Program Overview

Overview of the Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner Program

The Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner (DNP-NP) program at Penn State is designed to provide flexibility while maintaining high academic and clinical standards. This program integrates online coursework with essential in-person learning experiences and is available in both part-time and full-time formats.

Program Structure and Curriculum

The curriculum is structured around the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s DNP Essentials and national Nurse Practitioner competencies. For students entering the program with a BSN, the DNP–Nurse Practitioner program generally requires eight semesters over three years at part-time status.

Career Options and Opportunities

Graduates will be fully prepared for national NP certification exams and ready to take on leadership roles as advanced practice registered nurses, driving innovation and improving patient outcomes across diverse healthcare settings. Many national guiding organizations recommend that entry to clinical practice for nurse practitioners be at the professional doctorate level. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Penn State, nurses can pursue a wide array of career paths, including advanced practice roles like an adult nurse practitioner, acute care nurse practitioner, geriatric nurse practitioner, and nursing director, as well as leadership positions in healthcare administration, education, and policy.

DNP-NP Options

• Acute Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
• Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
• Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner
• Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Enrollment Requirements

Students enter the program with a minimum of a BSN degree; those with a graduate degree in nursing will have an individualized plan of study developed upon enrollment. Program completion generally requires eight semesters of part-time study. Students with an MSN can also be admitted to the program; however, we cannot guarantee that all previous coursework and credits will transfer.

Application Requirements

• Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.
• GPA and Test Scores — You are expected to have a grade-point average of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) for the baccalaureate degree with a B or better in all science and nursing courses.
• GRE or GMAT scores are NOT required for admission.
• English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• References (3) — You will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering names and email addresses of three references.
• Vita — A listing of your professional experience and other qualifications
• Writing Sample — A published or unpublished scientific paper, thesis, or other scholarly writing sample
• Interview — You will be asked to participate in an interview

Financial Aid and Military Benefit Opportunities

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential education benefits and financial aid opportunities.

Accreditation

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program and post graduate APRN certificate program at The Pennsylvania State University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.