Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the DNP?
The DNP degree is designed for those nurses with a MSN or BSN degree who are interested in a practice focused doctorate. DNP graduates will be prepared as clinical experts with a focus on critical thinking, leadership and political policy skills needed to advocate and create changes in healthcare practice at individual, population and organizational systems levels. The DNP is similar to other practice doctorates such as the MD, DPT, AudD, and PharmD. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing has called for the adoption by 2015 of the DNP as the terminal nursing practice degree.
How long will it take?
UNC will have two DNP pathways:
- Post Bachelors in Nursing and
- Post Masters in Nursing.
Depending upon the entry pathway, the DNP can be completed within 2-4 years of full-time study.
What will I learn?
Post Bachelors in Nursing - APN specialty preparation for the Post Bachelors in Nursing pathway will be as a family nurse practitioner. Detailed course information can be found HERE.
Post Masters in Nursing - Coursework builds on the MSN base providing additional depth in information technology, health policy, population health, and evidence based practice. The capstone project is a scholarly project that reflects evidence based practice and is derived from practicum immersion experiences. Detailed course information can be found HERE.
Admission Pre-requisite: SRM 602 (Statistical Methods I) or equivalent
NOTE: Provisional admission possible without this admission pre-requisite.
How does the program work?
The Post Bachelors in Nursing is designed for the practicing RN as a four year part-time hybrid program. In general, the clinical courses are held on campus on Thursdays.
The Post Masters in Nursing DNP program is designed for the practicing APN as a two year part-time hybrid program to offer you flexibility and convenience. There will be some selected on-campus intensive experiences.
When will students be admitted?
Students will be admitted once a year via a competitive admission process. Class size is limited. DNP admission preference given to those submitting applications by Feb 1, 2011 for the Post Masters in Nursing pathway. It is projected that the first applications for the Post Bachelors in Nursing pathway will be given admission preference if submitted by Feb 1, 2012 for Fall 2012 entry.
Is there an orientation?
A three (3) day ON-CAMPUS orientation is required. It is typically scheduled during mid July. During the orientation, the students meet University Administrators, program faculty and other students. Resources for success are introduced including the online course software, library resources, program handbook with policies and procedures, and writing center. Individual advising and an opportunity to meet mentors from previous classes is provided.
