Program Content [Overview](#programOverview) [At A Glance](#programAtGlance) [Program Details](#programDetails) [Curriculum](#programCurriculum) [FAQs](#programFAQs) [Additional Info](#programAdditionalInfo) [Contact & Apply](#programContactApply) [Request Info](#programRequestInfo) ## Clear your path to advanced and executive roles in today’s evidence-based practice environment through a post-master’s DNP program from one of the top nursing schools in America. - [ Request Info ](#programRequestInfo) - [ Apply ](#programContactApply) - [ Visit ](#programContactApply) ## At a Glance - **Speed-to-Completion:** Degree can be completed in 5 semesters, depending on prior coursework. - **Flexible Structure:** Offers online asynchronous classes for working clinicians. - **Prepared to Lead:** Program prepares nurses to lead change in complex healthcare environments. ## Program Details The Post-MSN DNP program prepares nurses to lead change in complex healthcare environments. The program is grounded in approaches to leadership and evidence-based practice that reflect respect for the profound dignity of every person. ### Focus Areas - Healthcare leadership - Systems improvement - Evidence-based practice - Quality improvement - Health policy and advocacy ### Admission Requirements - Earned a baccalaureate degree and master's degree in nursing with a **minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2** from programs accredited by the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA) or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). - Documented completion of 500+ post-baccalaureate clinical hours. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis. - Submission of a Statement of Purpose for seeking a DNP degree from The Catholic University of America. - Curriculum vitae or resume. - Copy of unencumbered RN license and advanced practice license, if applicable. - Two letters of reference (one from a former dean or academic adviser and one from current or former employer). - Meets the Conway School of Nursing's Health-Related Behavioral Standards for clinical programs. - All students admitted to the program are required to submit a Graduate Health Form indicating they are able to participate in clinical practice. N.B. Applicants who are concurrently seeking new preparation and eligibility for certification in an advanced practice population must have the approval of the Specialty Program Coordinator for enrollment in the post-master's certification component of their DNP. ![](/themes/custom/cua_standard/idfive-component-library/public/images/divider-line.svg) ## Curriculum Coursework in evidence-based practice, performance improvement, leadership, population health and health finance prepares graduates to lead interdisciplinary teams to effect change at a systems level. - [ View Plan of Study ](/sites/nursing.catholic.edu/files/2026-05/2025-post-msn-to-dnp.pdf) ![](/themes/custom/cua_standard/idfive-component-library/public/images/divider-line.svg) ## FAQs Who is eligible for the Post-Master’s DNP? Nurses with a Master of Science in Nursing with a minimum of 500 documented clinical hours. Do I need additional clinical hours? Yes, you will complete an additional 500 hours during your program to meet the minimum 1000 hours (from MSN & DNP programs). Can I complete the program while working full-time? Yes. The program is designed to accommodate working healthcare professionals. What is the DNP project? Students implement a quality improvement project aimed at improving healthcare delivery, outcomes, or systems. It includes a scholarly paper and dissemination of research findings. What careers do graduates pursue? Graduates seek leadership roles such as clinical directors, healthcare administrators, policy leaders, CNOs, and faculty positions. ![](/themes/custom/cua_standard/idfive-component-library/public/images/divider-line.svg) ## Additional Info Essential details to support your success and to help you plan and progress with confidence. ![female researcher in a lab looking at brain scans on a monitor](/sites/nursing.catholic.edu/files/styles/ks_feature/public/2026-05/evidence%20based.jpg?h=555dd4d1&itok=B9-ALW-q) ### Scholarly Project An integral requirement of the Catholic University Conway School of Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. - [ Learn More ](/programs-admission/graduate-programs/doctor-nursing-practice-dnp/scholarly-project) ![student and peer advising one another at a table](/sites/nursing.catholic.edu/files/styles/ks_feature/public/2026-05/advising%20nursing.jpg?h=7eabb7da&itok=Y-9SkcZ2) ### Registration Procedures Important information for advising and course selection. - [ Learn More ](/programs-admission/graduate-programs/doctor-nursing-practice-dnp/dnp-registration-procedures) ![nursing residents smilling and clapping](/sites/nursing.catholic.edu/files/styles/ks_feature/public/2026-05/residencies.jpg?h=fc029a19&itok=krrj-Y6c) ### Practicum Your experiences are tailored to your professional goals. - [ Learn More ](/programs-admission/graduate-programs/doctor-nursing-practice-dnp/dnp-practicum) ![table of nurses and doctors hands](/sites/nursing.catholic.edu/files/styles/ks_feature/public/2026-05/msn%20clinicals.jpg?h=119335f7&itok=OmkEqVdr) ### Clinical Requirements and Procedures Guidelines and preparation for graduate students. - [ Learn More ](/programs-admission/graduate-programs/graduate-clinical-requirements-and-procedures) ![](/themes/custom/cua_standard/idfive-component-library/public/images/divider-line.svg) ## Contact & Apply ### Admission Are you ready for your own journey here at Catholic University? Let’s get started. [Request Info](#programRequestInfo) | [Apply](/programs-admission/how-apply "How to Apply") ### Visit the Conway School Schedule a visit tailored for where you are in your academic process. We are excited to host you on campus soon! [Visit Us](/programs-admission/visit "Visit") ### Get in Touch Contact our Graduate Admission office at or 202-319-5057, if you have additional questions and need more information about the program. ![](/themes/custom/cua_standard/idfive-component-library/public/images/divider-line.svg) ## Request Information Loading...