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Doctor of Nursing Practice

Best DNP

THe UTHSC College of Nursing's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is consistently highly-ranked on the Best Grad Schools list of U.S. News and World Report.  For 2023-2024, the UTHSC College of Nursing is ranked 23rd in the nation for DNP programs. The college is also proud to be the largest producer of doctorally prepared nurses in Tennessee.

About Our Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares APRNs for roles as either Nurse Anesthesiologists, Nurse Midwives, or Nurse Practitioners. Eligible students must have a baccalaureate or higher degree in nursing. In addition, certified masters-prepared Nurse Practitioners may complete the DNP degree. Both full-time and part-time study may be available depending upon the concentration. The length of the program depends upon the student's qualifications at admission and choice of concentration.

The DNP program requires a significant commitment of time as well as personal and financial resources. Initially, most students complete the DNP core courses that are offered via distance education. However, nurse anesthesiology specialty courses are primarily offered in the traditional classroom setting. Limited on-campus activities (simulations, skills workshops and interprofessional experiences) are required for all concentrations.

Clinical experiences are an integral component of every concentration. Faculty make all clinical placements with the support of the DNP Clinical Coordinator and in collaboration with the student and preceptor. Distant student clinical placements typically require minimal travel from the student's home  residence.


Application Deadlines

Program Program Start Term Application Open Date Priority Application Deadline Application Deadline
DNP
Nurse Anesthesiology
Summer March 15 July 15 August 15
DNP,
All other concentrations
Fall August 15 February 1 April 1

Application Guidelines

All applications close at 10:59 CST. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered for admission. All application materials must be received in NursingCAS no later than two (2) weeks after the deadline. The DNP admits new students to its programs each fall, except for the Nurse Anesthesiology Concentration, which begins in the summer.

Items to Upload into NursingCAS

  • Resume or CV
  • Copy of updated RN/APN licensure, including expiration date
  • Unencumbered Tennessee RN license or have unencumbered authority to practice as an RN via the multi-state privilege at the time of application.
  • Essay/Written Statement
  • Copies of updated required certification(s)

Some Concentrations may have additional admission requirements; click for DNP Admissions Requirements 

Official Transcripts

All official transcripts are required from ALL universities and colleges ever attended. Official transcripts should be sent to NursingCAS. To remain official, all transcripts must remain in the original, unopened, sealed, and stamped/signed envelope from the Registrar's office of the issuing institution. Alternatively, NursingCAS will accept official electronic transcripts from the registrar's office at your prior institution.

For complete instructions on submitting official transcripts to NursingCAS, visit the NursingCAS Applicant Help Center.

More information on applying, go to https://nursingcas.liaisoncas.org/apply/

Questions and Support: Phone: 617.612.2880

Email: nursingcasinfo@nursingcas.org


DNP Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the DNP Program, the graduate will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate proficient clinical reasoning in advanced nursing practice.
  2. Lead within health care systems to deliver safe, quality care for diverse populations.
  3. Disseminate findings from evidence-based practice and research for optimal healthcare outcomes.
  4. Integrate health information and patient care technologies to transform healthcare outcomes across the lifespan.
  5. Advocate for social justice and equity through strategic initiatives to influence public policy.
  6. Lead interprofessional teams to improve patient and population health outcomes.  
  7. Integrate concepts of social determinants of health, epidemiology and ethics to improve population health.
  8. Design, implement, and evaluate quality care based on science to facilitate optimal patient outcomes.

Accreditation

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, and doctorate degrees. Questions about the accreditation of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education,  655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington DC 20001, 202.887.6791, http://www.ccneaccreditation.org, through December 31, 2024, and approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing, 665 Mainstream Drive, 2nd Floor, Nashville, TN, 37243. https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/nursing-board.html .

Feb 27, 2024