Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
As part of the typical process of pursuing initial accreditation with the Commission on College Nursing Education (CCNE), USAHS is preparing for an onsite evaluation October 22-24, 2018.
Prior to the visit, CCNE is seeking written, third-party comments. All comments must be received by September 30. Comments should be directed to thirdpartycomments@ccneaccreditation.org or:
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
Attn: Third-Party Comments
655 K St., NW, Suite 750
Washington, DC 20001
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) pairs education and experience to prepare students to transform the future of nursing.
DNP graduates will assume roles as leaders in various organizations – as nurse administrators, healthcare innovators, nurse educators and nurse practitioners.
As a DNP student, you will benefit from an engaging online classroom, the opportunity to learn from faculty who are leaders in their fields, and a wealth of educational resources.
Complete an optional on campus immersion experiences with some courses to participate in peer discussions and advanced coursework, or expand your global healthcare perspective through the optional international immersion.
USAHS offers two doctoral nursing program paths: BSN-entry or MSN-entry.
- BSN-entry DNP: 64 to 72 credit hours (depending on specialization)
- Core courses: 44 credit hours
- Specialization and practica courses: 18-32 credit hours
- MSN-entry DNP: 42 to 52 credit hours (depending on number of practicum hours completed in the MSN program)
BSN-entry DNP students who pursue the FNP specialization are required to complete two on-campus clinical intensives.
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Program Overview
- Choose to complete your degree online for the flexibility to fit into your busy schedule
- Participate in an optional on-campus immersions available with some courses to engage face-to-face with your faculty and fellow students
- Complete practicum hours in your own community in most cases and partner with a preceptor of your choice
- BSN-entry DNP students choose from three nursing role specializations to become an expert in their selected field
As a DNP student, you’ll benefit from:
Interprofessional Education
We believe that collaboration is a cornerstone of education and quality healthcare. At USAHS, you will have the unique opportunity to learn alongside students from different healthcare professions to hone your skills and benefit from a variety of perspectives. [1] We’re confident that this team-based approach strengthens health systems, produces positive outcomes, and prepares you to become a leader in your field. [2]
On-Campus or International Immersion
Several courses offer an optional two-and-a-half-day, on-campus immersion at one of USAHS’ four destination campuses to allow you to connect personally with faculty and collaborate with your classmates. You will benefit from face-to-face dialogue, on-campus resources and accelerate at your own pace.
DNP students are invited to participate in an optional international immersion, offered through the Interprofessional Approaches to Regional and Global Population Health course. Travel, study and explore with students from other programs to develop a global perspective on healthcare and advance your cultural awareness.
Practica
DNP students complete practica throughout the program, BSN-entry students complete role-specialty practica, as well as practica focused on practice leadership and completion of their DNP scholarly project. MSN-entry students have already completed role specialization in their MSN program and complete only the DNP practica focused on practice leadership and completion of their DNP scholarly project.
MSN Option (for BSN-entry DNP students)
USAHS recognizes that a student’s individual situation may prevent them from completing all of the academic requirements needed to earn a DNP degree. The DNP program is designed to meet students where they are and provide an alternative – the option to graduate with a MSN degree, providing the student has completed the academic requirements.
Why USAHS?
USAHS is a WSCUC-accredited graduate university that specializes solely in health sciences. We are committed to the development of professional healthcare practitioners through innovative, individualized, and quality education. Each of our academic programs focuses on foundational science and concepts, sound decision-making, and strong technical skill development. Read more about our mission.
Let us help you take the next step toward your future.
[1] NLN Board of Governors (2015). Interprofessional Collaboration in Education and Practice. Thibault, G. (2013). Reforming Health Professions Education Will Require Culture Change and Closer Ties Between Classroom and Practice. Health Affairs, 32(11), 1928-1932.
[2] Reeves, S., Perrier, L., Goldman, J., Freeth, D., & Zwarenstein, M. (2013). Interprofessional education: effects on professional practice and healthcare outcomes (update). Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 3, CD002213. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD002213.pub3
