“When looking at what seemed to be the two main paths – nurse practitioner versus leadership role, I felt that leadership better fit with what my strengths were and what I wanted to do.”
This reflection led Lisk to the Master of Science in Nursing, Clinical Nurse Leader (MSN-CNL) program at the University of Iowa College of Nursing and to her current position as a clinical practice leader at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics (UIHC).
The CNL role was created by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing in the early 2000s to educate frontline nursing leaders, addressing a national need for improved quality and safety through leadership. "The CNL role is that of an advanced generalist in a microsystem, meaning that it provides breadth rather than specialization at the point of care,” says Patricia Groves, PhD, RN, College of Nursing associate professor and director of the MSN-CNL program. “Most importantly, the program has been shown to improve outcomes for both patient care and the patient care environment."
In addition to completing coursework designed to help build their confidence and competency in clinical leadership, students complete a practice experience at their worksite where they observe and interact with a nursing leader. Students also complete a Capstone Clinical Immersion where they practice their skills while they complete a quality improvement project to address a problem at their clinical worksite.
While enrolled in the program, students are surrounded by resources to help them succeed. Each student works with an adviser throughout the program to maximize their individual experience in their courses, practice experience, and capstone clinical immersion. They are also given professional coaching and mentoring as they explore future leadership opportunities.
"I thoroughly enjoyed the program and found each course helpful in different ways," says Olivia Wulf (19BSN, 23MSN), a nurse manager at UIHC. "Even if you aren't sure how you will use the degree, the program is well-designed to make you a better nursing professional who can advocate for the profession and patients."
"If you are looking for something further – whether that be expanding on your role as a nurse or wanting to do leadership- this is a great program and start," Lisk remarks. "You can do a lot with this program and degree."
To learn more about the program, attend the MSN-CNL info sessions held on Wednesday, May 29. If you are unable to attend and wish to learn more, please contact graduate student services.