Nursing - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Top-Ranked Online DNP Degree Program: Doctorate in Nursing Practice
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at PennWest University prepares MSN-qualified nurses for the highest level of nursing practice. Our CCNE-accredited, 100% online DNP program offers a flexible, affordable pathway to expand your clinical expertise, leadership capabilities, and policy influence. This 27-credit doctorate in nursing is designed for working professionals seeking to transform healthcare through evidence-based practice.
The program is designed to be flexible, affordable and professionally rewarding. The online, part-time structure accommodates employment as an advanced practice nurse while pursuing the DNP, thus easing the financial burden. Courses can be taken part-time over 5 semesters in an online format.
Our nursing DNP curriculum builds on the foundational competencies of the MSN-prepared advance practice or professional nurse. For example, a course in nursing research at the master's level serves as the foundation for NURS 8088: Analytical Methods of Evidence Based Practice; and nursing theory serves as the foundation for NURS 8066: Leading Nursing in Health Care Systems. Courses are sequenced to prepare you for increasingly complex skill sets in data acquisition, analysis, and practice application that align with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) DNP Essentials.
As a DNP student at PennWest, you'll be mentored by faculty who are committed to providing developmentally sound academic and clinical experiences. Many students graduate in just six semesters, with summer courses and opportunities for internships.
This program is for you if...
- You're a registered nurse with a master's degree seeking to advance to the highest level of nursing practice with a DNP degree
- You want to develop advanced leadership skills to drive meaningful change within complex healthcare systems
- You're passionate about translating evidence into practice through designing and implementing nursing research
- You need the flexibility of a 100% online doctorate in nursing program that accommodates your professional commitments
- You aim to establish inter-professional relationships for comprehensive advanced nursing practice
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Global Online
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27 Credits for DNP
Explore Our Online DNP Program Curriculum
In PennWest's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, you'll master advanced concepts in nursing leadership, healthcare policy, and evidence-based practice. The 27-credit DNP program curriculum includes core courses and required advanced courses.
The core curriculum consists of five courses (15 credits):
- • NURS 8066 - DNP Leadership
- • NURS 8077 - Information Management in Health Care
- • NURS 8088 - Analytical Methods of Evidenced-Based Practice
- • NURS 8099 - Advanced Topics in Population Health
- • NURS 8100 - Advanced Care of the Individual and Family
The required advanced curriculum includes internships and the DNP project (12 credits):
- • NURS 8950 - Doctor of Nursing Practice Internship I
- • NURS 8951 - Doctor of Nursing Practice Internship II
- • NURS 9990 - Doctor of Nursing Practice Project
- • NURS 8949 - Clinical Internship Electives
The DNP program requires a total of 1000 hours of clinical time between the master's and doctoral programs. Students must provide written documentation of completed clinical hours from their master's program when applying.
Throughout the nursing DNP program, you'll engage in inter-professional collaboration, develop advanced clinical expertise, and apply research to address real-world healthcare challenges. Our curriculum prepares you to evaluate research, implement evidence-based protocols, and lead healthcare transformation initiatives to improve patient outcomes.
Degrees, Certificates
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
Concentrations
There are no concentrations for this program.
Flexible Online Doctorate in Nursing Practice
This DNP program is offered 100% online, making it accessible for working nursing professionals.
Career Opportunities with a DNP in Nursing
Upon completing your Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, you'll be prepared for advanced nursing practice with doctoral-level clinical expertise and leadership capabilities. DNP-prepared nurses influence healthcare policy, implement evidence-based practices, and lead healthcare organizations toward improved patient outcomes. Your doctorate in nursing will position you as a leader in the field, equipped to drive systemic improvements and advocate for excellence in patient care. The online DNP degree combines advanced clinical skills with the ability to translate research into practice, preparing you for leadership roles across diverse healthcare settings.
Career Paths
- Nurse Practitioner: Provides advanced clinical care in specialized areas such as family practice, pediatrics, or geriatrics.
- Clinical Nurse Specialist: Focuses on improving patient outcomes and nursing practices within specific healthcare settings.
- Nursing Educator: Teaches and mentors nursing students in academic or clinical settings.
- Healthcare Administrator: Manages healthcare facilities, departments, or programs, ensuring efficient and effective delivery of services.
- Health Policy Analyst: Develops and evaluates policies to improve healthcare systems and patient care.
- Clinical Researcher: Conducts research to advance nursing practices and improve patient care outcomes.
- Chief Nursing Officer: Leads nursing departments within healthcare organizations, focusing on strategic planning and improving patient care.
- Public Health Nurse: Works in community health settings to promote public health and prevent disease.
- Quality Improvement Coordinator: Develops and implements programs to improve the quality of patient care and healthcare services.
- Nurse Consultant: Provides expertise to healthcare organizations on best practices, regulatory compliance, and clinical care.
- Occupational Health Nurse: Promotes health and safety within workplace environments.
- Informatics Nurse Specialist: Integrates nursing science with information management to improve healthcare data systems.
- Emergency Nurse Practitioner: Delivers advanced care in emergency and urgent care settings.
Fraternal Twins Share Identical Passion for Caretaking
Hannah and Isabella Gorrell have shared a lot of big moments – from taking their first steps to starting kindergarten, celebrating birthdays and finishing high school in the midst of a global pandemic. On May 4, the Gorrell twins reached another milestone as they walked across separate PennWest stages to earn bachelor of science degrees in nursing.
How We'll Help You Succeed
At Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest), we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
Top-ranked
NurseJournal.org ranks our nursing program among America's Best Nursing Programs in the East. Our CCNE-accredited DNP degree prepares nurses for the highest level of nursing practice.
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
The RN-BSN, MSN-Administration and Leadership, and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at PennWest are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.