Program Highlights




  • RNs with a master’s degree in Nursing (MSN) are eligible to apply to the program. However, RNs with other types of master’s degrees will be evaluated for admission eligibility on a case by case basis. A GRE score (Graduate Record Examination) is not an admission requirement.
  • The DNP program is run based on cohort availability. Applicants are encourage to apply at anytime. As cohorts are opened, we will publish application deadline dates. Currently, we are accepting applications for consideration for a cohort to start in 2010. Only applicants who have submitted all required documentation will be invited to interview.
  • The tuition for the one-year DNP program is $13,300 per semester (x 3 semesters) or $39,900 plus fees. Tuition is due at the beginning of each semester. Applicants (U.S. Citizens and Residents) are encouraged to complete a FAFSA form (www.fafsa.ed.gov) when applying to the program.
  • The program offers full-time study only. Four courses are completed each semester on one long weekend per month (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). The Fall Semester starts in August, the Spring Semester starts in January and the Summer Session starts in May. Each fall and spring semester is 14 weeks in duration and the university’s two summer sessions are combined into a single semester of 10 weeks.
  • To meet the degree requirements, students must successfully complete all didactic course work, a two-semester capstone project, 560 clinical hours, and pass a comprehensive examination in the final semester. A dissertation is not required.
  • The goals of the program are to prepare nursing leaders able to:
    • Integrate knowledge, theories, and concepts from the biophysical, psychosocial, analytical, and organization sciences to develop ethical health care systems and new frontiers for nursing practice that addresses health care disparities.
    • Evaluate research methods and findings to create an evidence base for nursing practice and health care delivery systems that reflect best practices and alleviate health care disparities.
    • Synthesize knowledge gained from traditional and innovative learning methods to lead quality, cost-effective health care collaborations addressing health care disparities.
    • Demonstrate expert clinical judgment and knowledge of health care systems to design, deliver and evaluate evidence-based care interventions to reduce health care disparities.
    • Model expert nursing practice and serve as mentors to nursing colleagues in their efforts to improve nursing practice and health care systems.
    • Employ knowledge of health care policy and economics to develop and evaluate programs to address health care disparities.