Academic Concentrations

BSMCON allows students to customize their nursing education experience through the option to select an academic concentration. An academic concentration is a structured plan of study in a specific area of educational emphasis within the field of nursing. This is an option for students starting with the Fall 2021 semester but is not required. If a student chooses to declare a concentration, they will choose courses and experiences that support the degree and concentration requirements. Students can select one academic concentration in which they choose two upper-level general education and one nursing elective from within the concentrations approved list of courses. Declaring multiple academic concentration is not an option for students at this time. Students will then add one additional page to the e-portfolio submitted in the final semester to demonstrate their mastery of the concentration’s learning outcomes. Academic Concentrations prepare students to assume complex roles in a variety of settings by integrating the professional practice of nursing with specialty-focused coursework.

Global Health and Well-Being Academic Concentration

The Global Health and Well-Being Academic Concentration fosters the student’s deep understanding and appreciation of the potential for health and wholeness for individuals and populations. Nurses have a unique position to facilitate health which is viewed as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” (WHO, 1948). The concentration is rooted in the belief that all human beings have the right to improve their health. Facilitating the improvement of health requires a respect for human dignity that upholds all life as sacred, transcending national borders, ability to pay, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, and cultural differences. Within this concentration students will have the opportunity to explore disease states of individuals and populations to expand their perspectives and their understanding of methods to facilitate and support others' journey to health and well-being.

World Health Organization (WHO). (1948). Preamble to the constitution of WHO.  https://www.who.int/about/who-we-are/ frequently-asked-questions

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate a deep understanding of the similarities and differences in the care of individuals and populations
• Synthesize strategies to support health and well-being of individuals and populations while maintaining respect for human dignity and cultural differences.

This concentration may be of interest to students who wish to learn more about supporting overall health and well-being or considering future roles in: global health, population health, community health, care management, wellness, or nurse practitioner. 

JeanMarie Digges, MSN, RN

804-627-5406

Jean_Digges@bshsi.org

Compassionate Care Academic Concentration

The Compassionate Care Academic Concentration facilitates the student’s exploration of their own beliefs and values and how that informs and impacts the care they provide. The concentration seeks to broaden the student’s world view through exploring the perspectives of others. Compassionate care is serving others first with mercy and tenderness while recognizing that “being with” is as important as “doing for.” Within this academic concentration, students will cultivate their call to become compassionate servant leaders that nurture the growth and well-being of others.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate a deep understanding of compassionate servant leadership through broadening of personal world view.
• Synthesize strategies to serve from a place of authentically being with others. 

This concentration may be of interest to students who wish to learn more about including compassion and service to their nursing practice or are considering future roles in: hospice care, palliative care, or ministry.

Kaitlin Chidley, MSN, RN

804-627-5418

Kaitlin_Chidley@bshsi.org

Foundational Leadership Academic Concentration

The Foundational Leadership Academic Concentration allows students to build their awareness, talents, and abilities to purposefully contribute and lead in a complex world. The concentration is rooted in the belief that all individuals are influential leaders regardless of their role or job title. Foundational Leadership is understanding the role of truth, humility, and intention in creating genuine interactions to make a meaningful impact. The ability to apply this influence will allow students to be positive change agents in their community, profession, and personal lives.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate a deep understanding of how to engage with others and productively use one’s own influence within groups.
• Synthesize strategies to lead from a place of humility that respects and seeks input from all stakeholders.

This concentration may be of interest to students who wish to learn more about how to lead from any role within the healthcare environment or are considering future roles in: nursing administration, clinical leadership, or nursing entrepreneurship.

Angela Shibley, MSN, RN

804-627-5378

Angela_Shibley@bshsi.org

To learn more about Academic Concentrations, please contact your academic advisor or the Faculty mentor associated with your desired concentration. You can declare concentrations during Fall and Spring Term advising periods.