University of Pennsylvania

Overview

The University of Pennsylvania offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Executive Leadership, tailored for experienced nurses aiming to take on leadership roles within complex healthcare systems. This program equips professionals with the skills needed to drive quality improvements, manage organizational change, and enhance patient safety. Designed for working individuals, the curriculum combines online learning with a limited number of on-campus intensives.

What you'll study

Curriculum overview

The DNP in Executive Leadership integrates executive leadership coursework with applied project development. Students will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that progresses from foundational leadership principles and healthcare analytics to advanced project planning, implementation, evaluation, and dissemination.

Core courses include:

• Methods of Epidemiology
• Current Issues in Health and Social Policy
• Healthcare Informatics
• Data Analytics
• Patient Safety & Quality Improvement in Healthcare
• Transformational Leadership
• Executive Leadership in Complex Healthcare Systems
• Translating Evidence into Practice
• DNP Project Planning
• DNP Project Implementation
• DNP Project Evaluation and Dissemination
• Design Thinking in Healthcare Institute
• Thriving in an Everchanging Healthcare Environment

Applied DNP project

• Students will complete a DNP project that encompasses planning, implementation, evaluation, and dissemination.
• The project aims to achieve measurable improvements and practical outcomes relevant to healthcare practice and leadership.

Entry requirements

Application requirements include an online application, a non-refundable application fee, essays, letters of recommendation, and supporting documents. Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a master’s degree in Nursing or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.2. Additionally, candidates should have at least two years of leadership and fiscal management experience, although more extensive experience is preferred. Completion of a graduate-level Research Methods course with a grade of B or higher is also necessary.

Non-native English speakers are required to submit official TOEFL or IELTS results taken within the last two years.

Career prospects

Graduates of the DNP in Executive Leadership program are well-prepared to assume leadership positions in a variety of healthcare settings. They are equipped to influence policy, improve healthcare systems, and lead initiatives focused on patient safety and quality care. The skills developed throughout the program enable graduates to effectively manage change and drive innovation in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.