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Research

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Meet the Associate Dean for Administration and Research

Dr. Rodney Hicks, PHD, APRN, FNAP, FAANP, FAAN has nearly 30 years of nursing experience, ranging from staff nurse in critical care through nursing administration, to nurse researcher, to nurse educator. As an educator, Dr. Hicks has worked extensively with MSN and Doctoral students. Dr. Hicks holds national certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and dual recognition as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and a Fellow of the American Academy of Nurses.

Dr. Hicks spent 8 ½ years as a researcher with the United States Pharmacopeia where he studied the many causes of medication errors. His work has influenced many advances for patient safety and has been included in works by Joint Commission, The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, AORN, ASPAN. Dr. Hicks has more than $20 million in external funding and has published more than 200 articles.
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Nurse Scientist Careers: Where Research Meets Reality

Nurse scientists are trained and immersed in the science, principles, and practice of nursing in a multifaceted, multidimensional way. They are knowledgeable and experienced in research, evidence-based practice, and the different theories of nursing. They apply their deep and diverse expertise to help design, implement, and evaluate new nursing interventions that promote improved health and happiness for patients, health care professionals, and their surrounding communities.

Their work includes spearheading research studies to develop new evidence-based practices. This requires viewing on-the-ground realities through a particular lens. They must combine compassion and intense engagement with their work and sufficient higher-level awareness and analysis to see – and help redraw – the bigger picture.

The College of Graduate Nursing offers a variety of degree programs for those interested in the science of improvement. These include a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These programs are designed to give students the knowledge and skills they need to become successful change agents. The curricula focus on evidence-based practice, research, publication, and leadership.

Grant Opportunities For Learners

At the College of Graduate Nursing, we believe that investing in nursing education, research, and practice is essential for improving healthcare outcomes and advancing the nursing profession. Through grants, we are proud to support the aspirations of our students becoming an integral part of the nursing community as they strive for excellence in patient care, scholarship, and leadership.