Division of Health Sciences and Post-Licensure Nursing

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Area of Associate of Science in Radiography

Accreditation

The Associate of Science in Radiography (ASR) Program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).

The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology
20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850
Chicago, IL 60606-3182
(312) 704-5300
www.jrcert.org
mail@jrcert.org

JRCERT Approved Clinical Settings

ASR students obtain their clinical education through Mercy including the following clinical sites: Mercy Hospital Springfield, Mercy Orthopedic Hospital, Mercy Clinic Branson, Mercy Clinic Bolivar, Mercy Hospital Aurora, Mercy Clinic National (Smith-Glynn-Callaway), Mercy Clinic Montclair Imaging, and Mercy Clinic Nixa. Clinical rotation schedules include days and evenings and are subject to change.

Admission to the ASR Program

1. The student must be admitted to Southwest Baptist University (SBU). Admission to the University does not guarantee admission to the ASR program. Application for admission to SBU also serves as the application for admission to the ASR program.
2. In addition, to be considered for admission to the ASR program, the following must be met:
   1. Prerequisite courses: College Chemistry (4 credit hours)/or General Physics (4 Hours), Anatomy and Physiology (8 credit hours total), English Composition (3 credit hours), Psychology (3 credit hours), Algebraic Reasoning and Modeling (3 credit hours);
   2. Prior college credit:
      1. Minimum of C in all courses required for the ASR program
      2. Minimum of 2.7 cumulative GPA in all college courses.
      3. Minimum of 2.7 cumulative GPA in all ASR prerequisite courses.
3. Schedule a meeting with an admissions office representative.
4. Meet with an academic advisor for course planning.
5. The ASR program application deadline is January 25th of the same year as the program start date. Only one cohort per year is accepted into the program with the start date in the Fall (August).
6. Students accepted into the ASR program are required to submit the following within the designated time limits: background check, drug screen, and immunization record for admission.
7. Once a candidate has been notified of acceptance into the ASR Program, a nonrefundable deposit may be required to secure the canidate’s space in the program. 

ASR Program Selection

1. Admission to the ASR program is selective with a limited number of students accepted into the program each year. Selection of students will be based on the admission criteria and space available.
2. Prerequisite courses may be in progress at the time of application but must be completed prior to the beginning of the first ASR class. Preference is given to qualified applicants who have completed the prerequisites by the application deadline.
3. When applicants meet minimum qualifications, admission decisions will be made based on such factors as cummulative GPA, prerequisite GPA, and previous application. Special consideration will be given to students enrolled at SBU, students who have completed their prerequisite courses at SBU, and qualified applicants who have submitted previous or early applications. Admission into the ASR program is offered to the highest-ranking candidates in the applicant pool. 
4. Admission to the ASR program is contingent upon an acceptable background check, drug screen, and an immunization record. ASR students will be required to attend a College of Health Professions campus orientation prior to beginning the program or prior to the beginning of Clinical Education I.
5. Students desiring to transfer into the ASR program from another accredited radiography program will be considered on an individual basis and must follow the application procedure. In addition, the following will need to be submitted: Radiography program transcript, clinical experience records and evaluations, and a letter from the Program Director.

*Admission criteria are subject to change.

Functional Abilities Necessary for Participation in the Radiography Program

The ASR Program prepares the student as an entry level radiographer. Applicants must demonstrate physical, emotional and mental well-being which will permit them to successfully perform the essential tasks of a Radiologic Technologist. The essential tasks of a Radiologic Technologist include, but are not limited to:

1. Having sufficient strength, motor coordination, and manual dexterity to:
   1. Move, manipulate, and adjust a variety of x-ray equipment, including mobile and other accessory equipment, in order to align the patient, x-ray equipment, and image receptor.
   2. Lift, move, and transport patients from wheelchairs or carts to the x-ray table or the patient’s bed. Assist weak ambulatory patients to the restroom, dressing room, or exam room.
   3. Communicate effectively with patients and their families in all aspects of their care.
   4. Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, with physicians, staff members, and instructors.
2. Being capable of:
   1. Standing and walking a majority of the time during assigned hours.
   2. Giving physical and emotional support to the patient during radiographic procedures. Recognizing emergency situations and providing emergency care until the physician arrives.
   3. Adapting to stressful situations related to technical and procedural standards and patient care situations.
3. Having mental, visual, and intellectual capacity to:
   1. Evaluate and critique images to identify proper patient identification, positioning, exposure factors, and technical diagnostic quality.
   2. Select, calculate, and manipulate exposure factors adapting to the requirements of the procedure and patient’s needs with sufficient speed and accuracy.

ASR Program Student Learning Outcomes

Goal 1:  Students will be clinically competent. 

Student Learning Outcomes: 

1. Students will demonstrate correct positioning skills. 

2. Students will acquire diagnostic Images. 

Goal 2:  Students will apply critical thinking and problem solving skills. 

Student Learning Outcomes: 

1. Students will analyze radiologic images. 

2. Students will perform non-routine procedures. 

Goal 3: Students will exhibit professional practice. 

Student Learning Outcomes: 

1. Students will demonstrate professional behavior. 

2. Students will model servant leadership. 

Goal 4: Students will communicate effectively. 

Student Learning Outcomes: 

1. Students will communicate effectively with patients. 

2. Students will demonstrate oral communication skills. 

ASR Program Effectiveness Outcomes: 

1. Graduates will pass the ARRT national certification exam on the 1st attempt. 

2. Of those seeking employment, graduates will find employment within 12 months post- graduation.  

3. Students will complete the program. 

4. Graduates will be satisfied with the program. 

5. Employers will be satisfied with the graduates. 

Program Progression

Students are required to complete the ASR program according to the full-time course schedule. General education and graduation required courses may be completed before the designated course sequence, but not later. To successfully progress through the ASR program, students must achieve a grade of “C” or better in each course completed during the full-time course schedule (RAD prefix and general education courses). Since students’ progress through the ASR program as a cohort, core program courses (those with a RAD prefix) may not be repeated while maintaining progression with their intial cohort. 

Area of Associate of Science in Health Sciences (ASHS)

The Associate of Science in Health Sciences (ASHS) program at Southwest Baptist University is designed to provide students with a foundation in health-related fields, preparing them for entry-level positions in healthcare or further education in specialized health programs. This online, interdisciplinary program emphasizes core sciences, healthcare principles, and essential skills needed to meet the growing demands of the healthcare industry. Courses cover fundamental topics such as anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, ensuring students gain knowledge applicable to diverse healthcare careers.

Graduates of the program are prepared for roles such as medical assistants, patient care technicians, or administrative support in healthcare settings, or for continued study in advanced programs like nursing or allied health professions. This program is ideal for those seeking to combine compassion with scientific knowledge to impact individual and community health.

Admission Policy, A.S. in Health Sciences*

1. Complete an SBU application. 
2. Provide copies of current professional license certification (if applicable), along with official transcripts of all college courses.

*Admission criteria are subject to change.

ASHS Program Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Foundational Knowledge of Healthcare: Acquire essential knowledge of anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and healthcare to support effective entry into the healthcare workforce.
2. Communication Skills: Demonstrate effective communication in varied formats to convey information clearly and collaborate with others in a healthcare setting.
3. Critical Thinking and Adaptability: Exhibit the ability to understand and evaluate information, make informed decisions, and adapt to the dynamic nature of the healthcare industry.
4. Cultural Engagement and Ethical Conduct: Demonstrate respect for diverse cultural perspectives and apply ethical principles in all aspects of healthcare practice, guided by a biblical worldview of compassion and service.

Graduation Policy, A.S. and/or B.S. in Health Sciences

All degree candidates must meet the graduation requirements of the University. For graduation, students must have an overall 2.00 GPA. Participation in outcome assessment activities is a graduation requirement. Failure to do so will result in withholding diploma until these are completed.

Area of Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN)

The Mercy College of Health Professions offers a Registered Nurse Degree Completion Program and allows current ASN students (Junior-Senior level) to apply for concurrent enrollment leading to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The R.N.-to-B.S.N. program is a web-based program. Degree candidates must be registered nurse graduates from an associate degree program or a graduate of diploma program to be formally accepted into the Mercy College of Health Professions. All degree candidates are required to complete general education requirements as well as the major requirements listed below. Note: An associate degree in a professional program (such as A.A.S.N. or A.S.N.) does not satisfy the general education requirements.

Lower Division Nursing (30-40 credit hours)

Hours of lower division credit will be awarded toward the major requirements for students from an accredited Associate of Science in Nursing, Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, or diploma program. These hours will only be credited toward the RN-BSN degree. Students from diploma programs will be considered for admission.

Admission Policy, RN-BSN

In addition to admission to the University, applicants must complete the following for acceptance into the RN-BSN degree program.

• Apply to SBU.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. Students with a GPA less than 2.5 will be considered for conditional admittance into the RN-BSN program at the discretion of the Health Sciences & Post-Licensure Nursing Division Head.
• Applicants who have attended SBU in the past but have a break of one year or longer in enrollment must reapply to SBU.
• Records and/or requirements must be submitted:
  • Current unencumbered RN license in the state of residence/employment. Education regulations of the National Council of State Authorization for Distance Education may prohibit acceptance of applicants from certain states. See www.nc-sara.org for further details regarding states that are impacted.
  • Current BLS certification
  • Photo ID/driver’s license
• Students accepted into the RN-BSN program are required to submit the following within the designated time limits (full admission into the program is contingent upon negative drug screen, acceptable background check, and immunizations):
  • Background screening
  • Drug screening
  • Immunization record (Covid, Tdap, TB, Varicella, MMR, annual influenza, Hepatitis B series). Immunizations are subject to change. 

Malpractice insurance is provided to all students upon admission to the RN-BSN program, to protect the student and the University when the student is serving in a nursing capacity for any school-related project or fulfilling required practice experience hours.

All admissions are provisional until the required information is received. Admission criteria subject to change.

Unlicensed new graduates must provide an anticipated date for taking NCLEX-RN®. Following successful completion of the NCLEX-RN® examination, licensure must be verified.

Admission Policy, Concurrently Enrolled Students

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
• ASN students may take designated RN-BSN courses during the ASN program. Students may take up to six credit hours per semester. Greater than six credit hours must be approved by the Division Head or Dean of the College of Health Professions. 
• The RN-BSN courses excluded from concurrent enrollment are: 
  • NUR 4404 Community Health  
  • NUR 4443 Capstone     

Dual Enrolled Students

RN-BSN students maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or greater in their final year of the RN-BSN program are eligible to dual enroll in six (6) upper level MSN NUR hours. These hours will count for undergraduate RN-BSN and MSN graduation requirements. Dual enrollment gives students the option to start their graduate nursing degree early.

Practice Experience Requirements

Courses including practice experiences, may require additional documents by agencies or course faculty. Failure to provide requested documentation will result in the student not being allowed to participate in the course.

RN-BSN Completion Program End of Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the baccalaureate of nursing program, the graduate will:

1. Patient-Centered Care (PCC): Provides compassionate patient-centered care in full partnership with the patient and family, recognizing the patient’s preferences, values, and needs across the healthcare continuum.
2. Safety (S): Utilizes clinical judgment and a systems level approach to maintain safety in the health care environment.
3. Teamwork and Collaboration (T&C): Demonstrates effective collaboration within inter-professional teams using leadership principles that foster open communication, mutual respect, and shared decision making to achieve quality patient care.
4. Professionalism (P): Exhibits professionalism within the standards of practice and ethical guidelines that reflect integrity, leadership, and advocacy for diverse patients within the family and community. 
5. Evidence-Based Practice (EBP): Utilizes information management, evidence-based practice, and quality improvement to provide safe, quality care to patients across the lifespan.
6. Servant Leadership (SL): Exemplifies servant leadership by facilitating the health, well-being and growth of those served through personal integrity, shared values and service. 

   Area of Bachelor of Science in Health Administration (120 hours) 

   The College of Health Professions offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Administration. The Bachelor of Science in Health Administration (BSHA) is a degree program for a student interested in pursuing a degree in healthcare administration. The BSHA also offers students the opportunity to enroll in accelerated master’s classes for the Master of Business with Health Care Emphasis. Students completing the BSHS program must meet all general education requirements of the University. A minimum of 75% (C) is required to pass all HSC major courses.

   Admission Policy, B.S. in Health Administration

   Applicants must complete SBU application and provide official transcripts of all college courses.

   BSHA Program Level Student Learning Outcomes

   1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare system: analyze and evaluate the structure, functions, and dynamics of the healthcare system, including its various stakeholders, policies, and regulations.

    2. Apply business and management principles to healthcare settings: apply fundamental business and management principles, such as finance, marketing, human resources, and organizational behavior, to effectively manage healthcare organizations and improve operational efficiency.

    3. Develop leadership skills for healthcare administration: demonstrate effective leadership skills, including the ability to communicate and collaborate with diverse teams, make informed decisions, and adapt to changing healthcare environments.

    4. Utilize technology and data analytics in healthcare administration: leverage technology and data analytics to enhance healthcare delivery, improve patient outcomes, and make data-driven decisions for strategic planning and resource allocation.

    5. Promote ethical and culturally sensitive healthcare practices: demonstrate ethical decision-making and cultural competence in healthcare administration, advocate for patient rights, and ensure equitable access to quality healthcare services.

Area of Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (120 hours)

The Mercy College of Health Professions offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) is a degree program for allied health professionals already in an established career or for a student interested in pursuing a degree in health care. The BSHS degree is also a dual enrollment program for ASR students (Junior-Senior) level. Students completing the BSHS program must meet all general education requirements of the University. It is preferred that all general education requirements be successfully completed before enrolling in the HSC courses. A minimum of 75% “C” is required to pass all HSC major courses.

Transfer of Credit Hours

Credit up to a maximum of 42 credit hours will be awarded toward for a previous health degree, certificate, or health profession related courses. Credits will be awarded after transcript evaluation. 

Admission Policy, B.S. in Health Sciences*

Applicants must complete SBU admission requirements for the program and provide a copy of current professional license or certificate, if applicable, and official transcripts of all college courses.

Students Applying to the BSHS Program

1. Complete an SBU application. 
2. Provide copies of current professional license certification (if applicable), along with official transcripts of all college courses.

*Admission criteria are subject to change.

Dual Enrolled Students

Associate of Science in Radiography (ASR) students may take up to six credit hours per semester for another major. Greater than six credit hours must be approved by the Division Head or Dean of the Mercy College of Health Professions.

BSHS Program Level Student Learning  Outcomes

1. Communication: Demonstrate communication skills through oral, technological, and written communication media.
2. Cultural Awareness: Analyze cultural environments through a multicultural perspective.
3. Ethics/Professionalism: Evaluate ethical behavior and social responsibilities at the personal, organizational, and societal levels.
4. Leadership: Demonstrate management/leadership principles to effectively lead in the field of health sciences. 
5. Research: Apply research in the field and subfield of health sciences
6. Spirituality: Integrate Christian discipleship to direct, inform, and guide the provision of health care services in leadership roles and in one’s own discipline.

Graduation Policy, A.S. and/or B.S. in Health Sciences

All degree candidates must meet the graduation requirements of the University. For graduation, students must have an overall 2.00 GPA. Participation in outcome assessment activities is a graduation requirement. Failure to do so will result in withholding diploma until these are completed.

Area of Master of Science in Nursing

Please consult the Graduate Catalog for information related to SBU’s Master of Science in Nursing program.

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