The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Arkansas State University (ASU) is a post-master's degree designed to prepare advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. The program focuses on the development of expertise in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and leadership, preparing graduates to make a positive impact on healthcare outcomes and policy.
Program Overview
The ASU DNP program is offered online, with minimal on-campus requirements, making it accessible to working professionals. The program is designed to be completed in two years, with a total of 36 credit hours. The curriculum includes coursework in areas such as:
- Advanced practice nursing
- Healthcare policy and advocacy
- Quality improvement and patient safety
- Healthcare finance and economics
- Leadership and management
Program Objectives
The ASU DNP program aims to prepare graduates who can:
- Integrate advanced practice nursing knowledge and skills to improve healthcare outcomes
- Analyze and apply evidence-based practice to improve patient care
- Develop and implement quality improvement initiatives
- Lead and manage healthcare teams and organizations
- Advocate for healthcare policy and reform
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to the ASU DNP program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Earned master's degree in nursing from a regionally accredited institution
- Current licensure as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) in the state of Arkansas or eligible for licensure
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Completion of a graduate-level statistics course
- Submission of official transcripts and test scores (if required)
- Three letters of recommendation from professional references
- Personal statement outlining career goals and motivations for pursuing the DNP degree
Curriculum
The ASU DNP program curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in advanced practice nursing. The program includes the following courses:
- NUR 701: Advanced Practice Nursing
- NUR 702: Healthcare Policy and Advocacy
- NUR 703: Quality Improvement and Patient Safety
- NUR 704: Healthcare Finance and Economics
- NUR 705: Leadership and Management
- NUR 706: Evidence-Based Practice
- NUR 707: DNP Project
Practicum and DNP Project
The ASU DNP program includes a practicum experience and a DNP project. The practicum experience provides students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting. The DNP project is a scholarly project that demonstrates students' ability to apply evidence-based practice to improve healthcare outcomes.
Accreditation
The ASU DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous standards for quality and effectiveness.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
ASU offers various forms of financial aid and scholarships to help students fund their education. Students are encouraged to apply for federal student aid and explore external scholarship opportunities.
Conclusion
The ASU DNP program is designed to prepare advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. The program's online format and minimal on-campus requirements make it accessible to working professionals. With a strong curriculum and accreditation from the CCNE, the ASU DNP program is an excellent choice for nurses seeking to advance their education and careers.
What is the DNP program at Arkansas State University?
+The DNP program at Arkansas State University is a post-master's degree designed to prepare advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in healthcare.
What are the admission requirements for the DNP program?
+Applicants must have a master's degree in nursing, current licensure as an APRN, and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
What is the curriculum for the DNP program?
+The curriculum includes courses in advanced practice nursing, healthcare policy and advocacy, quality improvement and patient safety, healthcare finance and economics, leadership and management, and evidence-based practice.