The post-master's Doctor of Nursing Practice degree is designed for advanced practice registered nurses with a master’s degree to complete the terminal DNP degree. Students have the option to complete an additional APRN specialty, if requested.
Each applicant’s transcripts will be reviewed to determine the gap between DNP outcomes and their prior education. All candidates will complete a project, practicum, and identified courses.
Admission to the Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is limited to advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who hold a master’s degree from a CCNE- or NLNAC-accredited program and current national certification in their specialty.
Validation Form: Required to verify prior clinical hours and coursework
Students who reside outside the state of Michigan who are considering an on-line nursing program should contact the appropriate board in their state of residency to confirm whether the course or program meets requirements for professional licensure in the student’s state of residence prior to beginning a course of study. MSU has an up-to-date, state-by-state summary available online.
All application materials must be received by April 1. The application period opens Aug. 1 each year.
Contact
CON.Admissions@msu.edu
In addition to meeting the requirements of the College of Nursing, and the admission requirements for the Doctor of Nursing Practice, students must meet the requirements specified below.
All of the following courses:
NUR 995: Doctor of nursing practice project I
NUR 996: Doctor of nursing practice project II
NUR 997: Doctor of nursing practice project III
Elective, or core courses as determined by review of previous APRN education
Post-Master's DNP Curriculum
Completion of a minimum 1,000 supervised clinical hours between the master’s degree and DNP programs is required. Students will enroll in NUR 990 Special Problems to complete an individualized clinical learning plan that will achieve any remaining required hours.
Apply online at admissions.msu.edu by selecting Apply → Graduate Applicants → Start a Graduate Application. All materials can be submitted electronically.
Interviews are by invitation only and may be held virtually or on campus. Plan for a 1.5–3 hour time commitment. Admission decisions are typically sent via email within two months of your interview.
Post-Master's DNP students can start in fall, spring, or summer.
Yes. Out-of-state applicants are welcome.
Due to the level of online coursework required in the program, visa holders on F-1 and J-1 visas will not be able to maintain their status. Those interested in these academic programs are ineligible to study in the United States under the F-1 or J-1 visa status. Students are advised to consult an immigration attorney to discuss their options regarding other visa statuses.
Tuition varies by residency status. Visit the MSU Controller’s Office website for current rates and fees.
Additionally, College of Nursing scholarships are available, with applications open January through March 1. Visit our Scholarships page for more information.