Advanced Public Health Nurse Track

The Advanced Public Health Nurse Track at the University of North Dakota offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to prepare experienced registered nurses for leadership roles in public health practice. This program emphasizes the development of advanced competencies in health promotion, disease prevention, and community health management, equipping graduates with the skills necessary to address complex public health challenges in diverse populations. Through a combination of coursework, practical field experiences, and research opportunities, students gain a deep understanding of epidemiology, health policy, program planning, and data analysis. The track is tailored for nurses seeking to expand their impact beyond direct patient care and assume roles in health education, policy advocacy, program development, and administrative leadership within public health agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community-based initiatives. The curriculum integrates evidence-based practice with innovative approaches to health promotion, fostering critical thinking and strategic decision-making skills. Students benefit from faculty expertise in population health, health disparities, and healthcare systems, as well as collaborative projects that enhance their professional network. The program also encourages engagement with community partners to implement real-world solutions that improve health outcomes. Upon completion of the Advanced Public Health Nurse Track, graduates are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to public health initiatives, influence health policy, and drive sustainable improvements in community well-being. With flexible delivery options, including online coursework, the program accommodates working professionals seeking to advance their careers while maintaining their current employment commitments. This advanced degree opens pathways to leadership positions, policy development, and specialized public health roles, making it an ideal stepping stone for nurses committed to making a positive difference in public health.

The Advanced Public Health Nurse Track at the University of North Dakota is a comprehensive graduate program designed to prepare registered nurses for leadership roles in public health practice. This program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, equipping students with the skills necessary to improve community health outcomes, develop health policies, and promote health equity. Throughout the program, students delve into core areas such as epidemiology, environmental health, health promotion, and disease prevention, enabling them to address complex health issues at the population level. The curriculum emphasizes the development of advanced nursing competencies, including community assessment, program planning and evaluation, and health advocacy.

Students have opportunities for experiential learning through internships, community-based projects, and collaborations with public health organizations. The program prepares graduates to work in diverse settings such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare systems, and academic institutions. Emphasis is placed on leadership and policy development, empowering students to influence health systems and advocate for vulnerable populations. The track also incorporates current trends and innovations in public health, such as using data analytics and technology to enhance health interventions and policy decisions.

Designed for licensed registered nurses seeking to expand their expertise, the Advanced Public Health Nurse Track provides a pathway toward roles such as public health nurse, community health director, or health policy advisor. Graduates will acquire the necessary skills to assess community health needs, develop collaborative health programs, and lead initiatives that foster healthier communities. With flexible pathways including online coursework and on-campus practicums, the program accommodates working professionals seeking to advance their careers in public health. Upon completion, students earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with specialization in Public Health Nursing, positioning them as key contributors to the health and well-being of populations locally and globally.

Program Requirements:

The Advanced Public Health Nurse (APHN) Track at the University of North Dakota is designed for registered nurses seeking to expand their expertise in public health leadership, program development, and community health practice. Applicants must hold a current, valid nursing license to practice as a registered nurse (RN) in the United States or an equivalent national licensing authority. A minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution is required for admission. Candidates are expected to demonstrate relevant clinical experience in public health or community health settings, typically at least one year of professional practice.

Applicants must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, evidencing academic achievement and completion of prerequisite coursework. The program may require prerequisite courses in biostatistics, epidemiology, community health nursing, and health policy if not already completed during prior studies. A resume or curriculum vitae outlining professional experience, certifications, and relevant skills must be included.

Letters of recommendation from professional or academic references are usually necessary, highlighting the applicant's capacity for advanced practice, leadership abilities, and commitment to public health. A personal statement or letter of intent that explains motivation for advanced public health nursing, career goals, and how the program aligns with these objectives is also typically required. For international students, TOEFL or IELTS scores may be necessary to demonstrate English proficiency.

Applicants may also need to undergo an interview process as part of the admissions assessment. The program may set specific criteria for admission, including a minimum GPA (e.g., 3.0 on a 4.0 scale), although exceptions can be considered on a case-by-case basis. Once admitted, students are expected to complete a series of coursework covering epidemiology, health promotion, leadership, healthcare policy, and research methods pertinent to public health nursing.

Clinical practica or community-based projects are integral parts of the curriculum, requiring students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Students must adhere to the university’s ethical standards, maintain current CPR certification, and meet immunization requirements as stipulated for clinical placements. Successful completion of the program will typically involve passing intensive coursework, participating in community health assessments, and completing a capstone project or thesis demonstrating mastery of advanced public health nursing concepts.

Financing for the Advanced Public Health Nurse Track at the University of North Dakota is designed to accommodate a diverse student body by offering a variety of funding options. Students may be eligible for a range of financial supports, including federal and state financial aid, scholarships, assistantships, and loans. The university encourages prospective students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal grants such as the Pell Grant, which can substantially offset the cost of tuition and related expenses. Additionally, UND offers numerous scholarships specifically for graduate students pursuing advanced nursing degrees; these scholarships are often competitive and based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need.

Graduate assistantships are another important form of financial support. These positions typically provide a stipend and may include coverage of tuition costs in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative duties. Applicants interested in assistantships should contact the College of Nursing and Professional Disciplines for detailed information on available opportunities and application procedures. External funding sources, such as professional nursing organizations and healthcare foundations, also offer scholarships and grants to students in advanced practice tracks. Students are advised to research and apply early to maximize their chances of receiving financial aid.

The university maintains a transparent and accessible process for estimating costs and registering for financial aid. All enrolled students are encouraged to meet with UND’s financial aid advisors to develop a comprehensive plan that fits their individual circumstances. Payment plans may be available to help manage tuition payments over time. It is important for students to also consider additional costs related to coursework, including books, supplies, and clinical requirements, and explore available resources to support these expenses. Overall, the University of North Dakota strives to ensure that financial barriers are minimized, allowing students to focus on their advanced education and career goals in public health nursing.

The Advanced Public Health Nurse Track at the University of North Dakota is a specialized program designed for registered nurses seeking to expand their expertise in public health nursing practice. This program emphasizes the development of advanced skills in community health assessment, program planning, policy development, and leadership in healthcare settings. Students are prepared to work in diverse environments such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, and healthcare institutions to promote health equity and improve population health outcomes.

The curriculum typically includes courses in epidemiology, health policy, nursing leadership, and community health nursing theories, alongside practical field experiences. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world public health challenges, fostering competencies in program development, health promotion strategies, and health disparities reduction. The program also offers opportunities for project management, data analysis, and interprofessional collaboration, which are essential skills for future public health leaders.

Students are often required to complete clinical practicums in community-based settings, where they work alongside public health professionals and community members to implement health initiatives. The track aims to prepare graduates for roles such as public health nurse consultants, community health workers, infection control specialists, or policy advocates. Graduates of the program are equipped to influence health policy, promote evidence-based practices, and address emerging public health issues such as infectious disease outbreaks and chronic disease prevention.

The program is designed to be flexible to accommodate working professionals, often offering evening or online courses. Admission requirements generally include an active RN license, a bachelor's degree in nursing, and relevant clinical experience. Upon completion, graduates receive a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a focus on Advanced Public Health Nursing, qualifying them for advanced practice roles and leadership positions within public health systems.

The University of North Dakota’s emphasis on community engagement and health equity aligns with national public health priorities. Faculty members are experienced professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom and fieldwork. The program's integration of research, policy, and practice ensures that students are prepared to meet the complex health needs of diverse populations. Overall, the Advanced Public Health Nurse Track offers a comprehensive pathway for registered nurses committed to advancing public health and making a difference at the community and policy levels.