WGU MAP RN Project

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Project Summary

Multi-State Approach to Preparing Registered Nurses (MAP RN)

This project is conceptualized as a University-based, National Nursing Education program, which utilizes competency-based education, distance learning and advanced technology (both computer and clinical technology) to prepare Registered Nurses at the baccalaureate level. Western Governors University (WGU) is developing the program within its Department of Nursing.

The project is a collaborative effort; WGU relies on clinical hospital partners, state workforce agencies and private funders to assist in the development of the education program in 5 states initially with the ultimate goal of a nation-wide program.

Partners:
Cedars Sinai Hospital – Los Angeles, CA
HCA Healthcare Inc. – National clinical partner
Tenet Healthcare – National clinical partner
Kaiser Permanente – National clinical partner
California Labor and Workforce Development Agency – State agency
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation – Private foundation

5-State Rollout:
California, Utah, New Jersey, Texas and Florida are the states identified for the initial rollout. Implementation is expected to commence in California in 2009 and be accomplished in these 5 target states within 3 years.

Accreditation/Approvals:
State Board of Nursing program approval must be accomplished for the program to be initiated in each state. The program will seek accreditation by a national nursing accreditation body as well as the regional academic accrediting body Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). Western Governors University (WGU) is currently accredited by NWCCU and DETC.

Nursing Expertise:
WGU has assembled an impressive cadre of national and state nursing experts who assisted in the development and implementation of an RN to BSN program, Masters in Nursing Education, and Masters in Nursing Leadership and Management. These three existing programs have been in operation at WGU for over a year. WGU is seeking CCNE accreditation for these programs with the reviewer site visit scheduled Fall 2008.

Unique features:
•    Didactic nursing program built on demonstration of competencies rather than time spent in courses.
•    Competencies are built on national standards, the highest level of state regulations across the nation and input from clinical partners who have been key drivers in the design of the program competencies. Quality and Safety are central themes and clinical competencies are built with measureable behaviors.
•    Clinical education redesign utilizing a combination of clinical simulation, clinical coaching and a ‘front-loading of simulated learning experiences that makes in-agency time more effective, efficient and builds student confidence.

News/Announcements

National Advisory Committee to Meet, January 2009 The National Advisory Committee to the MAP RN Project will be meeting in Salt Lake City UT on January 5, 2009 to discuss key issues and provide advice for the ...
Posted Dec 22, 2008 10:16 AM by Valerie Herre
Posted Dec 29, 2008 2:01 PM by Valerie Herre
MAP RN is sponsoring an Introductory reception at the National Magnet Meeting Over 4000 nurses and nursing leaders from around the country will assemble in Salt Lake City in mid October for the National Magnet Conference annual meeting. MAP RN is sponsoring ...
Posted Dec 22, 2008 11:08 AM by Valerie Herre
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Grant Western Governors University Awarded Grant From the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to Address National Nursing Shortage SALT LAKE CITY, UT--(Marketwire - March 31, 2008) - Western Governors University (www.wgu.edu ...
Posted Aug 20, 2008 1:41 PM by Valerie Herre