DNP Program
Nursing Education Leadership Specialty
Exciting News! We're offering 10 $5,000 scholarships to new students who are starting in Spring 2027.* Want to learn more? Email con-osaa@arizona.edu for application details.
*Available only to new EHSL, NEL, and MS-to-DNP students.
Program Description
The Nursing Education Leadership (NEL) DNP specialty trains nurses to become innovative educators and dynamic leaders in academic and healthcare settings. Students gain advanced skills in curriculum development, competency-based learning, instructional strategies, and educational leadership while enhancing their expertise in evidence-based nursing practice. The hybrid program combines online coursework with on-campus intensives and mentored practicum experiences, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world education and clinical environments. Applicants can enter the program as post-BSN or post-master’s (in nursing) students, with options for full-time or part-time study. Graduates of the DNP-NEL specialty are prepared to revolutionize nursing education and professional development, with eligibility for certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in Nursing Professional Development or the National League for Nursing (NLN) as Certified Nurse Educators.
Starts in Fall & Spring Semesters
DNP Program Outcomes
- Lead and apply scholarship to transform healthcare systems and improve outcomes through innovation and collaboration.
- Influence healthcare policy and advocate for equitable, inclusive practices within the nursing profession.
- Integrate teaching and learning principles to excel as an academic or professional nurse educator.
- Deliver ethical, evidence-based, and person-centered advanced nursing care that promotes health across populations.
Financial Help is Available
The Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP) funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), offers tuition support to DNP students pursuing a career as a nursing faculty member. In return, graduates who step into teaching roles can receive loan forgiveness of up to 85 percent after four years of full-time work at an accredited nursing program.
The U of A DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. See the bottom of this page for full details.
Program Facts
*Course load is approximated and may vary between semester and year. Students should consult their academic program guide for a complete course schedule.
DNP-NEL Curriculum
Additional Program Options
Additional Program Options are not available to students in the Global Campus Experience
Ready to take the next step?
See the full admissions requirements and application process on the DNP Admissions page.