DNP Purpose
The purpose of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is congruent with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice (2006) and the National League for Nursing Standards and criteria for the clinical doctorate (2008). The DNP program is a practice focused doctoral program designed to prepare nurses at the highest level of nursing practice to lead in applying and translating research into practice in local, state, national, and global health systems. The focus of the DNP program is on evidnece-based practice reflecting synthesis, application, and translation of credible research findings. The DNP program includes integrative practice experiences and an intense practice immersion experience that prepares advanced practice nurses caring for populations in primary and specialty care settings with emphasis on chronic illness management.
DNP Philosophy
The Doctoral program builds upon the philosophy of the Master’s program that includes primary care, advanced nursing practice, and evidence based practice foci. Attainment of advanced knowledge and competencies as an expert occurs through the processes of synthesizing, applying, and translating credible research findings into practice. All encompassing beliefs concerning the value of leadership (both in political and practice related settings), advanced practice nursing, and global health are components of the well-rounded advanced practice nursing leader at the doctoral level.
DNP Outcomes
Synthesize theoretical, philosophical, ethical, and empirical knowledge to develop therapeutic interventions in complex health systems.
Utilize information systems and patient care technology for the improvement and transformation of health care.
Provide leadership in the analysis, development, and implementation of health care policy on local, regional, national, and global levels.
Employ collaborative approaches with other disciplines for improving health outcomes among diverse populations.
Develop leadership skills within complex health systems to improve safe, cost-effective, and quality health care for diverse populations.
Demonstrate clinical scholarship and the use of analytical methods to design, implement, evaluate, and disseminate evidence-based practice.
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