Degree Requirements
Entry into our Transformative Leadership: Systems DNP program can be achieved through various paths. Entry requires one of the following:
- MSN and APRN certification (NP, CNS, CRNA, CNM)
- MSN in healthcare leadership or nursing informatics
- BSN and a non-nursing master’s in a health related field (MBA, MPH, MHA, etc.). Additional coursework may be required and summer start may be required.
Application Requirements
The College of Nursing participates in Nursing’s Centralized Application Service (NursingCAS). Find out how to apply.
We evaluate all applicants on the following:
- A minimum of a master’s degree from an accredited institution.
- All calculated GPAs of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale).
- Substantive answers to personal essay questions (included in Program Materials section of NursingCAS).
- A graduate level biostatistics/epidemiology course must be completed prior to matriculation.
- A graduate level nursing research course must be completed prior to matriculation.
- Three professional letters of recommendation.
- One letter must come from current supervisor/manager (the person who is responsible for your performance evaluation).
- Two letters should come from individuals in leadership positions who can speak to your clinical abilities (i.e. an APRN, CNS, nurse educator, medical director).
- One academic faculty member may be used if the coursework has been completed within the past two years.
- It is important that you choose recommenders who know you well and can evaluate your current or prospective clinical and leadership abilities, critical thinking, and potential for successfully completing graduate school. Recommendations from friends, relatives, or co-workers will not be accepted and will cause your application to be delayed or denied.
- Resume or CV that includes the following information:
- Community service.
- Educational, leadership and professional organization activities (2 years preferred).
- Nursing license number and state.
- Scholarly activities, including publications, presentations, research, honors and awards.
- Work experience.
- GRE scores, are not required.
- TOEFL scores, if required.
- Personal interview(s) with faculty.
If you fail to submit accurate or all required information, we will not consider your application for admission.
We highly recommend that applicants review the AACN DNP Essentials and the AONE Nurse Executive Competencies before applying.
In evaluating application materials, we place significant weight on your application essay, interview, and leadership background since you must begin lead a systems change project.
For the newer master’s degree graduate, it can be challenging to meet these expectations as it takes some time to create a substantial CV demonstrating your leadership abilities. We suggest that you discuss your educational and career plans with the program director, Melinda Earle, DNP, RN, prior to submitting your application so that you can evaluate program match and timing.
Enrollment Restrictions for Certain State Residents
Due to state restrictions, you cannot enroll in this program if you reside in one of these U.S. states.