nursing doctorate programs

Top PhD in Nursing Programs

What is a ph.d. in nursing.

• Ph.D. in Nursing vs DNP
• Types of Programs
• Top Programs
• Program Overview
• Is a Nursing Ph.D. For Me?

The Ph.D. in Nursing degree opens career opportunities for nurses as researchers, forging new and cutting-edge nursing practices for future generations. This article explores this terminal nursing degree, how to get it, and the top Ph.D. in Nursing programs.

A Ph.D. in Nursing is the highest degree awarded to nurses and one of two terminal nursing degrees. Ph.D. stands for Doctor of Philosophy, and Ph.D. in Nursing programs focus on evidence-based research.

Throughout their 4-6 year study, nursing Ph.D. students learn how to conduct, analyze, and publish nursing research. The degree culminates in students conducting an independent research project and writing a dissertation on it.

Ph.D. in Nursing and DNP Differences

A Ph.D. in Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) are both terminal nursing degrees. However, comparing a  DNP vs. a Ph.D. in Nursing reveals distinct differences. Notably, the Ph.D. in Nursing prepares you for a science, academic, or research-focused career as opposed to a clinical one.

Popular Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals. GCU offers a full spectrum of nursing degrees, from a pre-licensure BSN degree to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

Enrollment: Nationwide

• DNP - Educational Leadership

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY and WA.

• DNP - Family NP
• DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP
• DNP - Nurse-Midwifery/Women's Health NP
• DNP - Women's Health NP

As a working RN, you need a flexible, transfer-friendly program to help you save time and money as you take the next step in your nursing career. In our CCNE-accredited4 RN to BSN program, you can transfer in up to 134 credits—which is nearly 75% of program requirements. Your transfer credits can be reviewed in one business day (on average).

Enrollment: FL

RNs with an associate degree: Advance your nursing career with a supportive online RN to BSN program for women. Simmons University has been empowering nursing leaders for more than 100 years and offering innovative online degree programs since 2013. Up to 96 transfer credits accepted. Request information now.

Key Ph.D. in Nursing vs. DNP Differences

>> Related:  Top Online DNP Programs

Types of Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

The United States is home to over 135 Ph.D. in Nursing programs, which you can attend in multiple formats at nearly every educational level. The types of Ph.D. in nursing programs include the following:

• BSN to Ph.D. in Nursing: These Ph.D. in nursing programs allow nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree to pursue a career in nursing research without first attending an MSN program.
• MSN to Ph.D. in Nursing: Designed for Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) trained nurses, these programs typically include core courses for the doctoral program, electives, and dissertation study.
• DNP/Ph.D. Dual Degree: These rigorous programs allow students to concurrently attain expertise in scientific inquiry and faculty practice and hone the practical skills of expert nurse clinicians. 

>> Show Me DNP Programs

Online Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

Are Ph.D. in Nursing programs available online? The answer is yes; you can find several online options to pursue this degree. Since a Ph.D. in Nursing focuses on scientific inquiry, it doesn't have the same onsite practical hours as other nursing degrees. 

Program dependant, you may still need to show up on campus a few times each year. However, for the most part, all you need to earn a Ph.D. in nursing is Wi-Fi, good study habits, and determination.

Top Ph.D. in Nursing Programs

Each Ph.D. in Nursing program is unique, offering its own benefits and features. We assembled the top five Ph.D. in Nursing programs nationwide following Nurse.org's proprietary ranking algorithm , which considers and ranks schools based on factors like:

• Tuition costs
• Program length
• Nursing school accreditation
• Admission requirements
• The variety of available programs
• Additional program accolades

 1. University of Pennsylvania

• Program Cost:  $46,934 per academic year
• Program Length:  4-6 years
• Application Due Date: Dec. 1st

The University of Pennsylvania boasts one of the top Ph.D. in nursing programs nationwide. To offset the expensive tuition, the university offers full-time students stipends during their first four years. In exchange, students may work as Teaching Assistants within UPenn's School of Nursing for up to 16 hours a week. 

Contact UPenn about this program:

• Phone: (215) 898-4271
• Email: [email protected]

Source: University of Pennsylvania

2. Duke University

• Program Cost:  Fully funded (up to 5 years)
• Application Due Date: November 30th

In 2023, U.S. News & World Report named Duke University the second-best graduate school for nursing. Duke's Ph.D. in Nursing program prepares nurses to become stalwart scholars. Graduates will build nursing science by leading multidisciplinary research that determines the relationship between chronic illness and care systems.

Contact Duke University about this program:

• Phone: (919) 684-3786
• Email: Contact Request Form

Source: Duke University

3. Duquesne University

• Program Cost:  $1,765 per credit
• Program Length:  3-4 years
• Application Due Date:  February 1st

As the first fully online Ph.D. in Nursing program, Duquesne offers a highly flexible education option to many students nationwide. Additionally, students attending the program may get to study abroad at the Duquesne campus in Dublin, Ireland.  The 56-credit program culminates in a dissertation proposal and final defense in which students orally defend their research thesis to the dissertation committee.

Contact Duquesne University about this program:

• Phone: (412) 396-6219
• Email:  [email protected]

Source: Duquesne University

4. Columbia University

• Program Cost:  Fully funded (up to 3 years)
• Application Due Date:  November 15th

Ph.D. in Nursing student at Columbia choose one of three major areas to study, which include Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Science, Analytical Foundations of Nursing Science, and Electives and Applications. The programming heavily focuses on publication, grantsmanship, presentation, and networking. In addition to their coursework, students participate in research experience and training.

Contact Columbia University about this program:

• Phone: (212) 305-5756
• Email: [email protected]

Source: Columbia University

5. Rush University

• Program Cost:  $1,344 per credit hour
• Program Length:  3-5 years
• Application Due Date:  March 4th

Rush University's Ph.D. in Nursing is fully online except for an on-campus orientation and summer intensive learning sessions. The program focuses on preparing nurses and non-nurses with graduate degrees to become leaders in clinical research and educators who influence healthcare policy. While many students keep working throughout the program, they often must take fewer hours while completing their dissertation.

Contact Rush University about this program:

• Phone : (312) 942-7100
• Email: [email protected]

Source: Rush University

What to Expect in a Ph.D. in Nursing Program

Nursing Ph.D. degrees focus on scholarship and nursing research. By the end of the course, you'll be able to conduct and publish evidence-based research that can alter the face of nursing practice and healthcare policy for future generations. 

Generally, these educational pathways combine graduate study and research activities and do not include clinical rotations. Instead, you will be required to complete a long-form research paper called a dissertation. To write your dissertation, you'll complete independent research based on a significant and relevant scientific inquiry in the nursing field. 

>> Related: The Best Nursing Research Topics

What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Nursing?

Ph.D. in Nursing programs prepare graduates to pursue careers in research and teaching, advanced clinical practice, health care administration, and policy.  Following graduation, your future may hold a career as a nurse scientist, as an administrator, as a nurse educator, or in establishing health policy.

Ph.D. in Nursing Salary

Healthcare workers who hold a Ph.D. in nursing earn an average annual salary of $100,00 or $60.45 per hour , according to Payscale . However, your nursing salary will vary depending on your career, employer, location, experience, and other relevant factors.

How Much Does a Ph.D. in Nursing Degree Cost?

Ph.D. in nursing programs range from $400 to over $2,300 per credit hour at more distinguished institutions. However, several universities will fund your Ph.D. tuition itself or through a federal research grant. Most often, these funding opportunities are only available to full-time students, while part-timers must pay the full tuition costs.

How Long Do PhD in Nursing Programs Take?

Most Ph.D. in nursing programs take between 4-6 years to complete. Your educational timeline will vary based on your previous education and whether you attend full or part-time.

What Will You Learn in a PhD in Nursing Program?

Since all Ph.D. degrees in nursing emphasize healthcare research, their curriculums will all share certain core elements, which include:

• The philosophical and historical foundations of nursing knowledge
• Review of existing and evolving nursing theory
• Methods and process of developing theory
• Research methodology and data management
• Academic, research, practice, and policy development

Your graduate nursing program will consist of several key milestones to reinforce your education. These include:

• Leadership strategies related to nursing, healthcare, and research
• Mentorship and working alongside faculty on their individual research programs
• Immersion experiences are designed to encourage leadership and scholarship.
• Each student will be required to complete a dissertation.

Ph.D. in Nursing Program Requirements

Each university sets its own entry standards, which vary based on the type of program . However, general Ph.D. in nursing admission requirements include the following:

• BSN, MSN, or non-nursing graduate degree
• Personal research statement
• A minimum GPA of 3.0
• Admissions interview
• Writing sample
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Letters of recommendation
• Unencumbered RN license
• Official post-secondary school transcripts
• TOEFL or IELTS scores

Is a Ph.D. in Nursing Degree Right for Me?

Your professional goals play a massive role in deciding whether to pursue a Ph.D. in nursing. If you're interested in scientific and academic nursing research, healthcare policy, or becoming a nurse educator, a Ph.D. in nursing is an excellent option. Remember, it will not qualify you for APRN positions, so if you have clinical aspirations, a DNP is the right doctoral nursing option.

Next Steps to Enroll in a PhD in Nursing Degree Program

Ready to start your educational journey toward earning a Ph.D. in Nursing? You can start working toward those goals today with these simple steps:

• Research Universities: Find a program that suits you based on your budget, attendance needs (e.g., part vs. full-time and in-person vs. online), and interests.
• Plan Applications: Understand the program requirements and application deadlines for each school you're applying to. Then, make a plan to collect and submit all the necessary materials and documentation on time.
• Prepare Properly: If a university considers you for Ph.D. candidacy, you'll attend an admissions interview. Planning and practicing this interview and paying close attention to why you chose the program and your research interests will optimize your chances of admission.

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PhD and DNP Degrees

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Why Earn a PhD or DNP?

The two most common types of doctoral nursing degrees are the doctor of philosophy in nursing, or PhD in nursing, and the doctor of nursing practice (DNP). Nurses with a doctorate in nursing can teach and conduct research and have more opportunities for advancement. For nurses looking for a fulfilling career as a leader in the nursing profession, a PhD in Nursing or DNP degree are exciting options.

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Doctoral – PhD in Nursing

About the Program

Georgetown’s PhD in Nursing Program is designed to be a full-time, campus-based, premier doctoral program for individuals who want to be leaders for change by seeking to advance the discipline and those they serve in academic, community health, health care, policy, global, and research settings. The Fall 2025 entry application cycle is open now here with an application submission deadline of December 1, 2024.

Georgetown’s PhD program will lead in creating nurse scientists who generate knowledge with ethics and health equity as its core compass, to advance health, appreciating our shared humanity. Roberta Waite , Dean of Georgetown University School of Nursin g

Program Features

• Draws upon the interdisciplinary and intellectual richness of the campus community
• Develops leaders for change in nursing
• Focus in ethics and health equity
• Intellectual vibrancy with renowned faculty across multiple disciplines
• Globally known, values-based academic community
• Intellectual vibrancy across complimentary academic disciplines such as ethics, law, philosophy, medicine, and policy.
• Full-time, campus-based program

Program Virtual Information Sessions

Register below to attend a virtual information session featuring a formal presentation by the Program Director, Admissions Director and a School of Nursing faculty member. During the online information session webinar presentation, we will give a detailed overview of the Ph.D. in Nursing program features, curriculum and application procedure. The Fall 2025 entry application cycle is open now here with an application submission deadline of December 1, 2024.

• Friday, September 13, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. , featuring Dr. Liz Stokes and Dr. Edilma Yearwood. Register here to attend .
• Wednesday, October 16, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. , featuring Dr. Carol Taylor and Dr. Edilma Yearwood. Register here to attend .
• Thursday, November 7, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. , featuring Dr. Ella Heitzler and Dr. Edilma Yearwood. Register here to attend .

Program Admissions

Application deadlines.

Submission Deadline – December 1, 2024

Decision Deadline – Mid-January 2025

Program Questions

Please direct questions about the PhD in Nursing program to [email protected] .

Program Leadership

Edilma L. Yearwood, PhD, PMHCNS-BC, FAAN Interim Program Director, PhD in Nursing Program

Program Faculty

Nursing PhD students work with faculty who have expertise in multidimensional and complementary areas, including ethics, health equity, health disparities, mental health, women’s health, cardiovascular science and physiology.

Intima Alrimawi, PhD, MSN, MPH, BSN

Dr. Alrimawi’s research focuses on improving the quality of care for vulnerable families and children with complex health concerns or chronic diseases. Her secondary research interest is the development of nursing education to promote optimal outcomes in nursing education.

Ella Heitzler, PhD, WHNP, FNP, RNC-OB

Dr. Heitzler’s research seeks to support healing and increase the health equity of cisgender women and transgender persons who have experienced gender-based violence. Her current work explores the sexual violence screening practices (screening rates, questions utilized to screen, barriers to screening, and facilitators of screening) of nurse practitioners, midwives, and physicians who specialize in reproductive health care.

Roxanne Mirabal-Beltran, PhD

Dr. Mirabal-Beltran studies women’s health inequities and patient-provider communication. She is particularly interested in the use of Community-Based Participatory Research to facilitate access to health and health education. Her current work partners with the Wash and Spin to Health / Washington Avanzando la Salud Hispana (W.A.S.H.) Community Advisory Board to develop a reproductive health educational intervention to roll out in DC laundromats.

Carol Taylor, PhD, RN

Dr. Taylor’s passion is making health care “work” for everyone — equity. She studies pedagogical strategies to prepare the next generation of frontline caregivers to address ethical challenges. Her research interests include clinical and organizational ethics and spiritual care. She is the primary author of all 10 editions of WolterKluwer’s “Fundamentals of Nursing: The Art and Science of Person-Centered Care.”

Sarah Vittone, DBe, MSN, MA, RN

Dr. Vittone has more than 25 years of experience in clinical ethics consultation and is a primary consultant with the ethics consultation service of the Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics. Her clinical ethics interests are in complex decision-making, surrogate decision-makers, and issues at the interface of vulnerable populations and health systems.

Krista White, PhD, RN, CCRN-K, CNE

Dr. White’s research focuses on nursing education science, mentorship, compassionate teaching, equity within education, and an inclusive learning environment that fosters student outcomes. Dr. White is an instrument developer. The “Nursing Anxiety and Self-Confidence with Clinical Decision Making” scale and has been used in approximately 250 empirical studies worldwide, and has been translated and validated in Korean and Turkish.

Edilma Yearwood, PhD, PMHCNS-BC, FAAN

Dr. Yearwood, a qualitative researcher, uses community-based participatory action, ethnography and grounded theory methodologies in her research grounded in promoting and advocating for health equity. Her current grant is titled “Nurturing Child Well-Being: Educating Communities on Social Determinants of Health.” The project examines family and community dynamics and social determinants (FCDSD) — all of which impact the health and well-being of children and may result in poor health outcomes.

PhD Program in Nursing

Advance equitable care and improve health outcomes across diverse populations with a phd in nursing..

Prepare to lead and transform nursing practice, policy and research to promote health equity and social justice with Duke University School of Nursing’s PhD Program in Nursing.

Our nursing PhD empowers you with the skills and confidence to develop and test nurse-led models of care that enhance the health of all people, especially those experiencing health inequities. You’ll learn to drive change in nursing practice, influence health policies and conduct research that champions health equity and social justice. Plus, PhD student tuition and 12-month stipends are fully funded for up to five years.

We pride ourselves on welcoming a select group of talented and diverse students each year. As a nursing PhD student, you’ll have the unique opportunity to work closely with our expert faculty members, benefiting from one-on-one mentorship alongside your formal studies.

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PhD Program in Nursing Highlights

Our PhD in nursing equips you with exceptional expertise, setting the stage for transformative career opportunities in nursing science and leadership. Through coursework, unparalleled mentorship from expert faculty and exposure to hands-on research opportunities, our nursing PhD shapes the next generation of nursing leaders with a strong emphasis on championing health equity:

Connections with expert faculty: Our nursing PhD faculty will socialize you into the role of a nurse scientist, ensuring you gain the necessary knowledge and skills to launch a successful independent research program post-doctorate. Your connections with nursing research experts will prepare you for an entry-level role as a nurse scientist in various research settings, including academic, clinical or industry environments.

Empowering research opportunities: Gain experience in traditional and innovative research methodologies and thorough statistical training. Our PhD nursing program emphasizes the importance of mentored research and teaching experiences to enhance knowledge and skill development.

Championing health equity: The PhD Program in Nursing offers a comprehensive understanding of the philosophy of science, focusing on addressing complex health issues, especially those concerning health equity, social determinants and justice.

What Can You Do With a Nursing PhD?

Nurses with PhDs play a pivotal role in shaping the future of health care. Our graduates pursue post-doctoral education and move into leadership positions in academia, industry, research institutions and government, advancing nursing theory and practice.

With Duke University’s PhD in nursing program, you’ll be able to:

• Master key concepts in health equity and nurse-led models of care to improve health outcomes.
• Design and conduct research using interdisciplinary.
• Evaluate research with a focus on health equity and nurse-led models of care.
• Maintain ethics and integrity in research.
• Apply advanced methods to research design and analysis.
• Collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Publish and present research to advance nursing and promote social justice.

This expertise will prepare you to improve access and equitable health care through roles in:

• Academia: As faculty, PhD prepared nurses equip the next generation of nurses and nurse scientists, blending education, research and service, which may include practice and policy work.
• Leadership and advocacy: A nursing PhD positions you as a leader in clinical settings, health policy and governmental agencies, driving innovations in nursing practice, health care delivery and policy.
• Research: Lead the design and conduct of research studies, secure grants, analyze scientific data and disseminate findings through presentations and publications with your nursing PhD Our program prepares you to conduct high-impact research, design studies, write grant proposals and analyze data using a health equity lens.

With health care ranking among the most in-demand and fastest-growing fields, many of these opportunities offer excellent salary and growth potential. Professional nurse researchers, for instance, earn an average annual salary of $97,336, according to PayScale.com. Also, nursing instructors at colleges and universities can expect a median annual salary of $84,380, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with the highest 10% earning more than $182,710.

PhD Program in Nursing Description

The program requires a minimum of 52 credit hours of graduate coursework. Students will work on research projects; it is expected most will graduate with several publications. Coursework is structured with a substantive core of nursing science and research methods to be taken in the School of Nursing. This core is expanded with elective courses that typically support the student’s dissertation and future research career. These can be taken in other Duke University departments or other Universities that have arrangement with Duke (i.e., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, North Carolina Central University). Additional requirements include research practicums and elective credits that may count towards specialty certificates (i.e., teaching, global health, data science, entrepreneurship, etc.).

In addition to course work, the PhD Program in Nursing will require each student to develop a scholarly portfolio, successful completion of a preliminary examination, and a dissertation. Students are expected to disseminate their work through scholarly venues such as publications and conference presentations.

Terminal Objectives

After the PhD Program in Nursing, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge and understanding of health equity, social determinants of health (SDOH), and nurse-led models of care to improve health outcomes for a population and/or system of care.
• Apply conceptual models and theories from nursing and other relevant disciplines to design and conduct.
• Use a health equity, SDOH, and/or nurse-led models of care lens to critically evaluate and synthesize research conducted in nursing and other disciplines.
• Demonstrate scientific integrity and ethics in research across phases of the research process.
• Apply appropriate methods and analytic strategies to design, conduct, and evaluate research across phases of the research process, from discovery to translation.
• Collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams to perform research using socioculturally aligned approaches.
• Disseminate research findings through publications, presentations, and other scholarly venues to advance the evidence base for nursing and healthcare, with a focus on promoting health equity and social justice.

Program Director

Sharron L. Docherty PhD, PNP, FAAN

As Vice Dean for Research, Dr. Sharron Docherty aims to improve outcomes for children, adolescents, young adults and families undergoing treatment for life-limiting and chronic conditions. Dr. Docherty studies how to improve care models, symptom management and decision-making from diagnosis through end of life. She has methodological expertise in using qualitative, mixed-methods, trajectory science and visualization methodologies for complex data exploration and intervention development and testing.

Learn more about Sharron Docherty:  Scholars@Duke

Meet Our PhD in Nursing Program Faculty

Get to know our distinguished nursing Ph.D. faculty. These renowned experts bring extensive knowledge and specialized research expertise to our Ph.D. program, ensuring that you’ll learn from leaders who are at the forefront of nursing science and innovation.

The Duke Difference

Earn your Duke nursing degree or certificate while you continue to work.

Discover our unwavering focus on creating innovative, nurse-led models of care.

Learn from experts in distance-based and hybrid education for over 20 years.

Learn & practice at one of the most advanced health systems in the world.

Our faculty are leaders in their field, with real world clinical experience.

We have exceptional students, learning alongside talented & dedicated classmates.

PhD Nursing Admissions

The Nursing Ph.D. Program employs a holistic admissions strategy to evaluate prospective students. Our team assesses an applicant’s unique experiences in addition to traditional academic metrics, considering a wide array of factors indicative of the applicant’s potential for academic and professional success.

If you need additional assistance, contact our admissions team by email or phone: 877-415-3853 .

Jill Sergison, MA, CNM, RN is a certified nurse-midwife with nearly 20 years of experience in maternal and family planning care. In addition to her clinical experience, Jill conducted novel contraceptive research at FHI360 to promote availability and sustainability of family planning services worldwide. She was the NC Director of Policy for a reproductive health organization before co-founding Points True North (PTN) Consulting in 2022 and is currently engaged in the implementation of pharmacist-initiated contraception in NC. She has many years of experience working with progressive organizations on a range of critical health, gender, racial and social justice issues and expertise in building coalitions and driving policy change. Notable recent policy achievements include work in the extension of Medicaid for Pregnant Women and 12-month dispensing of contraception through Medicaid. Jill is founder and Executive Director of North Carolina Nurses for Reproductive Rights and co-developed reprohealthnc.org, dedicated to providing reproductive health access information to NC residents. She is tri-chair of NC’s Reproductive Life Planning group, board chair of the C4 arm of Pro-Choice NC, and member of the NC Perinatal Equity Collaborative. She obtained her BS from Wake Forest University and her MA from New York University.

Somin Sang, BSN, MSN, is dedicated to enhancing healthcare systems through systems engineering to ensure safety and efficiency. With an academic journey at the College of Nursing, Yonsei University in South Korea, Somin earned her BSN and MSN, laying a solid foundation for her pursuits. Her experience as a surgical nurse at the Seoul Asan Medical Center, coupled with her role as a nurse at the International Healthcare Center of Gangnam Severance Hospital, empowers her with a comprehensive perspective on patient care and global healthcare dynamics. Building on her clinical expertise, Somin's research focus lies at the intersection of patient safety and technology. Through her research, she aims to harness mobile monitoring data and electronic health records, to predict patient safety events and strategically intervene to mitigate patient harm.

Jolie S. Jemmott MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC earned her BSN in 2019 from Hampton University in Hampton, VA and her MSN in 2022 from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing in Philadelphia, PA. She has been a nurse for the last 5 years working and has worked in the areas of colorectal and psychiatry. Over the last year, Jolie has worked as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, working specifically in community mental health adult outpatient services. Jolie is passionate about working with those in marginalized and vulnerable populations experiencing mental health challenges. She decided to pursue a career as a nurse scientist to become an expert in the psychological underpinnings of African American substance-abusing men with dual diagnoses and developing the most successful treatment approaches for them and their families. Moreover, she wants to explore strategies to reduce substance use behaviors among African American men. Jolie’s primary goal for doctorate level studies is to become a professor at a research-intensive university and develop a program of research that makes a difference in improving mental health and health equity of substance-abusing populations. Through her research, she hopes to build a research program that continues to advance nursing knowledge, contributes to the health of vulnerable, marginalized underrepresented communities around the globe, and shapes the future of nursing science and healthcare.

Bridget Dobson, BSN, RN is passionate about eliminating sexual health education disparities, specifically related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexual violence prevention, and promoting inclusivity regarding sexual orientation. Her goal is to research best forms of providing sexual health education that empower people of all communities, orientations, and abilities to make informed decisions about their bodies. She is also interested in taking advantage of opportunities in health policy and global health at Duke. Coming from Louisville, Kentucky, Bridget worked for over 2 years as a trauma surgical intensive care nurse, where she was able to observe the impact that social determinants of health had on patient outcomes. During this time, Bridget was involved in implementing a “Trauma Informed Care” education module on the unit to improve cultural competence amongst nursing staff. She also served as a research assistant for UL Health’s Nursing Education Department, where we she assisted in the data collection and collaborative manuscript for the study: Institution-Wide Moral Distress Among Nurses: Post-COVID-19 Pandemic. Bridget learned lessons in active communication and importance of community engagement when she volunteered with Kentucky Refugee Ministries. There she assisted residents in acclimating to the city through resource and conversational English education. Bridget is inspired to get involved in Durham’s community and discover how her research goals can impact sexual health equity on a larger scale.

Tamia Walker-Atwater BSN, RN, CNRN, is a recipient of the Duke University Dean's Graduate Fellowship and has a passion for intimate partner violence research. She began her nursing career in 2018 at the University of Virginia Health System in acute care neurology. During her time here, she explored her passion for research through several initiatives with stroke, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injury patients, developing models for safer practice across the care continuum. Born from her professional and personal experience, her research interest includes exploring the intersection of neuroscience, nursing education, and intimate partner violence—a field in which she has already co-authored published work. Through her research, she aims to develop models for the healthcare profession that help to explore and define the landscape of neuroscience nursing research.

Osborn Owusu Ansah, BSN, RN is a registered nurse from Ghana who has keen research interests in the fields of oncology and palliative care. He graduated from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and has since gained significant nursing experience from working across different healthcare settings in both Ghana and the United Kingdom for the past four years. His passion for oncology and palliative care research stems from the worrying statistics on the high mortality rates associated with cancer in sub-Saharan Africa and the low number of opportunities available for individuals to extensively study on the merits of incorporating palliative care into the healthcare system in Africa. Osborn’s purpose for pursuing doctorate-level studies is to acquire competencies that will help him discover and develop cost-effective interventions that can enhance symptom management and well-being of people with cancer.

Financial Aid for PhD Nursing Students

Ph.D. student tuition and 12-month stipends are fully funded for up to five years. As a Ph.D. student, you’ll receive a competitive package that should provide financial support (tuition, stipend, health insurance) for the majority of the time you are registered and working toward your degree. Ph.D. students are supported in various ways, including funding from the School of Nursing, Graduate School and other governmental and private sources.

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• Online Doctor of Nursing

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Admissions requirements.

• Ways to Save on Tuition
• Career Outcomes

Online DNP Program Overview

This is your time. Meet the ongoing call for nurses with DNPs. Earn your next degree and be ready to perform at the very highest level of nursing.

• Add a terminal degree to your existing RN and MSN credentials to stay competitive in the rapidly changing health care environment.
• Complete your courses online while balancing the demands of your nursing career.
• Prepare to practice in clinical and leadership roles with a focus on improving patient and health care system outcomes.

Gain the Expertise That Employers Need

• Analyze data and scientific research to improve nursing practice.
• Provide organizational and system leadership to continuously improve quality of health care and foster interprofessional collaboration.
• Evaluate ethical, legal, and societal factors in shaping and developing health policies.

Scholarly Project

Complete a practice-focused final project over the course of four terms. Work under the mentorship of a DNP consultant and in collaboration with a mentor at practice site.

Practice Experience

Integrate practice and theory in the delivery of complex health care within your specialty area. You’ll need to complete a minimum of 1,000 postbaccalaureate practice hours to graduate.

Review College Scorecard data for this program .

Note: At this time, residents of the following states and territories may not enroll in this program: Hawaii, Louisiana, New York, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, Guam, and Virgin Islands. In addition, international students are not eligible to enroll in this program.

See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

CCNE Accredited

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Purdue Global is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education ( www.aacnnursing.org/CCNE ).

Learn From Expert DNP Faculty

100% of faculty are doctorally prepared and many have decades of nursing experience. They bring real-world knowledge to the classroom and understand what it takes to succeed in the field.

• View Faculty

Purdue Global Is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

The HLC ( HLCommission.org ) is an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

The DAISY ® Award for Extraordinary Nurses

Purdue Global School of Nursing proudly partners with The DAISY Foundation™ to recognize and celebrate extraordinary nursing students.

Calculate Your Time and Cost

Estimate how much your prior learning credits can reduce your tuition and time to graduation.

What Courses Will I Take?

The Doctor of Nursing program consists of nine 700–800 level courses, concluding with a practice-focused final project over the last four terms.

A minimum of 1,000 postbaccalaureate practice hours are required to successfully complete the DNP.

Sample Courses

• Professional Role Development of the DNP-Prepared Nurse
• Epidemiology and Social Determinants of Population Health
• Ethics, Policy, and Advocacy for Population Health
• Clinical Decision Making for Practice Doctorate
• Transforming the Health Care Organization

Program Requirements

1 semester credit hour = 1.5 quarter credit hours

Students with a bachelor's degree will need to enroll in the Master of Science in Nursing—DNP Path to earn a master's degree before continuing on to the Doctor of Nursing Practice program.

A master's degree with an upper-level major in nursing and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 from a program accredited by CCNE, ACEN, or CNEA is required. You will need to provide an official transcript that shows completion of your master's degree from an accredited institution, though an unofficial copy may be provided during the application process. Additional requirements apply. Refer to the program-specific policy page in the University Catalog or speak to an Advisor to learn more.

Upcoming Start Dates

We offer multiple start dates to give you flexibility in your education, life, and work schedules.

Ways to Save on Time and Tuition

Purdue Global works with students to find ways to reduce costs and make education more accessible. Contact us to learn about opportunities to save on your educational costs.

Earn credit for prior coursework completed at eligible institutions.

Learn about federal financial aid programs available for many of our degree programs.

Learn about federal and state grants and loan programs that may be available.

Employees of Purdue Global partner organizations may be eligible for special tuition reductions.

Graduate tuition savings for military include a 17–30% reduction per credit for current servicemembers and, 14% per credit for veterans for graduate programs.

Earn credit for your military training. We offer credit for ACE-evaluated training and CLEP and DANTES examinations.

View the total cost of attendance for your program.

With the shrinking number of primary care providers, the nursing shortage, and the increasing complexity of patient care, the field of nursing needs clinical experts and leaders with the highest level of scientific knowledge and expertise. The Doctor of Nursing Practice online program is designed to prepare graduates to pursue clinical and leadership positions as advanced nurses in a variety of roles.

Average Salary

In Your State

General labor market and salary data are provided by Lightcast and may not represent the outcomes experienced by Purdue Global graduates in these programs. Purdue Global graduates in these programs may earn salaries substantially different or less than the amounts listed above. Salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education, and opportunities for employment that are outside of Purdue Global's control.

Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.

Take a Career Assessment

Discover your work interests, and use them to chart your ideal career path.

Download the Program Brochure

Download our brochure to learn more about the Online Doctor of Nursing Practice and the benefits of earning your degree at Purdue Global.

Prepare yourself for success with a doctoral degree in nursing practice.

Get to Know Our Faculty

Purdue Global faculty members are real-world practitioners who bring knowledge gained through the powerful combination of higher learning and industry experience.

Faculty members who have advanced degrees

Faculty members who hold a doctorate

Faculty publications in 2022–2023

Professional development hours logged by faculty in 2022–2023

Statistics include all Purdue Global faculty members and are not school- or program-specific calculations. Source: Purdue Global Office of Reporting and Analysis, July 2023. 2022–2023 academic year.

Your Path to Success Begins Here

Connect with an Advisor to explore program requirements, curriculum, credit for prior learning process, and financial aid options.

* Estimated Graduation Date and Average Completion: Estimated graduation date is based on the assumption that you will enroll in time to begin classes on the next upcoming start date, will remain enrolled for each consecutive term, and will maintain satisfactory academic standing in each term to progress toward completion of your program. Completion time is based on a full-time schedule. Programs will take longer for part-time students to complete.

Demand for Nurses With DNPs: American Association of Colleges of Nursing, Fact Sheet: The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/0/PDFs/Fact-Sheets/DNP-Fact-Sheet.pdf and NONPF, Reaffirming the Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree: Entry to Nurse Practitioner Practice by 2025, https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.nonpf.org/resource/resmgr/dnp/04_12_23_reaffirming_the_dnp.pdf .

Jobs—Advanced Practice RN Nursing Roles: This program was not designed for initial certification and licensure for advanced practice registered nurse roles. Refer to Purdue Global's State Licensure and Certifications page for state-specific licensure information.

• Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Executive Nurse Leadership
• Family Nurse Practitioner Track
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Track
• Nurse-Midwifery Track
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Track
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Track
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Track
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Online Nursing Programs

• I Hold an MSN

Programs for Bachelor's Degree Holders

•   Online Coursework
•   Placement Support
•   CCNE Accredited
• Earn your Bachelor of Nursing degree from the Louise Herrington School of Nursing, ranked #25 for Most Innovative Schools
• Main coursework is online with 2 on-campus visits, followed by clinicals in the field
• Practicum requirement total: 720 hours 
• Courses range from 3 to 10 weeks in length, with 2 admission intakes per year
• Students learn from nationally recognized faculty
• Clinical Placement Support for students
• Total credits: 62
• Completed bachelor's degree in any non-nursing discipline
• 52 pre-req credits must be completed before start
• 3.0 GPA on pre-req courses, 2.75 GPA on science pre-req courses

Now Accepting Applications. Seating is limited.

Next Start Date:  September 2024

Programs for MSN Holders

•   No GRE/GMAT Required
• Stand out at your organization as a proven nurse leader and practice scholar.
• Develop advanced business acumen and leadership skills to transform hospitals and/or healthcare systems.
• 100 percent online program with no required campus visits.
• Gain advanced knowledge while creating a network of colleagues and mentors.
• Earn your Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the Louise Herrington School of Nursing , ranked 60th in U.S. News & World Report’s 2022 Best Graduate Schools.
• Master of Science in Nursing from a regionally accredited school of nursing, or any master’s in business/health-related degree
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited school of nursing
• GPA: 3.0 or above (BSN)
• Current unencumbered RN license
• Two years of supervisory/management experience at Director level or above, with strategic planning, budgetary, and financial responsibilities within the past five years
• CCNE-accredited**  and  U.S.  N ews & World Report  ranked program
• Main coursework is online with on-campus immersions throughout the program
• Practicum requirement total: 1,125 hours for BSN pathway and 1,000 hours minimum for MSN pathway
• Courses are 15 weeks, with three terms per year
• Clinical placement support 
• Total credits: 75 for BSN pathway and 38-75 for MSN pathway
• BSN or MSN from a regionally accredited school of nursing
• 3.0 cumulative GPA
• One (1) year of full-time experience as a practicing professional nurse by the first day of class (additional work experience may be required by faculty)
• Complete an acceptable written personal statement 
• Three letters of recommendation 
• No GRE or MAT Required 

Now accepting applications. Seating is limited

• Practicum requirement total: 1,125 hours for BSN pathway and 1.000 hours minimum for MSN pathway
• The equivalent of a minimum (1) year of full-time Level 3 NICU neo-natal clinical practice experience (by the first day of class). Experience MUST be current and required within the last five years as a registered nurse in the care of critically ill neonates or infant in critical care inpatient settings. Students may participate in the pre-clinical portion of the program while obtaining the necessary practice experience.
• Complete an acceptable written personal statement
• Three letters of recommendation, as follows: one must be from an immediate supervisor, one must be from a peer nurse, and one must be from an MSN, DNP, or PhD prepared nurse
• No GRE or MAT Required
• ACME-accredited* ,  CCNE-accredited**  and  U.S. News & World Report  ranked program
• Courses are 15 weeks, with three terms per year
• Clinical placement support

See all pass and graduation rates  here

• BSN or MSN from a regionally accredited school of nursing
• At least one year of full-time experience as a professional nurse in labor and delivery, on the mother-baby unit, or in an outpatient OB/GYN setting at time of application. Extensive observational experiences of birth, or education and practice as a doula will be considered. Applicants with other experiences in the maternal-child health specialty will be considered individually.

Programs for BSN Holders

• Earn your Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the Louise Herrington School of Nursing (LHSON), ranked No. 60 (Top 10%)  in U.S. News & World Report’s 2022  Best Graduate Schools: DNP
• Practicum requirement total: 1,125 hours for Primary Care, with an additional 600 hours for Acute Care track
• Courses are 15 weeks long, with three terms per year
• Students learn from a nationally recognized faculty
• Clinical placement support provided
• Total credits: 75 for Primary Care track; 14 for the additional Acute Care track
• BSN from a regionally accredited school of nursing
• One (1) year of full-time experience as a practicing professional nurse caring for pediatric patients by the first day of class
• CCNE-accredited** and U.S. News & World Report ranked program
• Online main coursework with on-campus immersions throughout the program
• Practicum requirement total: 1,125 hours
• 15-week courses with three terms per year
•  Nationally recognized faculty for students to learn from
•   Clinical Placement Support 
• Total credits: 75 
• Three letters of recommendation
• CCNE-accredited ** and ranked by  U.S. News & World Report   
• Online main coursework with on-campus immersions throughout the program 
• Practicum requirement total: 1,125 hours 
• 15-week courses with three terms per year 
• Nationally recognized faculty for students to learn from 
• Clinical Placement Support   
• BSN from a regionally accredited school of nursing 
• 3.0 cumulative GPA 
• One (1) year of full-time experience as a practicing professional nurse by the first day of class 
• Current unencumbered RN license 
• Three letters of recommendation, as follows: one must be from an immediate supervisor, one must be from a peer nurse, and one must be from an MSN, DNP, or PhD-prepared nurse 

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• Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

Earn a DNP degree to take your practice to the next level and apply real-world solutions across the health care system.

• Academics & Curriculum
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• Careers & Outcomes

It's an exciting time to become a doctorally-prepared nurse. As a practice leader, learn how to advance evidence-based practice to drive meaningful innovations across your organization  or health care system. Now, more than ever before, doctorally-prepared nurses are needed to improve patient outcomes and transform health care delivery.

Program Format

Part-time, distance program

Program Length

Application Deadline

For the Spring 2025 semester start 

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) recommends the DNP degree as the entry to advanced nursing practice. Nurse practitioners prepared at the doctoral level serve a critical role as high-quality clinicians, leaders in care delivery, and contributors to transforming health care. Likewise, doctorally-prepared clinical nurse leaders are integral to building evidence for practice at the point of care delivery.

Pursuing a DNP will prepare you to lead innovative efforts to overcome today's challenges and create new opportunities in health care. Gain essential knowledge and skills to expand your future professional opportunities as a practice leader, clinical scholar, and change agent. Make an impact as a DNP-prepared nurse at the University of Rochester.

Explore More

Post-bs to dnp curriculum.

For highly-qualified nurses with a bachelor’s degree in nursing who want to earn their DNP degree. Post-baccalaureate students will select an area of practice specialty (NP or CNL).

Post-MS to DNP Curriculum

For nurses with a master’s degree, previous coursework will be transferred into the program upon transcript analysis.

Applications Requirements

Application requirements to apply to the DNP program.

Quotation Mark My DNP project looked at ways to expand capacity across upstate New York for diagnosing children with FASD. Having my committee and having mentorship in the School of Nursing has allowed me to do this project in a much more structured and organized way to make sure we evaluate outcomes so that we know this is an effective intervention. It's really exciting to see when kids have the supports in place how successful and happy they and their families can be. Lynn Cole ’98N (MS) ’21N (DNP) Director of Clinical Services & Kirch Development Services Center Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities DNP Project: Assessing Feasibility of ECHO FASD for Increasing Access to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis Read More

News & Stories

Announcing UR Nursing's 9th Annual DNP Summit: Innovation & Inspiration

Aug 26, 2024

Lydia Rotondo Named Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing

Aug 15, 2024

UR School of Nursing First in NY to Offer New Entry Point for DNP Program

Jul 31, 2024

Meet the Program Director

Lydia Rotondo, DNP, RN, CNS, FNAP

Senior Associate Dean, Graduate Education & Innovation Director, Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

Lydia Rotondo has directed the Doctor of Nursing Practice program since 2014 and has become a national contributor to the dialogue on DNP education. She spearheaded the creation of the highly successful DNP Summit, featuring speakers from across the country discussing the future of the DNP and DNP-prepared nurses, and has published on DNP clinical scholarship, as well as presented nationally on several DNP-related topics. She was also selected as a 2018 Leadership for Academic Nursing Fellow by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

Connect With Us

Interested in earning your DNP? Connect with us to discuss what a DNP degree from the University of Rochester means for you. 

Request Info

Follow the School of Nursing at the University of Rochester

Doctoral Programs

Advanced education for advanced professionals.

You're ready for the next step in your career—whether as researcher or practitioner—and the University of Maryland School of Nursing’s doctoral programs represent the best in scholarship and expertise. You are proven in your field, and under the mentorship of our respected doctoral faculty, you'll gain the skills and experience to become a more effective leader.

The University of Maryland School of Nursing offers two doctoral options:

• PhD: Doctor of Philosophy
• DNP: Doctor of Nursing Practice

Which is right for you?

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DNP — Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advance your practice, tied for #3 in the nation.

Of schools offering a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, with multiple top ranked tracks. U.S. World News Report

$3.8M in funding

147 DNP scholarships funded in 2023-24, totaling $3.8 million.

Pre-arranged clinicals

We manage your clinicals, setting us apart from most other DNP programs.

A DNP degree at the University of Washington gives you the best of both worlds: advanced training in specialty practice areas and strategies for translating leading-edge research findings to practice under the mentorship of nationally recognized faculty. In 2008, UW started the first Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program on the West Coast. Since then, it has remained the standard of excellence for the terminal degree in nursing practice. Our DNP graduates are integral leaders in diverse healthcare settings, translating leading-edge research into better patient outcomes.

A path to fit your passion

Tailor your DNP program with a track specialization:

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) curriculum at the UW School of Nursing is designed to equip you with advanced clinical and leadership skills. You’ll engage in a rigorous, evidence-based education that prepares you to influence healthcare outcomes, lead in complex systems, and advocate for patients and communities. Through immersive clinical experiences and interdisciplinary coursework, you’ll gain the expertise needed to excel as a healthcare leader and advance your practice to the highest level.

Year one of the DNP program is offered in a hybrid format (50 percent in-person, 50 percent distance learning), and requires that you be on campus one day per week. You will complete core DNP academic classwork with peers across all DNP tracks in the School of Nursing. Content of year one courses includes:

• appraisal and application of evidence to advance practice
• health equity
• health systems and policy
• wellness and health promotion, and
• quality improvement

In year 2, nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist students establish the foundation of advanced practice education of the lifespan, which includes:

• pathophysiology
• advanced physical assessment, and
• pharmacology

Students build upon this in track-specific advanced assessment, diagnosis/management, and pharmacology. You will gain advanced practice skills from these academic and lab courses to move into clinical placements during spring quarter.

Population Health & Systems leadership students establish the foundation of advanced practice education with regard to population health equity and systems, which includes:

• collaborating with community partners
• systems thinking
• population health leadership
• epidemiology and informatics

Students build competency through track-specific courses that include requirements outside of the School of Nursing and across domestic, global, and environmental systems. You will gain advanced practice skills from academic courses that will support you in your application of your learning in practice, during clinical placements starting in spring quarter.

As in year two, many courses require in-person attendance, with some courses including distance learning methods. In the final year of your program, you will continue clinical training.

In addition, you will work with your supervisory committee to complete a DNP final project in collaboration with a local clinical agency or organization. This project is presented in the form of a final examination.

Admissions Requirements

• An in-process or earned bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing from a nursing program that is accredited by a national accrediting body recognized by the US Department of Education (e.g., CCNE, NLN, ACEN). A nursing degree must be completed prior to beginning your program of study.
• A minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0, or a 3.0 GPA for the last  60 semester/90 quarter graded college/university credits
• Autumn 2025 start: completed between January 2020 and September 2025
• Autumn 2026 start: completed between January 2021 and September 2026
• Meet the  Essential Behaviors for DNP students
• If you hold an ARNP license, that must also be active and unrestricted in Washington state
• International applicants  must have an active, unrestricted U.S. RN license  at the time of application;  if you hold an ARNP license, that must also be an active, unrestricted U.S. license
• If your native language is not English,  proof of proficiency in English  (including spoken English)
• Some tracks may have additional requirements

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Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Our Doctor of Nursing Practice Program ranked #33 in The U.S. News and World Report 2023 Rankings of Top Nursing Programs.

The College of Nursing’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a clinical practice-oriented leadership curriculum that focuses on evidence-based practice for the improvement of clinical care delivery, program evaluation, patient and population outcomes, and health system leadership/management.

All classes have an online component; some classes require a one- to two-day intensive session on campus. There are no more than three intensives on campus per academic year.

The DNP Pathways:

• The BS to DNP Program provides individuals with a Bachelor's in Nursing with a single path to a DNP degree.
• Students may also advance a current Master’s degree through the Post-Graduate DNP pathway.
• Expected DNP Program Outcomes
• Clinical Experience
• Career Possibilities
• APRN Certification

There are five different tracks that students may pursue in either of the DNP pathways. Each track has a focus.

• The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (DNP-APRN) pathway prepares individuals with Master's Degrees in Nursing and a specialty certification for leadership roles in the clinical setting.
• The DNP-PHN Program is for individuals who hold a Master's Degree in Public/Community Health and desire leadership roles in the public health sector.
• Individuals with a nursing masters in a specialty other than public health can earn both a Master's in Public Health and a DNP Degree with the DNP/MPH Dual Degree Program .
• The Post-Graduate DNP Health Systems Leadership Program prepares nurse leaders across the continuum of care (i.e. primary care, acute care, long-term care, school nursing, home care, etc.).
• The Veteran and Military Health Care Leadership DNP program prepares nurse leaders to care for our veterans and their needs. Contact Dr. Mona Pearl Treyball . View the VMHC Leadership DNP Plans of Study (PDF).

Nationwide, the award of the DNP requires 1,000 post-baccalaureate academically-supervised clinical practicum hours as defined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Your transcript will be evaluated to determine the number of clinical hours required for the DNP program.

• Lead interdisciplinary teams to improve the quality and safety of healthcare delivery strategies.
• Formulate scientifically based, ethical, caring and culturally sensitive healthcare delivery strategies that meet current and future healthcare delivery system needs.
• Integrate patient care technologies to evaluate complex healthcare questions in specific practice settings, populations or systems.
• Integrate theoretical frameworks to guide the development and evaluation of healthcare delivery strategies.
• Implement evidence and evaluate outcomes for the improvement of health in specific practice settings, populations or systems throughout Colorado and beyond.
• Act as a healthcare policy advocate in Colorado and beyond.​​​​​

As a DNP student at the College of Nursing, you will be required to complete credit hours in a clinical setting under the supervision of a nursing professional. These clinical experiences are an integral part of our mission as a college and provide students with a comprehensive education, functioning as integration of practice and coursework. Students have a wide variety of clinical settings and nursing environments in which to complete their clinical hours. Instructions for signing up and more information on the clinical experiences are available in the student clinical education section .

Please note, that all students completing clinical hours must meet very specific requirements concerning immunizations, background checks, etc.​​​​​

The DNP prepares advanced practice nurses to assume such roles as:

• Clinical Nurse Educator
• Clinician-Scholar
• Developer/Evaluator of Health Care Programs
• Healthcare Entrepreneur/Executive
• Clinical Administrator

Practice Makes Perfect: What Piano Playing and the DNP Program Have in Common

Ann Hefel, FNP-BC, MS, approaches life and her nursing career like a recital.

Ann's story »

Doctor of Nursing Practice program

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Academic Programs

The 100% Online RN to BSN Completion Program provides the associate degree or diploma-prepared registered nurse an opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN). Registered nurses who have completed an associate degree or diploma program are candidates for this online degree.

We are excited that our program capacity has expanded and we are able to admit more students. We evaluate applicants using a holistic admissions review. Applicants will be evaluated on multiple factors, including GPA, essays, past direct patient care and/or volunteer experience, attainment of a prior degree (4-year or higher), and hours completed at UNC […]

*This is a Distance Education program This concentration focuses on preparing nurses for advanced roles as a Nurse Educator.  Graduates are prepared for positions teaching nursing in college, university, and clinical settings.  Two clinical practicum courses totaling 360 supervised hours are required.

*This is a Distance Education program This concentration prepares nurses for advanced practice in administrative roles such as Nurse Executive, Nurse Manager, Quality Improvement Manager, Ambulatory Care Manager, or other system-level nursing positions in community agencies, healthcare facilities, health departments, and schools of nursing.

*This is a Campus-based Program This concentration leads to an MSN with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan.  These Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) are prepared to function as Nurse Practitioners providing primary care to families across the lifespan.

*This is a Distance Education program The Community/Public Health Nursing concentration prepares nurses to assume leadership in assessing communities and populations, identifying high-risk groups, and in partnership with communities, consumers, and stakeholders, developing culturally sensitive, acceptable, and realistic community-based nursing services.

*This is a Campus-based Program These advanced practice registered nurses are prepared to function as Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners (AGACNP).  Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners provide evidence-based care to acutely ill adults with urgent and emergent complex health issues and critically ill adults with life-threatening, rapidly changing physiological and pathophysiological conditions.

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) option at the UNC Charlotte School of Nursing is designed for students who already hold a degree in another discipline, providing a fast, affordable, and efficient path to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). This program begins Fall 2025 and can be completed in just four semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, […]

Our post-master’s is designed to prepare health systems and organizational nursing leaders (non-APRNs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to lead nursing practice, organizations, and systems of care through the translation and application of evidence-based research into practice.

The Nurse Anesthesia Across the Lifespan is a post-baccalaureate DNP concentration requiring a BSN to apply.  It provides students both the theory and clinical practice required to meet the educational requirements to take the national certifying examination upon graduation  The specialty in Nurse Anesthesia Across the Lifespan is offered in partnership with Carolinas Medical Center.  Clinical experiences […]

Undergraduate Programs

The pre-licensure BSN curriculum prepares graduates for generalist practice in nursing by providing a strong liberal arts and science foundation, and an extensive range of nursing courses. The BSN degree allows graduates to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), which is required to practice as a registered nurse (RN).

Graduate Programs

UNC Charlotte’s graduate programs prepare nurses to advance their career through education in nursing specialties such as education, nurse practitioner, leadership, and more. 

Graduate/Post-Graduate APRN Certificates

Looking to enhance your career with professional development courses and certificates?  UNC Charlotte’s Continuing Education Programs are the region’s teaching and learning connection. There are two types of certificates offered by the School of Nursing: a graduate certificate and a post-graduate APRN certificate.

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Student Nursing Association

Anderson University’s Student Nurses Association is a pre-professional organization for students enrolled in AU’s nursing program. Through AU-SNA, members are able to obtain educational opportunities, gain leadership experience, and participate in legislative processes, community service, and career networking. The AU-SNA is an official constituent of the South Carolina Student Nurses Association and the National Student Nurses’ Association.

The Student Nurses Association is led by a board of nursing students elected by the members of our organization. For information please contact Shelly Walters at [email protected] or Heather Caldwell [email protected]

Undergraduate Nursing Student Handbook

Nursing student handbooks are available for download as a PDF file. If you have questions, please email us at [email protected]

Nursing Student Handbook – Undergraduate 2023-2024 Nursing Student Handbook – Undergraduate 2022-2023 Nursing Student Handbook – Undergraduate 2021-2022

Graduate Nursing Student Handbook

Nursing Student Handbook – Graduate 2023-2024 Nursing Student Handbook – Graduate 2022-2023 Nursing Student Handbook – Graduate 2021-2022

1.2 Nursing Education Programs

Learning objectives.

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

• Compare and contrast levels of nursing education
• Describe the licensure process for nursing practice

Navigating the landscape of nursing education involves exploring the available levels of education, each of which contributes uniquely to the development of nursing professionals. Aspiring nurses encounter distinct educational pathways, ranging from practical and vocational nursing programs to more advanced degrees like associate, bachelor, and graduate levels. Each tier not only shapes the depth of clinical knowledge but also influences critical-thinking skills and leadership capabilities. Alongside the diverse educational avenues, the licensure process stands as a pivotal gateway for nursing practice. This process, governed by regulatory bodies, establishes a standardized framework to ensure that nurses meet essential qualifications and competencies. Understanding the licensure journey is crucial for aspiring nurses, as it encompasses examinations, practical assessments, and adherence to ethical standards that are prerequisites to a rewarding and impactful career in health care.

Nursing Education

Nursing education encompasses a range of programs designed to prepare individuals for diverse roles within the healthcare profession. Entry-level pathways into the nursing profession include licensed practical nurse (LPN)/licensed vocational nurse (LVN), ADN, and BSN programs, each offering a tiered progression of education and skills development for individuals aspiring to become nurses. Graduate-level nursing programs—such as Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) , doctor of nursing practice (DNP), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing —are designed to provide advanced education and specialized training for registered nurses seeking to enhance their clinical expertise and leadership skills and engage in research to contribute to the advancement of nursing practice and knowledge. These diverse educational pathways cater to individuals with varying career aspirations, contributing to a well-rounded and skilled nursing workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of the healthcare landscape.

Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse

The positions of licensed practical nurse (LPN) and licensed vocational nurse (LVN) are fundamentally equivalent; the particular term depends on the state in which the nurse is licensed, but all LPNs and LVNs have completed a specialized nursing education program that equips them with the skills and knowledge required for entry-level positions in health care. Typically offered by vocational schools, community colleges, or technical institutes, these programs span 12 to 18 months, with a curriculum focused on practical nursing skills and basic nursing education ( A guide to the different types of nursing degrees , n.d., Ko, 2023; Mills, 2023; Types of nursing degrees and levels , 2023).

Following program completion, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain licensure. The LPNs/LVNs work under the supervision of registered nurses or providers, providing basic nursing care such as administering medication, treating wounds, monitoring vital signs, and assisting with activities of daily living. The LPNs/LVNs contribute to overall patient care but may have limited involvement in complex decision-making or creation of the patient care plan ( A guide to the different types of nursing degrees , n.d.; Ko, 2023; Mills, 2023; Types of nursing degrees and levels , 2023). Their scope of practice varies by state and includes roles in hospitals, long-term care facilities, physician’s offices, and community clinics. The LPNs/LVNs may choose to advance their career by pursuing further education, such as becoming a registered nurse (RN) through an LPN-to-RN bridge program.

Associate Degree in Nursing

The associate degree in nursing (ADN) is a two-year program offered by various educational institutions, including community colleges and technical schools, designed to prepare individuals for a career as a registered nurse (RN) . The ADN curriculum encompasses a blend of general education courses and nursing-specific content, providing a broader and more comprehensive foundation than does the LPN/LVN curriculum ( A guide to the different types of nursing degrees , n.d.; Ko, 2023; Mills, 2023; Types of nursing degrees and levels , 2023).

Upon program completion, graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), a prerequisite for obtaining licensure as a registered nurse. The RNs have a broader scope of practice than LPNs/LVNs. In addition to assessing patients and administering medication, they are involved in planning care. The ADN-prepared nurses are trained to make independent clinical decisions and collaborate with other healthcare professionals in complex patient situations ( A guide to the different types of nursing degrees , n.d.; Ko, 2023; Mills, 2023; Types of nursing degrees and levels , 2023). Consequently, they often have more immediate opportunities for career advancement, and they can pursue additional education, such as a BSN degree, to open up further career prospects.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) is a comprehensive degree program designed to prepare an individual for a career as an RN; the robust educational requirements typically take four years to complete, though some accelerated programs can be completed in a shorter time frame. Compared to the ADN program, the BSN program offers a broader education, including a more extensive range of general education courses. It covers not only clinical skills but also theory , research, leadership, and public health. Emphasizing critical thinking and evidence-based practice, BSN programs equip nurses with a holistic understanding of health care. The BSN-prepared nurses have an expanded scope of practice, engaging in more complex patient care, decision-making, and coordination of care. The BSN curriculum also includes components on leadership and management, preparing nurses for supervisory roles and leadership within healthcare teams ( A guide to the different types of nursing degrees , n.d.; Mills, 2023; Types of nursing degrees and levels , 2023).

Graduates of BSN programs are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, which is a prerequisite for obtaining licensure as an RN. The BSN-prepared nurses are positioned for career advancement, with increased opportunities in management, education, research, and specialized nursing roles. The emphasis on professional development encourages ongoing education, certifications, and advanced degrees, reflecting the evolving standards in the nursing profession.

Master’s Degree in Nursing

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is an advanced graduate degree that provides nurses with a higher level of education and specialization in various areas of nursing practice . Typically pursued after obtaining a BSN degree, an MSN degree is designed to equip nurses with advanced knowledge, skills, leadership, and critical-thinking abilities. The curriculum of an MSN program varies based on the chosen specialty track, which may include options such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator , nurse administrator, or clinical nurse specialist. The program often integrates advanced coursework in areas such as nursing theory , research methods, health policy, and leadership. Clinical experiences and practicums are common components, allowing students to apply advanced theoretical concepts in real-world healthcare settings ( A guide to the different types of nursing degrees , n.d.; Types of nursing degrees and levels , 2023).

Graduates of MSN programs are prepared for advanced practice roles, leadership positions, and specialized nursing functions. The MSN degree serves as a pathway for nurses seeking career advancement, increased autonomy , and the ability to contribute to shaping healthcare policies and practices. Additionally, the MSN is often a prerequisite for pursuing doctoral-level education in nursing, such as a DNP or a PhD in nursing. The pursuit of an MSN reflects a commitment to ongoing professional development and a desire to play a pivotal role in addressing the evolving challenges and complexities within the healthcare system ( A guide to the different types of nursing degrees , n.d.; Types of nursing degrees and levels , 2023).

Doctoral Degrees in Nursing

Doctoral degrees in nursing education are terminal degrees, representing the highest level of academic achievement in the nursing profession. Doctoral degrees provide nurses with advanced knowledge, leadership skills, and expertise in specialized areas. Two primary doctoral degrees in nursing education are the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing degrees. The DNP is a practice-focused doctoral degree that emphasizes advanced clinical practice, leadership in healthcare systems, and evidence-based decision-making. The DNP-prepared nurses are equipped to lead and innovate in clinical settings, shaping healthcare policy and practice. The PhD in nursing is a research-focused doctoral degree that emphasizes the generation of new knowledge through rigorous scientific inquiry (Bal, 2023; Types of nursing degrees and levels , 2023). The PhD-prepared nurses contribute to the development of nursing science through research, scholarly publications, and academic teaching. Pursuing a doctoral degree in nursing education reflects a commitment to advancing the nursing profession, contributing to evidence-based practice, and shaping the future of health care through leadership, research, and education.

American Association of Colleges of Nursing Essentials of Associate Education for Professional Nursing Practice

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) is a professional organization that represents schools of nursing in the United States. Founded in 1969, the AACN is dedicated to advancing nursing education, research, and practice. It serves as a national voice for nursing education, influencing policy, promoting quality standards in nursing education, and advocating for the nursing profession (AACN, 2021).

The AACN Essentials of nursing education delineate the core principles and competencies for various levels of nursing education. Each set of AACN Essentials , whether for associate, baccalaureate, master, or doctoral education, serves as a framework to guide the development of nursing programs and ensure the preparation of competent and professional nurses. Collectively, they define the standards and expectations for nursing education in the United States, ensuring a continuum of excellence in nursing practice across various roles and responsibilities (AACN, 2021).

The current AACN Essentials , introduced in April 2021, are structured around ten domains (AACN, 2021):

• Knowledge for Nursing Practice
• Person-Centered Care
• Population Health
• Scholarship for Nursing Practice
• Quality and Safety
• Interprofessional Partnerships
• Systems-Based Practice
• Informatics and Healthcare Technologies
• Professionalism
• Personal, Professional, and Leadership Development

Each domain includes level 1 and level 2 subcompetencies, tailored to differentiate between entry-level and advanced-level nursing education. Eight professional nursing practice concepts, such as clinical judgment , communication, compassionate care, social determinant of health, and ethics, are emphasized. The Essentials are intentionally designed using a competency-based education model to bridge the gap between education and practice; they are intended to be applicable across different educational stages and adaptable to various curricular models. The ultimate goal is to ensure graduates of nursing programs demonstrate competency in relevant areas, aligning with the evolving needs of health care and improving overall learning outcomes (AACN, 2021).

Link to Learning

The AACN’s The Essentials 2021 outlines curriculum requirements and expected competencies for each level of nursing education.

Nursing licensure is a critical regulatory process that ensures individuals practicing nursing meet established standards of competency and adhere to ethical and legal guidelines. Licensure is typically granted by the state’s nursing regulatory board, or a similar governing body, and signifies that an individual has successfully completed the required education and training to practice as a nurse. The process involves passing a standardized examination, most commonly the NCLEX-RN for RNs or the NCLEX-PN for LPNs/LVNs (National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2023).

Licensure for advanced practice registered nurse (RN) , such as nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, nurse-midwives, and clinical nurse specialists, is a specialized regulatory process that acknowledges the advanced education, training, and clinical expertise of these professionals. The licensure process for APRNs typically involves obtaining an advanced practice nursing license in addition to, or as part of, the RN license. Key components of advanced practice licensure often include completing a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing, obtaining national certification in the respective advanced practice specialty, and fulfilling clinical practice hours. National certification is usually granted by specialty nursing organizations or certification boards and is often a prerequisite for state-level advanced practice licensure (National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2023).

In addition to examination requirements, licensure for RNs and APRNs may involve meeting specific educational criteria, accruing clinical experience hours, and adhering to professional and ethical standards. Nursing licensure not only validates a nurse’s competence but also provides a legal framework for accountability and protection of the public. Licensure requirements vary by jurisdiction, and maintaining an active license often requires ongoing professional development through continuing education (CE) to ensure nurses stay current with advancements in healthcare practices and technologies (National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2023). The licensure process plays a crucial role in upholding the quality and safety of patient care while regulating the nursing profession to meet the evolving needs of healthcare delivery.

Continuing Education

Ongoing educational activities known as continuing education (CE) are a vital component of nursing practice . The CE activities include workshops, seminars, conferences, online courses, and formal academic programs on a broad spectrum of topics, such as new treatment modalities, advances in technology, changes in healthcare laws and regulations, cultural competency, and patient safety measures. The purpose of CE is multifaceted. It ensures nurses remain competent and knowledgeable in their practice and stay current with evolving medical knowledge, technological advancements, and best practices in patient care. Additionally, CE fosters professional growth and development and helps nurses adapt to the dynamic landscape of health care, integrating evidence-based practices into their clinical care.

Compliance with CE requirements is often a condition for license renewal. The specific requirements vary by jurisdiction, and each state’s nursing board establishes guidelines for CE that nurses must follow. This commitment to lifelong learning not only benefits individual practitioners, it also maintains high standards of patient care and safety throughout healthcare systems, enhancing their overall quality.

Career Development and Specialty Certification

Career development and specialty certification play crucial roles in advancing nursing practice, providing opportunities for professional growth and enhancing the quality of patient care. In nursing, career development encompasses a broad spectrum of activities aimed at advancing a nurse’s professional trajectory. This may include pursuing advanced degrees (such as a master’s or doctoral degree), assuming leadership roles, engaging in research, or transitioning into educational roles. Career development activities are often driven by a nurse’s individual goals, interests, and aspirations for their professional journey.

As nurses progress in their careers, pursuing a specialty certification becomes a valuable means of demonstrating expertise and dedication to a particular area of nursing. While licensure grants the legal authority to practice as a nurse, specialty certifications offer a way for nurses to showcase advanced knowledge and skills within a specific niche. Specialty certification involves meeting established criteria: often a combination of education, clinical experience, and successful completion of a certification exam. Certifications are available in various specialties, such as critical care, pediatric nursing, oncology, and nurse anesthesia, among others. These certifications not only validate a nurse’s proficiency in a specialized area but also contribute to their overall career development.

Both career development and specialty certification contribute to the continuous improvement of patient care. Nurses who actively engage in career development contribute to the overall advancement of the nursing profession, taking on leadership positions, participating in research initiatives, and shaping healthcare policies. Nurses with specialized certifications bring enhanced knowledge and skills to their roles, resulting in improved patient outcomes. While licensure provides the foundation for nursing practice, career development and specialty certification serve as dynamic elements that empower nurses to excel in their chosen areas, contribute to the advancement of health care, and shape the future of nursing.

Real RN Stories

Career development through national certification.

Nurse: Lindsay, BSN Clinical setting: Medical-surgical department Years in practice: 13 Facility location: Suburban area in North Carolina

Early in my nursing career, I knew that I wanted to obtain a national certification in my specialty area of medical-surgical nursing. After establishing a robust practical foundation as a medical-surgical nurse, I started to research what additional steps I would need to take. After confirming that I had met the practice requirements of two years full-time as an RN and had completed the required thirty CE credits, I began studying and registered to take the certification exam.

I became certified in medical-surgical nursing during my third year as a nurse and have maintained it ever since. This certification became a transformative milestone, allowing me to deepen my expertise in medical-surgical nursing. It equipped me with the latest evidence-based practices, significantly enhancing the quality of care for a diverse range of medical-surgical patients in the fast-paced environment of the hospital. Not only did my journey to certification help my own practice, but it also became a source of inspiration for my nursing colleagues. I actively engaged in mentorship, encouraging fellow medical-surgical nurses to explore the unique opportunities that certification brings to our specialty. A year or two after I became certified, four of my colleagues became certified as well, which furthered the expertise and care our department could provide to our patients.

In-Service Education

Many healthcare institutions offer licensed nurses opportunities for ongoing training, known as in-service education . Often these programs address the evolving nature of health care, licensure renewal prerequisites, or other specific needs of the nursing staff. They cover a spectrum of topics, including clinical updates, patient safety measures, quality improvement, and regulatory compliance. By providing opportunities for ongoing learning and skill enhancement, in-service education not only helps nurses stay current with best practices but also ensures they adhere to ethical standards, legal obligations, and regulatory requirements, ultimately promoting optimal patient care and safety.

Clinical Safety and Procedures (QSEN)

In-service education for clinical safety.

In-service education programs play a pivotal role in ensuring clinical safety and adherence to best practices in health care. Addressing the core principles of QSEN, these initiatives aim to enhance the competence and skills of healthcare professionals in delivering safe and effective patient care.

• Focus on QSEN principles: In-service education programs aligned with QSEN principles prioritize areas such as patient-centered care, teamwork and collaboration, evidence-based practice, quality improvement, safety, and informatics. By integrating these principles into ongoing training, healthcare institutions foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Clinical updates and best practices: In-service education initiatives in clinical safety and procedures provide healthcare professionals with essential updates on clinical protocols, safety measures, and evidence-based procedures. This ensures that nurses stay abreast of the latest advancements, contributing to enhanced patient safety.
• Ethical standards and regulatory compliance: Beyond clinical skills, in-service education emphasizes ethical standards, legal obligations, and regulatory requirements. By promoting adherence to these principles, these programs contribute to maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct and safeguarding patient well-being.
• Optimizing patient care: In-service education in clinical safety and procedures is not only a requirement for professional growth but also a commitment to optimizing patient care. The continuous enhancement of skills and knowledge empowers healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality, safe, and patient-centered care in evolving clinical environments.

As an integral part of healthcare education, in-service programs aligned with QSEN principles demonstrate the industry’s dedication to maintaining excellence in clinical safety and procedures. These initiatives support healthcare professionals in upholding the highest standards of care and contribute to the ongoing improvement of patient outcomes.

Professional Nursing Organizations

A professional nursing organization is a collective body formed by nurses to represent and advocate for the interests of the nursing profession. Professional nursing organizations share a symbiotic relationship with licensing bodies. Organizations such as the ANA, National Council of State Boards of Nursing, and various specialty-specific groups play a vital role in shaping the standards and guidelines for nursing licensure. They actively engage in advocacy efforts, influencing legislative decisions and policies to ensure that licensure processes are fair, transparent, and reflective of the current healthcare landscape.

Professional nursing organizations also collaborate with regulatory bodies to establish educational requirements, competency assessments, and CE expectations, contributing to the continuous professional development of nurses. Through networking opportunities and collaborative initiatives, these organizations provide a platform for nurses to collectively address challenges, share best practices, and contribute to the ongoing improvement of licensure standards. Additionally, professional nursing organizations emphasize the importance of ethical standards, research, and evidence-based practice, influencing the ethical considerations and scientific foundations embedded in the licensure process. The collaboration between professional nursing organizations and licensure ensures that nursing standards evolve to meet the dynamic needs of health care, uphold ethical principle s, and foster the highest quality of patient care.

The website Nurse.org maintains a list of professional nursing organizations at the state, national, and international levels.

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DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Dual Degree

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Need your questions answered?

The Johns Hopkins School of Nursing is not accepting applications for the DNP/PHD program (all tracks) for 2025.

The best of both worlds

Students in the DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Dual Degree program are motivated by clinical practice and research innovations that will produce practice transformations and improve care. This program is the first in the country where students can receive both degrees simultaneously from one school, and graduates will be prepared at the highest level to conduct clinical research, teach, mentor, and implement innovations to enhance patient outcomes.

The DNP/PHD program creates rigorously prepared clinical scholars that offer the nursing profession a ’best of both worlds’ approach to creating innovative solutions for clinical curriculum development, faculty practice, and scientific inquiry. The program requires completion of both teaching and research residencies. Through the experiences, students will learn how to combine the roles of educator with clinician and scholar. Students will work with Hopkins faculty mentors to select courses and identify opportunities that align with their research and/or clinical training program.

Within the DNP portion of the program, students will select an advanced practice track from six nurse practitioner options, including pediatrics to family to adult/gerontology to psychiatric mental health. By combining the PhD goal of creating leaders in nursing science development with the DNP mission to prepare expert nurse clinicians into an integrated curriculum, students receive both outstanding research and clinical practice experience.

Program Details

Tuition & fees.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $2,222 per credit See Cost of Attendance Details Financial Aid: There are numerous options for financing your education including grants, scholarships, and federal loans.  Learn more.

Upcoming Application Deadlines

Fall entry: November 15

Requirements

Admission criteria.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree or an entry-level nursing master’s degree from an ACEN or CCNE accredited college or university or an equivalent degree from a comparable foreign institution

Scholastic GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

Proof of current nursing licensure. Students must have or obtain Maryland RN licensure for matriculation (or RN license from a compact state)

One year of full-time RN experience preferred*

Three letters of recommendation (two academic and one professional)**

Official transcripts (from all previous colleges/universities)

Current Resume/CV

A written statement of Advanced Practice role and research goals including reason for interest in Johns Hopkins

Writing sample (publication or graded paper)

GRE scores are accepted but not required

Research interests that match faculty expertise and School resources

Interview with faculty (if moved forward by admissions committee)

TOEFL or IELTS if English is not your native language

Information for applicants with international education

*The DNP Dual Pediatric Primary and Acute Care NP track requires one year of full-time pediatric RN experience in an acute care setting engaged in the direct care of physiologically unstable pediatric patients within an acute care environment (critical care, intermediate care, Level 1 pediatric ED, stepdown, pediatric med-surg, hem-onc preferred) required by the start of the program. The DNP Dual Pediatric Primary and Acute Care NP track also requires Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification.

*The DNP Adult-Gerontological Acute Care NP track requires one year of full-time RN experience engaged in the direct care of adults and older adults who are physiologically unstable, technologically dependent, and require frequent monitoring and intervention within an inpatient, acute care setting (intensive or critical care, intermediate care, progressive care, stepdown or telemetry unit) by the start of the program.

**References should be recent, written for the purpose of your application to this program and from professors who know you as a student or employers who know you as a professional in a job setting preferably in a supervisory role. Personal references from colleagues, friends, or family members do not meet the requirement. For PhD applicants, it is strongly preferred that a least one of your recommenders holds a PhD.

Prerequisites

No prerequisite courses.

Student Sponsorship

This program  does not  qualify for F-1 or J-1 student sponsorship. Legal Permanent Residents and non-immigrants who are otherwise physically present in the U.S.  and  in a status that allows for full or part-time study, may pursue this program.

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The program is designed to be completed in a five-year, full-time plan of study. The program highlights both a structured teaching and research residency. The plan below is a sample of the DNP Advanced Practice/PhD curriculum. For a dual degree, all coursework must be completed before either degree is awarded.

DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Total Number Of Credits And Clinical Hours By Track

Year 1 Fall 12 credits

• Quantitative Research Design and Methods [3cr]
• Statistical Methods in Public Health I (Biostats I) [3cr]
• Statistical Methods in Public Health II (Biostats II) [3cr]
• Philosophical Perspectives in Health [3cr]

Year 1 Spring 12 credits

• Qualitative Research Designs and Methods [2cr]
• Mixed Methods Research Designs [2cr]
• Statistical Methods in Public Health III (Biostats III) [3cr]
• Scientific Perspectives Nursing [3cr]
• Measurement in Healthcare [2cr]

Year 1 Summer 2 credits

• Grant Development & Writing [1cr]
• Clinical Research Residency I (EBP Project) [1cr]
• Comp Exams [NC]
• Teaching Experience [NC]

Year 2 Fall 12 credits

• Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
• Dissertation [2cr]
• PhD Elective [3cr]
• Introduction to Quality Improvement & Knowledge Translation (1st term) [2cr]
• Advanced Health Policy [2cr]
• Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Healthcare [2cr]
• Research Residency [NC]

Year 2 Spring 9 credits

• Responsibilities and Activities of Nurse Scientist [2cr]
• PhD Elective [4cr]
• Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]

Year 2 Summer 3 credits

• PhD Elective Credit [3cr]
• NRSA Submission [NC]

Year 3 Fall 11 credits

• Health Promotion and Disease Across the Lifespan [2cr]
• Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology I [2cr]
• Pharmacology for Advanced Practice I [2cr]
• Introduction Comparative Effectiveness & Outcome Research (3rd term) [2cr]

Year 3 Spring 12 credits

• Advanced Health Assessment & Measurement [3cr]
• Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology II [2cr]
• Pharmacology for Advanced Practice II [2cr]
• Diagnostic Skills and Procedures for Advanced Practice Nursing Part I [1cr]
• Diagnostic Skills and Procedures for Advanced Practice Nursing Part 2 Acute Care [1cr]
• Introduction to Acute Care Fundamentals [3cr]
• Introduction to Acute Care Clinical Management [1cr, 80 clinical hrs]
• Advanced Practice in Acute Care I Diagnostic Reasoning [3.5cr]
• Advanced Practice in Acute Care I Clinical Management [2cr, 160cl]
• Healthcare Finance for Advanced Nursing Practice [2cr]
• Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
• Advanced Practice in Acute Care II Diagnostic Reasoning [2cr]
• Advanced Practice in Acute Care II Clinical Management [2.5cr, 200cl]

Year 4 Summer 1 credits

• Clinical Research Residency II (EBP) [1cr]

Year 5 Fall 10.5 credits, 200 clinical hours

• Advanced Practice in Acute Care III Diagnostic Reasoning [3cr]
• Advanced Practice in Acute Care III Clinical Management [2.5cr, 200cl]
• Advanced Applications of Information Technology in Healthcare Delivery [2cr]
• Final Oral Defense [NC]

Year 5 Spring 8.5 credits, 200 clinical hours

• Advanced Practice in Acute Care IV Diagnostic Reasoning [3cr]
• Advanced Practice in Acute Care IV Clinical Management [2.5cr, 200cl]

Program Total: 115 credits [cr], 840 Clinical Hours [cl] Please note, curriculum, credit hours, and sequencing are subject to change.

• Research Residency

Year 2 Spring 8 credits

• Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part I [2cr]
• Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part I [2cr]

Year 3 Spring 13 credits

• Advanced Health Assessment and Measurement for Advanced Practice Nurses [3cr]
• Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part II [2cr]
• Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part II [2cr]
• Diagnostic Reasoning I: Wellness in Primary Care and Common Acute Health Conditions Across the Lifespan [3cr]
• Dissertation Seminar [2cr]

Year 3 Summer 6.5 credits, 200 clinical hours

• Diagnostic Reasoning II: Common Acute and Chronic Health Conditions Across the Lifespan [3cr]
• Clinical Management I: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]

Year 4 Fall 10.5 credits, 200 clinical hours

• Diagnostic Reasoning III: Clinical Management for the Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: Gender/Reproductive, and Psych/Mental Health Care [3cr]
• Clinical Management II: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]

Year 4 Spring 9 credits, 160 clinical hours

• Diagnostic Reasoning IV Clinical Management for the Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: Chronic, Complex and Multi-System Illnesses and Conditions [3cr]
• Clinical Management III: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner [2cr, 160cl]
• Diagnostic Skills and Procedures for Advanced Practice Nursing 2: Primary Care [1cr]
• Clinical Management IV: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
• DNP AP Elective [3cr]
• Clinical Management V: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]

Program Total: 119 credits [cr], 960 clinical hours [cl] Please note, curriculum, credit hours, and sequencing are subject to change.

Year 2 Fall 13 credits

• Introduction to Quality Improvement & Knowledge Translation (1st term) [3cr]

Year 2 Spring 10 credits

• Human Growth, Development and Supervision Birth through Adolescence [2cr]
• Clinical Management I: Family Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
• Diagnostic Reasoning III: Psych Mental Health, Gender Specific/Reproductive, and Healthcare Conditions Across the Lifespan [3cr]
• Clinical Management II: Family Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
• Diagnostic Reasoning IV: Complex, Chronic Multi-Symptom, and Special Population Health Across the Lifespan [3cr]
• Clinical Management III: Family Nurse Practitioner [2cr, 160cl]

Year 4 Summer 2.5 credits, 200 clinical hours

• Clinical Management IV: Family Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
• Clinical Management V: Family Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]

Program Total: 121 credits [cr], 960 Clinical Hours [cl]

• Diagnostic Reasoning I: Newborn and Young Child: Wellness, Nutrition, and Developmental Surveillance in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]

Year 3 Summer 5.5 credits, 120 clinical hours

• Diagnostic Reasoning II: Common Acute Health Conditions in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]
• Clinical Management I PNP [1.5cr, 120cl]

Year 4 Fall 10 credits, 160 clinical hours

• Diagnostic Reasoning III: Children and Adolescents: Wellness, Behavioral/Mental Health, and Gender/Reproductive Health in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]
• Clinical Management II: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner [2cr, 160cl]
• Diagnostic Reasoning IV: Chronic, Complex, and Multi-System Illnesses in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]
• Clinical Management III: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner [2cr, 160cl]

Year 4 Summer 2 credits

• Clinical Management IV: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
• Clinical Management V: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]

Program Total: 119.5 credits [cr], 960 Clinical Hours [cl]

Year 4 Summer 2.5 credit, 120 clinical hours

• Pediatric Acute Care Practicum I [1.5cr, 120cl]
• Advanced Topics for the Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner I [3cr]
• Pediatric Acute Care Practicum II [2.5cr, 200cl]
• Advanced Topics for the Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner II [3cr]
• Pediatric Acute Care Practicum III [2.5cr, 200cl]

Please note, curriculum, credit hours, and sequencing are subject to change.

Year 3 Fall 13 credits

Year 3 Summer 5 credits

• Introduction to Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Practice Interview Techniques [2cr]
• Diagnostic Skills for Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Practice Nursing [1cr]
• Elective [2cr]

Year 4 Fall 13 credits

• Neurobiology of Mental Disorders [1cr]
• Clinical Psychopharmacology [2cr]
• Differential Diagnosis of Mental Disorders [3cr]
• Psychotherapeutic Frameworks and Modalities [2cr]

Year 4 Spring 8 credits, 240 clinical hours

• Diagnostic Reasoning I: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: Adult/Gero [1cr]
• Clinical Management I: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: Adult/Gero [3cr, 240cl]
• Integrated Care I for the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner [1cr]

Year 4 Summer 4 credits, 160 clinical hours

• Diagnostic Reasoning II: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: Children and Families [1cr]
• Clinical Management II: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: Children and Families [2cr, 160cl]

Year 5 Fall 11 credits, 320 clinical hours

• Integrated Care II for the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner [1cr]
• Clinical Management III: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner [4cr, 320cl]

Year 5 Spring 8 credits, 320 clinical hours

• Clinical Management IV: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner [4cr, 320cl]
• DNP AP Elective [1cr]

Program Total: 126 credits [cr], 1040 Clinical Hours [cl] Please note, curriculum, credit hours, and sequencing are subject to change.

* Curriculum, credit hours, and sequencing are subject to change. ** Transfer Credits from the JHSON MSN (Entry into Nursing) Program to the DNP Advanced Practice Track can vary based on current curriculum & start date. ***Transfer of credit is granted on an individual basis. Please see the transfer of credit policy and complete the form to make a request. Note – A minimum of 1000 practice hours is required for the DNP. The Dissertation Seminar & Dissertation courses will provide additional practice hours to meet this requirement.

“I wanted to be a provider to care for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s as well as work toward new treatments and interventions. … The DNP/PhD is training me to become an adult-gerontological nurse practitioner and a researcher—I can get evidence-based care to my patients sooner.” Inga Antonsdottir, DNP/PhD Candidate

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Speak with Admissions to learn more about our programs.

Virtual Info Sessions

See recordings of some of our recent virtual info sessons.

Tuition & Other Costs

Financial aid.

View the costs for the DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Dual Degree. 2024-2025

State Authorization Disclosures

PhD/DNP Dual Adult Gerontological Acute Care NP PhD/DNP Dual Adult Gerontological Primary Care NP PhD/DNP Dual Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NP PhD/DNP Dual Family Primary Care NP PhD/DNP Dual Pediatric Primary Care NP PhD/DNP Dual Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Scholarships & Grants: Grants are awards based on financial need that do not have to be repaid. Many students also benefit from scholarships and awards based on merit. Learn more.

Loans: Many students will avail themselves of loans to help finance their School of Nursing education. If necessary, we encourage you to borrow only what is absolutely essential to cover your educational costs. Learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

The research area in an admission application should be well-defined but not overly rigid. Candidates should demonstrate a clear focus within their field of interest, outlining specific research questions or problems they aim to address. The proposal should show a solid understanding of current literature and gaps in knowledge, indicating how their research could contribute to the field. While applicants may have a general idea of their methodology and potential outcomes, there should be room for refinement and adaptation as they progress in their studies and clinical practice. The research area should align with the program’s strengths, integration with advanced practice role, and faculty expertise. Overall, the essay should reflect the applicant’s understanding of the issue, and critical thinking skills, and potential for conducting meaningful research, while still allowing for guidance and development throughout the program.

Although contacting a faculty member in your research area is not required, it is an opportunity to become familiar with researchers in your area of interest and to ask questions not addressed on the school’s website. While it can be helpful to have a direct match, students often have great success in the program when a piece of the research overlaps with the advisor.  If there is a particular faculty member whose work interests you, you may discuss this as part of your application essay.  The best place to start is with the DNP/PhD Assistant Director of Recruitment, Cesar Nuñez at  [email protected]  and with a review of our most recent PhD virtual information session at  https://nursing.jhu.edu/admissions/index.html

DNP/PhD faculty advisors take an active role in the education of our DNP/PhD Students who are assigned PhD and DNP faculty advisors. PhD and DNP faculty advisors and are responsible for program oversight and student mentorship. This advising support for DNP/PhD students is for the duration of their clinical and research training with a particular emphasis on transitions and preparing for successful careers as APRN Clinical Scientists

Once you are admitted to the DNP/PhD program, the PhD Admissions Committee determines who will be your PhD advisor. You will also be assigned a DNP faculty advisor whose clinical role and scholarship aligns with your interest as a DNP/PhD Advanced Practice Clinical Scientist. While the DNP/PhD faculty advisors have primary faculty advising for the respective DNP AP and PhD program, the advisors work together to bridge and integrate learning rather than separate parallel program mentorship.

Students will complete one dissertation that integrates rigorous scientific research with direct clinical practice application, bridging the gap between theory and practice in advanced nursing. The study would focus on a significant healthcare issue to address both the depth of inquiry expected in a PhD and the practice-oriented focus of a DNP. This integrated approach would demonstrate the candidate’s ability to conduct high-level research, critically analyze complex healthcare issues, and directly apply findings to improve nursing practice and patient outcomes – effectively meeting the core requirements of both DNP and PhD programs.

The DNP/PhD Advanced Practice program is designed to be completed in a five-year full-time plan of study. This shorter timeframe to achieve two doctoral degrees is accomplished by designing the program to align each educational component with the students desired research focus, creating connections that allow the DNP Advanced Practice Track/PhD student to seamlessly transfer evidence to practice, practice to research, and research to the classroom.  Students complete one doctoral dissertation that meets the outcomes of the DNP and PhD programs. The program also highlights both a structured teaching residency and a structured research residency.

In the dual DNP AP/PhD, the first semesters of the combined program focus on developing students’ ability to conduct clinical research. In the second year and third year, students refine their research focus while integrating DNP advanced practice core courses. This provides the basis for students to propose and conduct clinical research while completing clinical specialty experiences (practicums). In the fourth and fifth year, student’s focus their dissertation practice research in the area of their PhD and DNP faculty advisors’ program of research and advanced practice. 

GRE scores are accepted but not required.

The DNP/PhD program is a full-time, on-site program. All PhD courses, research and teaching experiences, and NP clinical experiences are in-person in the Baltimore/DC area. DNP courses are hybrid with onsite immersions.

Working while pursuing this dual doctoral program is strongly not advised given the demands of a dual doctoral program. Quality is the defining characteristic of academic life at Johns Hopkins and the School of Nursing.  Students can expect to devote fulltime efforts to this program.

DNP/PhD students are required to achieve various milestones (see below) in progressing through the program that culminate in the dissertation and APRN role. These processes assure quality of the scholarship and rigor of the scientific process and actualization of the DNP APRN role. 

• Annual Review with advisor in May of each year
• Annual Review with DNP/PhD Dissertation Committee members
• Comprehensive Examination
• Preliminary Oral Examination
• Completion of DNP APRN Core Courses
• Completion of APRN Specialty Core Courses and Clinicals
• Final Defense (Oral Examination)

Coursework completed outside the United States must be evaluated and translated into US equivalencies.  Official transcript evaluations must be submitted as part of the application process, and applications will not be considered complete until all evaluations for any work completed outside the United States are received.  The Johns Hopkins School of Nursing recommends  WES-ICAP .

Contact Cesar Nuñez, Assistant Director of Recruitment for the DNP Executive tracks, at  [email protected]  with any additional questions or to schedule a phone call to discuss ways to make your application as strong as possible.

Pathway to PhD Nursing Scholars Program

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BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice in Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

Application deadline is October 15, 2024.

Apply by October 15 to be considered for next year's cohort

The online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner DNP program prepares graduates to provide health care to neonates and infants in various settings, including inpatient and outpatient care, as well as care for neonates with acute or chronic health needs and care during patient transport.

The comprehensive clinical experiences and coursework in this online NNP program will prepare nurse practitioners to deliver specialized care to high-risk newborns, diagnose and manage complex neonatal conditions, and provide critical support in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Students who have previously earned their Bachelor of Science in Nursing will earn both their master’s degree and DNP degree as part of this online program.

Graduates of this online DNP NNP program will be eligible for certification as a neonatal nurse practitioner.

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Academic Calendar

Ohio State’s online BSN to NNP doctorate program admits students once-per-year for the Autumn semester.

Autumn 2025

Application Deadline October 15, 2024

Term Start Date August 26, 2025

Autumn 2026

Application Deadline TBA

Term Start Date August 25, 2026

Admission Criteria

Applicants of the online BSN to DNP – Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program must have the following:

• Active RN license
• Earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree
• A minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA in the last degree earned relevant to program of study
• PSYCH 2220 Data Analysis in Psychology
• PSYCH 3321 Quantitative and Statistical Methods
• PUBHIBO 6210 Applied Biostatistics I
• STATISTICS 1350 Elementary Statistics
• STATISTICS 1450 Introduction to the Practice of Statistics
• STATISTICS 2450 Introduction to Statistical Analysis

Applications to this online program will be reviewed using a holistic approach, meaning all aspects of who you are as an applicant will be considered. This assessment will include academic preparedness and formative experiences in your professional background, education and life.

The State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement, also known as  SARA , establishes uniform standards for distance education for all participating states and institutions. Ohio State joined SARA in 2015, which means Ohio State can offer most online and on-ground courses and programs in  SARA member states, districts and territories without seeking authorization in each state.

What can you do with a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner DNP degree?

Ohio State’s DNP Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program curriculum and field experience allow students to provide healthcare to neonates in a variety of settings. This online BSN to DNP program pathway meets the curriculum guidelines of the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties and National Association of Neonatal Nurses.

NURS 7305 – Developmental Physiology and Pathophysiology of the High Risk Neonate

Biological basis for nursing care of the high-risk neonate, incorporating analysis and synthesis of principles of embryology, developmental physiology, and pathophysiology.

NURS 7302 – Advanced Health Assessment of the Neonate

Development of advanced health assessment and psychomotor skills to comprehensively assess and manage high-risk neonates.

NURS 7303 – Advanced Newborn/Infant Pharmacology

Pharmacotherapeutic principles applied to the high-risk neonate/infant with an emphasis on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics when applied to neonatal physiology.

NURS 7308 – Advanced Practice Nursing: Care of the High-Risk Neonate

Application of theories, research findings, and interventions for advanced practice nurses managing care in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Program Faculty

While taking the next step in their nursing careers in this online neonatal nurse practitioner program, students will learn from experts in the neonatal field.

Randee Masciola, DNP, APRN-CNP, WHNP-BC, FAANP

Dr. Randee Masciola focuses on prevention, education and health maintenance in regards to women’s health across the life span.

Jodi Ulloa, DNP, APRN-CNP, NNP-BC

Allison Kelly, DNP, APRN-CNP, NNP-BC, NPT-C

Nicole zimmerman, msn, aprn-cnp, nnp-bc, get started.

Speak with a knowledgeable Enrollment Advisor who can help answer your questions and explain different aspects of the more than 70 online degrees and certificates offered at Ohio State.

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D.N.P./NA Completion Program (Post Masters)

Take your career further.

The D.N.P./NA completion degree is an online post-masters Doctorate in Nursing Practice with a focus in nurse anesthesia. This degree is available to Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) holding a master’s degree in anesthesia or CRNAs with a master’s degree in nursing. 

Earn Your D.N.P. at Maine's Leading Health University

UNE’s Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesia program produces highly-skilled, well-rounded D.N.P.s with extensive experience in every category of medical procedure in which anesthesia is necessary. You will graduate with research experience as well as vast knowledge of health care systems, special patient populations, and health care policy — all of which equip you to pursue a range of professional avenues, including clinical practitioner, business owner, independent contractor, chief nurse anesthetist, researcher, educator, or an executive-level administrator.

The D.N.P. Completion Program Experience

The program begins in the fall semester and extends over five semesters. The coursework is only offered during the stated semesters.

Spring 2025

Summer 2025

Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Management

A graduate certificate in Healthcare Management can be obtained by taking two additional online courses in the College of Professional Studies.

• HCA 601 Introduction to Health Administration
• HCA 765 Communication for Healthcare Leaders

Application Process

All applicants should apply through the Nursing Centralized Application System (NursingCAS) beginning January 15, 2024. The application period will extend through August 1, 2024.

Application Requirements

• Application with application fee
• Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended including nurse anesthesia program transcript

Degree Requirements

• Evidence of graduation from a COA-accredited nurse anesthesia program with a Master's degree
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 in the nurse anesthesia program

Licenses and Certifications

• Proof of current certification or recertification as a CRNA
• Current, unencumbered RN and APRN license
• Proof of current AANA membership
• Current ACLS, BLS, PALS certifications

Letters of Reference

Two professional references

• One from a current supervisor addressing practice verification
• One from an educator addressing potential tor academic success

The online application will provide a specific writing prompt.

Interviews are a required part of the application process.

• Highly qualified applicants will be contacted and invited to interview during the spring/summer months, prior to the fall start of the Nurse Anesthesia program.
• Interviews are done by invitation only.
• Interviews will be conducted via phone or zoom and scheduled through the Office of Graduate Admissions and Recruitment.

Other Requirements

Satisfactory completion of a criminal background check.

Policy Exceptions

Policies have been established to ensure fair and consistent admissions practice for all applicants.

All criteria presented in this summary are subject to change per professional accreditation requirements, changes in curriculum and/or other institutional standards, and clinical affiliation requirements.

Exceptions to existing admission policies are rare and made only when it is deemed necessary and appropriate to maintain fair and consistent practice for all candidates, not individual candidates.

Accreditation

The School of Nurse Anesthesia is accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA) of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs, a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. The School of Nurse Anesthesia is accredited by COA through the fall of 2031. The program received the maximum 10-year accreditation length in the fall of 2021.

The COA of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs recognizes the program for providing a graduate-level curriculum leading to the award of a Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) degree. The proposed date of implementation of this degree offering is August 2024.

COA Contact

Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) 10275 W. Higgins Rd., Suite 906 Rosemont, IL 60018-5603 (224) 275-9130

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Full Admission Requirements to the Graduate Nursing Program

Each student must submit an application to the USI School of Graduate Studies . Applications are not reviewed until all materials have been received.  Applicants must be admitted to USI Graduate Studies before their materials can be reviewed by the Graduate Nursing Chair.

The USI School of Graduate Studies section of the Graduate Bulletin outlines several policies that are specific to graduate study. The Academic Information and Policies includes the University’s Progress Toward the Degree and Retention Policies.   

Note:  Individual degree programs may have additional/higher requirements, which would be indicated on its academic program page in the bulletin.

USI Online Learning has parameters specific to geographic location and distance education through USI.

General Admission Criteria

All students must complete drug screening and criminal record verification upon entry into the program. See the  CNHP handbook located on the CNHP website for specific information. Submission of documentation to the University's preferred third party agency is required prior to the enrollment of the first graduate nursing course. Failure to provide this agency information, even with negative results, will jeopardize enrollment or progression in Graduate Nursing courses. 

All students selected for admission to the Graduate Nursing Program must also meet clinical agency requirements, be able to perform essential functions, maintain unencumbered RN licensure and be capable of fulfilling clinical practice requirements.

Drug screening and criminal background check information regarding the College of Nursing and Health Profession’s Drug Screening and Criminal Background policies are found in the College of Nursing and Health Professions Handbook.

Submission and verification of all required documents is through the University's preferred third party agency. Students are responsible for updating all required documents through the program.

Holding an unencumbered RN license is a prerequisite for being admitted to and remaining in this nursing program. An RN license will not be considered by this program to be unencumbered if action has been taken or is being proposed against the license by any agency of government, or if the RN has entered into or is currently discussing an agreement with any agency of government concerning the license or if any restrictions have been imposed by an agency of government on an RN’s ability to practice the nursing profession or if any restrictions are being proposed by an agency of government. An applicant or student is required to immediately advise the Program Chair in writing if their RN license has been encumbered or if any agency of government is proposing to encumber an RN’s license.

After review by the Program Chair of any action involving the encumbrance (or proposed encumbrance) of a license, the student may not be allowed to participate in clinical experiences of the program. Failure to report an encumbered RN license to the Program Chair, as required above, may result in dismissal from the program, particularly where the encumbrance prevents the student from performing any part of the clinical experience.

Students are required to maintain an unencumbered RN license while enrolled and completing the graduate nursing courses. An unencumbered nursing license is defined by this program as a license with no suspension or probation or any pending action against the RN license in any state or U.S. territory of practice. In the event action is taken on a student’s nursing license, it is the student’s responsibility to report this to the Program Chair immediately for further direction. Students must hold an unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse in all states where they will be involved in a clinical setting.

Students who do not meet admission requirements or expected academic skill proficiencies may be conditionally admitted to the Graduate Nursing program. Refer to the USI Graduate Bulletin for specific academic requirements related to conditional admission status. Expectations for full admittance to the Graduate Nursing program will be individually specified. Students with a conditional admittance will work closely with faculty and the graduate advisor to maximize success.

Please click the Graduate Bulletin link on the School of Graduate Studies webpage.

Program Specific Admission Criteria

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a nationally and regionally accredited college/university.
• Minimum grade point average of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
• Satisfactory completion of a course in undergraduate statistics (grade C or better).
• Unencumbered RN license**
• Demonstration of a TOEFL score in accordance with University standards. Learn more .
• Successful completion of the application process to the School of Graduate Studies.

*One year full time or 2,000 hours of clinical practice as a registered nurse within the last five years is strongly recommended.

**The program is limited to working with certain states in the U.S. only. Moving to state not recognized by the Graduate Nursing program will lead to inability to continue in coursework. The exception to this is active military status. 

• A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from a nationally and regionally accredited college/university.

Post MSN APRN Certificate Gap Analysis  

A Gap Analysis will be completed for every student applying to the Post MSN APRN certificate. No clinical hours will be credited for the Post MSN APRN Certificate program.  

Transfer credits from graduate-level pharmacy, pathophysiology and advanced health assessment courses taken at an accredited institution will be considered for acceptance provided the course were completed within the last five years or the applicant can validate current advanced clinical practice. For transfer of graduate-level pharmacology credits, applicants must exhibit current active prescriptive authority in their respective state of practice.  

The Graduate Admission/Progression Committee will assess all inquiries and determine acceptance of transfer credits for individuals actively engaged in advanced clinical practice.  

Evaluation of transfer credits will be conducted on a case-by-case basis; involving a thorough review that includes verification of current practice hours and the applicant’s professional role.  

Prospective students who do not meet the aforementioned criteria may appeal to the Graduate Admission/Progression Committee for alternate considerations, ensuring equitable consideration of circumstances and qualifications. Transfer credit opportunities are applicable only to three separate three-credit hours courses in pharmacology, pathophysiology and advanced health assessment.  

• Satisfactory completion of a graduate course in research with a grade of B or better.
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School of Nursing

Idaho state university to offer idaho's first nurse anesthesia degree program.

The first cohort begins Fall 2025

POCATELLO – Idaho State University’s School of Nursing is thrilled to announce the implementation of the first nurse anesthesia (CRNA) program in the state of Idaho. The program received regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities in July and is currently undergoing the Capability Review Process for accreditation by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). Its first cohort would begin in Fall 2025 at the ISU Meridian campus, pending initial accreditation being granted by the COA. Graduates from this three-year program will receive a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) degree and be eligible to sit for the National Certification Exam to become a CRNA. They will be prepared to provide a full range of anesthesia services to meet the growing needs of Idaho’s diverse population and remedy the critical anesthesia shortage in the region. The Idaho health care community has expressed significant interest in the development of this program. As nearly every hospital in the state is experiencing challenges with hiring and retaining qualified anesthesia providers, the new program is a long-term solution for this problem.

For questions, please email the CRNA Program Director at [email protected] or see our DNAP/CRNA Program

The ISU School of Nursing is an integral part of the Kasiska Division of Health Sciences at Idaho State University.

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Graduate Certificate in Teaching Nursing

Program details.

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• Graduate Certificates
• Teaching Nursing

About this Program

The graduate certificate in Teaching Nursing is fully online and is designed for nurses who are seeking to enhance their teaching/pedagogical skills, including those who are interested in an academic career in nursing education or a clinical educator in a hospital/healthcare setting. Students will learn how to design courses to meet specific learning outcomes and create assignments that are effective methods for course evaluation and assessment of student competencies.

All coursework is 100% online. Students are required to complete 180 hours of clinical coursework (NUR 641) at an approved site location (often this is the student’s employer). The College of Nursing will work with students to confirm if their clinical site is approved for clinical hours.   

Designed For

This program is appropriate for registered nurses who have clinical expertise and a desire to expand into educating future nurses. It's also suitable for healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their teaching skills specifically within the context of supervised clinical activities.

Offered by the College of Nursing

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Learn more about the teaching nursing online program..

Earn your degree on your schedule. Online makes it possible.

Fill out this form to be sent information on the Graduate Certificate in Teaching Nursing program, including deadlines, tuition, application requirements and more!

What You’ll Learn

   1. Apply selected learning theories and teaching strategies in academic and clinical practice settings.    2. Understand and apply various teaching methodologies and pedagogical approaches.    3. Demonstrate knowledge of curriculum planning, design, and evaluation.    4. Utilize various technology platforms and software programs in the course design and teaching process.    5. Understand the legal and ethical responsibilities of educators.    6. Design processes/assignments to evaluate student knowledge, skills and competencies.

Course Examples

• NUR 640 - Best Practices in Nursing Education: Art and Science of Teaching
• NUR 642 - Best Practices in Nursing Instruction: Curriculum Design and Outcome Evaluation
• NUR 641 - Best Practices in Clinical Teaching: Teaching Nursing Practicums

GOT QUESTIONS?

Schedule time to meet with a representative from UK Online to discuss your online learning options.

How to Apply

Admissions criteria.

Standard graduate admission requirements apply.

To be admitted to the Certificate in Teaching Nursing program students must be post MSN, DNP, or PhD in Nursing, or currently be enrolled in an MSN, DNP, or PhD program in nursing.  

Application Requirements

Standard graduate application requirements apply.

• References (3) -  Only an email address is required. Our system will ask them to upload their letter.
• Personal interview
• Current, active and unencumbered and unrestricted RN license,
• Goal statement
• Current vita/resume

Program Contact

Spring 2025, sign up for a virtual open house.

Join an upcoming information session to learn more about the program, curriculum and faculty

Why UK Online

Once you become a student, you will have access to a wide variety of academic support services to maximize your success. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need to have a master's degree to enroll in this graduate certificate.

The only degree needed to enroll in a graduate certificate program is a bachelor's degree.

Can I take this graduate certificate by itself?

Yes, graduate certificates can be  taken by themselves. Our graduate certificate programs are designed to allow students to gain very specific skills and knowledge in a shorter amount of time than our degree programs in similar areas. Certificate programs can be useful to your career by itself, or when coupled with a degree-bearing program. This choice is completely up to the student.

What is the admission criteria?

Please view the Admission Criteria section, located under "How to Apply" on this page.

Is financial aid available if this is the only program I enroll in?

Federal financial aid is not available to students who only enroll in a certificate program. If you are concurrently enrolled in a degree-bearing program, you would qualify for federal financial aid. 

How much does the online program cost?

The tuition rate for this program is listed at the top of this page. If you still have questions, please reach out to the program representative.

I'm not in Kentucky. What's my tuition rate?

For our fully-online programs, it does not matter what state you live in. The rate is the same no matter where you live.

Online Learning

What should i expect in online classes.

It's important to know how to approach learning in an online program. Online classes are not harder nor easier than in-person classes, but they are different due to their asynchronous modality. This means students should expect to:

Develop a routine : Login to your online class routinely (we recommend at least once daily) to receive updates and contribute meaningfully to any ongoing discussions.

Be good time managers : Determine when you have time to work on coursework throughout the week so you don't fall behind or put off assignments until the last minute.

Communicate : If you are having any trouble, message your peers and/or your instructor right away to ask for help or clarification. Never be afraid to reach out to your instructors or Student Affairs if you need assistance--we have many resources to help you, but we need to know your situation to act accordingly on your behalf.

If you need additional support in navigating the online classroom, Canvas (our learning management system) has a number of helpful tools, including a module for new students that walks through everything you need to know about navigating information in your online class.

Can I meet with faculty even though the program is online?

Yes. Our faculty are happy to meet with our students by phone call, email, or an online meeting. You are also welcome to set up an in-person appointment if you ever find yourself in Lexington.

Are there any on-campus requirements?

No, there is no on-campus requirement.

Internship / Practicum

Can i use my employment for my clinical requirement.

The answer is most often yes! Students are required to complete clinical coursework at an approved site location (often this is the student’s employer). The College of Nursing will work with students to confirm if their clinical site is approved for clinical hours.   

Ready to Take Your Next Step?

Our team is here to help you with the next stage of your journey. Reach out to us today!

Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure

Where you live matters when completing distance education activities. If you will live outside of Kentucky while completing your program, please check the Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure page to confirm that the program can be offered in your state or country, and if relevant, that it meets professional licensure requirements in your state. Please note: Admission and enrollment in a fully-online program can NOT lead to the issuance of a J-1 or F-1 student visa.

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College of Graduate Studies

Physical Address: Morrill Hall Room 104

Mailing Address: College of Graduate Studies University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 3017 Moscow, ID 83844-3017

Phone: 208-885-2647

Email: [email protected]

Online Master’s and Doctoral Programs List

The University of Idaho’s online graduate degrees reflect our mission of making education accessible across the state and nation and responding to changing employment demands. Delivering the quality instruction expected of a research university, our online master’s and doctoral programs are taught by our esteemed faculty members and build upon our century-old reputation as an educational leader in the Northwest. 

Online graduate students can earn a degree from one of our top-ranked national programs around their existing obligations and have access to the same opportunities and resources, including the on-campus library, research projects, scholarships, and teaching assistantships. If you’ve thought about returning to school but require more flexibility due to your full-time job and raising a family, advance your career with any of the programs listed here.

Available via online or distance learning: 

• Climate Change , P.S.M.
• Geographic Information Skills, Mapping, and Monitoring , P.S.M.
• Precision Nutrition for Human and Animal Health , P.S.M.
• Scientific Communication and Leadership , Certificate
• Sustainable Soil and Land Systems , P.S.M.
• Water Resources , P.S.M.

College of Business and Economics

• Online Master of Business Administration , M.B.A.
• Adult Organizational Learning and Leadership , M.S.
• Educational Leadership , M.Ed.
• Curriculum and Instruction , M.Ed.
• Physical Education , M.Ed.
• Special Education , M.Ed.
• Education , Ed.D., Ph.D. (may vary from all to mostly online)

Engineering

• Advanced Semiconductor Design
• Civil Engineering , M.Engr.
• Computer Engineering , M.S., M.Engr.
• Computer Science , M.S.
• Cybersecurity , M.S.
• Electrical Engineering , M.S., M.Engr.
• Engineering Management , M.Engr.
• Geological Engineering, , M.S.
• High-Speed Circuits and Systems , Certificate
• Mechanical Engineering , M.Engr.
• Power System Protection and Relaying, Certificate
• Secure and Dependable Computing Systems, Certificate
• Smart Grid Cybersecurity
• Technology Management , M.S.

Letters, Arts and Social Sciences

• Criminology , M.S.
• Emerging Media , M.A.
• Music , M.Mus.
• Media Production , Certificate
• Public Administration , M.P.A.
• Psychology: Human Factors , M.S.
• Theatre Arts , MFA
• Strategic Media Management , Certificate

Natural Resources and Environmental Science

• Environmental Science, M.S.
• Environmental Education and Science Communication, Certificate
• Master of Natural Resources, M.N.R.
• Fire Ecology, Management and Technology , Certificate
• Remote Sensing of the Environment, Certificate
• Geographic Information Science: Geospatial Aspects of Sustainable Planning Application , M.S.
• Geographic Information Science: Geospatial Habitat Assessment Application , M.S.
• Geographic Information Science: Geospatial Intelligence Application , M.S.
• Geographic Information Science: Geotechnician Application , M.S.
• Geographic Information Science: GIS Programming Application , M.S.
• Geographic Information Science: Natural Hazards and Emergency Planning Application , M.S.
• Statistical Science , M.S. 
• Teaching Mathematics , M.A.T.

The University of Idaho General Catalog is available online.

Distance Learning Versus Online Graduate Degrees

U of I’s online graduate degrees utilize two distinct formats. Online learning uses pre-recorded, or asynchronous, lectures that students can then review on their own time. Distance learning simulates a real-time virtual classroom. Wherever an online student is located, they have direct access to a traditional classroom environment where they can interact and participate in discussions with their fellow students and instructors.

The Benefits of U of I’s Online Graduate Programs 

Whichever online degree you begin, being an online learning student at U of I comes with a host of benefits.

• Flexibility: We design our online master’s and doctoral programs around the schedules of working adults, allowing you to maintain existing employment, family, and seasonal commitments without altering your schedule or taking a hit in income.
• Quality: We’re one of the region’s most respected research universities. Whether the class is pre-recorded or virtual, our leading faculty members deliver the same depth and detail of instruction that you expect in an on-campus classroom.
• Place-Based Degrees: Especially where research is concerned, our faculty members partner with regional organizations to support our online graduate students as they complete a place-based thesis or non-thesis research project. You, in turn, can conduct guided research relevant to your geographic region without ever setting foot on campus and may even be able to do so through your existing employer.
• Scholarships: Many erroneously believe that scholarships are off the table to online graduate students. Supporting your endeavors and professional growth, the University of Idaho has opened up teaching assistant opportunities and place-based scholarships to online students.
• Affordability: No matter where you are in the country or world, all online courses for master’s and doctoral programs are charged at our in-state rate. 
• Ahead of the Curve: The University of Idaho championed distance learning ahead of everyone else with our innovative Engineering Outreach program. We introduced these degrees over 35 years ago, and while we’ve adjusted delivery methods to available technologies, our commitment toward advancing your career through quality education has not wavered.

Learn More About U of I’s Online Graduate Degrees

Thinking about enrolling in an online graduate degree program? To get your questions answered, reach out to the College of Graduate Studies by email or by phone at 208-885-2647, or request additional information today .