Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

At Abilene Christian University, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program empowers you to advance in your nursing career with a blend of clinical expertise and leadership skills. The curriculum is designed to deepen your understanding of patient care complexities and healthcare systems management. By focusing on evidence-based practice and innovation, you will be equipped to address the evolving challenges in healthcare, improving patient outcomes and systems efficiency.

Throughout the program, you will engage in both theoretical study and hands-on clinical practice, preparing you to take on pivotal roles in healthcare leadership. The supportive faculty guides you in developing transformational leadership skills that enable you to influence healthcare policy and practice effectively. Whether you aspire to impact public health or enhance quality care delivery, ACU's DNP program provides a comprehensive framework to support your career growth and contribution to the nursing profession.

By enrolling in Abilene Christian University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, you open doors to various advanced career opportunities in healthcare. You can aspire to roles such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or healthcare administrator. The program equips you with the expertise to impact patient care and healthcare systems, making you a valuable asset in hospitals, clinics, or educational institutions. In a rapidly advancing field, your skills will be in demand, positioning you as a leader ready to tackle complex healthcare challenges.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners—including those who hold a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)—was $125,900 in May 2023. Employment in this field is projected to grow 38% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Source - https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Abilene Christian University typically takes around three years to complete for full-time students. Part-time options may extend the duration, offering flexibility for working professionals or those with other commitments. The program is designed to develop leadership skills and advanced practice expertise, supporting career advancement in the nursing field.

To pursue the ACU, Abilene Christian University, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program, you must meet the following requirements:

• A bachelor's degree in nursing from an accredited institution.
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in your bachelor's program.
• Official transcripts from all prior educational institutions attended.
• A current, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license.
• Resume or curriculum vitae detailing your nursing experience.
• Three letters of recommendation from professional or academic sources.
• A statement of purpose outlining your career goals and reasons for pursuing the DNP program.
• Completion of a graduate-level statistics course within the past five years.
• Proof of current CPR certification.