Shenandoah University

What you'll study

Coursework blends leadership, quality improvement, research methods and a multi‑stage DNP project. All classes are delivered online in an asynchronous format.

• NP 705 Professional Writing
• N 733 Roles & Issues of the DNP
• N 680 Introduction to DNP Studies
• NP 710 Foundations of Evidence‑Based Practice
• N 712 Informatics and Quality Improvement (60 practicum hours)
• N 706 Epidemiology & Population Health
• N 725 Leadership & Policy (60 practicum hours)
• N 805 Project Seminar (60 practicum hours)
• N 720 Analytical Methods
• N 806 Project Planning (120 practicum hours)
• N 807 Project Implementation (180 practicum hours)
• N 808 Project Analysis & Dissemination (60 practicum hours)

Entry requirements

For the Post‑Graduate DNP applicants must hold an MSN from a CCNE or ACEN accredited institution and be nationally certified as an APRN (NP, CNS), CNM or CRNA; a recommended cumulative GPA is 3.0. Applicants must have 2,080 RN or APRN direct patient care hours and provide a copy of Advanced Practice Nursing certification. Admissions materials include the graduate application with fee, unofficial transcripts, an unencumbered RN license (multi‑state preferred), current CV, three letters of recommendation, an interview or video submission, a 750‑word essay describing DNP intent and project idea, and verification of clinical hours. Admitted students will need up‑to‑date health records, criminal background check, urine drug screen and AHA CPR. Language proficiency testing may be required. Shenandoah reviews applications continuously with priority and final deadlines noted on the program page.

Career prospects

The program is framed to advance clinical leaders and prepare practicing APRNs for higher levels of leadership, quality improvement, informatics use, and project implementation in health care settings. The curriculum’s practicum and project sequence supports applied, practice‑focused outcomes for advanced nursing roles.

Scholarships & funding angle

The page notes alumni are eligible for a tuition discount. For international applicants: due to limited on‑campus hours the program does not issue F‑1 visas.