Oncology

The Oncology Nurse Practitioner Subspecialty Program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive care to oncology patients. Students gain the skills needed to address both the physical and psychosocial needs of individuals with cancer and their families throughout the entire illness trajectory.

Students completing this program will:

• Perform cancer risk assessments for diverse populations including the general population, high-risk individuals, and cancer survivors.
• Develop skills in diagnosis and management of common cancers, including critical thinking, differential diagnosis, and interpretation of data.
• Perform assessments of patients with cancer that include an evaluation of manifestations and toxicities related to cancer and its treatment.
• Use evidence-based practice guidelines to guide prevention strategies, screening activities, and health promotion.
• Assist patients and families in coping with the illness and its potential or expected outcomes.
• Coordinate palliative and end of life care in collaboration with patients, families, caregivers, and members of the multidisciplinary health care team.
• Assess actual or potential late effects of cancer and its treatment, including secondary cancers, as well as cardiomyopathy and pulmonary dysfunction in cancer survivors.

The Oncology Nurse Practitioner Program prepares students to excel as advanced practice nurses in a variety of primary and acute settings, including comprehensive cancer centers, community hospitals, ambulatory clinics, private practice, palliative care settings, and hospice. Students in an adult population focus for their full-time programs are prepared to pursue certification as an Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC), upon completion of required clinical hours.

Curriculum

For students who hold an undergraduate degree in nursing and master’s students in family, pediatric, acute care, or psychiatric/mental health primary care NP programs:

• Students will complete all coursework for the primary specialty as well as specialized oncology coursework.
• Students will have an optional clinical placement in an oncology setting.
• The Oncology Nurse Practitioner subspecialty requires students choose between the adult or pediatric oncology track.

Oncology Curriculum

• N6740 - Principles and Practice of Oncology I 2 credits
• N6890 - Principles and Practice of Oncology II 2 credits
• N8750 - Cancer Symptom Management 2 credits
• N8751 - Practicum for Cancer Symptom Management 1 credit