DNP Programs in North Carolina

North Carolina DNP Programs

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is fairly new to North Carolina. Currently, there is only one DNP program in the state, which is taught at Duke University. Other colleges and universities are likely to follow in Duke's footsteps in the future, as the AACN wishes to move the minimum level of education for advanced practice from the MSN to the DNP.

The mission of Duke University's DNP program is to prepare nurses to be leaders in healthcare. The program aims to better prepare graduates for advanced practice and scholarly roles. Graduates of the program will be able to evaluate best practices, help to develop new models for care, and influence policy.

Curriculum and Degree Requirements

Duke University offers three pathways to the DNP: BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, and PhD to DNP. Many of the courses for the DNP are offered online. There are two specialty areas in the BSN to DNP pathway: Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Anesthesia. The BSN-DNP curriculum varies from 73-94 credits depending on the chosen specialty. The post-MSN program ranges from 34-41 credits. Those who have earned a PhD and wish to earn a DNP at Duke University must complete at least 35 credits. All DNP students must complete a capstone project as part of the curriculum.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for all applicants to Duke's DNP program are as follows:

  • BSN or MSN from an NLN or CCNE accredited program
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Current RN licensure
  • Resume/CV
  • Official Transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • E-portfolio
  • Interview

Post-BSN applicants must submit the following additional items:

  • Satisfactory GRE scores (waived for those with GPA above 3.4)
  • Proof of undergraduate statistics course

Post-MSN applicants must submit the following additional items:

  • Certification as advanced practice nurse (if applicable)
  • Proof of completing a graduate course in inferential statistics and in research methodology

Tuition

Tuition for the DNP program is subject to change. Per credit tuition for 2013-2014 is listed at $1,425.

Additional Resources

DNP Schools Near You & Online in North Carolina

Gardner-Webb University

  • 110 South Main Street Boiling Springs, NC 28017
    Programs: ADN, BSN, DNP, MSN, RN, RN to BSN
    (704) 406-4000

University of North Carolina

  • 9201 University City Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28223
    Programs: BSN, DNP, MSN, RN, RN to BSN, RN to MSN
    (704) 687-8622

Duke University

  • Duke University Durham, NC 27708
    Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN, BSN to DNP, DNP, MSN, Nurse Anesthetist, Nursing PhD, Physician Assistant, RN, RN to MSN
    (919) 684-8111