The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program gives working nurses additional education in competencies such as systems leadership, healthcare policy, interprofessional collaboration, evidence-based practice and health information systems. Our doctorate of nursing practice program is among the highest-level hands-on + online DNP degree programs available. We offer personalized support, popular role specialties, acceleration options and the flexibility of online + hands-on learning. Advance your career with a doctorate in nursing that prepares you for advanced practice nursing.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program at a Glance
Format: Online classes + hands-on
Start Dates: Sept., Jan., May, plus midterm starts
Duration: 2.3-4 years* (7-12 trimesters) depending on entry path and role specialty
Role Specialties<br>(BSN-Entry): Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Executive
Please note, the DNP-FNP program typically takes 3 years and 4 months to complete, based off the most recent 2-year graduate data (2022-2023 and 2023-2024); however, individual experiences will vary based on factors including, but not limited to, individual progress, traditional vs. accelerated pathway, credits transferred and other factors.
100%
Clinical Placements Fall 2021 - Fall 2025. Future clinical education placement experiences will vary based on individual student specialty and academic needs, as well as site availability for assignments from term to term.
97%
First-Time FNP Certification Pass Rate Based on 2023 USAHS MSN-FNP, DNP-FNP and PGC (FNP) graduates who took the ANCC or AANP certification exam. The 2023 AANPCB national first-time certification exam pass rate was 73%. First-time licensure pass rates are reported two years post-graduation; rates for 2024 graduates expected in early 2027.
100%
Doctoral-Prepared Faculty
40+
Years in Graduate Health Sciences Education
Nursing Program Grants
USAHS supports your nursing journey towards earning a DNP degree with Special Tuition Grant savings. The grant is calculated and applied on a per-credit basis. The total grant amount assumes the completion of the full number of credits in the program. Any transfer credits will reduce the amount of the grant awarded. This offer is not a guarantee that all candidates eligible for the offer will be granted acceptance or admission into USAHS. All prospective students will be subject to the same standard admission and registration process when applying to USAHS. The Grant is applicable to tuition only and does not apply toward books, materials, and other supplies or fees. This offer is only valid for eligible new students who enroll and start classes in the above programs at USAHS in Summer 2026. Please refer to the Financial Aid webpage for additional information.
Criteria Available to all eligible students No application is needed
DNP Professional Grant
All DNP Programs $2,500
Criteria Available to all eligible students No application is needed
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Post-Graduate NP Certificate programs at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
Have an MSN?
Have an MSN? If you are seeking a DNP with a new role specialty, you can apply to the BSN-DNP and accelerate your path to completion with transfer credits for core MSN courses.
Students in the BSN-entry DNP degree program choose a role specialty and complete the required specialty courses, while students in the MSN-entry DNP degree program do not choose a role specialty. If you have an MSN and are seeking a DNP with role specialty, you can apply to the BSN-DNP with your preferred role specialty and accelerate your path to completion with transfer credits for core MSN courses.
Family nurse practitioners play a critical role in improving the primary patient care experience. As a FNP graduate with a DNP degree and advanced practice nurse, you will partner with families across the lifespan to promote preventative care, diagnose conditions and treat acute and chronic illnesses.
In our Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner role specialty, you’ll prepare to deliver comprehensive, evidence-based mental health care across the lifespan. As a graduate of the DNP PMHNP program, you will gain advanced expertise in assessing, diagnosing, and managing psychiatric and behavioral health conditions using psychotherapy, psychopharmacology and holistic care approaches. The DNP PMHNP track emphasizes leadership, clinical excellence and systems thinking to address the rising demand for mental health services in primary care, community and acute care settings. Through immersive clinical practicum experiences and doctoral-level coursework, graduates are prepared to lead interprofessional teams, influence mental health policy and drive measurable improvements in population health while providing a full range of psychiatric services.
Are you a natural team leader? The Nurse Executive role specialty will help prepare you for a role as a manager, director, supervisor or chief nursing officer. With a doctorate in nursing you will be responsible for human resource management, as well as healthcare finance and economic operations.
Students who complete the Nurse Executive role specialty are eligible to receive the following certification:
Nurse Executive-Advanced (NEA-BC) by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
Close
DNP Curriculum
BSN-entry DNP Curriculum
Students who pursue their Doctor of Nursing Practice and choose the Family Nurse Practitioner role specialty will complete 71 credit hours and a total of 1,334 practicum hours to earn the DNP degree.
Students who pursue their Doctor of Nursing Practice and choose the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner role specialty will complete 77 credit hours and a total of 1,334 practicum hours to earn their DNP degree.
Students who pursue their Doctor of Nursing Practice and choose the Nurse Executive role specialty will complete 64 credit hours to earn the DNP degree and a total of 1,276 practicum hours.
Family Nurse Practitioner Role Specialty Courses
Students entering with a BSN degree who choose the Family Nurse Practitioner role specialty will complete 71 credit hours as well as a total of 1,334 practicum hours to earn the DNP degree.
Courses
Hours
Curriculum
Trimester 1
IPE 7001 - Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice*
This course provides students with a foundation for interprofessional education and collaboration. Emphasis is on learning roles and responsibilities of healthcare peers, effective interprofessional communication, teams and teaming, as well as ethical practice and patient (or client)-centered care. All coursework prepares the student to engage on highly functioning healthcare teams, while striving to improve healthcare delivery through increasing patient and practitioner satisfaction, reducing costs, and achieving better outcomes. The course will expose the student to industry-relevant tools and techniques that meet the demands of the contemporary healthcare workplace.
3
IPE 7121 - Organizational Leadership & Policy in Health Care*
This course introduces students to interprofessional healthcare policy and organizational leadership concepts. Students have the opportunity to analyze and advocate for health policy with the inclusion of diverse stakeholders to optimize access to care, improve care coordination, and reduce disparities affecting population health. Various leadership styles are examined as well as self-assessment, goal setting, and strategies for continuous improvement as healthcare leaders.
3
Trimester 2
NUR 7161 - Theoretical and Scientific Underpinnings for Nursing Practice
This course focuses on the integration of theory, empirical evidence, and the application to nursing practice and decision-making. Nurses use theory combined with the best scientific evidence to provide the highest level of practice and improve quality outcomes. The introduction to the use of theory and the process of theory construction are discussed. Major theories of nursing and theories from other disciplines relative to nursing are analyzed with an emphasis on implications for nursing practice.
3
IPE 7400 - Healthcare Informatics and Technology Management
This course introduces the student to healthcare informatics, focusing on the foundational experiences with health information systems and technology; roles within interprofessional teams (when applicable); and ethical and legal use of technology to improve patient safety, healthcare quality, and population health outcomes. Students examine data management systems to improve outcomes of care and technology for care delivery and to explore new trends to improve patient outcomes using evidence to inform the design of workflows and utilization of health information systems to improve user experience, standards, and safety.
3
Trimester 3
NUR 7050 - Evidence-Based Practice for Nurse Leaders
This course provides an overview of the evidence-based practice process to prepare the nurse leader as a consumer of scientific evidence for decision making in practice, education, and leadership. A process for formulating a question using PICOT format and conducting literature searches for existing evidence is discussed. The course also includes an overview of the research process with emphasis on the critical appraisal of quantitative evidence for determination of inclusion in a literature synthesis related to the identified practice question. The discussion of biostatistics focuses on determining the appropriateness of the statistical analysis and interpretation of the statistical results in the critically appraised research evidence. Finding and critically appraising research summaries, such as systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and meta-syntheses, and clinical practice guidelines is included. Effectively implementing, evaluating, and disseminating an evidence-based change process is discussed.
3
IPE 7421 - Interprofessional Approaches to Regional and Global Population Health
Students evaluate cultural, environmental, societal, and economic factors impacting population health and health outcomes. Students assimilate factors impacting individual and community health. Knowledge is applied to create interprofessional, evidence-based interventions to improve population health and advance health equity.
3
Trimester 4
NUR 7560 - Advanced Pharmacology
Advanced practice nurses must be knowledgeable about pharmacotherapeutics and principles of safe prescribing. This is an online course that focuses on advanced concepts of pharmacology, including pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacogenomics. Emphasis is placed on common drug classes prescribed by advanced practice nurses for acute and chronic conditions in patients across the lifespan. Factors influencing effective therapy and legal considerations are also included.
3
NUR 7610 - Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology
This course for advanced practice nursing students explores the study of physiology and pathophysiology. Emphasis includes understanding and identifying diseases by examining alterations in common physiological conditions across the lifespan. This course equips advanced practice nurses with the requisite knowledge and skills necessary for accurate disease diagnosis and management through an in-depth exploration of pathophysiologic processes, cellular changes, and systemic manifestations.
3
Trimester 5
NUR 7570 - Primary Healthcare of the Family I
This course provides in-depth exploration of healthcare issues specific to women and pediatric populations within the primary care setting. Students develop the comprehensive knowledge and skills essential for the formulation of differential diagnoses and management of acute and chronic conditions as well as for health promotion and disease prevention in women and children across the lifespan. The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) student applies role specialty competency-based learning through attendance at the required FNP Skills Intensive to progress to practicum.
Required on campus skills intensive
3
NUR 7580 - Advanced Health Assessment and Differential Diagnosis
This course prepares advanced practice nurses to apply methods of advanced assessment in formulating differential diagnoses of acute and chronic conditions across the lifespan. Emphasis is on advanced physical assessment skills, risk assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and documentation.
3
Trimester 6
NUR 7571 - FNP Role Practicum I†
This course is the first in a series of three Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) practicum courses. Students must demonstrate beginning proficiency in integrating theoretical and evidence-based, best practice knowledge of assessment, differential diagnosis, diagnosis, management, and evaluation of patients with acute and chronic health problems for the population of the family across the lifespan while demonstrating fiduciary stewardship in the delivery of quality care. FNP students demonstrate progressive synthesis and application of FNP role competencies, building on and translating concepts and skills derived from prerequisite courses. Students complete clinical hours in diverse primary care settings under the supervision of faculty and qualified preceptors.
4
NUR 7575 - Primary Healthcare of the Family II
This course is designed for the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) student, focusing on the assessment, diagnosis, management, and prevention of acute primary care conditions across the lifespan. Emphasizing clinical decision-making and evidence-based practice, students develop the comprehensive knowledge and skills essential for the formulation of differential diagnoses and management of acute primary care conditions. The course highlights care strategies, treatment protocols, and patient education to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective care.
3
Trimester 7
NUR 7572 - FNP Role Practicum II†
This course builds on the advanced practice nursing concepts, skills, and role development of the family nurse practitioner (FNP) derived in NUR 7571 - FNP Role Practicum I. The student must demonstrate competency in integrating theoretical and evidence-based, best practice knowledge of assessment, differential diagnosis, diagnosis, management, and evaluation of patients with acute and chronic health problems for the population of the family across the lifespan while demonstrating fiduciary stewardship in the delivery of quality care. The FNP student must demonstrate progressive synthesis and application of FNP role competencies. Students complete clinical hours in diverse primary care settings under the supervision of faculty and qualified preceptors.
4
NUR 7585 - Primary Healthcare of the Family III
This course provides an in-depth exploration of chronic primary care conditions across the lifespan, with emphasis on the care of older adults and mental health management. Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) students develop the comprehensive knowledge and skills essential for the formulation of differential diagnoses, management, and prevention of chronic primary care conditions. Students learn to deliver evidence-based, safe, and cost-effective care in primary care settings, addressing the unique challenges of chronic care management and geriatric care and integrating mental health assessments and interventions.
3
Trimester 8
HSA 7260 - Operations and Quality Management in Healthcare
There are many opportunities for healthcare organizations and/or their unitary departments to employ strategies to affect the challenges and enhance the outcomes found in today's healthcare delivery system. This course familiarizes the student to a framework of various concepts and tools necessary for understanding the operationalization of health service delivery processes and their effect on performance outcomes. The development of leadership performance competencies that support interprofessional collaboration in organizational health care delivery systems, process improvement, and project and quality management will be emphasized. Through clinical and service quality planning, control and improvement initiatives, outcomes will demonstrate that quality improvement is a strategic mandate Students will discover the essential relationship linking operations and quality management and the importance and use of metrics in daily operations.
3
NUR 7573 - FNP Role Practicum III†
This cumulative course is the final in the series of three FNP practicum courses. Students demonstrate mastery of FNP role competencies by engaging in a comprehensive review and evaluation process. The FNP student must exhibit advancing synthesis and application of skills showcasing cumulative proficiency in managing increasingly complex acute and chronic health problems across the lifespan. Students complete clinical hours in diverse primary care settings under the supervision of faculty and qualified preceptors.
5
Trimester 9
NUR 7525 - Data-Driven Evaluation and Clinical Analytics for Outcomes Improvement
This course focuses on the establishment of evaluation criteria, data collection and analysis, and use of the results of this data analysis for decision-making for the improvement of healthcare outcomes. Students engage in statistical data analysis methods in preparation for the evaluation phase of their DNP project.
3
NUR 7230 - Program/Project Planning and Management for Evidence-Based Practice and Policy Change
This course equips students with essential skills in project planning, project management, and advocating for policy change with a focus on the final DNP project. Students explore practical applications of project management principles. Through case studies and real-world scenarios, learners develop proficiency in project planning phases, including needs assessment, risk assessment and management, and project budgeting. Emphasis is placed on effective communication strategies, stakeholder engagement, and navigating organizational dynamics to implement evidence-based practices and drive policy reform. By the end of the course, students are prepared to lead and collaborate on initiatives that promote healthcare delivery improvement, patient safety, and transformative healthcare changes.
3
Trimester 10
HSA 7236 - Accounting, Finance and Economics for the Healthcare Leader
This course provides basic accounting, finance, and economics for the healthcare leader. Students will be able to educate patient care team members on financial implications of patient care decisions, use financial statements for decision making, use basic accounting, finance, and economics concepts needed for efficient management of the healthcare organization, develop policies and procedures for coding and reimbursement, and negotiate contracts for effectiveness and compliance.
3
NUR 7801 - DNP Practicum l†
This course is the first in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students demonstrate proficiency in connecting knowledge from didactic courses to integrate critical analysis and synthesis of scientific evidence for application to practice. This includes problem identification, synthesis of the literature and evidence, and construction of a strategy to address the problem. The precepted experience promotes collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor, offering opportunities to synthesize learning, complete practicum hours, and secure acceptance of the DNP scholarly project proposal. Course requires 174-406 practicum hours.
Only 3 credit hours required for this program.
3-7
NUR 7455 - Special Topics in Professional Nursing Practice
The Special Topics course encourages the student to engage in a guided study of theory application, professional topics and skills, and emerging practice questions. Learning experiences may be in the form of guided readings and discussion, directed projects, seminars, or community/clinical experience with focus on advanced supplemental or exploratory learning. Specific topics and formats will vary as they are generated by student interest and faculty expertise. An approved Special Topics Proposal must be on file at the degree program office before the student begins coursework. Special Topics courses can be completed in either Session I or Session II (12-week course). Special Topics courses must finish at the end of the 15-week trimester. The student should discuss these course options with their Academic Advisor and indicate their selections on the proposal form.
Required only for Arkansas students who must complete at least one credit hour. This course is not eligible for Title IV Financial Aid.
1-4
Trimester 11
NUR 7802 - DNP Practicum II†
This course is the second in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students must demonstrate proficiency in acquisition of internal and external approvals of the DNP scholarly project. The DNP scholarly project phase concludes with the initiation of implementation and evidence collection in preparation for evaluation of outcomes. This precepted experience involves collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor to provide opportunities for demonstrating synthesis of learning, completion of practicum hours, and necessary approvals to begin implementation of the the DNP scholarly project. Requires 174–406 practicum hours.
Only 3 credit hours required for this program.
3-8
Trimester 12
NUR 7803 - DNP Practicum lll†
This course is the final in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students must demonstrate advanced competency through the evaluation of outcomes and dissemination of the completed DNP scholarly project. This precepted experience involves collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor to provide opportunities for demonstrating synthesis of learning, completion of all remaining practicum hours, and dissemination and publication of the DNP scholarly project manuscript. An electronic professional portfolio documents progress across the plan of study toward achievement of the program learning outcomes. Course required 232–464 practicum hours.
Only 4 credit hours required for this program.
4-8
Degree Credit Hours 71
Students in Arkansas must complete 72 degree credit hours
*Course offers optional immersion.
†Course requires practicum hours.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Role Specialty Courses
Students who pursue their Doctor of Nursing Practice and choose the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner role specialty will complete 77 credit hours and a total of 1,334 practicum hours to earn their DNP degree.
Courses
Hours
Curriculum
Trimester 1
IPE 7001 - Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice
This course provides students with a foundation for interprofessional education and collaboration. Emphasis is on learning roles and responsibilities of healthcare peers, effective interprofessional communication, teams and teaming, as well as ethical practice and patient (or client)-centered care. All coursework prepares the student to engage on highly functioning healthcare teams, while striving to improve healthcare delivery through increasing patient and practitioner satisfaction, reducing costs, and achieving better outcomes. The course will expose the student to industry-relevant tools and techniques that meet the demands of the contemporary healthcare workplace.
3
IPE 7121 - Organizational Leadership & Policy in Health Care
This course introduces students to interprofessional healthcare policy and organizational leadership concepts. Students have the opportunity to analyze and advocate for health policy with the inclusion of diverse stakeholders to optimize access to care, improve care coordination, and reduce disparities affecting population health. Various leadership styles are examined as well as self-assessment, goal setting, and strategies for continuous improvement as healthcare leaders.
3
Trimester 2
NUR 7161 - Theoretical and Scientific Underpinnings for Nursing Practice
This course focuses on the integration of theory, empirical evidence, and the application to nursing practice and decision-making. Nurses use theory combined with the best scientific evidence to provide the highest level of practice and improve quality outcomes. The introduction to the use of theory and the process of theory construction are discussed. Major theories of nursing and theories from other disciplines relative to nursing are analyzed with an emphasis on implications for nursing practice.
3
IPE 7400 - Healthcare Informatics and Technology Management
This course introduces the student to healthcare informatics, focusing on the foundational experiences with health information systems and technology; roles within interprofessional teams (when applicable); and ethical and legal use of technology to improve patient safety, healthcare quality, and population health outcomes. Students examine data management systems to improve outcomes of care and technology for care delivery and to explore new trends to improve patient outcomes using evidence to inform the design of workflows and utilization of health information systems to improve user experience, standards, and safety.
3
Trimester 3
NUR 7050 - Evidence-Based Practice for Nurse Leaders
This course provides an overview of the evidence-based practice process to prepare the nurse leader as a consumer of scientific evidence for decision making in practice, education, and leadership. A process for formulating a question using PICOT format and conducting literature searches for existing evidence is discussed. The course also includes an overview of the research process with emphasis on the critical appraisal of quantitative evidence for determination of inclusion in a literature synthesis related to the identified practice question. The discussion of biostatistics focuses on determining the appropriateness of the statistical analysis and interpretation of the statistical results in the critically appraised research evidence. Finding and critically appraising research summaries, such as systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and meta-syntheses, and clinical practice guidelines is included. Effectively implementing, evaluating, and disseminating an evidence-based change process is discussed.
3
IPE 7421 - Interprofessional Approaches to Regional and Global Population Health
Students evaluate cultural, environmental, societal, and economic factors impacting population health and health outcomes. Students assimilate factors impacting individual and community health. Knowledge is applied to create interprofessional, evidence-based interventions to improve population health and advance health equity.
3
Trimester 4
NUR 7560 - Advanced Pharmacology
Advanced practice nurses must be knowledgeable about pharmacotherapeutics and principles of safe prescribing. This is an online course that focuses on advanced concepts of pharmacology, including pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacogenomics. Emphasis is placed on common drug classes prescribed by advanced practice nurses for acute and chronic conditions in patients across the lifespan. Factors influencing effective therapy and legal considerations are also included.
3
NUR 7610 - Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology
This course for advanced practice nursing students explores the study of physiology and pathophysiology. Emphasis includes understanding and identifying diseases by examining alterations in common physiological conditions across the lifespan. This course equips advanced practice nurses with the requisite knowledge and skills necessary for accurate disease diagnosis and management through an in-depth exploration of pathophysiologic processes, cellular changes, and systemic manifestations.
3
Trimester 5
NUR 7310 - Foundations of Neuroscience
This course is the foundation for practicing health professionals who explore and gain knowledge about neurobiology and psychopathophysiology as this relates to the etiology (cause), epidemiology (prevalence), developmental theories, and abnormal behavior. Students learn about evidence based empirical interventions while understanding ethical, cultural, and developmental applications. Students learn about the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criterion and the neurobiological progression across the lifespan.
3
NUR 7580 - Advanced Health Assessment and Differential Diagnosis
This course prepares advanced practice nurses to apply methods of advanced assessment in formulating differential diagnoses of acute and chronic conditions across the lifespan. Emphasis is on advanced physical assessment skills, risk assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and documentation.
3
Trimester 6
NUR 7315 - Advanced Psychopharmacology
This course focuses on evidence-based advanced practice psychopharmacology, building on previous advanced pharmacology coursework. Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner students learn the scientific principles of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, pharmacogenetics, and psychotherapeutic medications. Emphasis is placed on psychopharmacologic treatment for acute and chronic psychiatric conditions across the lifespan. Students learn ethical safe prescribing practices and interprofessional collaboration with focus on optimal patient outcomes.
3
NUR 7330 - Psychotherapy for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Practice
This course focuses on psychotherapeutic theories, psychotherapy modalities, and therapeutic skills for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner student. Students acquire knowledge about a client-centered, culturally responsive approach; patient goals; therapeutic environment management; psychotherapeutic communication; psychoeducation goals; and crisis management. This course prepares students to apply multiple therapeutic approaches in psychotherapy, including cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, group supportive therapy, interpersonal therapy, recovery and SMART model framework, trauma therapy, and complementary alternative interventions in addition to applying interprofessional collaboration and developing a framework for clinical practice for individuals and populations across the lifespan. This course includes 50 hours of psychotherapy simulation.
3
Trimester 7
NUR 7350 - PMHNP: Acute and Chronic Management of Child/Adolescent with Psychiatric Mental Health Conditions
This course focuses on the role of the psychiatric mental health advanced practice nurse. Emphasis is on critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning, clinical judgment, theoretical underpinnings while applying scientific evidence-based theories, therapeutic concepts of communication, and screening tools. This course feeds into the associated practicum course for application of assessment skills; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders diagnostic reasoning; acute and chronic management, including psychopharmacology and psychotherapy; interprofessional collaboration; ethical standards and cultural diversity inclusion; health promotion; disease prevention; and differential diagnosis in planning care for children, adolescents, and families.
3
NUR 7541 - PMHNP Role Practicum I Child & Adolescent Populations†
This course focuses on the clinical role of the psychiatric mental health advanced practice nurse and builds on previous coursework. Students precept for a minimum of 180 PMHNP direct clinical practice hours through the application of didactic coursework from Acute and Chronic Management of Child/Adolescent with Psychiatric Mental Health Conditions. This clinical practicum allows students to build skills in psychiatric assessment, diagnoses, differential diagnosis, psychopharmacologic and psychotherapy interventions, and interprofessional collaboration. Emphasis is on upholding ethical standards and cultural diversity inclusion, health promotion, disease prevention, and differential diagnosis in planning care for children, adolescents, and families.
4
Trimester 8
NUR 7375 - PMHNP: Acute and Chronic Management of the Adult and Older Adult with Psychiatric Mental Health Conditions
This course focuses on the role of the psychiatric mental health advanced practice nurse. Emphasis is on critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning, clinical judgment, theoretical underpinnings while applying scientific evidence-based theories, therapeutic concepts of communication, and screening tools. This course provides foundational content, which is applied in PMHNP Role Practica II: Adult and Older Adult Populations. Foundational knowledge in advanced assessment skills; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders diagnostic reasoning; acute and chronic management, including psychopharmacology and psychotherapy; interprofessional collaboration, ethical standards, and cultural diversity inclusion; and health promotion, disease prevention, differential diagnosis in planning care for adult and older adult populations.
3
NUR 7542 - PMHNP Role Practicum II Adult and Older Adult Populations†
This course focuses on the clinical role of the psychiatric mental health advanced practice nurse and builds on previous coursework. Students precept for a minimum of 180 PMHNP direct clinical practice hours through application of didactic coursework from PMHMP: Acute and Chronic Management of the Adult and Older Adult with Psychiatric Mental Health Conditions. This clinical practicum allows students to build skills in psychiatric assessment, diagnoses, differential diagnosis, psychopharmacologic and psychotherapy interventions, and interprofessional collaboration. Emphasis is on upholding ethical standards and cultural diversity inclusion, health promotion, disease prevention, and differential diagnosis in planning care for adults and older adults.
4
Trimester 9
NUR 7230 - Program/Project Planning and Management for Evidence-Based Practice and Policy Change
This course equips students with essential skills in project planning, project management, and advocating for policy change with a focus on the final DNP project. Students explore practical applications of project management principles. Through case studies and real-world scenarios, learners develop proficiency in project planning phases, including needs assessment, risk assessment and management, and project budgeting. Emphasis is placed on effective communication strategies, stakeholder engagement, and navigating organizational dynamics to implement evidence-based practices and drive policy reform. By the end of the course, students are prepared to lead and collaborate on initiatives that promote healthcare delivery improvement, patient safety, and transformative healthcare changes.
3
NUR 7543 - PMHNP Role Practicum III Diverse/Special Populations†
This course focuses on the role of the psychiatric mental health advanced practice nurse with an emphasis on diverse and special populations. This course builds on previous coursework as students demonstrate critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning, clinical judgment, theoretical underpinnings while applying scientific evidence-based theories, therapeutic concepts of communication, and screening tools. This course is a clinical practice-based practicum lead by expert clinical PMHNP faculty as students expand assessment skills; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders diagnostic reasoning; acute and chronic management, including psychopharmacology and psychotherapy; interprofessional collaboration; ethical standards and cultural diversity inclusion; health promotion; disease prevention; and differential diagnosis in planning care for diverse, special populations and specialty populations of the student's choice. Course requires 225 contact hours.
5
Trimester 10
NUR 7525 - Data-Driven Evaluation and Clinical Analytics for Outcomes Improvement
This course focuses on the establishment of evaluation criteria, data collection and analysis, and use of the results of this data analysis for decision-making for the improvement of healthcare outcomes. Students engage in statistical data analysis methods in preparation for the evaluation phase of their DNP project.
3
NUR 7801 - DNP Practicum l†
This course is the first in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students demonstrate proficiency in connecting knowledge from didactic courses to integrate critical analysis and synthesis of scientific evidence for application to practice. This includes problem identification, synthesis of the literature and evidence, and construction of a strategy to address the problem. The precepted experience promotes collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor, offering opportunities to synthesize learning, complete practicum hours, and secure acceptance of the DNP scholarly project proposal. Course requires 174-406 practicum hours.
3 credits required
3-7
Trimester 11
HSA 7260 - Operations and Quality Management in Healthcare
There are many opportunities for healthcare organizations and/or their unitary departments to employ strategies to affect the challenges and enhance the outcomes found in today's healthcare delivery system. This course familiarizes the student to a framework of various concepts and tools necessary for understanding the operationalization of health service delivery processes and their effect on performance outcomes. The development of leadership performance competencies that support interprofessional collaboration in organizational health care delivery systems, process improvement, and project and quality management will be emphasized. Through clinical and service quality planning, control and improvement initiatives, outcomes will demonstrate that quality improvement is a strategic mandate Students will discover the essential relationship linking operations and quality management and the importance and use of metrics in daily operations.
3
NUR 7802 - DNP Practicum II†
This course is the second in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students must demonstrate proficiency in acquisition of internal and external approvals of the DNP scholarly project. The DNP scholarly project phase concludes with the initiation of implementation and evidence collection in preparation for evaluation of outcomes. This precepted experience involves collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor to provide opportunities for demonstrating synthesis of learning, completion of practicum hours, and necessary approvals to begin implementation of the the DNP scholarly project. Requires 174–406 practicum hours.
3 credits required
3-8
Trimester 12
HSA 7236 - Accounting, Finance and Economics for the Healthcare Leader
This course provides basic accounting, finance, and economics for the healthcare leader. Students will be able to educate patient care team members on financial implications of patient care decisions, use financial statements for decision making, use basic accounting, finance, and economics concepts needed for efficient management of the healthcare organization, develop policies and procedures for coding and reimbursement, and negotiate contracts for effectiveness and compliance.
3
NUR 7803 - DNP Practicum lll†
This course is the final in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students must demonstrate advanced competency through the evaluation of outcomes and dissemination of the completed DNP scholarly project. This precepted experience involves collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor to provide opportunities for demonstrating synthesis of learning, completion of all remaining practicum hours, and dissemination and publication of the DNP scholarly project manuscript. An electronic professional portfolio documents progress across the plan of study toward achievement of the program learning outcomes. Course required 232–464 practicum hours.
4 credits required
4-8
Degree Credit Hours 77
†Course requires practicum hours.
Nurse Executive Role Specialty Courses
Students entering with a BSN degree who choose the Nurse Executive role specialty will complete 64 credit hours as well as a total of 1,276 practicum hours to earn the DNP degree.
Courses
Hours
Curriculum
Trimester 1
IPE 7001 - Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice*
This course provides students with a foundation for interprofessional education and collaboration. Emphasis is on learning roles and responsibilities of healthcare peers, effective interprofessional communication, teams and teaming, as well as ethical practice and patient (or client)-centered care. All coursework prepares the student to engage on highly functioning healthcare teams, while striving to improve healthcare delivery through increasing patient and practitioner satisfaction, reducing costs, and achieving better outcomes. The course will expose the student to industry-relevant tools and techniques that meet the demands of the contemporary healthcare workplace.
3
IPE 7121 - Organizational Leadership & Policy in Health Care*
This course introduces students to interprofessional healthcare policy and organizational leadership concepts. Students have the opportunity to analyze and advocate for health policy with the inclusion of diverse stakeholders to optimize access to care, improve care coordination, and reduce disparities affecting population health. Various leadership styles are examined as well as self-assessment, goal setting, and strategies for continuous improvement as healthcare leaders.
3
Trimester 2
NUR 7161 - Theoretical and Scientific Underpinnings for Nursing Practice
This course focuses on the integration of theory, empirical evidence, and the application to nursing practice and decision-making. Nurses use theory combined with the best scientific evidence to provide the highest level of practice and improve quality outcomes. The introduction to the use of theory and the process of theory construction are discussed. Major theories of nursing and theories from other disciplines relative to nursing are analyzed with an emphasis on implications for nursing practice.
3
IPE 7400 - Healthcare Informatics and Technology Management
This course introduces the student to healthcare informatics, focusing on the foundational experiences with health information systems and technology; roles within interprofessional teams (when applicable); and ethical and legal use of technology to improve patient safety, healthcare quality, and population health outcomes. Students examine data management systems to improve outcomes of care and technology for care delivery and to explore new trends to improve patient outcomes using evidence to inform the design of workflows and utilization of health information systems to improve user experience, standards, and safety.
3
Trimester 3
IPE 7421 - Interprofessional Approaches to Regional and Global Population Health*
Students evaluate cultural, environmental, societal, and economic factors impacting population health and health outcomes. Students assimilate factors impacting individual and community health. Knowledge is applied to create interprofessional, evidence-based interventions to improve population health and advance health equity.
3
NUR 7050 - Evidence-Based Practice for Nurse Leaders*
This course provides an overview of the evidence-based practice process to prepare the nurse leader as a consumer of scientific evidence for decision making in practice, education, and leadership. A process for formulating a question using PICOT format and conducting literature searches for existing evidence is discussed. The course also includes an overview of the research process with emphasis on the critical appraisal of quantitative evidence for determination of inclusion in a literature synthesis related to the identified practice question. The discussion of biostatistics focuses on determining the appropriateness of the statistical analysis and interpretation of the statistical results in the critically appraised research evidence. Finding and critically appraising research summaries, such as systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and meta-syntheses, and clinical practice guidelines is included. Effectively implementing, evaluating, and disseminating an evidence-based change process is discussed.
3
Trimester 4
NUR 7100 - Pathophysiology, Health Assessment, and Pharmacology (Non-NP)
This course expands on foundational nursing education to enhance nursing expertise in pathophysiology, health assessment, and non-prescriptive pharmacology throughout the lifespan. Emphasizing the specialized knowledge and skills essential for the non-NP advanced practice nurse, this curriculum integrates pathophysiological concepts, physical assessment techniques, and pharmacology principles. Students explore application of these principles to become proficient in the provision of safe and quality care for patient populations across the lifespan and cross-culture presenting with routine medical conditions.
3
HSA 7250 - Human Resources Management and Organizational Development in Healthcare
Using a systematic approach, students address the role of human resources in healthcare organizations. Students gain an understanding of key roles in planning for workforce needs and aligning with the strategic goals of the organization. Students examine organizational behavior and dynamics, as well as leadership principles to help navigate change. Students analyze theory and practice of managing individuals and groups through motivation, communication, teamwork, collaboration, leadership, organizational change, negotiation, and conflict management and resolution.
3
Trimester 5
IPE 7133 - Foundations in Healthcare Administration with Strategic Planning
Students build on leadership concepts introduced in IPE 7121 to develop a foundational understanding of healthcare administration while analyzing the changing landscape of the healthcare environment. Application of these concepts occurs through formulating, implementing, and evaluating a strategic plan while working with an interprofessional team. Students examine the role of strategic planning in achieving organizational performance measures as well as the notion of planning as a cyclical process within the healthcare organization in the role of a healthcare administrator.
3
NUR 7461 - DNP Indirect Care Role Practicum l†
The purpose of this practicum course is for the student to synthesize knowledge acquired in didactic courses into role specialty practice. This is a precepted experience with the student, the practicum instructor, and the preceptor working together to provide opportunities for demonstration of synthesis of learning and role integration. In this experience, discussion board and reflective journals are used so that students reflect on their prior learning as they transition into their advanced nursing practice role. This course requires completion of 180 practicum hours.
4
Trimester 6
NUR 7230 - Program/Project Planning and Management for Evidence-Based Practice and Policy Change
This course equips students with essential skills in project planning, project management, and advocating for policy change with a focus on the final DNP project. Students explore practical applications of project management principles. Through case studies and real-world scenarios, learners develop proficiency in project planning phases, including needs assessment, risk assessment and management, and project budgeting. Emphasis is placed on effective communication strategies, stakeholder engagement, and navigating organizational dynamics to implement evidence-based practices and drive policy reform. By the end of the course, students are prepared to lead and collaborate on initiatives that promote healthcare delivery improvement, patient safety, and transformative healthcare changes.
3
NUR 7462 - DNP Indirect Care Role Practicum II†
The purpose of this practicum course is for the student to synthesize knowledge acquired in didactic courses into role specialty practice. This is the second precepted experience with the student, the practicum instructor, and the preceptor working together to provide opportunities for demonstration of synthesis of learning and role integration. In this experience reflective journals are used so that students reflect on their prior learning as they transition into their advanced nursing practice role. This course requires completion of 232 practicum hours.
4
Trimester 7
HSC 7470 - Legal and Regulatory Issues
This course investigates the legal and regulatory environment of the health services industry. Case law, statutory and regulatory analysis, and trends in health services delivery law will be analyzed in context of implications among major stakeholder groups (providers, patients, administrators, third-party payers, and health care organizations). Topics include civil and criminal law, ethics, contract law, antitrust, malpractice, human resources/personnel laws, managed care laws, professional and corporate liability, information management/medical records, patient safety and mandatory reporting issues, patients' rights and responsibilities, among others.
3
NUR 7525 - Data-Driven Evaluation and Clinical Analytics for Outcomes Improvement
This course focuses on the establishment of evaluation criteria, data collection and analysis, and use of the results of this data analysis for decision-making for the improvement of healthcare outcomes. Students engage in statistical data analysis methods in preparation for the evaluation phase of their DNP project.
3
Trimester 8
HSA 7260 - Operations and Quality Management in Healthcare
There are many opportunities for healthcare organizations and/or their unitary departments to employ strategies to affect the challenges and enhance the outcomes found in today's healthcare delivery system. This course familiarizes the student to a framework of various concepts and tools necessary for understanding the operationalization of health service delivery processes and their effect on performance outcomes. The development of leadership performance competencies that support interprofessional collaboration in organizational health care delivery systems, process improvement, and project and quality management will be emphasized. Through clinical and service quality planning, control and improvement initiatives, outcomes will demonstrate that quality improvement is a strategic mandate Students will discover the essential relationship linking operations and quality management and the importance and use of metrics in daily operations.
3
NUR 7801 - DNP Practicum l†
This course is the first in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students demonstrate proficiency in connecting knowledge from didactic courses to integrate critical analysis and synthesis of scientific evidence for application to practice. This includes problem identification, synthesis of the literature and evidence, and construction of a strategy to address the problem. The precepted experience promotes collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor, offering opportunities to synthesize learning, complete practicum hours, and secure acceptance of the DNP scholarly project proposal. Course requires 174-406 practicum hours.
Only 4 credit hours required for this program.
3-7
Trimester 9
HSA 7236 - Accounting, Finance and Economics for the Healthcare Leader
This course provides basic accounting, finance, and economics for the healthcare leader. Students will be able to educate patient care team members on financial implications of patient care decisions, use financial statements for decision making, use basic accounting, finance, and economics concepts needed for efficient management of the healthcare organization, develop policies and procedures for coding and reimbursement, and negotiate contracts for effectiveness and compliance.
3
NUR 7802 - DNP Practicum II†
This course is the second in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students must demonstrate proficiency in acquisition of internal and external approvals of the DNP scholarly project. The DNP scholarly project phase concludes with the initiation of implementation and evidence collection in preparation for evaluation of outcomes. This precepted experience involves collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor to provide opportunities for demonstrating synthesis of learning, completion of practicum hours, and necessary approvals to begin implementation of the the DNP scholarly project. Requires 174–406 practicum hours.
Only 4 credit hours required for this program.
3-8
Trimester 10
NUR 7803 - DNP Practicum lll†
This course is the final in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students must demonstrate advanced competency through the evaluation of outcomes and dissemination of the completed DNP scholarly project. This precepted experience involves collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor to provide opportunities for demonstrating synthesis of learning, completion of all remaining practicum hours, and dissemination and publication of the DNP scholarly project manuscript. An electronic professional portfolio documents progress across the plan of study toward achievement of the program learning outcomes. Course required 232–464 practicum hours.
USAHS MSN graduates in Nurse Educator or Nurse Executive role specialties will only need to complete an additional 30 total credits to earn their DNP degree, while USAHS MSN FNP graduates will only need to complete an additional 22 credit hours since they will have completed 18 hours of core courses in their MSN program. These core courses are required in both our MSN and DNP degree programs and were designed to meet the MSN and DNP essential competencies.
Students with an MSN degree from another accredited university may need to complete a total of 42 to 52 credits and 696 to 1,276 total practicum hours to earn a DNP degree. Upon request, MSN transcripts can be evaluated for potential transfer of credits to minimize the number of credits required to complete the degree. The number of practicum hours required is determined by the number of practicum hours completed in the MSN program.
Courses
Hours
Curriculum
Trimester 1
IPE 7001 - Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice*
This course provides students with a foundation for interprofessional education and collaboration. Emphasis is on learning roles and responsibilities of healthcare peers, effective interprofessional communication, teams and teaming, as well as ethical practice and patient (or client)-centered care. All coursework prepares the student to engage on highly functioning healthcare teams, while striving to improve healthcare delivery through increasing patient and practitioner satisfaction, reducing costs, and achieving better outcomes. The course will expose the student to industry-relevant tools and techniques that meet the demands of the contemporary healthcare workplace.
3
IPE 7121 - Organizational Leadership & Policy in Health Care*
This course introduces students to interprofessional healthcare policy and organizational leadership concepts. Students have the opportunity to analyze and advocate for health policy with the inclusion of diverse stakeholders to optimize access to care, improve care coordination, and reduce disparities affecting population health. Various leadership styles are examined as well as self-assessment, goal setting, and strategies for continuous improvement as healthcare leaders.
3
Trimester 2
NUR 7161 - Theoretical and Scientific Underpinnings for Nursing Practice
This course focuses on the integration of theory, empirical evidence, and the application to nursing practice and decision-making. Nurses use theory combined with the best scientific evidence to provide the highest level of practice and improve quality outcomes. The introduction to the use of theory and the process of theory construction are discussed. Major theories of nursing and theories from other disciplines relative to nursing are analyzed with an emphasis on implications for nursing practice.
3
IPE 7400 - Healthcare Informatics and Technology Management
This course introduces the student to healthcare informatics, focusing on the foundational experiences with health information systems and technology; roles within interprofessional teams (when applicable); and ethical and legal use of technology to improve patient safety, healthcare quality, and population health outcomes. Students examine data management systems to improve outcomes of care and technology for care delivery and to explore new trends to improve patient outcomes using evidence to inform the design of workflows and utilization of health information systems to improve user experience, standards, and safety.
3
Trimester 3
NUR 7050 - Evidence-Based Practice for Nurse Leaders*
This course provides an overview of the evidence-based practice process to prepare the nurse leader as a consumer of scientific evidence for decision making in practice, education, and leadership. A process for formulating a question using PICOT format and conducting literature searches for existing evidence is discussed. The course also includes an overview of the research process with emphasis on the critical appraisal of quantitative evidence for determination of inclusion in a literature synthesis related to the identified practice question. The discussion of biostatistics focuses on determining the appropriateness of the statistical analysis and interpretation of the statistical results in the critically appraised research evidence. Finding and critically appraising research summaries, such as systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and meta-syntheses, and clinical practice guidelines is included. Effectively implementing, evaluating, and disseminating an evidence-based change process is discussed.
3
IPE 7421 - Interprofessional Approaches to Regional and Global Population Health*
Students evaluate cultural, environmental, societal, and economic factors impacting population health and health outcomes. Students assimilate factors impacting individual and community health. Knowledge is applied to create interprofessional, evidence-based interventions to improve population health and advance health equity.
3
Trimester 4
NUR 7230 - Program/Project Planning and Management for Evidence-Based Practice and Policy Change
This course equips students with essential skills in project planning, project management, and advocating for policy change with a focus on the final DNP project. Students explore practical applications of project management principles. Through case studies and real-world scenarios, learners develop proficiency in project planning phases, including needs assessment, risk assessment and management, and project budgeting. Emphasis is placed on effective communication strategies, stakeholder engagement, and navigating organizational dynamics to implement evidence-based practices and drive policy reform. By the end of the course, students are prepared to lead and collaborate on initiatives that promote healthcare delivery improvement, patient safety, and transformative healthcare changes.
3
NUR 7525 - Data-Driven Evaluation and Clinical Analytics for Outcomes Improvement
This course focuses on the establishment of evaluation criteria, data collection and analysis, and use of the results of this data analysis for decision-making for the improvement of healthcare outcomes. Students engage in statistical data analysis methods in preparation for the evaluation phase of their DNP project.
3
Trimester 5
HSA 7260 - Operations and Quality Management in Healthcare
There are many opportunities for healthcare organizations and/or their unitary departments to employ strategies to affect the challenges and enhance the outcomes found in today's healthcare delivery system. This course familiarizes the student to a framework of various concepts and tools necessary for understanding the operationalization of health service delivery processes and their effect on performance outcomes. The development of leadership performance competencies that support interprofessional collaboration in organizational health care delivery systems, process improvement, and project and quality management will be emphasized. Through clinical and service quality planning, control and improvement initiatives, outcomes will demonstrate that quality improvement is a strategic mandate Students will discover the essential relationship linking operations and quality management and the importance and use of metrics in daily operations.
3
NUR 7801 - DNP Practicum l†
This course is the first in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students demonstrate proficiency in connecting knowledge from didactic courses to integrate critical analysis and synthesis of scientific evidence for application to practice. This includes problem identification, synthesis of the literature and evidence, and construction of a strategy to address the problem. The precepted experience promotes collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor, offering opportunities to synthesize learning, complete practicum hours, and secure acceptance of the DNP scholarly project proposal. Course requires 174-406 practicum hours.
4-7 credits required
3-7
Trimester 6
HSA 7236 - Accounting, Finance and Economics for the Healthcare Leader
This course provides basic accounting, finance, and economics for the healthcare leader. Students will be able to educate patient care team members on financial implications of patient care decisions, use financial statements for decision making, use basic accounting, finance, and economics concepts needed for efficient management of the healthcare organization, develop policies and procedures for coding and reimbursement, and negotiate contracts for effectiveness and compliance.
3
NUR 7802 - DNP Practicum II†
This course is the second in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students must demonstrate proficiency in acquisition of internal and external approvals of the DNP scholarly project. The DNP scholarly project phase concludes with the initiation of implementation and evidence collection in preparation for evaluation of outcomes. This precepted experience involves collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor to provide opportunities for demonstrating synthesis of learning, completion of practicum hours, and necessary approvals to begin implementation of the the DNP scholarly project. Requires 174–406 practicum hours.
4-7 credits required
3-8
Trimester 7
NUR 7803 - DNP Practicum lll†
This course is the final in a series of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) practicum courses. Graduates of the DNP program will be leaders in translating evidence into practice through system-focused change, evidence-based quality improvement, policy, and/or program evaluation. Students must demonstrate advanced competency through the evaluation of outcomes and dissemination of the completed DNP scholarly project. This precepted experience involves collaboration between the student, practicum faculty, and preceptor to provide opportunities for demonstrating synthesis of learning, completion of all remaining practicum hours, and dissemination and publication of the DNP scholarly project manuscript. An electronic professional portfolio documents progress across the plan of study toward achievement of the program learning outcomes. Course required 232–464 practicum hours.
DNP Accreditation and State Approvals/Post-Graduation Licensure
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) (Non – NP Role Specialty)
State Approvals
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is currently accepting applications for enrollment to the Doctor of Nursing Practice program (except Nurse Practitioner role specialties) from the following states: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas (MSN-entry only), California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Washington (MSN-entry only), Wisconsin, Wyoming, Vermont, and Virginia.
USAHS is currently not accepting applications from states where the program does not have state authorization. However, prospective students are encouraged to check back in the near future, as the program may be offered in additional states. Current and admitted students are also advised to monitor this page for any updates prior to relocating to another state, as this can have an impact on continued enrollment in the program and the ability to be placed for on-the-ground activities or practicum experiences.
Post-Graduation Licensure
The DNP (non-NP Role Specialties) program is not designed or intended to lead to professional licensure in any state.
The map below identifies the states from which the University is now accepting applications for the DNP (non-NP Role Specialties) program (indicated in blue).
It remains the student’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all requirements relating to practicum experiences, authorization or endorsement for the state in which she or he resides.
Higher Education State Approvals
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences holds licensure/authorization to operate a physical campus in three states — California, Florida, and Texas. Please refer to the Licensure page for more detailed information. The University has additional state approvals and exemptions to provide distance education. Please visit the State Licensure page for more detailed information.
CCNE Accreditation
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) – Role Specialty
State Approvals
USAHS is currently accepting applications for enrollment in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program with Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP) role specialty for residents in the following states: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
USAHS is currently not accepting applications from states where the program does not meet state licensure requirements and/or where the institution does not have state authorization. However, prospective students are encouraged to check back in the near future as the program may be offered in additional states. Current and admitted students are also advised to monitor this page for any updates prior to relocating to another state, as this can have an impact on continued enrollment in the program and the ability to be placed for on-the-ground activities or practicum experiences.
Post-Graduation Licensure
The map below identifies the states from which the University is now accepting applications for the DNP-FNP program. USAHS has not made a determination that its curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in the following locations: American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau.
For states denoted in blue, USAHS has determined the program satisfies the educational requirements for professional licensure in those states. USAHS has not made a determination regarding whether the DNP-FNP program satisfies the educational requirements for professional licensure in the states denoted in gray.
It remains the student’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all requirements relating to practicum experiences, licensing or certification, authorization or endorsement for the state in which she or he resides. For more information, students should contact the appropriate state licensure board to understand state licensure requirements as regulations vary from state to state.
Notice to State of Washington Students: The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing to conduct practice experiences for residents of Washington state for the MSN/Nurse Educator, MSN/Nurse Executive, MSN/FNP, MSN/AGNP, MSN/PMHNP, RN-MSN/FNP, RN-MSN/AGNP, RN-MSN/PMHNP, MSN-entry DNP, DNP/Nurse Executive, DNP/FNP, Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate (PMHNP), and Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate (FNP) program tracks. Learn more.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) – Role Specialty
State Approvals
USAHS is currently accepting applications for enrollment in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program with Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP-PMHNP) role specialty for residents in the following states: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
USAHS is currently not accepting applications from states where the program does not meet state licensure requirements and/or where the institution does not have state authorization. However, prospective students are encouraged to check back in the near future as the program may be offered in additional states. Current and admitted students are also advised to monitor this page for any updates prior to relocating to another state, as this can have an impact on continued enrollment in the program and the ability to be placed for on-the-ground activities or practicum experiences.
Post-Graduation Licensure
The map below identifies the states from which the University is now accepting applications for the DNP-PMHNP program. USAHS has not made a determination that its curriculum meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in the following locations: American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau.
For states denoted in blue, USAHS has determined the program satisfies the educational requirements for professional licensure in those states. USAHS has not made a determination regarding whether the DNP-PMHNP program satisfies the educational requirements for professional licensure in the states denoted in gray.
It remains the student’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all requirements relating to practicum experiences, licensing or certification, authorization or endorsement for the state in which she or he resides. For more information, students should contact the appropriate state licensure board to understand state licensure requirements as regulations vary from state to state.
CCNE Accreditation
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
Note on Certification Exam
Nurse Practitioner graduates must hold a master’s, postgraduate, or doctoral degree from a family nurse practitioner program accredited by the CCNE or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) to be eligible to take the necessary role specialty national examination to be certified as a nurse practitioner, which most states require in order to be licensed to practice as an NP. Graduates should take the exam that aligns with their role specialty: FNP-BC or FNP or PMHNP-BC or PMH-BC. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
Note on Licensure, Authorization, Endorsement, or Other State Credential Necessary to Practice as a Nurse Practitioner
Most states require that graduates pass a nurse practitioner national certification exam in order to apply for licensure or other credential to practice as a nurse practitioner in a state. Graduates must hold a master’s, postgraduate or doctoral degree from a nurse practitioner program accredited by the CCNE or ACEN in order to be eligible for an NP national certification exam; national certification as an NP is required for licensure to practice as an NP in most states. Graduates should take the exam that aligns with their role specialty (FNP-BC or FNP or PMHNP-BC or PMH-BC). The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791. While the DNP (FNP and PMHNP role specialty) program is designed to lead to licensure, authorization, endorsement, or other state credentials necessary to practice as a nurse practitioner, it is the prospective student’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all requirements relating to nursing practice in the state in which they intend to practice and/or resides as requirements vary widely.
Prospective students are advised that relocation to another state may impact their ability to complete field experiences and/or to obtain professional licensure, certification or other credentials in another state. Prospective students are advised to carefully review, evaluate and understand the requirements of the applicable licensure board in the state in which they intend to relocate. USAHS makes no representations or guarantees that completion of coursework or programs will permit an individual to obtain state licensure, authorization, endorsement, or other state credential, including prescriptive authority, where requirements may vary between different states. Additionally, current and admitted students are also advised to monitor this page for any updates prior to relocating to another state, as this can have an impact on continued enrollment in the program and the ability to be placed for on-the-ground activities or practicum experiences. For more information about the requirements to practice, students should contact the appropriate Board of Nursing or state agency.
Notice to State of Washington Students: The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing to conduct practice experiences for residents of Washington state for the MSN/Nurse Educator, MSN/Nurse Executive, MSN/FNP, MSN/AGNP, MSN/PMHNP, RN-MSN/FNP, RN-MSN/AGNP, RN-MSN/PMHNP, MSN-entry DNP, DNP/Nurse Executive, DNP/FNP, Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate (PMHNP), and Post-Graduate Nursing Certificate (FNP) program tracks. Learn more.
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DNP Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, graduates will be able to:
Employ the skills necessary to engage in lifelong learning through intellectual inquiry and scholarship.
Communicate effectively with members of interprofessional teams, healthcare consumers, policymakers, and institutional, local, regional, and national healthcare leaders.
Lead and serve on interprofessional teams to promote improved population health and outcomes in complex healthcare systems.
Utilize transformational leadership, systems thinking, and clinical analytics to improve healthcare outcomes for individuals and diverse populations.
Practice critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making in delivering or directing nursing practice and serving as a leader in healthcare systems.
Provide leadership in the use of technology and information systems for the evaluation and improvement of individual, population, and institutional outcomes.
Deliver or direct nursing practice based on sound theoretical frameworks, best scientific evidence, clinical expertise, and in collaboration with the patient and family.
Exhibit professional and ethical standards while advocating for safe, equitable, and cost-effective healthcare and policies for all.
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DNP Program Data
Click a doctorate in nursing program below to view the program data page:
USAHS offers two paths towards a DNP: BSN-entry or MSN-entry. BSN-entry DNP students who pursue the FNP role specialty must complete one on-campus clinical intensive.
Family Nurse Practitioner Role Specialty (BSN-entry DNP)
Online coursework + one required on-campus clinical intensive
71 credit hours + practicum contact hours 1,334
12 trimesters (4 years) Please note, the DNP-FNP program typically takes 3 years and 4 months to complete, based off the most recent 2-year graduate data (2022-2023 and 2023-2024); however, individual experiences will vary based on factors including, but not limited to, individual progress, traditional vs. accelerated pathway, credits transferred and other factors.
Sept., Jan. & May start dates, plus midterm starts
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (BSN-entry DNP)
Online coursework + one required virtual clinical intensive
77 credit hours + 1,334 practicum contact hours
12 trimesters (4 years)Time to completion may vary by student. The DNP-PMHNP is designed to be completed in 4 years but may be completed in as little as 3 years, depending on individual progress, traditional versus accelerated pathway, credits transferred and other factors.
Sept., Jan. & May start dates, plus midterm starts
10 trimesters (3 years, 4 months) Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress, traditional versus accelerated pathway, credits transferred and other factors.
Sept., Jan. & May start dates, plus midterm starts
7 trimesters (2 years, 4 months) Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress, traditional versus accelerated pathway, credits transferred and other factors.
Sept., Jan. & May start dates, plus midterm starts
Clinical Placement Concierge
Get personalized support from a dedicated clinical placement team to secure a practica placement that aligns with your career goals, specialty interests, and schedule.
Dedicated Support
Your success is our priority. You’ll receive one-on-one faculty mentorship Each student is assigned a faculty advisor when they start the program. On-demand appointments with faculty advisor and/or course instructors are available. and personalized academic advising designed to keep you supported, engaged, and thriving throughout your journey. Watch Video
Whether you are looking to fast-track your degree or take a lighter courseload, we offer individualized study plans. Learn mostly online and attend one hands-on intensive (where required) Watch Video
Cutting-Edge Learning Technology
Master advanced skills through online coursework and realistic virtual simulations that prepare you with the clinical skills to confidently take the next step in your career. Explore Innovative Learning
Solely Dedicated to Health Sciences
With over 40 years dedicated to health sciences, USAHS helps nursing graduate students advance in clinical expertise, research, and leadership while collaborating with peers across disciplines in patient-centered care. Discover Our Story
Choose Your Role Specialty
Whether you are interested in clinical care or leadership, we offer role specialties through our DNP program. From FNP, PMHNP to Nurse Executive, you can tailor your degree to match your career goals. Find Your Specialty
Getting Started
Ready to begin your journey toward earning your DNP degree? It’s easy to get started right away!
Get More Information
Our webinars and virtual campus tours provide a wealth of information to help ensure you make the right choice in pursuit of your doctorate in nursing.
“As a DNP student, I was able to gain access to meetings that I wouldn’t have been invited to—and see behind-the-scenes decisions at the corporate/divisional level.”
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Post-Graduate NP Certificate programs at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
