(Major Code: 12033) (Academic Plan Code: 554682DNPS)
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a clinical doctoral degree for registered nurses who have already obtained a Master’s degree in any nursing specialty (e.g. Leadership, Education, Advanced Practice etc.). Core requirements of the degree prepare students for evidenced-based inquiry, leadership, healthcare policy and finance, curriculum development, and advanced practice skills. The culminating experience for students will be the completion of an evidence-based practice/translational research project. The program requires the completion of 1000 clinical hours, prior MSN or Post-MSN certificate clinical hours are transferable into the program from a previous Master’s degree in Nursing. The number of units for the program is 36 units, which can be completed in 5 semesters.
A maximum of 12 units may be transferred into the program. If courses were completed at SDSU to confer a Master’s degree, additional units may be required to meet the minimum units for the degree. Please consult with your advisor if you have completed some of the requirements through a Master’s program.
Admissions Requirements
1. The applicant holds an acceptable master’s degree in nursing earned at an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association and a national professional accrediting association, as applicable. The applicant has completed equivalent academic preparation as determined by the appropriate campus authority.
2. Meet SDSU graduate admission requirements (https://admissions.sdsu.edu/graduate)
3. Be in good standing at the last college/university attended
4. Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in an acceptable master’s degree program.
5. Hold a current registered nursing license from the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), unencumbered, unrestricted with no disciplinary action pending.
6. Have a minimum of one year of full-time experience working in an advanced practice role.
7. Hold an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) national certification.
8. Two letters of recommendation from professional persons knowledgeable about the applicant’s nursing practice experience and the applicant’s potential for scholarship and leadership.
9. A written statement of purpose reflecting what the applicant expects to accomplish in the DNP program and how the DNP program will advance the applicant’s nursing career and practice.
10. A personal interview may be required prior to admission.
11. The applicant meets all requirements for credentialing or certification eligibility as appropriate to the nursing specialty area.
12. The applicant has demonstrated sufficient preparation and experience pertinent to nursing practice to be successful in doctoral education.
13. The applicant shall meet any additional requirements established by the chancellor in consultation with faculty and any additional requirements prescribed by the appropriate campus authority
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