The Clinical Nurse Leader or CNL is a new generalist nursing role developed by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. CSUB has been granted approval to enroll MSN students into the new CNL option effective fall quarter of 2007. The usual application deadline is May 15 of each year, but has been extended for the first cohort of students. Applications for both the University and the department of nursing are available on-line at http://www.csub.edu/nursing/grad.shtml.

“The Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) oversees the care coordination of a distinct group of patients and actively provides direct patient care in complex situations. This master's degree-prepared clinician puts evidence-based practice into action to ensure that patients benefit from the latest innovations in care delivery. The CNL evaluates patient outcomes, assesses cohort risk, and has the decision-making authority to change care plans when necessary. The CNL is a leader in the health care delivery system, and the implementation of this role will vary across settings” (American Association of College of Nursing [AACN], 2005, retrieved on September 21, 2006, from http://www.aacn.nche.edu/Media/FactSheets/CNLFactSheet.htm.

CSUB courses will prepare students to design, implement and evaluate client care by coordinating, delegating and supervising the care provided by the interdisciplinary health care team. The CNL role is not one of administration but rather a provider and manager of care for individuals and groups. The curriculum is built on the 24 units of core courses shared with the other master’s in nursing options. Graduates from the CNL option with one year of clinical experience will qualify for recognition from the BRN as a nursing instructor.

To explore the role further, and to access service partner resource materials, visit the American Association of Colleges of Nursing website at http://www.aacn.nche.edu. This website includes general information on the new role (“White Paper”), a “Toolkit” for service agencies to assist with implementation of the new role, highlights from the national demonstration projects (“CNL Innovations Spotlight”), and information on the certification process.

To inquire into the CSUB program, please access the CSUB website or contact Dr. Elizabeth Andal, Graduate Program Coordinator, at 661-654-3114 or by email at eandal@csub.edu .

Come and join us in initiating this new and innovative master’s degree option at CSUB!

Updated July 2007