Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

Program Director(s)

Marie-Eileen Onieal PhD, MMHS, RN, CPNP, FAANP

The post-master's Doctor of Nursing Practice program at RMUoHP is designed to prepare advanced practice leaders to affect change through system redesign and evidence-based decision making in a variety of clinical settings. Through coursework, directed independent study, and capstone project implementation, the DNP graduate is well prepared to influence health and social policy for diverse populations in a variety of settings. The program outcomes develop master healthcare professionals and leaders with advanced, evidence-based skills who critically review the literature, transform system processes at the point of care, participate in research, and advance knowledge through publications and presentations. A higher level of clinical skill and knowledge provided by the degree can advance clinical nursing practice and help keep pace with demands for clinical leaders and advanced practice educators.

The graduate will be a sophisticated consumer of research, as well as a socially responsible, competent, and innovative clinical leader who analyzes and works within the financial, political, clinical, and social factors that influence care models and population-based delivery systems. The core courses and directed independent study residency courses offer expanded study in the areas of leadership and management in advanced practice, evidence-based practice, system change, leadership in establishing clinical excellence, information technology, ethics and social responsibility, expertise to inform health policy, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The DNP program with its limited-residency model will provide the flexibility for the advanced practice leader to maintain employment while obtaining a doctoral degree in a total of 38 credit hours. During the first 12 months, students will complete three semesters, each typically consisting of three modules of coursework. Modules 1 and 3 may include readings and assignments, as well as WebStudy participation (i.e., threaded discussions or chats). Module 2 in each web-enhanced course requires attendance on campus for lecture, demonstration, etc.  As part of Module 3 in Semesters 1 and 2, students will complete a directed independent study residency (one per semester) from the student’s location. (For all other courses, students complete coursework throughout the entire semester.) A capstone project is required with a focus on applying best current evidence to transform systems. The program, including didactic coursework and a system change capstone project, will require approximately two years to complete.

The DNP Program is committed to the development of the nursing professional who can:

• Design and implement integrated system change projects based on clinical evidence and best practice literature.
• Initiate evidence-based practice and policy strategies that optimize access to care and clinical outcomes.
• Apply ethical theories and legal standards to decision-making regarding healthcare issues.
• Collaborate with interprofessional teams necessary to improve clinical care for populations of clients.
• Introduce and manage technologies that improve communication, foster collaboration, and support integrated approaches to care management.
• Integrate leadership expertise with clinical perspective and sound business practices to help transform the evolving healthcare system at local, regional, national, and international levels.
• Demonstrate analytical methodologies for the evaluation of clinical practice and the application of scientific evidence.

All registered nurses with a Master of Science degree in nursing are eligible for admission to the transitional Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. Priority will be given to an Advanced Practice Nurse functioning in the role of Nurse Practitioner, Certified Nurse Anesthetist, Certified Nurse Midwife, or Clinical Nurse Specialist. Registered nurses not functioning in an advanced practice role or advanced practice nurses holding a master's degree in a related field should discuss program outcomes with the graduate program director of the DNP program prior to applying so as to clarify that the program will meet their professional needs.

Click here to view or download the complete Doctor of Nursing Practice curriculum.

To apply for this program, please visit Admissions.

Program Module Calendar - Application Deadline: July 28, 2010