Description of Program (DNP)
The focus of the Graduate Programs in Nursing is to prepare graduates to work throughout the healthcare delivery system as nurse educators, healthcare organization leaders, and advanced practice registered nurses with the goal of improving health of individuals, families, and communities.
Graduates of the DNP programs are prepared for a variety of advanced nursing roles (e.g. nurse leaders, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists). These graduates also have the foundation for continued graduate studies (i.e. PhD). Graduates of the DNP program are prepared for the highest level of clinical nursing practice.
Nursing science core courses, taken by all graduate students, build on students’ baccalaureate nursing knowledge to integrate scientific underpinnings for practice, understand nursing information management and decision making, and advocate for health promotion. Students develop evidence-based knowledge and skills to enhance the quality and safety of health care while demonstrating leadership and professionalism. Courses within the selected programs of Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, or Nursing and Organizational Leadership provide specialized knowledge and practice opportunities in each advanced nursing role. A unique feature of this program is the targeted emphasis on the nurse’s use of advanced knowledge and skills of health promotion with individuals, families, and systems in diverse populations to address health care needs within complex environments.
Nursing and Organizational Leadership (73 S.H.)
Students who elect the Nursing and Organizational Leadership DNP program are prepared for administrative and leadership positions in a health care setting. In addition to the core courses, content focuses on elements of a nursing care system; the responsibilities of the Nursing and Organizational Leader in research, education, and clinical practice; human resource management; fiscal accountability; information and project management; the functions of the Nursing and Organizational Leader in the organization and system; and on issues and trends in nursing organizational management. Clinical practicums in advanced nursing for the Nursing and Organizational Leader emphasize management of clients, nurses, and other health care personnel and resources. The Nursing Leadership Practicums offer students the opportunity to apply nursing leadership and administrative principles under the guidance of a qualified preceptor. Graduates with the Program are eligible to take the American Organization of Nurse Executives exam to become certified as an Executive in Nursing Practice (CENP) exam after two years of practice as a nurse executive. The clinical scholarship project is completed by all DNP students and involves demonstration of knowledge and skills to enhance the quality and safety of health care in a variety of settings and for a variety of populations.
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