ADMISSION

POST-MASTER'S DNP PROGRAM APPLICATION DEADLINES

Completed applications for early admission must be received by October 1. Completed applications for standard admission must be received by March 1.

Candidates applying to the Post-master's DNP track should ensure that all requirements and materials are received in order to be reviewed by the admission committee. (Please note: The GRE is not required.)

Once an application is complete and all supporting documentation has been received, the application is reviewed by the DNP Admission Committee on a rolling basis, and the candidate will be notified of the admission decision.

All accepted applicants must submit a $1,000 non-refundable seat fee which will be applied to the graduation fee upon completion of the program.

APPLICATION PACKET

• Completed Online Application
• Curriculum Vitae
• Application Fee
  The application requires a $70 non-refundable fee. Please note, prospective students who attend an admission event receive an application fee waiver code.
• Letter of Recommendation from Three Professional Contacts
  Letter of Recommendation forms should be submitted on your behalf from three professional contacts who are able to speak to your potential as a nurse scholar. A recommendation from a doctorally prepared nurse as one of the three references is strongly recommended.
• Interview with the Director of the Post-Master’s DNP Track
  A telephone interview is required and will be scheduled once the application is submitted.
  
• Essay
  The essay consists of two parts:
  (1) A personal reflection should be submitted that addresses the following: rationale for selecting this particular doctoral program; description of your role aspirations; and what you expect to derive from doctoral study.
  (2) Identify a healthcare issue that could be the basis for your DNP project. Discuss how addressing the healthcare issue will improve patient outcomes at your clinical facility.
• Official Transcripts from All Previous Institutions of Higher Education
  Send official transcripts from each previously attended college and school to Post-Master's DNP Director, Debra Shearer, EdD, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC at debra.shearer@villanova.edu
• Copy of Advanced Practice License (for APRNs)
• Copy of National Certification for APRNs and Nurse Executives
• OPTIONAL: Evidence of Scholarly Writing
  This could be a publication, grant, thesis, report, term paper or equivalent.

PREREQUISITES

All applicants to the Post-Master’s DNP Track:

• Must hold current and unrestricted licensure in nursing (Master's Degree in Nursing) in a jurisdiction of the United States.
• Are required to have a national certification in their advanced practice specialty.
• Should have taken a college level nursing research course and received a grade of 3.0 or higher.
• Must currently be employed and working a minimum of part-time in their field in the United States.

DISTANCE EDUCATION DISCLOSURE

Click here for important information regarding the University's authorization statues, students' responsibilities related to relocation and programs leading to professional licensures, and the complaint process for online students.