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Curriculum

Below is the course of study for the Adult Oncology Specialist Certificate. We also provide a sample plan of study for students.

Theory courses (2 course units):

NURS6640
Advanced Practice Nursing for Oncology Care

Students are introduced to cancer epidemiology and pathophysiology, cancer genetics, prevention, risk assessment and reduction for specific cancers, screening techniques, diagnostic procedures and criteria, and local and systemic therapies used to treat cancer. The influence of individual characteristics on health promotion, health behaviors, population cancer risk, and cancer detection are explored in the context of biological, psychological, socioeconomic and sociocultural factors across age groups from adolescents to older adults. Evidence-based practice guidelines and research are applied to promote healthy lifestyles, monitor cancer risk, address psychosocial issues, facilitate access to care, and reduce health care disparities for populations at risk and diagnosed with cancer, and cancer survivors.

NURS6660
Effects of Cancer and Cancer Therapy

Principles of cancer treatment, associated responses and symptom management are presented. Emphasis is on the development of advanced clinical decision making skills in identifying multiple alterations resulting from cancer and cancer therapy.

Clinical courses (1 course units):

NURS6670
Oncology Nursing: Assessment, Diagnosis, & Cancer Management

Emphasis is on the application of critical thinking and diagnostic reasoning skills in advanced clinical decision making. Students access, diagnose, and manage the care of oncology patients with a variety of cancers. The delivery of care and evaluation of role effectiveness within the health care system are examined.