North Dakota State University

The master's prepared advanced practice nurse seeking career enhancement. Most students work full time in their specialty area and take on or more classes a semester, completing the program in six to nine semesters. A comprehensive portfolio, including a detailed proposal for practice improvement project, is required for admission to the curricular track.

Admission Requirements MSN to DNP

(advanced practice nurse with a master's in nursing) 

• Earned master's degree in nursing with a GPA of at least 3.3
• Unencumbered licensure as a registered nurse
• Complete application to graduate school. Application and directions are at http://www.ndsu.edu/gradschool/
• The following sent to the nursing department:
1. Verification of RN licensure
2. Copy of most recent certification/re-certification for advanced practice specialty
3. A paper of 7-10 pages in length identifying a practice improvement issue, clinical management problem or research area the applicant plans to address while in the program. The paper will cite appropriate professional or scientific resources and follow APA format
• Proficiency in computer skills and access to a computer with Internet capabilities

Progression

After admission the following are required:

• Satisfactory result of criminal background checks
• Documentation of health status
• Documentation of ACLS certification
• Degree plan completed in collaboration with faculty

A grade of at least B is required in all courses in the degree plan. The time needed to complete the program depends primarily on the amount of time the student can commit to academic engagement. Nevertheless, the time period from admission to graduation may not exceed four years (48 months). The disquisition, which is the main product of the Comprehensive Study, is completed in a timely manner according to deadlines and protocols of the graduate office. Degrees are conferred at the University commencement ceremony.

Curriculum Vita and Professional Portfolio Guidelines

• Guidelines to Write Admission Proposal 
• Link to NDSU Center for Writers

DNP Curriculum For The Certified Advanced Nurse Practitioner With A Master's Degree In Nursing

For the advanced practice nurse with a master's degree, requirements for the DNP degree include portfolio review, didactic and practicum nursing courses, demonstration of scholarship and didactic support courses.

TOTAL CREDITS = 86 (Minimum)

At least 15 credits must be at the 700 level

If student has taken a graduate statistics course another course may be substituted.

Support courses are courses that complement and supplement nursing content and contribute to advanced practice. Appropriate courses are available in several disciplines, e.g., nursing, psychology, human development and education, and pharmaceutical sciences.

The oral examination completes the program of study. The student's course work and comprehensive study provide the framework for the oral examination.

Tuition and Financial Aid Information

• http://www.ndsu.edu/bisonconnection/accounts/tuition/