Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Post-Master’s

Our DNP degree prepares health systems and organizational nursing leaders (non-APRNs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to lead nursing practice, organizations, and health care systems through the application of evidence-based research. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at UNC Charlotte is a practice-focused doctoral program designed to prepare both health systemsorganizational nursing leaders and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to innovate in nursing practice and health care. This DNP program builds upon existing clinical practice knowledge and prepares students to practice at the highest clinical level, providing leadership across dynamic health care systems.

The DNP program is a 42-credit post-master’s program that requires a completion of a total of 1,000 clinical practice hours, including 500 from the student’s MSN program. If students do not have 500 hours from their MSN, the DNP Coordinator will meet with them to create a plan of study tailored to their specific needs.The DNP program is offered online with a synchronous immersion session at the beginning of each semester, except for summer. Earned master’s in Nursing in an advanced nursing practice specialty* from a nationally accredited program. An overall GPA of at least 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) in the MSN program. Current RN licensure in the U.S. at the time of application with eligibility for NC licensure. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNS) must provide evidence of current national certification and meet the state requirements for practice in their state of licensure.