Charting new territory: Integrating global health with the advanced public health nursing role in a master of science in nursing (MSN) program

Background: The Global Alliance for Leadership in Nursing Education and Science (GANES) (2011) emphasized the essential role nurses fulfill in global health. Advanced nursing roles were highlighted by GANES in the context of innovative solutions for contemporary health challenges. Fried et al. (2010) asserted that “global health and public health are indistinguishable.” The advanced public health nurse, therefore, should be recognized as a key contributor to global health care. To fulfill the demand of preparing advanced nurses for global health practice, we have developed a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a specialization in Global Health Ministry GHM). Description: The presentation will outline the development of program curriculum, highlighting the unique integration of advanced public health nursing, faith community nursing, and global health care. Curriculum development included a careful review of the Essentials for Master's Education in Nursing (AACN 2006, 2011), the Quad Council Competencies for Public Health Nurses (2011), the Faith Community Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice (2012), and the Global Health Competency Model (Association of Schools of Public Health (ASPH), 2011). Additionally, the Test Content Outline for the ANCC Advanced Public Health Nurse Certification Exam was referenced throughout course development to prepare graduates for certification. Lessons: Integration of the diverse specialty knowledge proved challenging. On-going curriculum development allowed for clearer identification of the GHM role among vulnerable and diverse populations in a variety of global contexts. Recommendations: Communication of the GHM role as a model for advanced public health nursing in a global context.