School of Nursing
Nursing Student Handbook
Progression Policies
Exit Portfolio
Students in both tracks of the BSN program must satisfactorily complete and submit a program exit portfolio validating achievement of program outcomes in the last clinical course to be eligible for graduation. This portfolio serves as an end of program evaluation record, is compiled for all graduating seniors and remains on file as part of the permanent record of all graduates. Students are encouraged to meet with their academic advisor in the School of Nursing to assist them with compilation of their portfolio throughout program progression.
Purpose
Students in both tracks of the BSN program at Clayton State University must submit a portfolio as a program requirement for graduation. The portfolio is used as an outcome measurement and provides students with an opportunity to reflect on their academic experiences and to synthesize their learning and accomplishments.
This method of terminal program evaluation provides more in-depth data than standardized objective tests. In addition, the portfolios provide information to faculty members for their ongoing curriculum and program evaluation that benefits all Clayton State University students. The portfolio consists of the following three components:
- The Narrative Section contains a compilation of the student’s goals for their BSN experience, as well as a summary of the accomplishments and personal growth that has been achieved through education experiential activities.
- The Resume Section contains a professional resume summarizing the student’s education and employment activities, professional organization membership, honor and pertinent civic activities.
- The Outcome Mastery Section contains the student’s evaluation of their achievement of each of the BSN program outcomes with examples of supporting documentation.
It is the responsibility of the student to submit this portfolio by mid-term in their final semester of enrollment: NURS 4500 for Basic Licensure track and NURS 4602 for RN-BSN completion track. The portfolio will be reviewed by a designated faculty member who use strict criteria to evaluate the portfolio for completion and evidence of critical analysis of performance in the BSN program. Faculty may require an individual appointment to review the portfolio contents.
Guidelines
The portfolio is a personal reflection of the student's achievement and growth; thus each portfolio will be unique. The following guidelines are intended to assist the student in the development of the portfolio. The portfolio should be organized to include the following:
- Cover Page - Include the name, social security number and date submitted.
- Table of Contents - List the materials submitted in the order they are found. Section tabs or numbered pages may be used.
- Biographical Narrative - Describe personal goals that led to your return to school to obtain a BSN degree. Provide the reader insight into your personal goals and interests. Summarize the accomplishments and growth you believe have resulted from earning your BSN degree. What did you set out to achieve and what have you received? The reader will look for answers to these questions.
- Resume - A resume or curriculum vita is essential for all professional nurses. You may have developed a resume in Nursing Management. Career Services has many resources that can assist you in the development of your CV or resume.
- Outcomes Mastery - This section of the portfolio requires the greatest amount of development. Refer to the Program Outcomes you are to describe how you have mastered each outcome. Your explanation should reflect the personal activities you have experienced and your achievements. You are encouraged to provide a thoughtful, concise evaluation. Most students are able to evaluate their achievement of outcome mastery using one paragraph for each outcome. Next, you should identify the assignments, projects and/or learning activities, which contributed, to your achievement of each outcome. List these under each outcome. This supporting documentation may take many forms. Students must show evidence of BSN program outcomes mastery. Examples of assignments and program activities related to each outcome can be found under Outcomes Mastery. This list is neither inclusive nor required and is intended to serve as an aid to portfolio development.
