Post-Master's DNP (MS-DNP)

DNP Program

Post-Master's DNP

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Program Description

The Post-Master’s (MS-DNP) DNP program builds on experience earned in a traditional Master of Science program. MS prepared students will explore the underpinnings of practice, healthcare policy, leadership, and quality improvement. Students will gain the understanding of how to address population health issues in addition to individual health issues.

The Post-Master's option is only available to students with prior certification as a nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist, clinical nurse specialist or an MS-prepared nurse with experience in informatics who wish to obtain the DNP without seeking a new practice specialty. The Post-Master's DNP is online with both part-time and full-time options. Graduates of the program are prepared as advanced practice nurses.

DNP Program Outcomes

  • Generate and disseminate nursing practice knowledge to stimulate research and improve clinical outcomes
  • Improve health outcomes through scientifically based advanced practice within a specialty
  • Engage in and lead collaborative practice teams
  • Influence clinical practice transformation and policy initiatives

DNP Program Accreditation

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program at The University of Arizona College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Program Facts

1.5
Years

Full-time Program Length
3-4 Courses per Semester*

2.5
Years

Part-time Program Length
2-3 Courses per Semester*

Hybrid

Program Delivery
Fully online coursework with
one on-campus intensive

35
Credit
Hours

10
Average
Cohort Size

Aug
15

Applications Open

Nov
1

Priority Deadline

*Course load is approximated and may vary between semester and year. Students should consult their academic program guide for a complete course schedule.

MS-DNP Admissions

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MS-DNP Curriculum

Students admitted to the Post-Master's DNP program must complete a rigorous curriculum consisting of 35 credit hours. In addition, students attend RISE once during their study. Admitted students should refer to and follow the academic program guide for their cohort year.

MS-DNP Program Guide

Residential Intensive Summer Experience (RISE) RISE is an intensive learning experience designed to support student success in the DNP program. DNP students are required to attend RISE in Tucson, AZ on an annual basis. RISE attendance for part-time students may vary. Learn More

Additional Program Options

DNP/PhD Dual Degree

If you are interested in attaining broader advanced clinical practice skills with strong research competencies, consider taking advantage of our dual Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) / Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees. You will be prepared at the highest level of nursing science and professional nursing practice, and with advanced skills for engaging in research to create, apply and translate new knowledge to improve health care – in practice domains and/or academia.

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DNP/MPH Dual Degree

The dual degree DNP/MPH option addresses the need for nurses to have advanced education in public health that prepares them to improve population health services and expand the scope and quality of the healthcare for diverse populations of individuals across the lifespan. The dual degree DNP/MPH option seamlessly blends the College of Nursing – DNP Program with the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health MPH online programs to provide students with a structured 3.5-year full-time program of study. Students are admitted simultaneously into both programs so they can begin them both at the same time.

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Rural Health Professions Program

The Rural Health Professions Program (RHPP) is an innovative program to create a community of doctorally-prepared advanced practice registered nurses who have didactic and clinical expertise in providing care to rural and medically underserved patients and will serve as leaders in improving the quality and access to care for these patients. RHPP scholars complete additional coursework that focuses on the care of rural and medically underserved populations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

For more information about this DNP specialty or applying to the DNP program, please contact:

Layla Salazar
Enrollment Coordinator, Doctoral Programs
Email: CON-OSAA@arizona.edu
Phone: 520-621-1860

See the Costs & Financial Aid page for cost estimates.

Students are assigned clinical sites in coordination with clinical coordinators and the program administrator. Students may be required to travel to a different geographic area if a suitable preceptor cannot be found.

No elective courses are required for this DNP specialty. Students may elect to take additional courses to meet their needs and interests but should first consult their faculty advisor.

Consider attending a virtual information session hosted by the College of Nursing for all specialties EXCEPT Nurse Anesthesia. You will have the opportunity to meet the program team and select members of the faculty as well as ask questions about the program and admissions process. Registration is required and the session is conducted via Zoom.

The DNP program holds multiple information sessions throughout the year. If you are unable to attend a currently scheduled session, check back soon for the next available session or fill out the Request Information form on this page to have program details delivered to your inbox.

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Ready to take the next step?

See the full admissions requirements and application process on the DNP Admissions page.

DNP Admissions