Developing Innovative On-Campus Intensives to Enhance Distance-Based Nurse Practitioner Programs

The delivery of higher education has changed dramatically in recent years due to the shift toward distance learning, resulting in a need for creative education delivery methods. This article describes the implementation of on-campus intensives (OCIs) within a revised curricular framework for nurse practitioner (NP) students. Sequential OCIs are designed to promote role transition and professional and clinical development throughout the NP student's coursework.

The OCIs were established using a core curriculum framework. The development of the OCIs was an extensive process that requires widespread collaboration between faculty and staff.

The OCIs have been successfully implemented over multiple semesters. Faculty, staff, and students have suggested benefits along with opportunities for improvement.

The OCI experiences promote engagement, clinical competency, and professional development to prepare NP students to lead in today's complex and evolving health care system. [J Nurs Educ. 2019;58(9):543-547.].