SON Student Affairs
School of Nursing 2024-2025 Student Handbook
CONTENTS
Select a topic below to jump to a section.
Introduction
Overview of the UMMC SON
History of the UMMC SON
Future of the UMMC SON
Organizational and Administrative Structure
Student Governance
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Institutional Policies, Procedures, and Guidelines
School of Nursing Policies
SON Procedures and Guidelines
Baccalaureate Academic Policies
Baccalaureate Academic Procedures and Guidelines
Graduate Academic Policies
Graduate Academic Procedures and Guidelines
Oxford/Jackson Student Services and Resources
Oxford Student Services and Resources
Jackson Student Services and Resources
SON Student Events
UMMC Student Life and Activities
Awards and Scholarships
Introduction
The Student Handbook is a source of information on the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) School of Nursing (SON) related to policies, procedures, available resources and issues that are of concern to the student academic life. It acts as a complement to the UMMC Bulletin. For Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing students, the Graduate Student Handbook can be accessed on the School of Graduate Studies in Health Sciences (SGSHS) website. As UMMC SON has two instructional sites, the UMMC-Jackson campus and the UMMC-Oxford campus, some information in the Student Handbook is specific to one of the campuses, as outlined.
The Student Handbook is reviewed at least every two years and an electronic copy is available to all students via the UMMC SON website. Students are responsible for using the Student Handbook as a resource when questions arise and as a guide to academic/non-academic policies and procedures. Each student must verify review of the Student Handbook via an attestation in their WorkDay account.
These policies and procedures are subject to change during the academic year. The SON Office of Student Affairs will inform students of any changes via their student email. For any questions related to the content of the UMMC Bulletin or Student Handbook, contact the SON Office of Student Affairs.
Overview of the SON
The UMMC mission and vision define why the organization exists and the hopes for the future.
The UMMC Office of Academic Affairs supports six health professions schools on its main campus in Jackson and successfully graduates roughly 1,000 health care professionals each year.
The mission of the SON is "to develop nurse leaders and improve health within and beyond Mississippi through excellence in education, research, practice and service."
The vision of the SON is "Empowering Nurse Leaders. Transforming Health Care."
The core values of the SON, which are integral to the mission are:
Respect — consideration and thoughtfulness with regard to others
Excellence — the quality of being outstanding and superior
Accountability — responsible to somebody and for something
Diversity — intentional inclusion of psychological, physical and social differences of others
Integrity — steadfastly adhering to principles of professional standards
UMMC integrates diversity and promotes excellence into UMMC’s three mission areas — education, research and health care. We foster a climate of inclusion throughout our workforce and student body, where respect for different points of views, backgrounds, and cultures are seen as strengths that enable the entire academic health center to benefit from each individual’s unique talent and perspective.
UMMC-Jackson Resources
UMMC-Oxford Resources
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing (BSN), the master's degree program in nursing (MSN), the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program and the post-graduate advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) certificate program in nursing at the UMMC are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
History of the UMMC SON
The UMMC SON was authorized as a baccalaureate program by an act of the Mississippi legislature in 1948. Established as the Department of Nursing, it moved to the UMMC campus in Jackson in 1956 and achieved the status of a separate school in 1958. The graduate program in nursing was established in 1970. A PhD in Nursing program began in 1997 and the DNP program began in 2009.
The SON is a professional school functioning within the general framework and policies of the UMMC in Jackson. It reflects the purpose of the UMMC and the parent campus, the University of Mississippi, in its educational services for the State of Mississippi.
The UMMC SON assumes the responsibility for providing the people of Mississippi with registered nurses of high professional competence and for raising the professional and educational standards of the nurses already practicing in Mississippi. The school is located in the Christine L. Oglevee Building. Named for the first dean of the UMMC SON, this building is on the north side of the campus, next to Guyton Research Building.
The UMMC SON shares a 164-acre campus with five other professional schools: the Schools of Medicine, Dentistry, Health Related Professions, Population Health and the SGSHS.
The UMMC SON is affiliated with more than 700 hospitals, community health centers, health departments, private practice and community clinics and schools, affording the students extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in clinical practice and research.
In 2006, collaboration among the UMMC, North Mississippi Medical Center and Baptist Health Systems created an opportunity for the school to open an instructional site on the Oxford campus. In 2006, the UMMC SON began offering the Traditional BSN nursing program on the Oxford campus. Today, students can earn a BSN degree in nursing through the Traditional BSN program or the Accelerated BSN (second degree) program at the Oxford instructional site. The site is located off the University of Mississippi main campus in the South Oxford Center at 2301 South Lamar Boulevard.
Future of the SON
The SON conducts ongoing strategic planning to ensure success in achieving the mission while meeting the demands of a changing environment. A five-year strategic plan was developed in 2023 with input from all faculty and staff. Four strategic priorities were outlined:
- Prepare and sustain a competent nursing workforce to achieve health equity;
- Cultivate an inclusive SON community reflecting the populations we serve to promote health and well-being;
- Strengthen mutually beneficial local to global partnerships for transforming health care;
- Accelerate creative inquiry to advance nursing science with translation for improving health.
Strategic goals are revised annually based on completion and changing needs.
Organizational and Administrative Structure
Dean and Associate Deans
Dean, Dr. Tina Martin
The dean is nominated by the chancellor of the University of Mississippi upon recommendation of the vice chancellor for health affairs and appointed by the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) Board of Trustees. She communicates with the IHL Board of Trustees through the vice chancellor for health affairs. She is responsible to the vice chancellor for the academic and fiscal management of the school's academic programs and the continuing education program.
Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs, Dr. Kristina Cherry
The associate dean for clinical affairs is a member of the SON Executive Council in an advisory capacity. The associate dean is the chief nursing executive at the UMMC. She also serves as a community partner in the Dean’s Advisory Council.
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Dr. Sharon McElwain
Associate Dean for Administration, Dr. Michelle Palokas
Associate Dean for Practice and Partnerships, Dr. Anne Norwood
Associate Dean for Research and Scholarship, Dr. Lei Zhang
Assistant Deans
Accreditation and Evaluation, Dr. Jeanne Calcote
Graduate Programs, Dr. Audwin Fletcher
Undergraduate Programs, Dr. Chelsey Andries
Administration, Oxford Instructional Site, interim, Dr. Kristi Reece
Directors
Academic Technology and Innovation, Dr. Carley Dear
Accelerated BSN Program – Jackson, Dr. Jennifer Hargett
Accelerated BSN Program – Oxford, interim, Dr. Chelsey Andries
Administration and Finance (associate), Sarah Conwell
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Track, Dr. Audwin Fletcher
Business Operations, Sherida Hicks
Clinical Skills and Simulation Labs – Jackson Campus, Dr. Robyn MacSorley
Clinical Skills and Simulation Labs – Oxford Campus, Dr. Amanda Weeks
DNP Program, Dr. Linda Upchurch
Educational Operations, Johnlyn Rogers
Faculty Development and Continuing Education, Dr. Kandy Smith
Family Nurse Practitioner Track, Dr. Derek Holt
Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Track, Dr. Carl Mangum
Neonatal and Acute/Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Tracks, Dr. Amy Carroll
Nursing and Health Care Administrator Track, Dr. Debi Fatherree
Nurse Educator Track, Dr. Kimberly Douglas
PhD in Nursing Program, Dr. Angela Duck
RN to BSN Program, Dr. Jill Clayton
RN to MSN Program, Dr. Tina Ferrell
School Business Administrator, Lisa Vaughan
Student Affairs, Dr. Farrah Evans
Traditional BSN Program-Jackson, Dr. Keyshawnna ‘Nikki’ Lee
Traditional BSN Program-Oxford, Dr. Camille Beals
The dean, associate deans, and assistant deans serve as the executive council of the SON. The associate deans, assistant deans, and directors of the academic programs/tracks oversee the operational activities within the SON and coordinate the academic activities for their respective programs. The director of student affairs oversees student development, student services, and student activities. The director of faculty development and continuing education is administratively responsible for planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of the UMMC SON continuing education activities, and assures adherence to American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Accreditation Program criteria in the provision of continuing nursing education programs across all departments and schools at the medical center. The assistant dean for administration of the Oxford instructional site oversees operations at the Oxford instructional site.
Faculty
Faculty participate in the governance of the school through the faculty organization (FO). Full-time faculty are regular members of FO, and part-time faculty are associate members. Faculty organization meetings (FOMs) are held quarterly. Additionally, full-time faculty serve on SON standing and ad hoc committees, as well as UMMC committees. All faculty in the SON have a specific role from which their teaching, practice, and scholarly activities emerge.
A number of different sources are available for students to communicate with faculty. Each faculty member can be reached via telephone and if not available, a message can be left on voicemail. Additionally, all faculty have email addresses. A faculty directory can be found on the SON website.
Staff
All staff in the SON have a specific role in the support of students and faculty. Staff also support the work of the SON via committee work and activities. A staff directory can be found on the SON website.
SON Office of Student Affairs
The Office of Student Affairs is primarily responsible for acting in a student advocacy role. Additionally, this office is charged with facilitating student learning through coordination of learning resources and other services, and developing and implementing activities to enhance student recruitment and retention. The Office of Student Affairs also serves as a resource to student government within the UMMC SON and coordinates communication of information for students. Visit the Office of Student Affairs webpage to view all members of the Student Affairs team and for more information.
Student Governance
Students participate in the governance of the school by serving as members of certain UMMC SON standing committees, and by serving in student organizations and/or special appointments. As representatives on a variety of UMMC SON committees, students have a voice in the formulation and implementation of decisions regarding policies and procedures.
Undergraduate and graduate students serve on standing faculty committees as non-voting members and other committees as requested by the dean. Students provide valuable feedback to committees and represent their fellow students. Vacant student committee seats are announced to students every fall, and self-nominations are received by the Office of Student Affairs. Students then select their representatives through an election process.
The Dean's Student Advisory Board members at the UMMC SON serve as liaisons to increase communication and awareness between students and the dean's office regarding issues and opportunities, working to ensure programs and processes are meeting student needs. As a member of the advisory board, students discuss policy proposals and provide feedback to the dean with the overall goal of improving the student experience.
Undergraduate Nursing Student Body Constitution
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Students are members of the academic community and are also citizens who enjoy the same freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, and right of petition that all citizens enjoy. Students have the responsibility to know and obey the laws of the United States, the State of Mississippi and local government.
It is the responsibility of the student to follow institutional regulations, policies and established guidelines as stated in this handbook and in the UMMC Bulletin. PhD students are also expected to follow the information presented in the SGSHS Graduate Student Handbook.
A student enrolled in the UMMC SON is expected to:
- Appear and conduct self in a professionally acceptable manner;
- Be cognizant of and adhere to the channels of authority;
- Refrain from any academic or professional dishonesty, for example, cheating and plagiarism in academic assignments;
- Show respect for and be mutually supportive of fellow students, faculty and staff;
- Accept responsibility for reporting to the proper person all errors, omissions in care and incidents of misconduct;
- Regard all information concerning each client as strictly confidential and refrain from discussing this information with any unauthorized individual;
- Show respect and consideration for the client, regardless of race, age, marital status, veteran status, religion, gender, handicap, nationality, or economic status;
- Be guided at all times by concern for the welfare of clients entrusted to one’s care;
- Be guided at all times by moral and ethical behaviors inherent in the profession.
Students are accountable for their behavior at all times. Failure to meet a professional expectation may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the program.
Students are responsible for knowing and using appropriate channels of communication as described in the UMMC Bulletin, in this handbook and for PhD students, the Graduate Student Handbook. Students have the right to freedom from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, handicap, veteran status, marital status or national origin. Students have protection from arbitrary or capricious academic evaluation. Students have the right to be informed, in writing, of the expected behaviors and standards by which they will be evaluated prior to participating in clinical and classroom activities. Students have the right to academic evaluations which are neither prejudiced nor capricious and which are based on stated course requirements.
As constituents of the academic community, students are free, individually or collectively, to voice constructive criticism through identified channels on issues of institutional policy, curriculum and on matters of general interest to the student body without fear of reprisal.
Students have the responsibility to evaluate an instructor’s performance and courses through the established mechanisms. Students have the responsibility for attending student body/class meetings and participating in student body activities. Students have the responsibility for serving on faculty/student committees when asked to do so or to volunteer service when needed.
While under the direct supervision of an instructor, students have the right to adequate safety precautions provided by the UMMC SON. Students also have the right to negotiate participation in clinical situations that they feel are threatening to personal health or life.
Students have the right to expect objectivity in constructive criticism from faculty and the responsibility for rendering the same. Students, individually or collectively, have the right to expect, within a reasonable length of time, feedback concerning all student-related issues presented to the faculty. Students have the right to due process. Policies, established by the faculty, are subject to change as laws and conditions may require. These policies should not be considered final or irrevocable.
Student Honor Code: In 2013, the baccalaureate student body participated in the first signing of the Student Code for Honorable and Professional Behavior. This code was developed by the student leadership groups of the classes graduating between 2011 and 2013, edited and vetted by the student body, formally adopted by the President’s Council in November 2012, and signed by the first group of students in April 2013. Each year, newly admitted undergraduate students participate in a signing ceremony to indicate their commitment to follow the code and to encourage their colleagues to do the same. The Student Code for Honorable and Professional Behavior is as follows:
We, the students of the UMMC SON, create this Code of Honorable and Professional Behavior as a guideline for expected academic, personal, and professional conduct. Each student bears responsibility for his/her own behavior, both on and off the UMMC campus, by adhering to all policies set in place by UMMC and the SON. Based on the American Nurses’ Association Code of Ethics for Nursing, we will show in all circumstances, both professional and social, quality in nursing care and ethical obligation.
It is our purpose to set forth standards of behavior that will serve well in our development of EXCELLENCE in our practice of nursing. The intention of this code is to serve as a foundation for personal honor, morality, order, and the rights of others. It is our goal to provide an environment that fosters and protects free, rational academic inquiry, encouraging DIVERSITY in all its forms, even DIVERSITY of thought. By adhering to this code throughout all aspects of life, we commit to uphold the principle of unselfish devotion for the welfare of others with our words and our actions. We pledge to RESPECT and honor self and all others, including fellow classmates, faculty/staff, all UMMC employees, patients, and visitors, as well as the community. The INTEGRITY of this code is dependent upon individual self-examination, honesty, and ACCOUNTABILITY to ourselves and our fellow students through informal and formal processes. The effectiveness of this code requires support and cooperation by both students and faculty to endorse the spirit of the standards outlined in this Code of Honorable and Professional Behavior.
Standards of Behavior
Academic Integrity
- We, the students of the UMMC SON, believe that in order to obtain the full potential of our education and to properly care for our current and future patients, it is our responsibility to uphold the highest degree of academic integrity and to denounce to the fullest extent any form of academic dishonesty.
- Examples of behaviors inconsistent with academic integrity:
- Memorizing test questions and answers and recording them after a test. Distributing test questions to other classes;
- Using a search engine during computerized testing;
- Falsifying academic or clinical documents. Sharing clinical paperwork unless approved by faculty;
- Cheating of any kind;
- Dishonesty; creating a false excuse to miss a clinical or class requirement;
- Plagiarism, including using pre-written papers and claiming them as your own and not citing sources to make it appear as if it was your own thought or logic;
- Violation of any rules or regulations of UMMC or the SON (course syllabi, Student Handbook, or NSNA Code of Ethics).
Personal Behavior
- We believe that personal behaviors are those actions that fall outside the realm of professional or academic behavior that may be considered a reflection on the school or the profession of nursing. Student obligations include the ongoing obligation to report/disclose any criminal conduct to the SON when it occurs. As students of the UMMC SON, it is our responsibility to achieve and maintain an optimal level of individual integrity and personal morality as set forth by the standards of behavior outlined in this code.
- Examples of behaviors inconsistent with the standards of personal behavior:
- Breaking guidelines set forth in the SON Student Handbook;
- Failure to address a violation of the ethical code;
- Lawlessness (i.e., criminal conduct or disregard for criminal law);
- Slander;
- Taking medications not prescribed to you;
- Recreational drug use;
- Behaviors intended to inflict psychological of physical harm to others or yourself;
- Inappropriate behavior while representing the SON on or off campus.
Professional Behavior
- As members of the nursing profession (in training), we believe that professional behavior shall be upheld in order to build a rapport with peers, administrators, patients and families and to create a safe, ethical environment.
- Students demonstrate professionalism by:
- Dressing in a professional manner;
- Being prepared and organized for class and clinical;
- Being culturally and socially sensitive;
- Maintaining effective communication with all associated parties in the patient care process;
- Upholding guidelines set forth by HIP;
- Being trustworthy.
- Examples of behaviors inconsistent with professionalism:
- Being disrespectful;
- Acting in an uncooperative manner;
- Engaging in discrimination.
Accountability and Responsibility
- Our responsibility to the SON, our patients, our fellow students, and ourselves requires that we do our part to live in accordance with this code and to call ourselves and fellow students to be accountable for any perceived infractions. We recognize that accountability begins with self.
- Integral to this process is the commitment of each student first to self-examination and accountability. Only when we are accountable and responsible for our own behavior can we assist our fellow students in their practice of remaining consistent with this code and the values of our future profession. To overlook an infraction by a fellow student compromises the integrity of this commitment and is an infraction itself.
- In maintaining the integrity of the code, we must first presume the innocence of others, maintain their confidentiality, and allow them to offer an explanation of any perceived infraction.
- When a student is held to account by a peer, should the student admit to an infraction or fail to offer a sufficient explanation for a perceived infraction, the matter will be referred to the Director of Students Affairs to proceed as outlined in the SON Conduct Dismissal Policy.
Institutional Policies, Procedures and Guidelines
Communications and Marketing, Release of Information to Media
Emergency Operations Plan-UMMC
Emergency Resources/Plans-UMMC
Guidelines for Campus Security
Inclement Weather and Emergency Events
Parking and Traffic Rules and Regulations
Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information
Sales, Soliciting, and Fundraising Activity
Smoking and Tobacco Use Policy
Title IX Sexual Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy
Using and Disclosing Patient Information
Wireless Network Security Policy
School of Nursing Policies
General (applies to all students)
Notification of Rights Under FERPA
Student Criminal History Record Check Policy
Insurance Requirements for UMMC Students
Student Insurance Enrollment Information
Student Drug and Alcohol Policy
Drug Usage and Detection Policy
Academic Accommodations Policy
Process for Requesting Academic Accommodation
Remote Proctored Testing Policy
Progression Forgiveness Policy
SON Procedures and Guidelines
General (applies to all students)
Admission and Annual Compliance Requirements: Information regarding compliance requirements will be communicated by each program’s education administrator via email and a Canvas course.
Professional Liability Insurance: Students are required to have student liability insurance in place during clinical, practicum, and residency experiences. Nurse practitioner (NP) students must purchase NP insurance. Several organizations, such as the Nursing Service Organization, offer this type of insurance. NOTE: Students in the MSN, Nursing and Health Care Administrator track and post-graduate DNP students are not required to have liability insurance.
The Technical Standards for Admission, Progression and Graduation (Technical Standards) are an integral component of the SON at the UMMC academic requirements that identify core professional nursing competencies in eight specific domains - critical thinking/cognitive competencies, professional relationships, communication, mobility, motor skills, hearing and visual skills, observation and tactile senses. Nursing students must meet all the requirements of the Technical Standards, with or without reasonable accommodations, in order to successfully progress through and graduate from their respective curricula.
Licensure: All students, except students enrolled in the pre-licensure undergraduate nursing program, are required to hold a current, unrestricted RN license in Mississippi or in one of the Compact States. Verification of a current and unrestricted license is required annually. Students must notify the SON immediately of any licensure restrictions or changes that occur after admission to the SON. Failure to do so in a timely manner may result in dismissal.
IRB Certification: The UMMC SON requires that all students involved in human subjects research complete the Institutional Review Board (IRB) tutorial addressing the protection of human research subjects. Information regarding completion of this requirement is provided by the program office after admission.
Computer and Technical Recommendations: Coursework requires ongoing use of a computer and connection to the Internet. Students must have a computer that meets the requirements below. Chromebooks are not fully supported devices for any program in the SON, as the secure testing platform we use will not work on a Chromebook.
A student’s computer configuration should include:
- Speakers and a microphone (or headphones)
- Webcam (most programs will require an external webcam and microphone)
Hardware Recommendations
- I5 processor 1st generation or greater
- 8GB of RAM or more
- 256 Gigabyte Hard Drive or larger
- USB ports
- Webcam (most programs will require an external webcam and microphone)
- Wi-Fi connection capability
- Printer connection capability (on-site printers available)
Operating System
- Windows 10 or newer OR Mac OS X Big Sur (11.0) or newer Software
- Microsoft Office Suite (provided by the University)
- Examplify, testing platform software (provided by the University) *only applicable to some programs
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (available as a free download)
- Antivirus, recommended – not required
- Google Chrome web browser, recommended – not required
*The Examplify testing software will be downloaded to student devices, if applicable, after beginning the program. Computers must be switched out of S-mode (security setting from the manufacturer) to download Examplify. To ensure the computer meets the minimum system requirements for Examplify, students should visit the vendor’s website which is updated regularly.
Students have badge access to the SON on the Jackson campus. If experiencing trouble with badge access, students should contact the education administrator in the office of the associate dean for academic affairs (A-334). All employees and students should wear their identification badges at all times while on campus and in any other facilities which are operated by the UMMC, or in which the student is engaged in clinical experience. The badge should be worn with the name and photo clearly visible on the front, upper torso affixed to a collar, pocket, lapel, or displayed on a short break-away neck strap close to the face. Only professional pins, department logo pins or service pins may be placed on the badge. However, they should not obscure the name, photo, title or ID number. Students who lose their ID badge should report the loss immediately to Human Resources. A new badge will be issued for a nominal charge.
Orientation: All students must complete orientation prior to attending any course. Failure to attend orientation may result in dismissal from the program. Under extraordinary circumstances, students may be excused from orientation with prior approval from the associate dean for academic affairs. Under such circumstances, a revised orientation plan will be developed.
Course Audit: To audit a course, a student must obtain approval from the course coordinator and the associate dean for academic affairs. The student must pay related tuition, fees, and expenses prior to beginning the course.
Transportation: In order to provide the best learning experiences for students, travel may be required. Students are responsible for providing their own transportation for clinical experiences and for releasing the UMMC and/or affiliated institutions from liability for any accidents in which they may be involved while traveling to and from these clinical experiences. Incident and/or Accident Report: In the event of an incident/accident involving a student:
- The faculty should be notified immediately.
- The student (and preceptor, if applicable) will follow agency guidelines and processes.
Service Learning: All graduate and undergraduate nursing students are expected to complete a minimum of eight service-learning hours per academic year. More information can be found on the SON website and in the student’s Canvas program compliance course.
Written Work and Papers: The required guide for preparation of papers is the most current edition of the American Psychological Association Publication Manual. PhD students who are completing a dissertation should also refer to the SGSHS Student Handbook.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Intellectual honesty is vital to an academic community and for the fair and equitable evaluation of student work. All work submitted in courses must be a student’s own and completed in accordance with the SON Student Honor Code. Students may not engage in unauthorized collaboration or make use of AI-generated text (ex. ChatGPT) for submitted assignments. If you admit or are found to have committed this infraction or perceived infraction, the matter will be referred as outlined in the SON Conduct Dismissal Policy.
Grading: Refer to the UMMC Bulletin. A final letter or Pass/Fail grade will be submitted to the Office of Enrollment Management for each course taken by a student in the SON. Final grades in completed courses will be available from the Office of Enrollment Management at the end of each academic semester and can be viewed by students through their WorkDay account. The associate dean for academic affairs will notify students of any academic concerns after grades are reviewed.
The Office of Enrollment Management reserves the right to withhold grades or transcripts until library books and supplies have been returned and all pending matters resolved with the Office of Student Accounting and the Office of Financial Aid.
Diploma Application: All students must apply for graduation through the student portal in Workday. Students can contact the Office of Enrollment Management for more information, or call (601) 984-1080.
Student Certification for Graduation: A list of students certified to graduate will be sent to the Office of Enrollment Management after semester grades have been reviewed (fall, spring, summer) and the associate dean of academic affairs has verified that the student has met all course and program requirements for graduation.
Commencement: A student who completes all degree requirements is recognized at the annual commencement program held in May. Students are encouraged to attend. Please note: Students enrolled in post-graduate certification programs do not participate in commencement. The Christine L. Oglevee Memorial Award is given at commencement to a senior BSN student who is chosen by the faculty as the most outstanding student in the class. The Richard N. Graves Award is also given at commencement to the advanced standing (RN-BSN) student who is chosen by the faculty as the most outstanding registered nurse student in the class.
Graduation with Honors: Refer to the UMMC Bulletin.
Baccalaureate Academic Policies
Applies to all undergraduate students
SON Pre-licensure Clinical Uniform Policy
SON Undergraduate Standards for Scholastic Performance
SON Pre-licensure Policy on Academic Integrity
SON Examinations Return Policy
Pre-licensure Standardized Testing Policy
SON Progression Forgiveness Policy
Baccalaureate Academic Procedures and Guidelines
Applies to all undergraduate students
The purpose of the baccalaureate program is to prepare nurses for entry-level professional practice and provide a solid foundation for graduate study.
Baccalaureate Program Outcomes:
- Integrate knowledge and skills from the liberal arts, sciences, nursing and other disciplines into professional nursing practice.
- Apply knowledge and skills of organizational and systems leadership, quality improvement and patient safety to improve patient-care outcomes in diverse populations and health care settings.
- Integrate current evidence from nursing research and other credible sources into professional nursing practice.
- Integrate information management and patient-care technologies into the delivery and evaluation of high-quality, safe, patient-centered care in a variety of health care settings.
- Apply knowledge of health care policy, finance and regulatory environments to professional nursing practice.
- Demonstrate effective inter- and intra-professional communication and collaboration skills in the delivery of evidence-based, patient-centered care across health care environments.
- Implement strategies to facilitate health promotion, disease prevention and health restoration of individuals, families and populations across the lifespan.
- Assume accountability for professional values and behaviors.
- Deliver comprehensive patient and population-centered care that reflects baccalaureate generalist nursing practice across the health-illness continuum and health care environments.
A representative from the Mississippi Board of Nursing (BON) may meet with the students during the semester in which the student will graduate to explain the procedure related to applying for licensure. All necessary documents and instructions for completing applications will be provided to the students. Students will be responsible for paying the appropriate fees, and completing and submitting the appropriate forms to the Mississippi BON office. The board may, in its discretion, refuse to accept the application of any person who has been convicted of a criminal offense under any provision of Title 97 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, as now or hereafter amended, or any provision of this chapter.
Graduate Academic Policies
Applies to graduate students including MSN and DNP students
SON Graduate Standards for Scholastic Performance
Graduate Academic Procedures and Guidelines
Applies to graduate students including MSN and DNP students
The purpose of the master's program is to prepare baccalaureate nurses for advanced practice and provide a solid foundation for additional graduate study.
MSN Program Outcomes:
- Apply broad, organizational, patient-centered, ethical, and culturally responsive concepts into daily practice.
- Demonstrate theoretical knowledge from nursing and other disciplines to advanced role practice in nursing for analysis of clinical problems, illness prevention and health-promotion strategies.
- Utilize quality processes to evaluate outcomes of aggregates and monitor trends in health care.
- Analyze the impact of systems on patient outcomes.
- Demonstrate leadership in providing quality, cost-effective care, with management of human, fiscal and physical resources.
- Apply translational research in the practice setting through problem identification, systematic inquiry and continuous improvement processes.
- Utilize current technologies to deliver, enhance and document care across multiple settings to achieve optimal outcomes.
- Articulate change within organizational structures of various health care delivery systems to impact policy, financing and access to quality health care.
- Lead and coordinate interdisciplinary teams across care environments to reduce barriers, facilitate access to care and improve health outcomes.
The purpose of the DNP program is to prepare advanced practice nurses at the highest professional level of nursing practice and to advance the application of nursing knowledge for the purpose of improving health care to diverse populations.
DNP Program Outcomes:
- Develop and manage innovative health services to improve access, quality and health outcomes.
- Enhance the culture of safety in health systems through the application of information technologies and evidenced-based practice.
- Translate practice inquiry to improve health services delivery for diverse populations.
- Provide leadership for multidisciplinary teams through analysis of critical indicators and/or health systems to improve health status.
- Design culturally competent health services for vulnerable populations.
- Translate theoretical knowledge into practice to improve health outcomes.
- Examine, implement and evaluate the modification of evidenced-based health services, health systems and health policies.
- Develop and test new models of care that address the complex health needs of individuals, families and rural populations.
Student Services and Resources (Oxford/Jackson)
Office of Enrollment Management
UMMC Office of Student Financial Services
SON Student Excellence and Resources
UMMC Office of Student Affairs
UMMC Office for Student Success
SON Clinical Skills and Simulation Labs
Self-Service Copying/Printing/Scanning
UMMC Student and Employee Health
UMMC Student Counseling Services
Student Services and Resources (Oxford)
Ole Miss Student Health Services
Ole Miss Police and Campus Safety
Places to Eat - Oxford Instructional Site
Study Spaces:
- Students at the Oxford instructional site have a lounge in NW 1900 at the South Oxford Center for their use. Students have badge access to the building and student lounge 24/7. The space includes couches, tables, chairs, USB charging outlets, and two color televisions with wireless projection capability.
- There is a kitchen adjacent to the lounge space with a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker.
- There is an outdoor courtyard space adjacent to the lounge with a picnic table for student use.
- Students have 24/7 access to a smaller study room located in NW 1853, and there is a larger collaboration space located in NW 1902 with a whiteboard, a color television, and wireless projection capability for information sharing.
Student Services and Resources (Jackson)
Places to Eat - Jackson Campus
UMMC SON Food Pantry: The SON Food Pantry is available near A101. For more information, please contact Tara Rushing at trushing@umc.edu.
Postal Services: A contract station of the United States Post Office (USPS) is located in the basement of the UMMC hospital and offers all standard services. The post office is open from 10:00 a.m. until 4:15 p.m. Monday through Friday. A USPS drop box is located at the main entrance to the University Hospital.
The UMMC SON offers lounges/study areas in several locations.
- Main building, Jackson
- Room A026-02 contains tables and chairs.
- Room A101 is equipped with power outlets, USB charging outlets, and a clear glass board, along with a table and chairs.
- The Student Excellence and Resource Student Lounge in A111 provides a quiet area for studying or meeting.
- There are several tables, chairs, and benches located throughout the building hallways which can be used for relaxing or studying.
- The second-floor mezzanine, A201, has a large table and chairs for collaboration or studying.
- Classroom Wing, Jackson
- On the first floor, CW100 offers a microwave, refrigerator, tables, chairs, and whiteboards. Any student using the microwave is responsible for cleaning up after themselves.
- The second floor, CW216 offers a large open lounge/study area with tables, and chairs.
- The third floor, CW300 and CW309 offers tables, chairs, and whiteboards for collaboration and studying.
- Lactation room: A lactation space is available in CW307 for faculty, staff, and students. Access information in notated on the sign on the door.
- SON Self-Care Lab: A self-care lab located on the third floor, CW310-311, is a dedicated space designed to foster well-being, relaxation, and personal growth as students matriculate through nursing school. The various activities and practices aim to improve students’ mental, emotional, and physical health.
SON Student Events
White Coat and Honor Code Ceremony: Prior to beginning clinical courses, Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, and NP students participate in a White Coat and Honor Code Ceremony. This ceremony signifies the student’s commitment to place human interest, values, and dignity at the core of practice. In addition, the students pledge to uphold the SON Core Values in both clinical and classroom.
Honors Day: A reception to honor UMMC SON students for academic achievement is held each May. Honors Day is organized by the Office of Student Affairs and the Office of Communications and Marketing.
Pinning Ceremony: UMMC SON sponsors a pinning ceremony for all senior Traditional and Accelerated BSN students in good academic standing during the last semester of their program.
UMMC Student Life and Activities
Intramural Sports Program at the Medical Center - Jackson
Intramural Sports Program at the University of Mississippi - Oxford
Associated Student Body (ASB) Special Events: The Associated Student Body sponsors a variety of events throughout the year.
Awards and Scholarships
SON Undergraduate Nursing Scholarships
SON Graduate Nursing Scholarships
DAISY Award for Students and Faculty
Awards and Scholarships: The Office of Student Affairs in conjunction with the UMMC’s Office of Student Financial Aid coordinates the process of awarding scholarships. The Office of Student Affairs provides information and services regarding scholarships, awards, and loans. Scholarships are available at different times throughout the year. When a scholarship becomes available, students are notified of eligibility requirements and the application process via student email and/or Canvas postings.
- The Christine L. Oglevee Memorial Loan Fund and the Nursing Emergency Loan Fund are administered by the Nursing Alumni Office.
- The Thomasson Family Nursing Scholarship, established in 2004, is awarded to a Traditional BSN junior student with demonstrated academic excellence and financial need who plans to work in Mississippi upon graduation. Preference is given to students who have responsibility to care for a young family or who have a family member deployed in the military.
- The Nursing Education Loan/Scholarship Program (NELS) makes scholarships available to BSN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD students who wish to advance their academic status. Applicants must be residents of Mississippi or have resided in the state for at least a year. Loan to service obligation can be discharged on the basis of one year’s service in professional nursing for one year of loan received. Applications are available beginning in January and are awarded on a first-come basis for the following fall.
- The E. H. Sumners Foundation Scholarships were established in 1977 by Mrs. E. H. Sumners of Eupora, MS, to provide scholarship assistance for students from Webster, Montgomery, Attala, Carroll, and Choctaw counties who are enrolled at the UMMC.
- The Alma O. Brothers and Dr. Virginia L. Cora Endowed Scholarship in Nursing, established in 2013 to honor in perpetuity the late Alma O. Brothers, nurse and mother of Dr. Virginia Cora, and Virginia Cora, PhD, UMMC SON alumna and Emeritus Professor, and to provide a scholarship to deserving nursing students at the UMMC. This scholarship is reserved for graduate students in the Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner tracks within the MSN program.
- The L.P. Whitehead Scholarship was established by the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation. These awards are available to Christian female full-time undergraduate, both traditional and advanced standing, students who show evidence of financial need.
- The Helen Reeves Turner, MD, PhD Scholarship, established in 2013, is awarded each year to a deserving student from one of the UMMC schools. The recipient of this award, selected by the dean or her designee, exemplifies Dr. Turner’s outstanding attributes of leadership, education, and service. Students must meet specific scholarship and award criteria and may need to complete an application. Eligibility does not guarantee scholarship or award. Scholarships are awarded as funds allow.
- Mattie D. Jones Clifton Memorial Scholarship Fund was established by Mrs. Clifton’s family in 1987. A native of Raleigh, NC, Mrs. Clifton earned a diploma in nursing at the Mississippi State Charity Hospital Training School for Nurses in 1920. She worked as a registered nurse for a while, then married and left nursing to raise a family. After her husband’s death, she re-entered the field and, from 1955 until her retirement in 1972, was the director of nursing at King’s Daughters Hospital in Yazoo City. Preference for recipients of the Clifton Scholarship is given to older qualified students enrolled in the baccalaureate programs who are seeking to reenter the work force and/or to graduate students in the Nursing and Health Care Administrator Track.
- The Dean’s Scholarship is awarded annually to an incoming doctoral student to recruit individuals who demonstrate distinguished potential for improving the health of Mississippians through nursing at the highest level of scholarship.
- The Leigh Anne Ward and Bobbie G. Ward Endowed Scholarship in Nursing, established in 2011 to honor in perpetuity SON alumna Bobbie G. Ward and her daughter, Leigh Anne Ward, provides financial assistance to deserving students preparing for a career in nursing. It is awarded to a Traditional BSN senior or Accelerated BSN student with an interest in pediatrics or medical-surgical nursing.
- The Jo-Ann McCullar Vandergriff Nursing Scholarship Endowment, established in 2016 by Mr. William and Jo-Ann Vandergriff. This scholarship is awarded to graduate nursing students seeking an MSN with a primary focus in the area of family medical care.
- The Dr. Kaye Bender Endowed Fund provides a scholarship for doctoral nursing students, with a specific focus on population health. Priority is given to PhD students.
- The Regions Bank Scholarship, established in 1968, is awarded annually to a junior Traditional BSN student with excellence in academic, clinical, and overall performance and with documented financial need.
- The Hearin Scholarship Fund, established in 1988, offers full tuition scholarships to outstanding undergraduate students selected on the basis of academic record and documented financial need. This is a service scholarship and requires the student to serve 30 months to five years (depending on length of the scholarship) as a full-time nurse in Mississippi immediately following graduation.
- The Dr. Jeff Hollingsworth Memorial Scholarships are awarded to traditional undergraduate nursing students who are selected on the basis of academic record and have financial need. Preference is given to students from Hinds, Rankin, Madison, and Lauderdale counties.
- The Pearl & Otis Walters Scholarship is presented annually to nursing student(s) with outstanding academic achievement who intend to practice in smaller Mississippi towns and communities.
- The Edwin N. Rubenstein Scholarship, established in 1998, is awarded annually to a senior student who has demonstrated the most overall improvement from the Traditional BSN junior to senior year.
- The Ottilie Schillig Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 1984 through a gift to the Medical Center from the Schillig Trust. Miss Schillig, a native of Port Gibson, was a noted concert singer. At least one scholarship is available each year to an undergraduate student in the SON. All recipients must be in good academic standing, and preference is given to those students who intend to practice in smaller Mississippi towns and communities.
- Vicki Randle Bee Student Nurse of the Year Scholarship was established in 2006 by Alon Bee in memory of his wife, Vicki Randle Bee. The recipient is chosen by fellow Traditional BSN senior students, and selection is based on the individual exhibiting nursing qualities valued by the SON.
- The William Randolph Hearst Endowment Scholarship Fund, established in 2010 by the William Randolph Hearst Foundation, is an endowed scholarship awarded as a recruitment scholarship to an ethnic minority student who is a U.S. citizen and Mississippi resident seeking a traditional undergraduate nursing degree in the SON, who has demonstrated financial need, and has a pre-entry GPA of 3.0 or above. Although a recruitment scholarship, it is awarded upon successful completion of the first semester in the SON.
- The Frances Marie Dean Scholarship in Nursing was established in 2006 by the Estate of Frances Marie Dean. The recipient is a nursing student at UMMC.
- The Jessie Lynn Bidwell Memorial Scholarship was established in 2011 by Josie and Gene Bidwell in memory of their infant daughter. This scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate student who has successfully completed his/her junior year and who exemplifies caring, compassion, and respect for children and their families. The recipient must also be in good academic standing in the SON.
- The Amber M. Arnold Nursing Scholarship was established in 2010 by Amber Arnold. This scholarship is awarded to an undergraduate in the SON who is a single parent, demonstrates financial need, is a Mississippi resident and a citizen of the United States, and who has a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- The UMMC 50th Anniversary Scholarship was established in 2005 and derived from the UMMC "Promises Kept" campaign. This scholarship is centered on academics, character, and performance. It rotates annually among the schools.
- The Laura C. Blair Endowed Scholarship in Nursing was established in 2009 to honor in perpetuity Laura C. Blair, a UMMC alumna, by providing scholarships to nursing students. The recipient must be a U.S. citizen, Mississippi resident, and seeking a nursing degree [any degree] in the SON.
- The Lorea May Honorary Nurse Award was established in 2009 by Dr. Marilyn May Harrington in honor of her mother, Lorea May, who always desired to become a nurse but due to lack of finances was unable to attend nursing school. It is awarded to an African American senior traditional BSN student or an accelerated BSN student who desires to enter the field of pediatrics.
- The Patricia Dyre Kimble Scholarship in Nursing, established in 2008, is an academic scholarship awarded to a student in the SON who demonstrates financial need, is in good academic standing, and has a genuine desire to pursue a rewarding and challenging career in nursing [any degree]. The recipient must be a U.S. citizen and a Mississippi resident.
- The Florence E. King Endowed Scholarship in Nursing, established in 2013, is awarded to a student enrolled in the MSN, Health Care Administrator track. The student must be a U.S. citizen, have financial need, and be pursuing excellence in academic performance. The student awarded must plan to pursue a career in hospital administration immediately upon completion of the MSN degree requirements.
- The Christine L. Oglevee Memorial Award, sponsored by the Nursing Alumni Chapter and the SON, is presented annually at commencement to a graduating senior from the Traditional BSN program who is chosen by the faculty as the most outstanding student in the class.
- The Yvonne Pressgrove Bertolet Award was established in 1986 with a gift from Yvonne and Bob Bertolet of Natchez. Mrs. Bertolet is an alumna of the SON. Traditional BSN junior students or those who have completed the junior year, who are from Mississippi or any other Southern Regional Education Board state, who have a minimum grade point average of 3.50, who actively participate in extracurricular school and campus activities, and who demonstrate qualities of caring and commitment which exemplify the ideal nurse, are eligible for consideration of the scholarship.
- The James T. Baird Memorial Scholarship, established in 2000, offers a full tuition scholarship each year to an undergraduate Accelerated BSN student in the SON. All recipients must be in good academic standing and have financial need. Students must have a commitment to practice in Mississippi.
- The Allie Mae Fletcher Memorial Scholarship Award was established in 2004 in memory of the grandmother of Dr. Audwin B. Fletcher. This book award is presented to a nurse practitioner student who is of African American descent. The recipient must be in good standing and preference is given to those students who intend to practice in smaller Mississippi towns or communities.
- The Bernice M. Gamblin Memorial Scholarship was established in 2007 in memory of Bernice M. Gamblin, the aunt of Dr. LaDonna Northington, Dr. Monica Northington and Hiawatha Northington II. This scholarship is presented to an undergraduate student in good academic standing, with a caring attitude and an interest in working with adult clients with cancer.
- The Richard N. Graves Award is presented at commencement to the registered nurse (RN to BSN) senior who is chosen by the faculty as the most outstanding registered nurse student in the class.
- The Doris W. Gray Award, established in 1985, is awarded annually to the undergraduate student with outstanding performance in maternity nursing as demonstrated by excellence in academic, clinical, and overall performance.
- The Eliza Pillars Registered Nurses Association Annual Award recognizes African American undergraduate nursing student(s) with outstanding academic achievement.
- The Class of 1965 Award, established in 2000, is presented annually to a third-semester Traditional BSN junior or first-semester senior who is full-time, in good academic standing, and demonstrates financial need.
- The Duncan McCormac Memorial Scholarship award, established in 2004, is presented annually to a third-semester Traditional BSN junior or first-year graduate student who is full time, in good academic standing and demonstrates the characteristics most admired in the conduct of the art and science of nursing.
- The TJRD Award, given by alumni of the class of 2013, this award is given to two junior BSN students of ethnic minority, nominated by the undergraduate faculty.
- Dr. Kellie Agueze Empowering Her Award is awarded to a student with a GPA of 3.25 or higher. Preference is given to a single parent from a socioeconomically underrepresented background.
- The Mississippi Blood Services Award is available to a full-time student in the graduate nursing program with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
- The Mississippi Hospital Association Nurse Executive Award, established in 1998, is presented to the graduate student who demonstrates outstanding academic achievement and creativity in developing the nurse executive role in the health delivery system.
- The Bess C. Blackwell Nurse Executive Award, established in 1996, is presented to the graduate student who demonstrates overall excellence as a nurse executive.
- The Bess C. Blackwell Scholarship in Nursing, established in 2008, is presented annually to an undergraduate nursing student who is a member of a group of underrepresented populations. The award is based on GPA, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement on desire to pursue a career in nursing.
- The Rosie Lee Calvin Nurse Educator Award, established in 1996, is presented to the graduate student who displays overall excellence as a nurse educator.
- The Elizabeth Ann Coleman Nurse Clinician Award, established in 1996, is presented to a graduating nurse clinician student with the highest academic GPA and who proves overall excellence as a nurse practitioner.
- The Minta Uzodinma Community Nurse Award, established in 1998, is presented annually to the graduate student who demonstrates outstanding commitment to improve the health of the public.
- The Jay Waits Graduate Student of the Year Award was established in 1986. The SON and the Nursing Alumni Chapter co-sponsor this award and present it annually to a graduate student who, in the judgment of the graduate faculty, exhibits leadership, clinical, and academic excellence.
- The Lippincott Undergraduate Book Award, established in 1998, is presented to an undergraduate student in recognition of scholastic excellence.
- The Lippincott Advanced Standing Book Award, established in 1998, is presented to an advanced standing (RN to BSN) student in recognition of scholastic excellence.
- The Elsevier Science Graduate Book Award, established in 1998, is presented to a graduate student in recognition of scholastic excellence.
- The Elsevier Science Doctoral Book Award, established in 1998, is presented to a doctoral student in recognition of scholastic excellence.
- The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Recognition Award, established in 2001, is presented to the graduating MSN student who demonstrates promise in improving patient care and shows an appreciation for scientific inquiry and an evidence-based approach to natural medicine. This student is one who plans on completing a terminal degree in nursing or a related field.
- The Rene Reeb Research Award, established in 1998, is presented to a doctoral student who is in good academic standing, enrolled in the human experiences health care track (PhD in Nursing), and demonstrates interest in qualitative research.
- The Vicksburg Medical Foundation Scholarship supports students in the Accelerated BSN program. The scholarships are awarded to students who complete the application process and are in need of support, with preference given to eligible applicants from Warren County, Mississippi. Recipients are selected by the SON Scholarship and Awards Committee.
- Sigma Theta Tau Outstanding Academic Performance Awards, established in 1986, are presented annually to a graduate student and undergraduate student in recognition of superior academic achievement, and activities reflecting the purposes of Sigma Theta Tau.
- The UMMC Student Nurses Association Outstanding Student Award is presented to a student who has been active in the MASN and has been a member of the university chapter of MASN for two years.
- Leaders in Service Award, this award is presented to students who have exceeded their service learning requirements and demonstrate extraordinary leadership skills.
- Outstanding Academic Achievement is an award that recognizes students who have achieved a 4.0 GPA during each semester enrolled.
- The Marshal of the Class Award, the selection for Class Marshal for Commencement is based on GPA, commitment and service to senior class, school and university.
- Dean’s List, The Dean’s List is recognition for undergraduate students who demonstrate superior academic achievement. Eligibility is based on successful completion of all required courses in a regular plan of study in the preceding semester in the SON with a semester average of 3.5 or higher.
- The Master Preceptor Award recognizes a preceptor who has demonstrated outstanding performance in her/his role as a preceptor for our nursing students. The preceptor functions as a resource person, facilitator, clinical role model, educator, and consultant to the student. A Master Preceptor is one that has made extraordinary effort to help nursing students bridge the gap between classroom theory and clinical practice. The Master Preceptor functions as a positive professional role model for excellence in nursing.
- DNP Supporter/Award, recognizes a DNP faculty/staff support person who makes significant contributions to DNP students’ learning, growth and success. A DNP supporter is one who consistently encourages, advises, and/or mentors DNP students, models professional behaviors, and promotes evidence-based practice changes led by the DNP.