Nursing Education Leadership (NEL) DNP Specialty

DNP Program

Nursing Education Leadership Specialty

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.

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.


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

2.5
Years

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

3.5
Years

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

Hybrid

Program Delivery
Online coursework with
3 on-campus intensives and
a clinical practicum

57
Credit
Hours

1,000
Practicum
Hours

10-20
Semester Average
Cohort Size

Nov
15

Applications Open

March
1

Final Deadline

*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

Students admitted to the DNP-NEL program must complete a rigorous curriculum consisting of 57 credit hours and 730 practicum hours (advanced nursing practice, nursing education, and leadership). In addition, students attend RISE twice during their study. Admitted students should refer to and follow the academic program guide for their cohort year.

DNP-NEL 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

Additional Program Options are not available to students in the Global Campus Experience

Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education (NE)

Are you a nurse who is interested in teaching? This post-Master’s certificate prepares graduate nurses to excel as educators in academic and healthcare settings. Through focused coursework and precepted practicum experiences, students deepen their understanding of the nurse educator role, innovative teaching methods, and effective evaluation of learners and programs.

Learn More

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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.

Register

Ready to take the next step?

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

DNP Admissions