New Jersey DNP Programs

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a terminal level nursing degree that is focused on clinical practice. Currently, there are eight DNP programs in New Jersey. These programs aim to further the expertise of advanced practice and to prepare nurses for leadership roles in clinical practice, administration, and policy. The number of DNP programs in New Jersey is likely to grow in the years to come, as the AACN is pushing to move from the MSN to the DNP as the minimum degree level for advanced practice certification.

Curriculum and Degree Requirements

Each of the eight New Jersey programs offers a different curriculum, but there are many trends. Some programs, such as those developed by Monmouth University and Felician College, are for post-master's students only. Monmouth University has a 36 credit curriculum, while Felician College's consists of 46 credits. Other programs, such as that at Rutgers, offer entry-points for both post-BSN and post-MSN students. The total credit hours for the BSN to DNP pathway ranges from 60-71, depending on the track and specialty area chosen. The post-MSN program ranges from 30-43, depending on the track chosen. All students must complete a total of 1,000 supervised clinical hours post-BSN.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary between programs, but the following are common:

• Bachelor's and/or Master's degree from an accredited
• 3.0 GPA or higher (3.4 is required at Rutgers)
• National advanced practice certification
• Scholarly writing samples or portfolio
• Three letters of recommendation
• Current resume
• Evidence of unencumbered RN and/or APN license
• Successful completion of accepted statistics and/or research course
• Official transcripts from all attended colleges/universities
• Goal statement or essay

Tuition

Tuition varies by DNP program, and is subject to change. Currently, Felician College lists graduate tuition at $875 per credit. Graduate tuition at Monmouth University is listed at $963 per credit.

Additional Resources

• Felician College DNP
• Monmouth University DNP
• Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey