Student views why they did not complete a DNP program

The purpose of this study was to  discover reasons why students have left the University DNP program. The goal of this study was to identify potential  strategies to improve student retention. All students who were enrolled and attended courses in the DNP Program from 4 cohorts and left the program were  contacted by phone to answer scripted, open-ended questions about why they chose to not continue. This qualitative research project revealed students' views for student attrition, suggestions for  assistance programs or other interventions that could have  improved retention,  and the entry of some students in a doctoral program at another institution. Strategies are suggested which may assist faculty in addressing student attrition from DNP programs.