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Meet our Program Directors
Christine Colella, MSN, CS, CNP
Associate Professor Clinical Nursing
Adult Nurse Practitioner
Director, Ambulatory Adult Practitioner Program
Procter Hall, Room 241
Phone: (513) 558-4662
Fax: (513) 558-2142
Christine.Colella@UC.Edu
I have been a nurse for many years and a practicing NP for 6 years. I have practiced at the bedside in many settings including PACU, ICU and as a CNS. I received my masters in nursing and a post-masters certificate for my Adult NP.
The NP role is a wonderful advanced practice opportunity for the RN that wants to do more. The best thing about being a NP is that you are a nurse first and bring to the advanced role all the things about nursing that are so fulfilling. I practice as a NP and find that not only satisfying but that it adds a great deal to my teaching.
I strive to make it real for the students and give them as much opportunities as possible. I teach a variety of classes in the Adult Nurse Practitioner program from advanced health assessment to differential diagnosis. I am involved in the placement of our students with NPs and MDs for their clinical practicum.
FAQ's
What does the program consist of?
The program is a combination of courses that you take for the MSN within the
specialty of adult health and clinical practicum hours. Completion of the
program qualifies the candidate to sit for the national certification exam
for adult nurse practitioner. The practicum required is 500 hours, and courses
include pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, interventions and adult
health disease management, to name a few. The program is worth 63 credits
and can be done full- or part-time.
What is the growth rate in this field?
The NP role is showing considerable growth. NPs are utilized in different ways.
The NP may work for a physician group, seeing the patient in the office and
following up in the hospital. Some NPs work with a specialty group like cardiology,
orthopedics or general practice.
What is the job placement rate on graduation?
All our graduates have found APN jobs. Many are hired in the setting where
they do their last clinical, and opportunities often come by word of mouth.
Our graduates have found positions in Florida, California and Washington
as well as in Ohio and Kentucky.
Do I have to retake any part of the certification test if I move to a different
state?
No. The certification exam is a national exam, and you are certified wherever
you go. However, what you are allowed to do in each state may differ, so you
need to consult the section of the state's nurse practice act that covers
advanced practice.
What is the average yearly salary upon graduation?
This differs with job function and geographical location. You can expect to
start in the Cincinnati area at about $65,000-$75,000. However jobs
can be contractual, and there can be many variables, including taking call
and quarterly bonuses based on productivity.
