Using backward design to create a new graduate nursing curriculum.

The University of Iowa College of Nursing engaged in a comprehensive redesign of its graduate practice programs using a backward design approach. Guided by the AACN Essentials and national competency frameworks, faculty began by defining program outcomes, identifying required knowledge, and organizing concepts into a scaffolded curriculum. The process produced new plans of study, progression indicators, and 82 newly created or revised courses. Faculty survey results indicated strong support for the design process as an effective method for implementing competency-based education. Overall, the structured, collaborative approach enabled intentional knowledge development for improved practice-readiness across advanced nursing programs.