Quick Links:

Academic Programs

DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

Overview

The University of Oklahoma College of Nursing is pleased to announce our newest doctoral program, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). This is a new degree nationally, with the first programs open in 2005. The DNP is a "practice” doctorate in comparison with the PhD in Nursing degree which is a “research” doctorate. To learn more about the DNP, visit the following website: American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

About the Program

The OUCN DNP Program is a Post Master’s option specifically for advanced practice registered nurses who are already nurse practitioners (NPs) and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs). This program will prepare nurse leaders in unique interdisciplinary and interprofessional environments as:

clinical scholars
health care and health policy leaders,
evidence-based practice experts,
quality improvement leaders
informatics leaders

The DNP graduates will be prepared to function in healthcare leadership roles in a variety of organizations and practice settings. This program was awarded three years of funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration, Advanced Education Nursing Grant, and will focus on preparing graduates to meet the needs of rural and underserved populations in Oklahoma. Courses are competency-based. The intent is that the program will be distance accessible.

Curriculum

The DNP Post Masters degree consists of 47 credit hours. This includes three core areas: scientific foundations for advanced practice, leadership and scholarly practice. Additionally, there will be supportive course work/electives. Select courses will be taken in concert with the PhD students. DNP course descriptions can be found on our Course Catalog.

Plan of Study

There are two plans of study: Full-time Plan of Study will require enrollment in 9 semester credit hours each fall and spring semester and 4 semester credit hours per summer session. This plan can be completed within two-and-one-half calendar years (28 months). The Part-time Plan of Study can be completed in four calendar years (48 months).

Applications for the summer 2013 cohort are now being accepted. Application and all required documentation must be received by March 1, 2013. Plese note - preference will be given to applicants who complete and submit all application materials by April 1, 2013.

For further information, please contact Trisha Wilhelm in Student Affairs.

Updated: BH 10/23/2012