Post-Master's DNP FAQs

How does the DNP differ from the PhD in nursing?

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a practice focused doctorate degree. Those who earn a DNP are experts in translating science in research into practice. The PhD in nursing focuses on research and generating new knowledge to advance nursing science. PhD and DNP prepared nurses should work together to advance patient care. Review this chart that compares and contrasts the degree to better understand what might be the best fit for you.

Can I pursue this degree program at the same time as another graduate or professional degree program at Ohio State?

Students who enroll in two graduate degree-granting programs concurrently are called Dual Degree students. Please review this information on the Graduate School website to learn more about the Dual Degree designation.

Dual Degree students must satisfy the credit hour requirements for each degree program. There may be little overlap between the two sets of coursework, which can result in students being required to fully complete the degree requirements for both programs in order to graduate. This can extend time to graduation. Due to the rigorous nature of some of our graduate clinical programs, prospective students interested in a Dual Degree option with the College of Nursing are advised to closely examine the curriculum requirements of our programs before applying. For degree programs with clinical components, it is important to recognize that adjustments to the standard curriculum plan may not be possible.

To learn more about the process for applying as a Dual Degree student, please visit the Graduate School’s website. After you have reviewed this information, please contact the director of the program in which you are interested for further discussion. The director’s name and contact information can be found by visiting the homepage of the program on the college’s website. This discussion should occur before you begin applying in order to gain a better understanding of program requirements. Applicants interested in applying to a College of Nursing graduate program as a Dual Degree student must follow the application process listed on the program admission webpage and adhere to all deadlines. Please email nursing@osu.edu if you have any questions about how to apply.

Do the online courses have any designated meeting times for class?

Yes, all courses in this program are offered online and most will include a synchronous component, which is a time during the week when you will be required to be online for class. These times are commonly once per week, on a weekday, later in the day or evening, and scheduled on Eastern time. There may be classes or times that differ from these norms.

Are there any on-campus requirements?

No, students are not required to come to the Ohio State campus for this program. DNP students are encouraged to present their final project in person at the end of their degree. They are also invited and strongly encouraged to attend orientation and graduation on campus.

Can I complete the program at my own pace?

No, students will follow their established course schedule, either full-time or part-time, to graduation.

May I take courses before enrolling in the DNP degree program?

Yes, you may take classes as a “Graduate Non-Degree” (GND) student. You can find more information on how to do so on our Graduate Non-Degree website. You may apply up to ten credits of coursework taken as a GND student to the DNP program.

I work for Ohio State, will this program qualify me for tuition assistance?

Possibly. Ohio State offers a Tuition Assistance program for employees, which you can learn more about here. Eligibility is based on your employment status. You should consult with your Human Resources representative if you have questions about the Employee Tuition Assistance program.

Can I pursue APRN certification while in the PM DNP program?

Students interested in pursuing an APRN specialty track leading to advanced practice certification while also pursuing their DNP can do so through Ohio State’s BSN to DNP program

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Dynasty Stokes
Dynasty Stokes, graduate

“The DNP program provides me with the knowledge and skills to become an effective leader who can identify problems and use evidence-based practice to make meaningful change.”