Post-Masters Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN – DNP)

Post-Masters DNP courses are held in an executive/hybrid model with pre-scheduled class dates that require in-person attendance.

Description of Program:

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. Up to 500 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 two or three years.

Advanced Practice Nurses (NP, CNS) must hold national board certification in their specialty to be eligible for the program.

• Two Year Curriculum Plan
• Three Year Curriculum Plan

Admission Criteria

1. The applicant holds an acceptable bachelor's or master’s degree in nursing earned at an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association and a national professional accrediting association.
2. Meet SDSU graduate admission requirements
3. Be in good standing at the last college/university attended
4. Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in an acceptable bachelor’s or master’s degree program.
5. Satisfactorily completed a course in statistics (Statistics 250 or equivalent) with a grade of C or better.
6. Hold a current registered nursing license from the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), unencumbered, unrestricted with no disciplinary action pending.
7. Have a minimum of two years of full-time experience working as an RN and/or at a minimum one-year full-time experience as an APRN.
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 Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is not required for admission.