Program Overview
The doctorate in nursing (DNP) at the University of Kansas prepares advanced practice nurses and healthcare leaders to deliver high-level clinical care while transforming health systems through evidence-based innovation. This doctorate of nursing program integrates advanced clinical preparation, systems leadership, and translational research to meet the complex and evolving needs of patients, families, and communities.
Designed for nurses seeking a doctorate degree in nursing, the curriculum emphasizes the application of research into real-world practice. Students develop the expertise to evaluate outcomes, improve quality and safety, and implement change across healthcare environments. Through immersive clinical experiences and leadership development, the doctorate in nursing program prepares graduates to lead interprofessional teams, influence healthcare policy, and improve population health outcomes.
The program offers multiple specialty pathways that allow students to tailor their Doctor of Nursing Practice education to their professional goals:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) – Prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive primary care across the lifespan in diverse healthcare settings.
- Nurse-Midwife – Educates nurses to deliver full-scope midwifery care, including prenatal, birth, postpartum, and gynecologic services.
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) – Focuses on advanced assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions across the lifespan.
- Organizational Leadership – Develops executive-level nursing leaders prepared to guide healthcare systems, policy development, and organizational change.
Across specialties, the DNP curriculum blends online coursework with required in-person intensives and clinical practica, offering flexibility while maintaining rigorous academic and clinical standards. Students complete substantial clinical hours and a scholarly DNP project that addresses a real healthcare challenge, reinforcing the program’s commitment to evidence-based practice and measurable outcomes.
Key features of this DNP school experience include:
- Evidence-based preparation for advanced practice and leadership.
- Specialty-focused clinical education aligned with national standards.
- Hybrid delivery model with online coursework and on-campus components.
- Extensive supervised clinical practice experiences.
- Strong partnerships with regional healthcare organizations.
By earning your doctorate in nursing at KU, you join a collaborative academic community committed to advancing health equity, improving patient outcomes, and shaping the future of nursing practice.
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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Nursing Practice, DNPKU School of Nursing
The Doctor of Nursing Practice is part of the School of Nursing, a community of future health care leaders.Doctorate in Nursing Practice Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the doctorate in nursing program will be able to:
- Lead interprofessional healthcare teams to improve quality, safety, and patient outcomes.
- Translate and apply research findings into advanced clinical practice.
- Design, implement, and evaluate systems-level improvements in healthcare delivery.
- Influence health policy to promote equitable access and innovation.
- Demonstrate advanced specialty competencies aligned with national certification standards.
What Careers Are Possible with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice?
Graduates earning a doctorate in nursing are prepared for advanced clinical and executive roles across healthcare systems. Depending on specialty preparation, career paths may include:
- Nurse Practitioners (NP)
- Nurse Leaders and Administrators
- Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS)
- Nurse Educators
According to Lightcast, advanced practice registered nurses and nurse leaders continue to see strong employment demand and competitive salaries nationwide. The Doctor of Nursing Practice credential positions graduates for expanded scope of practice, increased autonomy, and leadership opportunities in hospitals, community clinics, behavioral health settings, birth centers, academic institutions, and health systems administration.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The cost of the DNP program varies, and financial assistance is available. KU offers various grants and loans through KUMC Financial Aid.Admission Requirements
To apply for the doctorate in nursing, prospective students must meet the following requirements:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree (for BSN to DNP), or completion of a nursing Master of Science (MS) degree (for post-master’s DNP) from a nationally accredited (NLNAC or CCNE) program
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 for BSN-DNP application; for post-master’s DNP, preference is given to applicants with a 3.25 graduate GPA in the master’s program
- New BSN graduates must obtain RN licensure prior to the first fall semester of enrollment
- National certification in specialty area, where applicable (e.g., post-master’s Advanced Practice DNP)
- A graduate-level statistics course (may be completed prior to admission or during first semester of enrollment)
- Background check and drug screen are required during the admission process
For a detailed breakdown of additional requirements, please visit the School of Nursing.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
The doctorate in nursing program emphasizes experiential learning and scholarly application. Students complete supervised clinical hours aligned with their specialty, gaining hands-on experience in primary care, behavioral health, midwifery practice, or healthcare leadership environments.
A central component of the doctorate of nursing curriculum is the DNP scholarly project, which allows students to identify a clinical or systems-based problem, implement evidence-based interventions, and measure outcomes. This capstone experience ensures graduates contribute meaningful improvements to healthcare delivery.
Students benefit from access to advanced simulation laboratories, academic health center resources, and faculty mentorship. Through clinical partnerships and alumni connections, the doctorate degree in nursing experience at KU fosters professional growth, leadership development, and long-term career advancement.
Doctorate in Nursing Practice Sample Courses
The doctorate in nursing curriculum includes advanced coursework designed to strengthen clinical expertise and leadership competencies, such as:
- Professionalism in Advanced Nursing Practice
- Advanced Pathophysiology
- The Social Context for Health Care Policy
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Leadership in Healthcare Systems
Coursework requirements vary by specialty within the Doctor of Nursing Practice program. For a complete list of courses, refer to the KU Catalog.
Doctorate in Nursing Practice Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
The application deadlines are:
- Spring term: September 1
- Summer term: January 1
- Fall term: May 1
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.