
The DNP program is designed to prepare Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists to respond more efficiently to changes in health care delivery and emerging health care needs for the future—tomorrow's practice. The DNP program will incorporate the advanced practice content and competencies currently taught in the master's program. The DNP focuses on providing graduates with knowledge and competence in health systems leadership, policy development, and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve health care quality and increase health care access for all populations. Transforming health care delivery recognizes the critical need for clinicians to design, evaluate, and continuously improve the context within which care is delivered.
Students holding a master’s degree (post-masters) in nursing seeking the DNP as a nurse practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist may apply for admission for the fall 2010 semester and will be required to complete 38 credits. Students holding a BS degree (post-baccalaureate) in nursing seeking the DNP may apply for admission for the fall 2011 semester and will be required to complete 77 credits. These are the DNP programs we will be offering:
The purpose of the Ph.D program in nursing is to prepare nurse scholars whose focus is research and scholarship in the delivery of health care to rural residents. Graduates of the program will be able to generate theory that will extend the knowledge base of nursing in rural health care.
For students with a master’s degree in nursing the program requires 66 credits. A post-baccalaureate option is available.
Degree programs prepare students for specialization in any of the following functional role areas:
The program is 48 credits and can be completed in two academic years of full-time study. Part-time study is an option with program plans for three or more years of study.
To request more information, please contact the Decker School of Nursing Graduate Program. Applications may be downloaded or completed online at Graduate Admissions.
A Post-Master's Certificate Option is open to students who already hold a Master's Degree in Nursing and would like to pursue a different specialty area. The program plans vary requiring from 16-33 credits and can be completed in up to four semesters of study.
To request more information, please click here.