Online DNP

DNP Admission Requirements

Requirements for Admission to the Program

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Leadership for Population Health, Post-Masters

Admission to the DNP Program is open to any student without regard to race, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, or marital status. The seats for students entering the program during fall, or spring, semesters are offered to students who have met the admission criteria and submitted all required documentation. Applications for the Lourdes DNP Program will be accepted year-round for Fall and Spring admission consideration.

Registered nurses (RNs) who hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree are admitted directly into the DNP program upon satisfactory fulfillment of the following requirements.

  • Graduated from an accredited college or university with a master’s degree in nursing
  • Completed a graduate level statistics course prior to admission
  • Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
    Note: Unofficial transcripts of undergraduate courses may be reviewed by program advisor prior to application process at applicant’s request.
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • A current, unrestricted license as a registered nurse in attendee’s state of residence.
  • Complete a satisfactory interview (by invitation only).
  • Complete and submit the Graduate Application for Admission and pay a non-refundable application fee. For more information, please contact Student Accounts at 419-824-3714.

A completed application also includes the following:

  • Two (2) recommendations using the Lourdes University recommender form supporting the applicant’s potential success in the DNP program such as the applicant’s potential or ability for functioning in the advanced practice role (clinical skills, critical thinking, independent decision making, collaborative skills with other health professionals, and nursing leadership).  At least one recommendation must be from a graduate-prepared nurse.
    Note: Applicants currently enrolled in a nursing program must submit at least one (1) recommendation from a faculty member in that program or a current manager/supervisor.
  • Written statement of personal career goals and areas of practice interest including intended utilization of leadership and population health knowledge and competence.
  • Resume or CV that includes work experience, educational, leadership and professional organization activities, and scholarly activities including publications, presentations, research, honors and awards.
  • Documentation of post baccalaureate clinical hours completed in master’s program.
  • Note: All DNP graduates are expected to complete a minimum of 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. Even if a candidate’s Master’s program included 1,000 hours or more, a minimum of 550 hrs. of experiential learning is required to meet the project and competency attestation requirements.  Additional hours may be required if the competency requirements are not fully met within the prescribed 550 hours.  See DNP Student Learning Outcome Section below for general competency categories.  Specific competencies will be identified in each course along with development and measurement expectations.
  • GRE is NOT required for admission