Ramapo College of New Jersey has launched a new doctor of nursing program, the Mahwah-based university announced on Wednesday.
Applications for the Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice credential are being accepted through Aug. 21 for admission for September 2020 classes.
“We have built this DNP program on a very, very strong foundation. Ramapo’s existing Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing programs have graduated thousands of remarkably skilled nurses over the years,” Peter P. Mercer, president, Ramapo College, said. “Now, at a time in which our communities are grappling with an unprecedented health crisis, our College is responding by launching its first doctoral program — a program developed to provide these talented health care providers with additional opportunities for professional mobility and service to others.”
The program will take place mostly online with a small number of in-person sessions per the 36-credit course. The curriculum will build on a traditional nurse practitioner master’s program by teaching evidence-based practice, quality improvement and systems leadership, among others areas.
“An alternative to research-focused doctoral programs, the Ramapo DNP program offers greater emphasis on practice,” Kathleen Burke, assistant dean of nursing education, said. “The self-selected DNP capstone part of the program allows doctoral students to transition through four levels of residencies in their area of interest and expertise, well equipping them to fully implement evidence-based practice changes to improve health care protocols and practice.”
To be accepted into DNP program, students must have earned an MSN from an accredited institution; have a minimum 3.3 GPA and an Advanced Practice Certification; write a personal statement on a potential practice problem; and have an interview.
“Developed by our highly engaged and experienced faculty, the DNP program will prepare students to be expert practitioners and clinical faculty who are capable of conducting evidence-based research and practice; applying organizational and systems thinking that advances the design, implementation, and evaluation of healthcare initiatives to ensure quality outcomes; crafting health policies and strategies that advance health promotion and disease prevention; and delivering the highest level of patient-centered care,” Susan Gaulden, interim provost, said.
