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Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) Program

Purpose

The purpose of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program is to prepare expert advanced practice nurse clinicians and leaders within a practice-focused doctoral program. There are two pathways to the DNP.  

The Post-Baccalaureate DNP option includes a plan of study to prepare graduates to sit for a national advanced practice NP certification exam. The Post-Master’s DNP option is for nurses who are already certified in advanced practice as a nurse practitioner and includes a plan of study to prepare graduates as leaders in advanced practice.

Goal

Graduates are prepared to assume leadership positions in nursing/health care, with the ultimate goals of improving the health care and health status of individuals and populations. The curriculum at the doctoral level is directed toward developing a) the ability to conduct evidence-based practice and apply research findings, b) a commitment to continual personal and professional growth, and c) leadership in the field of advanced practice nursing.

Terminal Objectives

Graduates will:

  1. Analyze and apply scientific knowledge and skills to provide the highest level of advanced practice nursing.
  2. Implement emerging science and practice innovations in health care.
  3. Evaluate and initiate changes in response to social, political, economic, and ethical issues in health care, population health, and the discipline of nursing.
  4. Collaborate with members of other disciplines in the design, implementation, and evaluation of programs and policies for the improvement of health care.
  5. Assume leadership roles in nursing/health care.