Post-Master's Entry to the DNP: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I attend part-time?
At this time, the program is only full time. Our curriculum is designed as a cohort model, and students are expected to progress through the program as a cohort and complete courses in sequence. 
 
How long is the Post-Master's Entry to the DNP pathway?
The Post-Master's Entry to the DNP pathway consists of seven academic quarters (including a summer quarter). It is a cohort model, and students are expected to complete courses in sequence.
 
How often must I come to campus?
There are three in-person immersions associated with the program, each 2-4 days in duration. The remainder of your coursework is provided online or at a practice site.

What is the typical workload for courses?
There are eight core courses in the program's first year that are fully online. Each of these courses is worth three quarter-units of credit. Expect to devote approximately 15-18 hours per week for coursework, including time for reviewing online materials and participating in recurring web-conferencing. Year one also includes one required in-person immersion that occurs during the first week of the program, as well as the initial courses of the project and residency course series.
 
Year two focuses primarily on development of your scholarly project, supported by the continued project and residency series. The project courses are delivered online; the residency series will be tied to your project site. Year two also includes two additional required in-person immersions, each 2-4 days in duration, that occur at the start of program year two (quarter 5) and near the program end (quarter 7).
 
Can I apply if I do not have APRN certification or 500 practice hours from a prior Master’s or post-Master’s program of study?
Yes, both Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) with a master's in Nursing, and RNs with a master's degree but who are not APRNs can apply. Visit our Post-Master's Entry to the DNP pathway overview webpage to learn about the entry requirements for each pathway.
 
Can I continue to work while in school?
Yes, we expect that most students will continue to work while they are in the Post-Master's Entry to the DNP pathway.
 
How much are the tuition and fees?
For information regarding tuition and fees, please visit the Office of the Registrar. Program costs are estimated and subject to change. Additional expenses associated with travel and lodging for in-person program immersions as well as health insurance, immunizations, and background checks are the student's responsibility. Additional requirements may include personal professional malpractice insurance.
 
Are there available scholarships or financial aid opportunities for DNP students?
We recommend you contact the School of Nursing's Student Funding Office and the UCSF Financial Aid Office to discuss financial aid options.