Stages of the DNP Process

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There are three stages for entry into the DNP program, depending on your background and education. These requirements vary, so be sure you are looking at the correct admissions requirements by checking out our academic program information. Our recruitment advisors are always available to help.

Pre-Licensure Stage: Graduate Entry Program (Leading to MN • MSN • DNP Degrees)

Degree Earned: MN

If you are not an RN but have a baccalaureate degree in a non-nursing discipline, our Graduate Entry Program is the ideal program for you.

• Begin your Graduate Entry studies with courses to prepare you for licensure as an RN

• Full-time, four-semester graduate degree program focusing on quality and safety

• Successful completion provides you:

  • A generalist Master of Nursing (MN)

  • Eligibility to apply for licensure as a registered nurse

Note: Students earn about 15 credits applicable to most MSN majors.

• Graduate Entry Admission Requirements

• Graduate Entry Curriculum

Advanced Nursing Practice Stage: Post-Licensure MSN Program

Degree Earned: MSN

• Take your education and career to a higher level with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a specialist master's degree allowing you to work as a nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, midwife, or clinical nurse specialist

• Courses available in part-time, distance-friendly (online and intensive) formats to accommodate working professionals

• Length of study ranges from 1.5 to 3.5 years, depending on your major

• Students can begin taking DNP courses to apply for the next and final stage

A couple additional options are available, depending on your educational experience as you enter the program:

• RN with ADN or Diploma

• RN with a BA or BS

Note: Students who have started the path to the DNP at the Graduate Entry level will take some of the MSN core courses as part of the MN program (pre-licensure stage). They may also begin some of the DNP courses while completing the MSN. Although the MSN must be completed before taking many of the DNP courses, this shortens the time needed to complete the DNP.

Practice Doctorate Stage: Post-Master's DNP Program

Degree Earned: DNP

• The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is the terminal degree that prepares nurses to serve as leaders in nursing practice

• Students take 34 credits in a flexible distance-friendly format

• Length of study lasts at least 2 years, depending on full-time or part-time status

Note: Alternatively, students have the option to apply to the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) program upon completion of the MN, should they desire a career in academia and research. A joint DNP/PhD program is also available.

• Post-Master's DNP Admission Requirements

• Post-Master's DNP Curriculum