DNP Programs in Connecticut

Connecticut DNP Programs

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is a terminal level degree that focuses on clinical practice in healthcare, rather than on research. Connecticut currently has a number of DNP programs, including Yale University's. The common mission of these programs is to prepare graduates for leadership in various healthcare settings, and to further the expertise of advanced practice nurses.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements are similar between the various Connecticut DNP programs. The application processes are largely online. The minimum cumulative GPA to be accepted into most programs is 3.0, with some requiring a 3.2. Transcripts must be submitted from accredited programs. BSN applicants must submit proof of RN licensure, or eligibility for licensure, while MSN applicants must show current advanced practice licensure and certification. Some programs, such as Sacred Heart University's, also require an essay or professional statement, two or more letters of recommendation, a professional portfolio, and an admissions interview. Foreign applicants who were not educated in English must also prove English proficiency by passing the TOEFL.

Curriculum and Degree Requirements

Connecticut DNP programs vary in terms of entry points. Some programs, such as those offered by Yale and Sacred Heart University, are only open to those who have already earned a master's degree. Other programs, such as those offered by the University of Connecticut and Fairfield University, are open to post-BSN and post-MSN applicants. Generally, the programs range from 34-40 credit hours for MSN to DNP students and from 74-83 credits for BSN to DNP students.

Yale's program is unique in that there is a part-time only option that takes two years to complete. Sacred Heart offers a unique Executive hybrid model where coursework is completed online, with the exception two weekend residencies that must be completed per semester on campus.

Fairfield University offers an Executive Doctor of Nursing (EDNP) program that is unlike other DNP degrees in that it is not a clinical degree and not intended for those who wish to continue practicing nursing. It is meant to help nursing leaders expand leadership or management roles, and is available to those who already have a master's degree. Nurses work while completing a minimum of 34 credits part time.

Tuition

Tuition varies from program to program, but appears to be higher on average in Connecticut than other states. The cost to attend Yale's DNP part-time program is $11,108 per term (fall and spring) or $1,270 per credit hour. Sacred Heart University charges a lower rate, at $870 per credit. Fairfield University DNP courses are similarly priced, at $900-1000 per credit.

Additional Resources

DNP Schools Near You & Online in Connecticut

Sacred Heart University

  • 5151 Park Avenue Fairfield, CT 06825
    Programs: BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, DNP, Family Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner - certificate, Nursing Administration, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (203) 371-7999

Yale University

  • 500 College Street New Haven, CT 06511
    Programs: Accelerated MSN, BSN, DNP, Nursing Administration, Nursing PhD, Physician Assistant, RN
    (203) 432-2700

University of Connecticut

  • 231 Glenbrook Road Storrs, CT 06269
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, Clinical Nurse Leader, DNP, Nursing Administration, Nursing PhD, RN, RN to MSN
    (860) 486-3716