The UCSF Post-Master's Entry to the DNP - Leadership Focus pathway accepts applications for master’s-prepared registered nurses (RN) in two tracks. This page describes the track for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN), which includes nurse practitioner (NP), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), nurse-midwife (CNM) and nurse anesthetist (CRNA).
All APRN applicants need to submit evidence of a minimum of 240 practice hours demonstrating advanced practice level experiences; these hours are applied toward the required 1,000 post-baccalaureate practice hours needed for DNP degree conferral. APRN curricula typically provide 500-600 hours of direct practice hours, evident on a master’s or post-master’s transcript; submission of an academic transcript can provide support for these APRN direct practice hours.
All Post-Master's Entry to the DNP pathway applicants are eligible to submit evidence of up to 650 total practice hours that demonstrate advanced practice experiences. The anticipated number of practice hours needing to be completed during the Post-Master's Entry to the DNP pathway program of study will be prorated based on the number of hours submitted with the application. The current curriculum supports opportunities for completion of 500 practice hours over the program of study. For example, applicants submitting evidence of 600 practice hours may only need to complete 400 additional practice hours during their program of study. Those needing to complete more than 500 practice hours during the program of study may need to complete additional quarters of study, at the student’s expense.
APRN applicants planning to submit portfolio evidence of practice hours (up to 650 hours total, inclusive of transcript) will summarize the evidence within the “Prerequisite Clinical Courses/Certification” area of the Post-Master's Entry to the DNP pathway application, and provide additional supportive portfolio evidence such as narrative summary and slides, meeting minutes or support letters. Portfolio evidence will be evaluated by two faculty members as part of the application review process. Applicants planning to submit portfolio evidence should reach out to [email protected].
Please review our complete admissions requirements for the Post-Master's Entry to the DNP pathway.
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