FAQs
Q: What is the difference between the DNP and PhD?
A: The PhD prepares nurse scientists to conduct original research. The DNP focuses on taking new knowledge beyond discovery, and applying it to solve problems in the clinical setting. In the DNP program you will learn to identify, evaluate, translate, integrate and apply evidence gained through nursing research to actual clinical practice.
Q: What would a DNP degree allow me to do within a career?
A: Our program includes training for leadership roles in specialized areas of advanced practice. DNP graduates have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in leading change in today’s increasingly complex healthcare settings and practice situations.
Q: How long will it take for me to graduate?
A: For students with a masters degree who are certified in a clinical specialty and attend full-time, the average length of the program of study is approximately 2½ years. Students who hold a masters degree without a clinical specialty will take approximately 3½ - 4 years. BSN to DNP is approximately 5 years.
Q: What is the tuition?
A: You may visit the Registrar's web site for the most up-to-date fee information.
Residents of certain counties in Ohio and the province of Ontario may have the non-resident portion of tuition waived. Information on this option is available at the following:
- https://www.wsuoiss.wayne.edu/sections/for_students/tuition_and_fees
- http://sdcl.wayne.edu/RegistrarWeb/Tuition/geninfo#6
Remember that the fees charged by the Registrar do not include books, housing, meals, transportation, supplies, or other living expenses. Information about residential living at WSU can be obtained at http://www.housing.wayne.edu
Q: What is the availability of financial aid?
A: In almost every case, financial assistance of some kind is available. Ideally students concentrate full-time on their program of study and take advantage of a number of federally subsidized loans such as the nurse faculty loan program, CON scholarships , Graduate School fellowships and scholarships, and research and teaching assistantships. A number of national health-related organizations provide financial support. Information for submitting a Free Application for Student assistance form (FAFSA) will be provided at the fall orientation
Q: Would I make a good candidate for admission?
A: A good candidate must hold a GPA of 3.0 or better, have a strong showing of writing skills, a personal goal statement that explains the reasons for wanting a DNP.
Q: What are the requirements for admission?
A: Submission of a completed application to WSU Graduate School and the College of Nursing; provision of official transcripts from all College institutions attended; a writing sample or a GRE score within the last 5 years; two professional references; and a CV or resume.
Q: Would I have someone to help assist and guide me in the program?
A: You will be assigned an advisor when you are admitted to the program. This faculty member assists you with your plan of work, gives advice on courses and potential faculty that can mentor you in the clinical inquiry project. The advisor provides individual guidance to assist a student in reaching his or her educational goals.
Q: Can I sit for specialty certification if I get a DNP?
A: There are two pathways that allow students to sit for certification in a specialty area. Path one BSN to DNP which includes all course work that allows for eligibility to sit for certification. Path three MS/MSN to Certification and DNP. This third path is for non-clinically focused master's prepared nurses who would like to obtain specialty certification and a clinical doctorate (DNP).