Page 18 - MGATODAY-Fall2017_lr
P. 18
First Graduates of MGA’s
Master’s Degree in Nursing Look
Forward to Expanding Careers
By Sheron Smith
After working as an RN for nearly a dozen 11 students, all of whom plan to participate in
years, Darquita Loyd was ready for her MGA’s fall 2017 graduation ceremony. All
career to take a new direction as she eased enrolled when MGA launched the master’s
into her mid-30s. program in January 2016.
“In order to move beyond being a bedside “We’re excited to reach this milestone,” said
nurse, I had to obtain a higher degree,” said Loyd, Dr. Lawanda Greene, assistant professor of
who works for Navicent Health in Macon. “I was Nursing who coordinates the program. “Getting
ready to do more as a nurse.” a new master’s degree established is challenging
A bachelor’s degree graduate of the former work but it pays off when you actually see
Macon State College, Loyd in 2015 began students getting ready to graduate and know they
receiving postcards in the mail with details about are going to have a positive impact on their
an upcoming master’s program in Nursing “Nurse future patients.” Master of Science in
at her alma mater, now Middle Georgia Practitioners MGA’s
State University. After attending a drop- and other mid- Nursing - Adult/Gerontology Acute
in information session that School of level providers are Care Nurse Practitioner program
Nursing faculty held at Navicent, Loyd becoming staples requires students to complete 43 hours
applied for admission and joined the for medical of graduate coursework. The advanced
charter class. practice.” practice program prepares RNs to
In late summer 2017, she became one provide care to a broad population base
of the first students to complete MGA’s Master in a variety of acute/sub-acute care settings,
of Science in Nursing - Adult/Gerontology Acute including hospitals, rehabilitation facilities,
Care Nurse Practitioner program. She is thrilled nursing homes, physician specialty practices,
about the career options she now has as an trauma units, burn units, and community
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, whose role healthcare.
in healthcare settings is usually more specialized The program’s curriculum focuses on acute,
and independent – and higher paying – than that complex chronic, critical care, and health
of an RN. promotion. Students hone critical thinking skills
“It’s great to be part of the first graduating in order to develop plans of care that include
class,” Loyd said. “We’re setting the foundation for non-pharmacological approaches. They are
those who will follow in our footsteps.” expected to learn how to lead quality improve-
The charter master’s degree class consists of ment projects within healthcare facilities.
Editor’s Note: Information about the degree is at www.mga.edu/graduate-studies/,
or email Dr. Lawanda Greene at lawanda.greene@mga.edu.
18 MIDDLE GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY
