SCHOOL OF NURSING
College of Health, Education, and Human Development
HEALTHCARE GENETICS PhD
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2015-2016
Clemson University Healthcare Genetics PhD Student Handbook
Table of Contents Page
I. Introduction / 4Faculty Student Responsibilities / 4
History of the interdisciplinary Healthcare Genetics PhD / 4
School of Nursing: Mission, Vision, Goals / 5
Accreditations, Statement of Equal Opportunity and ADA Guidelines / 6
School of Nursing Organizational Structure / 7
Important Contact Information / 8
School of Nursing Doctoral Faculty / 9
II. Getting Started / 10
Advisor / 10
Review of Academic and Work Experience / 10
Transfer Credit / 11
Course Revalidation / 11
First Year Review / 12
SubsequentStudentEvaluations / 12
Performance in non-graded Courses Including Research / 12
Office Procedures / 13
Office Space / 13
Communication / 13
Clemson University Social Media Policy / 14
Digital Device Policy / 15
III.Interdisciplinary Healthcare Genetics PhD Program / 17
Overview of Program / 17
Curriculumand Degree Requirements / 17
Cognates / 17
Sample Curriculum Progression / 18
Summary of Graduate School Requirements Coursework / 20
Residency / 20
Time Limit / 20
Academic Integrity / 20
Harassment / 21
Mentoring / 21
Conflict Resolution / 22
Being a Doctoral Student / 22
Planning Ahead / 23
Research Project / 23
Identification of Advisor/Dissertation Chair / 24
Building a Resume/Vita / 24
IV. Formation of the Comprehensive and DissertationCommittee / 25
The Major Advisor / 25
Comprehensive Exam Committee / 25
Dissertation Committee / 25
Major Advisor’s Responsibilities / 26
Doctoral Student’s Responsibilities / 26
Choosing a Committee / 27
Comprehensive Exam / 28
Purpose / 28
Procedures and Preparation / 29
Planning for the Comprehensive Exam / 29
Evaluation / 29
Evaluation Categories / 30
Time Limit / 31
Dissertation and Establishing a Program of Research / 31
Dissertation/Research Proposal / 31
Manuscript Development / 31
Requirements for the Healthcare Genetic Article-Style Format for Dissertation (ASFD) / 32
Dissertation Defense / 35
Scheduling the Dissertation Defense / 35
Evaluation / 35
Completion / 37
V. Taking Care of Yourself / 38
Health Services / 38
Health Insurance / 38
Disability Services / 38
Working at Clemson University and the School of Nursing / 39
Graduate School Policies / 40
Payroll and Paydays / 40
Holidays and Personal Leave / 41
Leave Without Pay / 41
Outside Employment / 41
Area Health Centers and Hospitals / 42
Staying Healthy / 42
Exercise / 43
Stress and Coping / 43
Spirituality / 43
Campus Safety / 43
Housing/Campus / 44
Personal Information / 44
Parking / 44
Walking/Hiking / 44
Drinking / 44
VI. Funding Your Graduate Education / 45
Financial Aid Loans / 45
Other Employment Opportunities / 46
Funding from Extramural Sources / 47
Area Studies/Fellowships / 48
VII. Timeline / 51
Section I: Introduction
This handbook has been developed to providea convenient source of information about the Healthcare Genetics interdisciplinary PhD (iHCG) program, procedures, services andfacilities. The information contained within this document is for general guidance on matters of interest to faculty and students and will be relevant throughout your doctoral studies. The handbook will be updated periodically as needed.
This handbook also summarizes Campus/University and the Graduate School’s policies. For up-to-date policies refer to the website for Clemson University ( and the Graduate School ( especially check the “Forms”“Dissertation” information.
Faculty-Student Responsibilities
It is the joint responsibilityof faculty and doctoral studentsto work together to develop scholarly and professionaltraitsthroughrelationshipsthatencourage freedomof inquiry, demonstrate personal and professional integrity, andfoster mutual respect. High quality doctoral education depends upon the professional and ethicalconduct of both faculty and students.
Members ofthe interdisciplinary doctoral faculty serve a variety ofcriticalroles as model teachers andresearchers as well as doctoralstudent advisors and mentors. The faculty and doctoral committees on which they serve provide intellectual guidance in support of the scholarly and pedagogical efforts of doctoral students and are responsible for ongoing evaluation ofdoctoral students'performances in academic and research activities. As mentors and advisors, faculty are responsible for assisting doctoral students to discover and participate in appropriate channels ofscholarly, professional and disciplinary exchange. Additionally, our faculty will helpstudents develop the professional research, teaching, and networking skills that are required for a varietyof genetics-related career options, both within and outside academia.
Doctoral students are responsible for working towards completion of their degree programs in a timely fashion. It is expected that doctoral students will gain expertise in a particular area of study and seek to expand the knowledge of that disciplinary field by discovering and pursuing a unique topic of scholarly research. Doctoral students should learn how to impart disciplinary knowledgethrough appropriate forms of instruction and publication and learn how to apply thatknowledge to societal problems.
History of the Interdisciplinary Healthcare Genetics (HCG) PhD:
Approved in the spring of 2008, the interdisciplinary Healthcare GeneticsPhD(iHCG PhD) is comprised of faculty and staff dedicated to advancing the mission of the School of Nursing and that of Clemson University. The HCG PhD is the first of its kind in the nation and brings together experts in many fields to prepare future leaders in health policy, ethics, clinical practice and translational bench science in the field ofhealthcare genetics. Genetic advances are poised to havea great impact on emerging healthcare practices.
About The School of Nursing
The School of Nursing is an integral part of Clemson University, a land-grant, state-supported institution of higher learning. The School is committed to teaching, research, and service to the public of South Carolina, the nation and the world. The goal of the Clemson University School of Nursing is to prepare nurses for professional practice, leadership in health care, and to advance nursing knowledge.
MISSION
The mission of Clemson University School of Nursing, as a scholarly center of learning, is to educate students at the baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels to become healthcare professionals who advance scientific knowledge and evidence-based practice through research and outreach.
VISION
Clemson University School of Nursing will shape the future of nursing and healthcare through leadership, scholarship, and practice to optimize the health and quality-of-life for the people of South Carolina, the nation, and the global community.
GOALS
*Deliver state-of-the-art education to aspiring healthcare professionals to prepare them for excellence in practice and leadership within a dynamic healthcare environment.
*Create a vibrant, interdisciplinary community of scholars who contribute to knowledge generation and dissemination, thereby shaping practice and policy.
*Engage in leadership, research, and service to optimize health and quality of life for people locally, nationally and globally.
*Increase diversity among faculty, students, and staff within a mutually respectful, professional environment.
*Expand opportunities and resources through the development of relationships with clinical, community and corporate partners, and alumni.
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Accreditation
Clemson University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award the Bachelor's, Master's, Education Specialist, and Doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097 or call at 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Clemson University.
The School of Nursing is accredited by the following national accreditation agency:
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
One Dupont Circle NW
Suite 350
Washington, DC 20036-1120
Telephone: 202-887-6791
Revised and Approved by Faculty spring 2014
Statement of Equal Opportunity
The School of Nursing follows the University policy in conducting its programs and activities involving admission and treatment of students, employment, teaching, research and public service in a non-discriminatory manner. “Clemson University does not discriminate against any individual or group on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation or veteran’s status.”
ADA Guidelines
The School of Nursing complies with federal ADA guidelines. Any student who requires accommodation should contact Clemson University’s Student Disability Services (SDS). If a nursing student or applicant believes that he or she cannot perform the above standards satisfactorily without reasonable accommodation, then he or she should register with Clemson University’s Student Disability Services (SDS). It is the student’s responsibility to request the accommodation in a timely manner; the university is not required to give retroactive application to any accommodation requested or granted. Upon receipt of any request for accommodation SDS will request that the student provide the appropriate and necessary documentation to confirm the disability. Once the disability is confirmed, SDS will determine the appropriate accommodations and either provide for or arrange such reasonable accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids and services for students. The student is responsible for maintaining contact with SDS and for working with faculty to plan appropriate learning experiences.
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Important Contact Information
Dr. Brett A. Wright, Interim Dean, College of HEHD, 864.656.3630,
Dr. Ann Wetsel, Interim Director of Nursing, 864 656.5527
School of Nursing Coordinators
Dr. Julie Eggert, HCG Program Coordinator, 864.640.1869
Dr. John Whitcomb, Undergraduate Coordinator, 864.250.1741
Dr. Deborah F. Willoughby, RN-BS Program Coordinator, 854.656.1437
Dr. Stephanie Davis, Graduate Coordinator, 864.656.2588
Sheri Webster, Accelerated Second Degree Coordinator 864.656.3271
Support Staff
Ellen Chiles M.Ed., Student Services Program Coordinator, RN-BS and iHCG Programs, 864.250.8881
Cynthia Mihalchick, Administrative Assistant, Clinical Coordinator, School of Nursing at University Center of Greenville, 864, 250-6701.
Additional Resources
Graduate School, 864-656-4172,
Chris Colthorpe, Clemson Resource Librarian for Nursing, 864.656.0694,
Mike Namaranian, CU Bookstore, 864.656.2050,
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SCHOOL OF NURSING DOCTORAL FACULTY
2015/2016
Faculty Member & DegreeSchool (Doctoral)Clinical Specialties/Research Interests
Roxanne Amerson, PhD, RNClemson UniversityCultural Competence, Transcultural Nursing
Stephanie Davis, PhD, RN, FNPUSCWomen’s Health, Quality of Life, Breast Cancer
Nicole Davis, PhD, RN, AGPCNP-BC, GNP-BCGeorgia State UniversityGeriatrics
Jane DeLuca, PhD, RN, PNP-BCUniversity of RochesterPediatrics, Genetics, Qualitative Research
Lisa Miller, PhD, RN, FNPUSCPostpartum Depression, Elective Cesarean Section
Julia Eggert, PhD, RN, GNP-BC, AGN-BC, AOCN®Clemson UniversityGenetics & Cancer Risk
Tracy Fasolino, PhD, RN, FNPUSCComplexity theory, Primary Care, Emergency Care
Nancy Meehan, PhD, RNUniv. TexasNursing Informatics & Research
Veronica G. Parker, PhDMUSC Bio-statistics, Risk Assessment, Health Disp.
Rosanne H. Pruitt, PhD, RN, FNPUniversity of MarylandCommunity Health Nursing & Primary Care
Mary Beth Steck, PhD, RN, FNPClemson UniversityFamilial cutaneous malignant melanoma, Genetics
Heide Temples, PhD, RN, PNPClemson UniversityObesity,Genetics,Breasatfeeding,Family Planning
Shirley Timmons, PhD, RN USCMinority Health, Health Disparities, HIV/AIDS
Margaret Wetsel, PhD, RN, CNSUniversity of TexasPsychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
John Whitcomb, PhD, RN, CCRNUniversity of San DiegoCritical Care, Med/Surg, Administration
Deborah Willoughby, PhD, RNGA State UniversityMed/Surg and Adult Health, Diabetes
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Section II: Getting Started
Congratulations! You are a Doctoral Student inthe interdisciplinary Healthcare Genetics PhD Program. Your admission to this programis the result ofa rigorous selection process. You should be proud of yourself for this achievement.
The items of business to complete duringyour first weeks are listed on the Graduate
School website at
1. Obtain your student ID at the Hendrix Student Center.
2. Obtain parking permit (if needed).
3. Have your laptop set up and checked with CCIT through the following website:
4. International studentsshould obtain a Social Security card fromthe Office of International Services needed.
5. Register for classes through iROAR, if that has not yet been completed.
6. Complete your GS2 form during orientation.
Advisor:
Your first advisor will be the iHCG Program Coordinator. The selection of your permanent advisor will occur by the end of the second year.
Review of Academic and Work Experience:
If you come to the PhD program with a master’s degree, you need to meet with the HCGProgram Coordinator once you have been accepted to the HCG program; prior to beginning classes. Courses may be waived/transferred with the approval of the HGC Program Coordinator.
Procedure for Student:
There is a formal process to submit course work to waive or receive credit “in lieu of” HCG courses. No courses are certified as ‘approved’ and ‘finalized’ until an official transcript from all institutions has been received by Graduate Admissions and said courses are approved on the finalized and signed GS2 FORM. All prior coursework must meet institutional guidelines.
*Student submits official transcripts from approved accredited institutions to Graduate Admissions.
*Student meets with HCGProgram Coordinator to discuss a draft plan of study for courses and submit a formal request for waived/”in lieu of” classes, transfer credit, and professional work experience.
* Student completes and submits GS2 form to the department by beginning of the first term.
The initial GS2 FORM is a guide and contains proposed coursework and may be altered as needed but should not be construed as finalized. The final copy of the GS2 must include all coursework and credits approved. It must be signed by the student’s advisor, Dissertation Committee Chair, Committee members, Program Coordinator, Director, HEHD Dean and then submitted to Enrolled Student Services.
Transfer Credit, Courses Policy:
All transfer credits must be verified by an official transcript from the institution at which the work was completed. Up to 48 credit hours of coursework may be transferred to a doctoral degree. All credits transferred to Clemson's graduate programs must have been completed at a regionally accredited institution and not associated with a degree. Credits may be transferred for work completed at off-campus centers of accredited institutions, provided such courses are acceptable, without reservation, in degree programs at those institutions. In all cases, the use of transfer credits must be recommended by the student's advisory committee and approved by the department. Grades earned for courses taken at institutions other than Clemson University will not be included in the student's grade point ratio. Courses to be considered for transfer credit completed outside the six year time limit may not be transferred to Clemson. Courses taken at any institution other than Clemson University may not be revalidated for transfer credit at Clemson. Valid transfer credits will appear on the student's transcript as credits earned.
Under no circumstances will transfer credit be awarded for courses in which a grade lower than B, or its equivalent, has been received or for courses graded on a pass/fail basis, for continuing education units, courses completed outside the six-year time limit, correspondence, extension, or in-service courses or for concentrated courses and workshops that award credit at a rate exceeding one credit per week. All transfer courses listed on Form GS2 must be courses taken for credit from a regionally-accredited, degree-granting institution whose scholastic reputation is acceptable to Clemson University.
Procedure for Student:
To have courses considered for transfer, students must discuss their plan to use specific courses from other institutions with their major advisor and/or advisory committee. Within the guidelines established by the Graduate School, the advisory committee will identify courses acceptable for transfer and will record these courses on the student's Plan of Study, Form GS2. The student must then have an official transcript sent from the institution(s) where credit was earned to the Office of Enrolled Student Services, 104D Sikes Hall. Only when courses have been verified by Enrolled Services to meet all Graduate School requirements will they be approved for application toward the degree.
Course Revalidation Policy:
When recommended by the student's advisory committee and approved by the graduate dean, as many as six credit hours of graded coursework taken at Clemson University, completed outside the six-year time limit, may be revalidated by a written comprehensive examination based on the latest syllabus and course content. Independent study courses are not subject to revalidation. Courses completed outside the six-year time limit at an institution other than Clemson University may not be transferred to Clemson. Courses taken at any institution other than Clemson University may not be revalidated for credit at Clemson.Procedure for student: Students desiring to request revalidation of courses should contact the graduate program coordinator for instructions on how to proceed. Procedure for department: The "Recommendation for Course Revalidation" form can be found in the general forms section of the Graduate School web page, The course revalidation form is sent to the Office of Enrolled Student Services at 104D Sikes Hall once it is approved by the instructor and the department chair. The revalidated credits will be posted on the student's transcript once the student becomes a candidate for graduation.
Credit by examination: Graduate students are not eligible to receive credit by examination other than through utilization of the policy and procedures on course revalidation.
First Year Review:
By March 1st, all students are expected to submit to the iHCG PhD programcoordinator an annual progress report discussingtheir experience as a new doctoral student,grades received and a copy of their current vita. The material will be reviewed by the Coordinator and the entire degree program faculty as necessary.
Subsequent Student Evaluations:
All other graduate students will submit, by April 1st, an annual progress report and a copy oftheir current vita to their academic advisor covering thepreceding year. The student’s advisor will review the student’s progress. However, each student’s progress may be discussed by the entire committee and faculty. (See also “Taking Care of You".
All students are reviewed once a year at the end of the spring semester. Written evaluations are placed in the students file and available shortly after this review for the student to peruse within the HCG office at the University Center of Greenville. No files will be removed from this site.
These evaluations provide the student with an opportunity to correct or update an incomplete file as well as to review plans and to assess his or her progress. The student's annual progress reportand vita will be used as major input for these evaluations, as will the comments ofthe student's advisory committee and other informedfacultymembers.
Performancein the graduate programis judged on the basis of the following criteria:
A= Outstanding
B= Typical and solid performance
C= Unacceptable performance