Program Overview

Introduction to the Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program

The DNP programs are designed to meet health care workforce needs and provide opportunities for the preparation of advanced practice nurses at the doctoral level to provide the highest level of nursing practice in the clinical setting. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses from many different specialties interact to form a dynamic online classroom. Along with faculty from the Departments of Nursing and Biology, the program includes national experts/scholars in their field from across the country, each committed to excellence in online teaching.

Program Structure

The program is for 3 years, part-time, and consists of 9 courses, all of which are fully online. Courses that are synchronous online are scheduled one evening a week, while some courses are online hybrid (synchronous/asynchronous).

Degree Requirements

• The DNP - Doctorate of Nursing Practice Advanced Adult Clinical Care requires 33-36 credits.
• This program will not grant advanced practice licensure at the DNP level but will continue to offer advanced practice licensure at the MS level, meeting the NYS requirement.
• Students will complete 36 credits, with a final scholarly project.

Admissions Requirements

• A Master's degree with a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 on a 4.0-point scale.
• Evidence of successful completion of an Advanced Practice Master's degree (or Master's degree in advanced practice specialties) as a:
  • Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Nurse Practitioner in Adult-Gerontology Primary or Acute Care
  • Family Health
  • Psychiatry/Mental Health
  • Women's Health
• Current and unencumbered RN and APRN license to practice in New York State (or respective out-of-state documents)
• ANCC Board Certified Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists from the following specialties may apply:
  • Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Clinical Nurse Specialist Adult
• Other APRNs may be considered for admission after a gap analysis of coursework and work experience is evaluated.
• Note: This is not an entry-level program to prepare Nurse Practitioners or Clinical Nurse Specialists.