Nursing Administration Curriculum
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Nurse Specialty Role
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Curriculum
Nursing Administration
The DNP is offered in both an on campus and online format. Additional information about the online format can be found at http://www.online.pitt.edu
The DNP curriculum is designed to accommodate students who have completed their BSN, those with a MSN, or those with a Masters Degree in another field. A minimum of two years of management experience is required for admission into the DNP program. Course work can be completed on a full time or part time basis. Students entering with a BSN are required to take 81 credits to achieve the DNP. Students entering the program with a Masters degree, either in nursing or another field, will be evaluated individually and given appropriate credit for courses they have completed a the Masters level.
The DNP curriculum focuses on developing the knowledge and skills to effectively lead in complex clinical environments. Depending on student interests and background, various cognate electives can be used to design a tailor-made curriculum for each student. In addition to courses offered through the School of Nursing, the curriculum offers courses through the School of Medicine, Katz School of Business, and the Graduate School of Public Health at the University of Pittsburgh.
Core courses provide a foundation in evidence based practice and research, nursing outcomes, use of technology, finance, organizational theory and health policy. This knowledge is then expanded upon through courses in strategic leadership, leadership in complex system, and clinical systems analysis and design. Students will also have a uniquely designed clinical residency with a senior-level mentor. During residency, students will complete a capstone project designed to synthesize and apply knowledge gained throughout the program.