DNP Admission Requirements

Spring 2025:

• Application Deadline: 05/01/25
• Classes Begin: 08/25/25

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Awarded Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree (for BSN to DNP applicants) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or equivalent Master’s Degree (for Master's DNP applicants) from a regionally-accredited institution.

Cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.20 calculated across all transcripts for unconditional admission. 
If you are lacking in GPA or experience, speak to an enrollment counselor. We consider applicants equally and holistically.

• Official transcripts for all previously attended undergraduate and graduate institutions
• 3 letters of recommendation from individuals who can evaluate your ability to complete graduate academic work, such as a nurse manager, previous nurse faculty, or supervisor. A minimum of two references should be from individuals prepared at the graduate level. If you are also seeking an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) certificate, one letter should be from an APRN
• Resume or CV

Your professional goals statement should be an academic essay answering two questions:

• Which advanced nursing role do you want to pursue and why? (FNP, AG-ACNP, Nurse Educator, Nurse Leader, PMHNP, etc.) ; and,
• Ultimately, what type of setting do you wish to practice and/or population do you wish to focus on?
  • This essay is not a creative writing assignment or an appeal to emotion; it is your opportunity to tell the Selection Committee your understanding of the role and scope of practice; why you are focusing on this particular population; your future nursing career plans; and why you will be successful in this rigorous online program.
  • Your statement should be in APA 7th Edition style and should be no more than three pages in length, citing the AACN MSN Essentials document and/or APRN Consensus Model, where appropriate.

Resident of and evidence of valid, unrestricted RN licensure in an approved state. A current list of approved states can be found below.

No GRE/GMAT Required

Evidence of at least 2 years of professional experience working as an RN within the last 5 years

A web-based admission interview with faculty

$50 application fee