Program Overview
MSN to DNP Program Overview
The post-master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) curriculum is designed for nurses who have already earned a Master of Science in Nursing degree or Master of Science in Anesthesia. Our MSN to DNP program is offered in three tracks, allowing you to choose the path that matches your interests and career goals. As a student, you will develop expert knowledge, values, and skills in your chosen area and prepare for leadership roles with a variety of healthcare organizations.
Degree Tracks Offered
- Post-MSN, APRN to DNP
- Post-MSN, non-APRN to DNP
- Post-MSN to DNP (returning for a new or second nurse NP role)
Program Details
- Program Type: Doctorate
- Academic Unit: School of Nursing and Health Studies
- Degree Type: Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Standard credit hours: 31
- Delivery Mode: Hybrid, Online
- Typical Program Length: 2-3 years
- Typical Course Load: 1-2 per semester
Why UMKC
UMKC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Accredited Program
UMKC is committed to providing high-quality education that meets the standards of the Higher Learning Commission and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Convenient Format
Courses are offered in flexible hybrid or fully online formats, allowing you to fit school into your busy schedule.
Career Success
From academic and career advising to employment services and community partnerships, our award-winning faculty and staff can help you leverage industry connections and deliver the direction and support you need to succeed in your career.
After Graduation
Nurses with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree have a promising career outlook. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for advanced practice registered nurses, which includes nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives, to grow much faster than the average for all occupations over the next decade. A DNP prepares nurses for leadership roles in clinical practice, healthcare policy, and administration, aligning with the healthcare industry's focus on improving patient outcomes and integrating evidence-based care.
Potential Careers
- Women's health nurse practitioner
- Adult gerontology nurse practitioner
- Family nurse practitioner
- Pediatric nurse practitioner
- Neonatal nurse practitioner
- Advanced practice psychiatric nurse
Median Salary
$128,561 per year, based on data from Lightcast.io for Nurse Practitioners.
Potential Courses
Healthcare Systems and Leadership
This course focuses on the DNP as a leader within the healthcare industry, examining the socio-political, economic, cultural, and historical background of the American healthcare system.
Advanced Practice V
This course is designed to increase your clinical expertise by fostering your development in a specific focus area, investigating specific procedures, skills, and clinical knowledge.
Healthcare Outcomes and Epidemiology
This course applies basic epidemiologic principles, providing the foundation for assessment and evaluation of health outcomes in various populations, clinical settings, and systems.
Related Programs and Pathways
- Nursing Practice (Doctorate)
- Nurse Practitioner (Master's)
- Nurse Practitioner (Certificate)
- Nurse Anesthetist (Doctorate)
How to Apply
Gather Your Materials
- Transcripts from each institution attended
- Current résumé reflecting all experiences as an RN
- Proof of RN licensure
- One-page personal statement of your professional goals and how this program will help you achieve them
- Complete an interview
- Evaluation forms from:
- Immediate supervisor
- Faculty professor from the last year of your MSN program
- Professional reference able to assess your professional characteristics
Complete the UMKC Online Application
- Submit official transcripts from each institution attended to the UMKC Office of Admissions.
- Submit program application and materials through NursingCAS to UMKC’s School of Nursing and Health Studies.
Application Fees
- Domestic application fee: $45.00
- International application fee: $75.00
Application Dates
- To Start Classes in Fall: Apply by March 7
- To Start Classes in Spring: Apply by October 18
- To Start Classes in Summer: Apply by March 7
Financial Aid
An amazing education shouldn’t break the bank, which is why we offer a number of automatic and competitive scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities — plus financial guidance from our expert advisors.
Financial Aid Statistics
- 80% of first-year students seeking a master's degree or graduate certificate received financial aid
- 92% of first-year students seeking a doctoral degree received financial aid
- 77% of all degree- and certificate-seeking graduate students received financial aid