Dual Program Application & Admission Criteria

Application

Pitt Nursing accepts applications for admission to the Dual DNP and PhD Program via NursingCas. Each applicant must complete and submit the following:

1. Completed online application form
2. Application fee
3. Complete official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work
4. Admission test scores (see following sections)
5. Current CV or resume
6. Three letters of reference. Letters of professional recommendation indicating the reviewer’s support of the student’s ability to successfully complete a demanding graduate level academic and clinical program. At least one recommendation should come from a current or recent direct supervisor. Before you submit your application, ask your references in which form they wish to submit their recommendation -- by paper or electronically.
7. Personal essay indicating professional goals, reason for want to earn both a PhD and DNP (dual DNP/PhD), and clinical research focal areas.
8. A second writing sample on which the applicant is the primary author.

Admission

Students, who are currently enrolled in their last term of a BSN program, may apply to the Dual DNP and PhD Program. If offered admission, it would be contingent on the student’s (1) successful completion of the BSN and (2) obtainment of the RN license.

Admission Criteria

• Current RN license in U.S. state/territory or location where student will complete clinical requirements.
• GPA ≥ 3.0 in BSN from accredited program (ACEN, NLN, or CCNE).
• Pre-requisite statistics course with a grade B or better.
• A pre-admission interview. If the applicant resides at a great distance, a virtual interview may be conducted.
• Evidence of ability to communicate in writing that includes an essay addressing goals, focal area of research, and implications for global health.

Applicants who do not meet all of the criteria may be admitted with provisional status. Please refer to Policy 231.

Graduate Clearances

Degree Program Application Deadlines

International Applicants

Tuition and Fees

Curriculum

Teaching assistanceships and scholarships are available for qualified students.

The University of Pittsburgh is an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution. Read the complete Nondiscrimination Policy.

Contact Information