Post-Master's DNP FAQs

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.

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.

Yes, most online, graduate nursing courses will include a synchronous component, This means you are required to be logged in and participating in class. Most classes meet once per week, on a weekday, in the afternoon or evening. All times listed are Eastern standard time. There may be classes or times that differ from these norms.

No, students are not required to come to the Ohio State campus for this program.

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

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.

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.

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.