Master of Science in Nursing
Advanced Clinical Nursing Track
Student Features - Dianne R. McKenzie, RN, MSN, OCN
I received my MSN -- Advanced Clinical Specialist, Oncology Focus Track, from
George Mason in 2004. As the Oncology Services Coordinator at Mary Washington
Hospital (MWH), I needed a program that would help me in my current position,
as well as help me achieve my goals as an advance practice oncology nurse.
I had many unique expectations for my graduate studies because my role at MWH
has many administrative aspects but they require a good oncology clinical base.
I also have an educational and mentoring role that will expand now that I have
my advanced practice degree.
By working closely with my advisor, Dr. Mary Anne Noble, I tailored my classes to meet my individual needs. For example, I took "Finance and Budgeting Concepts for Nurse Executives and Managers" as one of my electives. This helped me to advance in my current position and gain the tools to understand the financial implications of clinical decisions and policies. As I took more classes, I increasingly became a resource at work and was asked to sit on several boards and committees to include: Clinical Ethics Committee, Institutional Review Board, Oncology Executive Board, and Interdisciplinary Nursing Research Committee.
I am grateful that I was able to apply the education I received in my curriculum as I went along, and that I have also been prepared to function as an oncology advanced practice nurse.