Jefferson's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program provides academic preparation for professional nurses who will practice at the most advanced level of nursing. Graduates will be able to lead at the highest level of nursing: in clinical practice, administration, education and policy.

The DNP program is inter-professional educational experience. As an academic health center, Jefferson offers students opportunities to take core courses, such as health policy, biostatistics, organizational change and advancements in health care, together with students from Jefferson Medical College, Jefferson College of Graduate Studies and the other disciplines within Jefferson College of Health Professions.

The DNP is offered in a mix of on-line and in-class courses. Full-time students who have a MSN may complete the 36-credit program in one calendar year; part-time students complete the degree on their own timeline. A combined MSN/DNP program enables students with a BSN to complete both degrees in three calendar years of full-time study.

Throughout their studies, DNP students complete three practica that comprise the doctoral project and provide the opportunity for application of knowledge gained in all the courses. Each student works with two mentors to develop an individualized practicum plan that will include competencies, content, and practicum experiences needed for clinical practice leadership or systems/organizational leadership. Doctoral Project Options include:

1. Evidence-based Practice Change Initiative represented by a pilot study, a program evaluation, a quality improvement project, an evaluation of a new practice model, or a consulting project;
2. Research Utilization Project; or
3. Substantive Involvement in a Large Scale Project.

All doctoral projects require an integrated critical literature review or systematic review to be submitted by the end of the second specialty-focused practicum; and a manuscript submitted for publication, as well as submission and presentation of the project, by the end of the third specialty-focused practicum. All options must use evidence to improve either practice or patient outcomes.

Why Jefferson?

• History and reputation. Jefferson has over 100 years of experience in educating nurses.
• Inter-professional educational experience. Students take courses with students from Jefferson Medical College, Jefferson College of Graduate Studies and the other disciplines within Jefferson College of Health Professions. Learn together so you can work together.
• Convenience. Gain experience with the latest technology and reduce your time in the classroom by taking some courses online.

Admissions Process and Requirements

Admission is highly competitive. The deadline for applications is April 15th. Applicants must submit the following:

1. Cumulative GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale in a program resulting in the award of master's degree in nursing from an accredited college or university. Note: For GPA of less than 3.2, submit official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores (Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing).
2. Official transcripts for all Undergraduate and Graduate Study.
3. Three recent professional references including narrative letter and attribute form.
4. Essay (not more than 1,000 words) outlining career goals, educational goals and objectives, and area of interest in pursuing the Doctor of Nursing Practice.
5. Portfolio - Hard copy examples of scholary work.
6. Copy of current RN license, CRNP license (if applicable), and specialty certification (if applicable).
7. Copy of Curriculum Vitae.
8. Completed Jefferson School of Nursing Application.
9. After applications are received and reviewed, selected applicants will be invited to interview with School of Nursing faculty for final selection.

View the DNP Plans of Study:

• 1-Year
• 2-Year
• 3-Year
• 4-Year