) in all required nursing courses. The grading scale for all RN to BSN courses:

Online Student Attendance Obligation

RN to BSN courses are offered online and you are expected to participate fully in all online courses just as you would in the traditional classroom setting. You are expected to log on to your course(s) and your email account at least every other day. Reading assignments, supplemental lectures, learning materials, and other assignments must be completed according to the course schedule to receive full credit.

You are expected to be active in all classes in which you are enrolled, and faculty members are expected to monitor attendance. In cases of excessive inactivity, instructors may initiate a Student Early Alert System. In the event faculty become concerned about your well-being, a WSU Care Team Behavior Concern report may be filed.

Online Classroom Etiquette (Netiquette)

According to The Core Rules of Netiquette by Virginia Shea (1984), netiquette (known as "Internet etiquette") is a catch-all term for the conventions of politeness and respect recognized in live chats, discussions, and emails. In online learning, netiquette includes a set of guidelines that everyone should follow to promote appropriate online communication. Here are a few expectations when posting in online chats, discussions, and emails:

• Maintain a positive tone: When communicating online, we often forget that we are communicating with other human beings because we only see a computer screen. You do not see facial expressions, body language, or hear the tone of voice when you read messages. It's easy to misinterpret your correspondent's meaning, so always stop and think about your response before hitting submit. Always ask yourself, "Would I say that to a person’s face?"
• Use appropriate grammar and structure: In other words, avoid using "R U" instead of "are you." There are some students in class that may not understand this type of communication and it does not enhance anyone’s writing or vocabulary skills. Emoticons are fine if appropriate. A smile :) is welcome, anything offensive is not.
• Avoid ALL CAPS: In online communication, caps are known as shouting, so refrain from using them.
• No personal attacks or flames: Do not respond to personal attacks or flames when responding online. If you believe that you are being attacked, please email your instructor. Students engaging in aggressive, disrespectful, unethical, or sexually harassing behavior toward any person encountered through this course of study, including peers, staff persons, or faculty will be asked to leave the online discussion.
• No offensive language: Cursing, racial slurs, and other types of language that would not be appropriate in a face-to-face class are also inappropriate online.
• Be respectful: Always be polite and respectful in your discussions. Discussions are constructed so that they will allow you to think critically and offer theory plus opinion. There will be differences in opinions. There will be many viewpoints. Remember: Students taking online courses come from different parts of the country or even other countries. Cultural differences allow us to appreciate different perspectives.

Academic Integrity

• The SON adheres to the University policy for academic integrity found in the WSU Policies and Procedures manual, policy 2.17.
• Refrain from:
  • Plagiarizing (using the work of others as one’s own) without assigning proper credit to the source. Learn more about plagiarism.
  • Misrepresentation of any work done in the classroom, or in preparation for class. This also includes self-plagiarism.
  • Falsification, forgery, or alteration of any documents pertaining to one’s academic record.
  • The use of Artificial Intelligence without the permission of the course instructor. 

Academic integrity infractions may be referred to the office of  Student Conduct and Community Standards (SCCS). See the SCCS website for more information on academic integrity processes and procedures. 

Video Conferencing Etiquette Expectations

The following guidelines are in place to guide video conference expectations:

• Dress appropriately – casual (t-shirt and jeans/shorts/pants) is acceptable but bathrobes, swimwear, undergarments, pajamas are not acceptable.
• Be in an environment that engages learning. Lying in bed, swimming pools, bathtubs, are not appropriate places to learn.
• Pictures of students when video is off should be appropriate. If your video conferencing platform profile picture is linked to a social media page, your social media profile picture is what shows up. For example, if your social media profile pic is of you lying on the beach in a bathing suit that is what everyone will see in the video conference.
• Your first and last name will be displayed so that the faculty and other students can identify who is in the room.
• Faculty will indicate how they wish the students to interact in the classroom (chat, raise hand, etc.).
• You should minimize movement when on the call or be off video if you are going to move around. Movement might cause someone else motion sickness or dizziness.
• Faculty will instruct their preference for being on video while in class or keeping video off.
• Faculty will provide break times as appropriate.
• You should communicate to your faculty, ahead of the meeting if you are going to miss class or need to leave early.
• Faculty may have additional etiquette expectations.

Professional Conduct expected of a WSU Nursing Student

You must:

1. Adhere to WSU Student Code of Conduct.
2. Provide nursing services to clients with respect for their human dignity, unrestricted by considerations of their social or economic status, personal attributes, or the nature of their health problems.
3. Act to safeguard the client and the public when health care and safety are affected by the incompetent, unethical, or illegal practice of any person.
4. Assume responsibility and accountability for individual nursing judgments and actions.
5. Exercise informed judgment and use individual competence and qualifications as criteria in seeking consultation, accepting responsibilities, and delegating nursing activities to others.
6. Participate in activities that contribute to the ongoing development of the profession’s body of knowledge.
7. Participate in the professions’ efforts to implement and improve standards of nursing.
8. Participate in the professions’ efforts to establish and maintain conditions of employment conducive to high quality nursing care.
9. Participate in the professions’ efforts to protect the public from misinformation and misrepresentation and to maintain the integrity of nursing.
10. Collaborate with members of the health professions and other citizens in promoting community and national efforts to meet the health needs of the public.
11. Maintain all forms of privacy about patients, facility staff, and university staff.
    • This includes postings on internet social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and others. Sharing of information, opinions, and experiences, even without specific identities (i.e., name, location, institution, etc.) can be construed as a breach of confidentiality.
    • Taking or sharing of images or documents, either digital or print, is strictly prohibited.
    • Unprofessional personal communication and/or social network postings are strictly prohibited.

Breach of professional conduct expectations can result in dismissal from a practicum site and/or the nursing program.

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Leadership Practicum

Leadership Practicum Expectations

The RN to BSN Program utilizes a preceptor approach for learning in the practicum experience. As a Registered Nurse licensed to practice, you possess clinical nursing knowledge and skills that will serve as building blocks for professional development. The primary intent of the course is to produce a practicum that adds value to the graduate. Direct patient care is not expected to be performed during this practicum experience.

You will select a practicum site from a wide range of healthcare facilities. The location of the practicum site will vary depending on where you live. You will be asked to begin selecting a practicum site early in the program. You will be provided with a practicum orientation to assist the preceptor with understanding the details of this course. Timelines will vary with the semester in which you are enrolled. You are NOT allowed to complete practicum within the unit where you are currently employed or within your area’s chain of command. While direct patient care is not the focus in this practicum experience, contact with patients can be expected.

Student Responsibilities

• Identify and secure an agency and preceptor.
• Complete practicum requirements and any additional facility-specific requirements or orientation.
• Notify the preceptor and faculty if any situation out of the ordinary occurred.
• Meet with faculty regularly via the internet, email, video conference or face-to-face to discuss details of the practicum experience, progression towards meeting program and/or course outcomes, and for assistance from faculty.
• Complete the practicum evaluation tool and evaluations of site and preceptor.

Professional Expectations

Student Illness

Faculty members and practicum facilities have the right to decide when you will be required to leave the practicum practice area based on objective determination that you are ill or have symptoms of illness.

Students may not participate in practicum without provider clearance if experiencing:

• Fever greater than 101°F
• Acute febrile respiratory infection (including strep)
• Influenza or COVID-19
• Acute diarrhea
• Herpes simplex*
• Chickenpox, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Pertussis
• Draining lesions (abscesses, impetigo, boils)
• Acute viral hepatitis
• Pulmonary tuberculosis
• Scabies*
• Conjunctivitis

*Restricted from caring for high-risk clients until 48 hours after treatment begins.

Return to Practicum Following Medical Care

If medical care is required, you must provide written clearance from an approved healthcare provider stating that returning to coursework/practicum will not impact recovery.

Policy on Practicum Absences

Attendance and engagement in the practicum course support learning and is critical to successful course completion. When you are absent from practicum, it compromises your ability to master course content, attain the necessary skills to meet course outcomes, and ultimately pass the course.

 Absences from practicum rotations for reasons other than illness are highly discouraged. If you are going to be absent, you must notify the faculty before the scheduled practicum time.

 A practicum absence may result in failure to achieve course outcomes. Examples of absences that may result in failure to achieve course outcomes may include, but are not limited to:

• Not calling in advance
• Not showing up for practicum
• Tardiness to practicum
• Missing practicum because practicum requirements and/or mandatory orientations are not completed.

Students with practicum absence(s) must schedule a make-up day in collaboration with their Preceptor and course faculty.

Unusual Occurrences During Practicum Experiences

An unusual occurrence is when an incident or accident occurs in the practicum setting. These events can occur to you, such as a needle stick; or to the patient, such as administering the wrong medication. In the event during practicum, you experience any unusual occurrence, you and the faculty must complete an unusual occurrence report. 

You and faculty must complete an Unusual Occurrence Report. Copies go to:

• Undergraduate Program Director
• RN to BSN Program Coordinator
• Practicum Instructor

No copy is placed in the student’s academic record.

Protocol for Needle Stick or Blood to Blood Exposure

1. Upon injury or exposure (blood-to-blood, eye or other potentially infectious material) at any applied learning site, thoroughly wash skin exposures/punctures or flush the eye(s) or other mucous membrane(s) ASAP.
2. You must notify agency staff and WSU faculty If the hospital or agency has a policy for reporting injuries, that policy should be followed.
3. Upon injury or exposure, documentation of the incident must be completed by you. These forms include:
   1. Agency incident report per agency policy - required
   2. School of Nursing Unusual Occurrence Form – required
   3. Student Health Services Exposure Report – recommended
   4. Student may choose to share their post-exposure health documentation with SHS by uploading to their myShockerhealth portal.
4. Follow up with healthcare
   1. Students may choose to share their post-exposure health documentation with SHS.SHS may provide recommended medications or follow-up testing as prescribed.
5. The incident report form will be maintained with the Undergraduate Director’s
6. The SON is not responsible for any costs of post exposure protection or treatment related to post Exposures are not covered by workman’s compensation.

Safety

The SON and any associated practicum agencies do not insure against theft, accident, or injury that may occur during practicum experiences on or off campus. The SON advises you to always use situational awareness. You are expected to act responsibly by taking necessary precautions to prevent accident, injury, or theft.

During practicum experiences, you are advised to only carry needed items, such as a small amount of money and car keys. You should leave valuables at home or locked in the trunk of your car prior to arrival at their destination. When entering and leaving practicum agencies, you should follow general rules of safety, such as parking in well-lit areas.

Position Statement on Client’s Rights

The faculty of the SON affirms their commitment to protect agency and/or client’s rights. The faculty believes that whenever possible the client should be involved in decisions regarding the care and treatment they receive and that this extends to the choice of whether they agree to have a student provide his/her care. The preceptor will serve as a facilitator and guide for student inclusion.

Dress Code

Adherence to the dress code of the site or agency in which you are participating is required. The practicum instructor’s discretion is the final authority in determining the appropriate attire for students and subsequent consequences. If your appearance is inappropriate, you may be sent home.

NOTE: Wichita State University School of Nursing Scrubs and Student Badges are to be worn only for academic related activities. If your practicum site requires you to wear scrubs, the WSU School of Nursing dress code for practicum activities is:

• School of Nursing scrub shirt from approved vendor with WSU School of Nursing logo, and approved pants or skirt.
• A plain white or black shirt may be worn under the scrub Long sleeves must be loose enough so that they can be pushed up to the elbows during handwashing; must meet facility and/or unit-specific policy requirements.
• Footwear in practicum must be closed toe and closed heel, with good grip, in good repair and in compliance with facility policy.
• A black scrub jacket with the approved WSU logo is an optional addition to the standard uniform.
• WSU student nursing ID badge must be worn while at the practicum Additional ID badges may be required by practicum facilities.

Personal Appearance

Personal appearance will reflect the professional nursing student role:

• No dangling body jewelry or adornments allowed (infinity jewelry, necklaces, hoops and gauges included).
• Fingernails must be trimmed short and well-maintained. Artificial nails, acrylic nails, shellac nails, dip nails, et will not be allowed. If nail polish is worn, it cannot be chipped.
• Hair and/or accessories must be secured to eliminate potential contamination in the clinical environment.
• Attention to personal hygiene is

WSU Student ID Badge Requirement

Process for obtaining a photo ID badge.

• Follow these guidelines when obtaining a photo of yourself – professional photo not required.
  • Must wear WSU black scrub top or WSU black scrub
  • Background should be flat white surface like a painted wall or
  • File type JPG with good resolution
  • Heat shot only – use your driver’s license photo as a
  • Use a camera, not your cell phone unless your cell phone has a
• Email photo to card@wichita.edu indicating you need an RN to BSN photo ID badge.
  • Include your myWSU ID number, first and last name, and mailing address where you would like the ID badge sent.
  • We recommend you begin this process 1 month before your
  • Students cover the cost of photo A check (personal or cashier’s check) may be used; no debit/credit cards accepted.

Payment: Students pay by check only. Mail to:

Review of Client Medical Records by Students

When you need to review medical records for the purpose of study, the regulations of the agency must be followed to ensure that medical records are not subject to unauthorized inspection. You are to review patient records for research and/or study purposes only. You may not remove any patient records or copies of patient records from a practicum agency. You may not take copies, pictures, or records in any format of any patient related items (patient charts, computer, or digital screens, etc.) while on facility grounds. Removal or attempted removal of patient-related facility information will be considered a violation of HIPAA and is grounds for dismissal from the School of Nursing (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2025).

Rights and Responsibilities of Faculty and Students to Agencies

• Your primary resource is the WSU
• Faculty members are responsible for developing practicum experiences in various agencies, and for using appropriate mechanisms and protocols.
• Since the practicum agencies are under contract, you have an important responsibility to maintain a positive relationship with the practicum In this role, you are responsible for both agency policies and your own learning experiences.

Philosophy of Practicum Evaluation

In an applied learning setting, the faulty role in evaluation of students requires two actions: description and judgment. Description is the process of providing necessary information about the student. Judgment involves a value component. The faculty member is qualified to decide the relative value of a student’s performance in a practicum setting.

Thus, practicum evaluation is a process of describing and judging your performance. Practicum outcomes are one source of input for determining the merit of your work. These outcomes are further delineated as practicum outcomes and competencies specific to each course.

The Practicum Evaluation Tool

The practicum course is an experiential and applied learning experience in which you practice and develop competence in leadership and management based on nursing knowledge, safety principles, and ethical practice. During the practicum experience you develop a trusting and mutually respectful relationship with practicum faculty and other practicum preceptors. Through practicum preparation, experience, self-reflection, and feedback received from faculty, you are supported in development of practicum competence. The Practicum Evaluation Tool (PET) includes outcomes and competencies and is a graded component of the practicum course.

One purpose of practicum evaluation is to demonstrate development of competence over time—both as you progress through the practicum experience, and at the conclusion of the experience. Another purpose of practicum evaluation is to ensure that a consistent evaluation process is used for all students, and that both you and faculty have a common understanding of the behaviors that are to be considered in the evaluation process. These competencies are drawn from terminal outcomes for the BSN program at WSU School of Nursing and the AACN’s (2008) The Essentials of baccalaureate education for professional nursing practice.

Faculty will discuss the tool with you at the beginning of each practicum rotation and describe how and when it will be used. You should direct any questions they have about the PET to your individual practicum faculty.

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Progression & Appeals

Progression in the Curriculum

Students must complete all course work within six (6) years of enrolling in your first professional nursing course. If completion is not possible within six (6) years, you must request an exception to continue in the program.

Requirements for Continued Progression

Grades earned in nursing courses reflect attainment of knowledge in both didactic and practicum practice. You must achieve a grade of C (2.0) or better in every course to progress.

If you earn below a C (2.0):

• You will be placed on RN to BSN Program probation.
• You may continue courses already started during the same 16‑week semester.
• You must successfully repeat the deficient course before taking additional nursing courses.

Repeating Courses

Students may repeat courses according to University policy.

Exception Request

An Exception Request is a formal, written request to the Undergraduate Committee on Students asking to waive or modify a policy in the RN to BSN Undergraduate Student Handbook.

The first step is to contact the RN to BSN Academic Advisor or Program Coordinator. Exception requests are reviewed individually.

Incompletes

Students are responsible for understanding University policy regarding incomplete grades. Refer to the WSU Incomplete Grade Policy for details.

Military Leave of Absence (MLOA)

See WSU Policy 8.09 for Military Leave of Absence (MLOA) guidelines. Students must notify the Undergraduate Program upon leaving and returning from MLOA. Reentry is based on space availability, with returning students receiving priority. Please refer to the Office of Military and Veteran Services for additional information.

Reactivation in the RN TO BSN Nursing Program

Students who become inactive (not enrolled in any courses for two academic years or more) in the RN to BSN program, may return to the program within the six (6) years of completing their first nursing course. Students are required to contact the Online Academic Advisor to reactivate their university account.

Students who do not complete the program within six (6) years of their first completed nursing course may be required to reapply to the program. If completion is not possible within the 6-year timeline, an Exception Request must be submitted to be considered to continue the program.

Student Conduct Review Process

If you violate academic or professional conduct, you are subject to the following consequences:

• Filing of an incident report via the Student Conduct and Community Standards reporting This process is outlined at and reviewed by the WSU Student Code of Conduct office.
• Report of the incident submitted to the Undergraduate Director’s
• Review of the incident by the Committee on Students at the request of faculty or the Undergraduate Director’s office. Please contact the RN to BSN Program Coordinator for further information.

Conditions in which you will be removed from practicum and must remain out of all practicum days until investigation is completed (5 business days).

• A practicum agency removes you from the practicum
• A faculty member deems you unsafe to practice; unsafe to practice is at the faculty discretion using professional and academic guidelines.
• An adverse mark on your background
• A positive drug

NOTE: Removal from practicum may delay progression or result in dismissal from the program.

Behavior Concerns

Students not following expected behavior guidelines are subject to the following actions:

• You are expected to follow the policies as stated in the WSU Student Code of Conduct Handbook.
• A serious lapse in professional behavior or an ongoing trend of problematic behaviors may result in suspension from the nursing program pending conduct review process You are not eligible for progression toward earning the degree, while allegations are being investigated.

Academic Warnings

The following steps may occur when academic performance is below expectations:

• WSU uses the Student Early Alert System (SEAS) – this program alerts a student, via email, that they are not meeting academic standards. The SEAS is generated from faculty. If you receive such notification, you are expected to meet with the faculty to determine areas for improvement.
• Referrals may be made to the CHP Student Success Coach or Office of Online and Adult Learning.

Grade and Dismissal Appeal Process

Grade Appeal

Grade Appeals are processed through the Court of Student Academic Appeals. The court of academic appeals only hears grade appeals, the court does not hear dismissal cases or advise professional programs regarding reentry into the program.

If you are in an appeal process, you may be required to take a leave of absence from the nursing program. Appeals take at least four weeks and up to 12 weeks to resolve. If the appeal is granted, all efforts will be made to grant reentry to the program the following semester, as space allows.

Grounds for Dismissal Appeal

You may appeal dismissal only if one of the following is true:

• The dismissal was not in accordance with the published RN to BSN Handbook policy or
• The dismissal was arbitrary or capricious; meaning your dismissal was made without a valid reason, was impulsive, or erratic.

Dismissal Appeal Procedure

1. You should meet first with the appropriate course instructor and/or course coordinator to resolve the grade dispute within five (5) working days (Monday- Friday; excluding university shut down/holidays) after official posting of WSU grades.
2. If the issue continues as unresolved at the course level, the student will complete an appeal form sent by the Undergraduate Director.
3. You should meet with the Undergraduate Nursing Program Director to determine:
   1. whether opportunities for resolving the problem with the instructor have been exhausted, and
   2. whether the problem is resolvable through existing University or SON procedures other than court of appeals. The Program Director may indicate that a case is inappropriate, but students maintain their right to appeal if they wish to do so.
4. You are encouraged to make an appointment with the Student Advocate, 201 Rhatigan Student Center, for assistance in:
   1. resolving the case and/or
   2. preparing the appeal.
5. The completed appeal, with supporting documentation, is completed via an online form. The link to complete the online form will be sent to the student.
6. The completed appeal documentation will be distributed to the individual(s) named in the appeal.
7. The individual(s) named in the appeal will submit a written statement on the case to the Director of the Undergraduate Nursing Program. After reviewing the case, the Program Director should form a judgment and/or attempt to resolve the issue without exerting pressure on either the faculty or the student. The Program Director should indicate on the form:
   1.  a recommendation to sustain the faculty’s decision,
   2. a recommendation that the appeal be sustained, or
   3. a statement that the issue cannot be resolved at this level.
8. After the Program Director has made a recommendation, the case is referred to the Undergraduate Nursing Committee on Students. The chair of the Committee on Students, after receiving the case, will inform you and the faculty in writing of its receipt and request from each a written statement and any additional information the committee might need. This information must be received by the committee within two weeks. The faculty and the student may visit with the committee chair or write to the committee about questions of procedure.
9. Both parties will be notified in writing no less than seven (7) days in advance of the projected date of the appeal hearing along with information pertaining to the exact time and place of the hearing. The committee will finalize the time of the appeal hearing after both the student and faculty member have been contacted and have indicated they can attend the hearing at that time.

Hearing Details:

1. All hearings are closed.
2. Membership of the Grievance Committee is as follows:
   1. Chair: Chairperson of the Committee on Students, or designee.
   2. Faculty: Five voting faculty members from the SON Organization, excluding the Instructor of Record, any faculty that had direct involvement with the case, and any faculty member that was involved with an associated exception request decision.
   3. Advisory: Chairperson of Committee on Students, Undergraduate Program Director, and Coordinator of Clinical Education
3. Hearings will be kept as informal as possible. A recorded transcript of the hearing, but not the deliberations, will be made. The recording and all written material will be treated as confidential information. The recording will be retained for one year.
4. The faculty and student are expected to appear at the hearing. If you do not appear for the hearing, the case will not be heard. The recommendation from the Undergraduate Program Direction will stand as final decision. If the faculty member does not wish to appear, the case will be heard. The Grievance Committee will have final decision.
5. The student and faculty member may be represented by counsel from the University community but not by an attorney.
6. Either party may ask members of the university community (students, faculty, or staff) to present testimony relevant to the case.
7. The faculty and the student will have access to the written statement of each other at least seven days prior the hearing. These statements will be treated as confidential material.
8. Relevant class records are to be made available to the Committee upon request.

The Committee’s final decision is communicated in writing. Students may appeal further through the College of Health Professions Grievance Policy.

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Student Rights & Graduation

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Student's Responsibility for Learning

The RN to BSN program is rigorous. You must develop effective study habits and actively participate in learning. You are responsible for your own learning. You need to be actively involved in the learning process, and not expect to passively absorb information. Active, thoughtful participation in class discussion will enhance your learning. It is important to determine your own learning style and use study techniques which support that style. See the course instructor immediately if you are having trouble completing assignments and doing the necessary reading. The instructors are concerned about you as an individual and as a student, and can assist with priority setting, study skills, etc. 

Faculty are available to support you with strategies such as time management, study techniques, and prioritization. You may also receive support from the College of Health Professions Student Success Coach.

Statement on Student Bill of Rights

The Nursing Faculty support the University’s Statement on Rights and Freedoms for Students. This document is available from the Student Government Association Office in the Rhatigan Student Center or by emailing sga@wichita.edu.

Class Registration and Scheduling

The School of Nursing cannot register you for courses. You are responsible for enrolling in courses by the first day of classes. Registering at least three (3) weeks prior to the start of classes is strongly encouraged to ensure access to important announcements.

If you are not registered by the first day of class, you will not be able to access your course.

Graduation

General Requirements

You must meet all academic requirements and earn the required number of credit hours per WSU graduation policies. Submission of an Application for Degree (AFD) is required. AFDs are processed based on submission date.

Deadlines for AFD Submission:

• Fall (December) graduates: October 1
• Spring (May) graduates: March 1

Submit the AFD in the myWSU portal under the “My Classes” tab, “Graduation Links” section.

Credit for Life Experience

Upon admission to the RN to BSN program and verification of successful NCLEX‑RN completion, thirty (30) credit hours of Credit for Life Experience (CLE) will be posted to your transcript at no cost.

School of Nursing Graduation Recognition Ceremony

The School of Nursing holds graduation recognition ceremonies (“pinning ceremonies”) each December and May. Undergraduate nursing students are honored with a nursing pin symbolizing entry into the profession.

Nursing Pin:

The nursing pin, which is optional, is purchased through the University Bookstore by each student. Engraving of initials is available. Payment must be made at the time of purchase and pins are mailed directly to you.

History & Meaning of the WSU Nursing Pin:

The tradition of the WSU pin began with the WSU Department of Nursing’s first graduating class in 1971. It is an adaptation of the official seal of the University. The official seal was designed by Mr. Eldon Keidd, a 1925 graduate of Fairmount College (now WSU). He won a contest for seal designs and received $25.00.

The background of the seal is a typical Kansas prairie. The Indian and the tepees at the right are reflective of the status of Kansas, scarcely more than a frontier, at the time of the founding of Fairmount College. In the left foreground stands a farmer beside a shock of wheat, also viewing the plain. He represents the sturdy, farsighted, God- fearing stock of pioneers who brought civilization to the plains. It also represents the name "Wheat Shockers" by which the students and athletic teams of the school are known.

The center part of the seal was designed to depict the coming of higher learning and culture to the plains of Southern Kansas represented by the enlightening of the land by the "Book of Knowledge" and the "Lamp of Learning".

Above these are the seven "Liberal Arts". These were grammar, logic, rhetoric, arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, and music.

The name of the University forms the upper part of the wreath while the lower part of the wreath, on the left side, consists of a stalk of wheat. The wheat symbolizes the industry which has contributed most to the development and prosperity of this area.

On the right lower part of the wreath, is a stalk of laurel, used as an emblem of victory and dedicated to the school’s founder, benefactors, faculty, and others. On the University seal, the branches of wheat and laurel are tied together with a sunflower. On the nursing pin, the sunflower is replaced with the word “nursing”. The dates reflect the founding of Fairmount College (1895), the University of Wichita (1926), and WSU (1964).

WSU Commencement

WSU holds commencement ceremonies in May and December each year. More details are available on the University’s Commencement website.

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Student Resources & Organizations

Student Services and Resources

Applied Learning Center

The Applied Learning Center is designed to assist nursing students in developing competence and confidence with nursing skills prior to performing these activities in a practicum setting. You are welcome to schedule time to practice skills; contact your instructor for more information.

Student Records

A student wishing to review their records in the SON is requested to follow the procedures outlined below. By law, the SON may take up to 45 days to respond to the request, though in typical situations this should not be necessary (see "Open Records", WSU Catalog).

• Submit written request to the Undergraduate Program Director or Chairperson of the SON.
• The written request forms are available in the nursing office and should contain:
  • Your name
  • Your identification number (WSU ID)
  • Date and time you want to review materials.
• You will then be contacted in writing by the Undergraduate Program Director’s office or Chairperson of the SON.
• Once written notification regarding the status of the request is received, you are to contact the Undergraduate Program Director’s office or Chairperson of the SON and present both the previously received written notification and a photo ID.
• Requested materials will then be viewed in the presence of an appropriate school representative.
• Any portion of your record can be photocopied by an appropriate school representative; however, you must pay for any copies made.
• Once the form “Request to Review SON Records” is completed, it will be placed in your file.

Support of Lactating Students

Wichita State University and the College of Health Professions joins numerous health associations in supporting optimal breast/chest feeding as a significant primary prevention strategy in the United States. In 2023 Wichita State University was recognized as a Gold Level Employer Supporting Breastfeeding and a Breastfeeding Welcome Here campus. Lactating people are encouraged to continue breast/chest feeding while enrolled at WSU. The University and most practicum sites have private areas in the building that are available for pumping, hand expressing breast milk, or breast/chest feeding.

Please see the CHP Dean’s Office receptionist located on the 4th Floor of Ahlberg Hall for a key to the Lactation Room located in room 253 Ahlberg Hall. Lactating people should feel free to speak to their faculty if some flexibility is required at WSU or the practicum site. Refer to the following links for additional information and support:

Additional resources:

• Campus Lactation & Wellness Room Locations
• Interactive Campus Lactation Map
• Pregnant and Parenting Student Policies

Shocker Alert

Students should consult the Shocker Alert website for weather‑related university closures. If the university closes, you may NOT attend practicum. Online classes continue as scheduled.

School of Nursing Student Organizations

Student Committee Representation

The School of Nursing recognizes the value of student input. As currently enrolled students, you are welcome to attend undergraduate committee meetings to listen, share your thoughts on agenda topics, or to present questions or concerns that you may have. Notification will be sent to all students prior to undergraduate meetings. Students may attend in-person or remotely.

Kansas Association of Nursing Students (KANS)

KANS is part of a nationwide organization, the National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA). It is the only national organization for students in nursing. NSNA and KANS offer the opportunity to participate now as a change agent and to develop the leadership skills needed as a nurse. NSNA is involved in speaking for all nursing students. NSNA is the students' "voice" in nursing and the healthcare profession. Issues of concern to NSNA include student rights and responsibilities, recruitment of minority students into the field of nursing, instructors' competence, community health activities, and national and state legislation affecting the health care system. There is an annual state and national convention, plus activities on both the state and local levels. Officers at all levels (national, state, and local) are elected each year.

Nurses' Christian Fellowship (NCF)

NCF is the fellowship of nurses and nursing students who are concerned about the spiritual dimensions in the physical and psychosocial aspects of client care. The NCF urges nurses and students to meet for Bible Study, prayer, and fellowship; that they may become more spiritually mature and be better prepared to help their clients.

Epsilon Gamma Chapter-at-Large of Sigma Theta Tau International

Sigma Theta Tau International is the honor society of nursing. Membership in Sigma Theta Tau International is an honor conferred on students in baccalaureate and graduate programs who have demonstrated excellence in their nursing programs.

Membership is by invitation. Undergraduate senior students and graduate students who have completed one-half of their professional classes are eligible. Grade point average, activities in nursing and related fields and leadership potential are considered. Active participation in Chapter activities is expected. The purposes of Sigma Theta Tau International are to:

• Recognize superior achievement.
• Recognize the development of leadership qualities.
• Foster high professional standards.
• Encourage creative work.
• Strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession.

Students in the upper 35% of their class are eligible for membership. Eligible students will receive letters of invitation from the Epsilon Gamma Chapter-at-Large.

College of Health Professions Student Organizations

The College of Health Professions offers multiple student involvement and leadership opportunities at the department, college, and university levels.

• Student Groups and Organizations in CHP
• WSU Student Involvement and Leadership Opportunites

University Services

WSU provides a wide range of student resources. See the “Learner Support Page” for a comprehensive list.

• Office of International Education
• Rhatigan Student Center
• Shocker Career Accelerator
• Office of Financial Aid
• Nursing Scholarship Information

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References

• American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2008). The Essentials of baccalaureate education for professional nursing practice. https://www.aacnnursing.org/essentials/previous-essentials-series 
• American Nurses Association. (2015). Code of ethics for nurses with interpretive statements. Author.
• Benner, P. (1984). From novice to expert: Excellence and power in clinical nursing practice. Addison‑Wesley.
• Brykczynski, K. A. (1985). An interpretive study describing the clinical judgment of nurse practitioners (Doctoral dissertation, University of California, San Francisco).
• Kansas State Board of Nursing. (2025). Nurse practice act. https://ksbn.kansas.gov/NPA/ 
• Rose, D., Espin, S., Purdy, N., Cahuas, D., Mack, K., Fazzari, A., & Sudhai, S. (2024). Evaluating virtual simulation to augment undergraduate nurses' clinical practice. The Journal of Nursing Education, 63(7), 470–477.
• Shea, V. (1994). Core rules of netiquette. Albion Books.
• United States Department of Education. (n.d.). FERPA. https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/ferpa 
• United States Department of Health and Human Services. (2025). Summary of the HIPAA privacy rule. https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/privacy/laws-regulations/index.html 

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