a male nurse and doctor, outside, walking away from the hospital

Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

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
Apply
Visit

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.

Curriculum

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.