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.
Current national certification in one of the four recognized APRN roles (NP, CNS, CNM, CRNA) may be submitted as proxy evidence of 500 incoming practice hours. 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.
Please review our complete admissions requirements for the Post-Master's Entry to the DNP pathway.
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