Post Baccalaureate to DNP Program: Outcomes of the Graduating Inaugural Cohort

Since its inception in August 2006, the DNP program at the University School of Nursing (SON) launched as an entirely online educational opportunity developed using a post-baccalaureate to DNP paradigmatic framework that can be accomplished full time in 3-4 years and part-time in 5-6 years. There is no masters exit point since the masters level degree no longer exists. Deliberate pedagogical decisions were made to assure that the curriculum was tailored purposely for a streamlined, coherent, and consistent post-baccalaureate to DNP Degree program across 2 specialty concentrations: the family nurse practitioner (FNP), 84 semester credits and the public health nurse leader (PHNL), 82 semester credits. All courses were designed so that “practice doctorate level” content is applied in added depth and breadth as each core and specialty course unfolds throughout the program. The curriculum marches to its conclusion through a challenging calendar year experience that includes: the last comprehensive didactic and practicum courses for each specialty concentration, a research translation course (where the capstone project proposal is developed), a comprehensive examination requirement, the final intensive immersion practicum/residency, and the actualization of the capstone scholarly project. The SON paid particular attention to assuring that the core and practice doctorate level essentials and competencies from AACN, NONPF, and other Specialty Organizations were being met throughout the curriculum. The SON received an outstanding review of its programs, including the DNP, during the recent CCNE evaluation team site visit. The presentation will focus on the details of the design, implementation, and evaluation of the post-baccalaureate to DNP program, outcomes of the inaugural cohort of part-time post-baccalaureate students, and lessons learned.