Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP)
Hours: 75 On-Campus Online
About
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway at Fort Hays State University is designed for students who have earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution. This hybrid program offers the majority of coursework online, with only a few semesters requiring minimal on-campus visits, depending on course requirements. On-campus dates are published at least six weeks prior to the start of each semester. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway requires all preceptor clinicals to be completed in Kansas, Nebraska, or Oklahoma.
Nurses pursuing the Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway will complete a total of 75 credit hours in the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track. The FNP track prepares nurses to provide primary care across the lifespan. The program accepts applicants from Kansas, Oklahoma, and Nebraska.
The DNP project focuses on translating research into practice by addressing a specific issue in the clinical setting. It should align with the student’s passion and be feasible to complete within a minimum of 600 hours. All DNP projects must be evidence-based. While many students choose to conduct their project within a clinic, community-based projects are also acceptable. It is recommended that students consult with stakeholders in their organization or community to identify opportunities for improving healthcare outcomes. Selecting a project that aligns with shared interests helps build a strong support system throughout the planning and implementation process.
Students are not required to have a confirmed project before beginning the DNP program, as this will be refined during the initial project courses. The project intensifies during the final three semesters (DNP I, II, and III) of the program. The student-to-faculty ratio in project courses is 4:1, providing individualized support throughout the process. Visit the Department of Nursing’s DNP Scholar’s page for additional information.
Why pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) at Fort Hays State University?
Fort Hays State University offers small class sizes, providing students with personalized attention from experienced nursing faculty. This structure fosters a collaborative learning environment and ensures that each student receives the individual support needed to succeed academically and professionally.
Who is this program for?
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway aims to accommodate individuals from various backgrounds and career stages. It allows for an advancement in nursing careers for a diverse range of individuals. This program will be an excellent fit for the following:
- Those who have a BSN degree and wish to become Family Nurse Practitioners
Learning Outcomes
Students gain proficiency across multiple disciplines through a comprehensive curriculum and hands-on learning experiences. The knowledge and skills developed in the program are highly valued in today’s competitive job market. Potential learning outcomes include:
Professionalism
Graduates will use interprofessional collaboration with ethical competency to improve patient and population health outcomes.
Theory
Graduates will analyze and integrate knowledge from research and theory to develop and implement evidence-based practice.
Evidence-Based Practice
Graduates will utilize the process of systematic inquiry to translate, implement, and evaluate evidence-based practice to improve patient outcomes.
Leadership
Graduates will apply leadership skills to lead healthcare systems to improve the health outcomes of individuals, communities, and populations through interdisciplinary collaboration and implementation of high-quality and cost-effective care.
Advanced Practice Role
Graduates will utilize the advanced practice role to improve health outcomes, evaluate and improve business practices, actively participate in health care policy, evaluate information systems, and promote health and disease prevention for individuals, communities, and populations.
Informatics
Graduates will analyze, utilize, and evaluate information technology to provide leadership and improve patient care.
Health Care Systems
Graduates will advocate, influence, and evaluate policymaking and implementation.
Holistic View
Graduates will provide comprehensive health care to populations while exhibiting sensitivity to cultural diversity.
Real-World Applications
Students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) program at FHSU will complete 900 clinical hours under the guidance of approved preceptors in diverse settings, including primary care, specialty clinics, and rural healthcare environments. This broad exposure prepares graduates to confidently meet the healthcare needs of varied populations.
One crucial element in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway is the implementation of a DNP project focusing on quality improvement. This project gives students the opportunity to apply their knowledge to a specific clinical issue within their chosen specialty. By conducting research, analyzing data, and developing evidence-based solutions, students gain valuable experience in translating scientific knowledge into real-world improvements in patient care. Throughout the program, they are supported by experienced faculty who understand the educational requirements and career goals of post-master’s DNP students.
In addition to clinical preparation, the DNP project helps students build essential leadership skills and contribute to meaningful change in healthcare settings.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The healthcare sector is constantly developing, demanding advanced practice nurses with the knowledge and skills to navigate current trends and deliver evidence-based care. Our hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway provides the tools they need to be successful family practice nurse practitioners. Additionally, the focus on current research prepares students to address the evolving needs of patients and communities.
Hands-on Activities
Students must complete all clinical clearance requirements in the semester prior to beginning clinical courses. Vaccinations and/or titers may be required to obtain clinical clearance. Additional costs, such as for the clinical tracker, drug tests, lab work, and immunizations, may apply. If students fail to obtain clearance, they cannot participate in clinical and/or project courses, which could delay or prevent progression in both the courses and the program.
Students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway must secure approved preceptors and clinical sites through the Department of Nursing. The department has agreements with numerous sites and preceptors across Kansas, but students may also find additional preceptors with faculty approval.
Clinical preceptors must meet the following requirements:
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN)
- Master’s Degree or Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nursing from an accredited university
- Current RN and APRN licenses in Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma
- Proof of National Board of Certification
- Experience: minimum of one year of experience in an advanced clinical practice role
- Expertise and practice as relevant to the course objectives
Physicians
- Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy from an accredited university
- Currently licensed in Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma
- Proof of National Board of Certification
- Experience: minimum of one year of experience in family practice or internal medicine
- Expertise and practice as relevant to the course objectives
Other Masters-Prepared Health Care Providers (including PAs)
- Master's degree from an accredited university
- Currently licensed in Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma
- Proof of National Board Certification (if applicable)
- Experience: minimum of one year of experience in a clinical practice role
- Expertise and practice as relevant to the course objectives
What You’ll Learn:
- Leadership skills through quality improvement projects
- Prioritizing patient needs and preferences
- Preparation to lead healthcare organizations and manage teams
- Understanding and addressing the needs of various populations
- Applying research to patient care
How You’ll Learn:
- Small classes with experienced faculty
- 900 clinical hours in diverse settings
- Courses built on the latest research and practices
Students progress through the Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway in cohorts, with all cohorts starting in the summer. The plan of study remains the same for all students within a cohort and cannot be altered.
Students who wish to begin coursework before the summer cohort starts may apply as a Nursing Graduate Non-Degree student. This option allows them to take up to six credit hours prior to formal admission into the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. They may then apply for admission to the next summer cohort. Eligible courses include NURS 808 Advanced Statistics and NURS 872 Informatics in Healthcare Systems, subject to seat availability. Completing these courses does not guarantee acceptance into the DNP program. For questions or more information before applying, please contact Dr. Michelle Van Der Wege at mlvanderwege@fhsu.edu.
Below are a few of the courses in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway:
NURS 905: Advanced Pharmacology
This course and Advanced Pathophysiology and Advanced Health Assessment build a foundation for high-quality practice.
NURS 957, 958, 959: DNP Project I, II, and III
These courses collectively ensure students develop practical DNP projects and gain the skills to implement, evaluate, and disseminate their work effectively.
NURS 961: DNP Preceptorship IV
This is the final clinical preceptorship course in the DNP program. In total, students complete 900 hours over four semesters. These courses focus on acute, chronic, and specialty care. In this course, the focus is rural healthcare as we recognize the unique needs of rural communities.
Discover the full Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway prepares nurses to become Family Nurse Practitioners. Graduates of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Fort Hays State University are trained to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care that emphasizes collaborative, evidence-based practices. DNP graduates assume leadership roles and contribute to executive decision-making processes to optimize patient care outcomes.
Family Nurse Practitioner
Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide comprehensive healthcare across the lifespan, from infants to adults. FNPs diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions, prescribe medications, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and provide preventive care. They work independently or in collaboration with physicians, focusing on delivering patient-centered care, health promotion, and disease prevention, while building long-term relationships with patients and their families.
Admitted cohorts for the Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway begin in the summer semester each year. Students who wish to begin coursework prior to the summer term have the option to apply as a Nursing Graduate Non-Degree student. This pathway allows them to complete up to six credit hours before formally enrolling in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. They may then apply for admission to the next available summer cohort. The courses students may take are limited to NURS 808 Advanced Statistics and NURS 872 Informatics in Healthcare Systems. Registration in these courses is based on seat availability. See additional information below under 'Optional Courses Prior to Admission.' Completion of the courses does not guarantee acceptance into the DNP program. Please contact Dr. Michelle Van Der Wege (mlvanderwege@fhsu.edu) for questions prior to beginning your application.
- Complete a Fort Hays State University Graduate Student Application
- Submit all official transcripts
- Completed a BSN or MSN from an accredited program, either CCNE or ACEN
- Cumulative minimum GPA of 3.25 is required based on an MSN degree, and a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required based on a BSN degree
- Submit 2 letters of reference in the areas of academic ability, current professional competency, or personal character
- Resume
- Personal Statement: This brief statement (no more than 500 words) outlines an applicant’s motivation for pursuing their DNP. The statement will be evaluated for proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
- Confirmation of License (APRN or RN), Letters of Recommendation, Personal Statement, and Resume may be emailed directly to the Graduate School (GradSchool@fhsu.edu). Please put the applicant’s name in the subject line.
- Letters of recommendation must be submitted on letterhead and contain the signature of the author or be emailed directly from the author.
- DNP Clinical Acknowledgement Form
- A personal interview may be required.
Accepting applications from Kansas, Oklahoma, and Nebraska. An RN license in Kansas, Nebraska, or Oklahoma is required.
Clinical Clearance Requirements
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN-DNP) pathway at FHSU requires preceptor-led clinics in courses NURS 924, NURS 960, NURS 934, and NURS 961. In addition, BSN to DNP students will complete a DNP project that requires clinical clearance. Please note that clinical clearance requirements include obtaining student liability insurance, a background check, drug testing, and immunization records. A full list of requirements is available by emailing mlvanderwege@fhsu.edu. Any cost associated with achieving clinical clearance is at the student’s expense. Failure to achieve and maintain clinical clearance requirements may delay or prohibit advancement in the program.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $33,624.63 during their time as a student.
*Estimated cost based on 75 credit hours required to complete the DNP program: 12 credit hours at the FHSU MSN tuition rate ($348.78 /credit hour), and 63 credit hours at the FHSU DNP tuition rate ($467.29/credit hour). Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers a variety of programs customized to meet its students' unique requirements and passions. The following list highlights options designed to align with individual career goals and personal aspirations:
- Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration)
- Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education)
- Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration
- Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education
All Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) courses are either 8 or 16 weeks long. Students work asynchronously to complete assignments by the assigned due dates. Occasionally, there are also virtual, synchronous presentations and class meetings.
All courses are held through the Blackboard Learning Management System. Faculty use a variety of tools to facilitate learning and engagement. This includes various discussion platforms, videos, and many other innovative methods. Students have frequent opportunities to interact with other students and faculty.
In the Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway, students will complete 900 clinical hours and 600 project hours. Students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) pathway will be required to obtain the Department of Nursing's approved preceptors and clinical sites. The Department of Nursing has agreements with multiple sites and preceptors across Kansas. Students may seek out additional preceptors as approved by the course faculty.
Fort Hays State University has received approval from the Kansas State Board of Nursing, the Kansas Board of Regents, and the Higher Learning Commission to offer the DNP program.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Fort Hays State University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, (202) 887-6791.
The program doesn't consist of specific specializations or tracks. Still, the curriculum emphasizes developing leadership skills and preparing nurse practitioners to guide complex healthcare environments, which applies to various advanced practice roles.
Scholarship information can be found on the Financial Aid Scholarship page. Other opportunities may arise from time to time and will be announced to all applicable students.
You can also check out the General Financial Aid page for additional information.
Information about the Department of Nursing
FHSU’s Department of Nursing provides programs and courses incorporating the latest technology in a feedback-driven, student-focused environment, where you will interact with highly qualified faculty eager to share their rich clinical and nursing experiences. This supportive environment ensures you are well-prepared for an in-demand degree that leads to a rewarding career.
While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.
- Fort Hays Association of Nursing Students (FHANS): The FHANS is a professional organization that gives pre-nursing and nursing students the chance to get to know their classmates, put leadership theory into practice, learn more about nursing careers, and attend national conferences. Members also do service projects like making Christmas gifts for nursing home residents.
- Nursing Christian Fellowship (NCF): The NCF is a professional organization and a ministry of and for nurses and nursing students. Fort Hays NCF’s goal is to provide Christian-based support for nursing and pre-nursing students. The group meets every other week to learn, share, support, and pray with one another. Members have recently participated in a local service activity by collecting items to donate to Fresenius Dialysis Center.
- Sigma Theta Tau: Sigma Theta Tau is the international honor society of nursing. Students are invited to join the organization based on high academic achievement in their nursing program. Sigma Theta Tau supports knowledge generation in professional nursing practice and also engages in numerous service projects. Nu Zeta, the local chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, regularly participates in fundraising for research in Alzheimer’s and other diseases. They also provide support for continuing education workshops and social events.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs at FHSU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education https://www.ccneaccreditation.org/.
- Doctorate
- On-Campus
- Online
