Doctor of Nursing Practice - Fort Hays State University (FHSU)

Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP)

Hours: 30 Online

About

The Doctor of Nursing (MSN to DNP) pathway at Fort Hays State University is designed for students who hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree in an advanced practice role, such as Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, or Nurse Midwife, from an accredited institution. Students will complete 30 credit hours, with a graduate statistics course required if not previously taken as part of the MSN program. While most of the program is delivered online, students may be asked to participate in virtual synchronous activities, with details provided at the start of each semester to ensure proper planning.

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 (MSN to DNP) at Fort Hays State University?

FHSU’s distinct Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) pathway courses are structured consecutively, each building upon the last. Assignments within each class are carefully crafted to complement one another, culminating in a comprehensive project proposal paper and, ultimately, a final project paper. This progressive approach ensures students understand the material deeply and develop essential skills.

Another key advantage of our program is our commitment to small class sizes. In our project courses, the student-to-faculty ratio is an impressive 4:1. This allows for personalized attention and support from our experienced faculty members, ensuring that every student receives the guidance they need to succeed.

Who is this program for?

With a curriculum prepared to meet the diverse needs of advanced practice nurses (APRN, CRNA, and others) with master's degrees, our program attracts a broad spectrum of individuals. Fort Hays State University online recognizes the students' needs and provides a flexible and comprehensive pathway for diverse individuals to elevate their careers and propel healthcare forward. The following individuals will benefit from this degree the most:

Advanced practice registered nurses with an MSN
Working advanced practice nurses seeking flexibility
Advanced practice nurses passionate about quality improvement

Learning Outcomes

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) pathway aims to build upon students' existing MSN degree, amplifying their capabilities. Throughout the courses, participants develop competencies to help them strive as advanced practice registered nurses. The most critical 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

One crucial element in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) pathway is implementing a DNP project focusing on quality improvement. This project enables students to apply their knowledge to a specific clinical challenge within their chosen specialty. Through research, data analysis, and the development of evidence-based solutions, students gain valuable experience in translating scientific knowledge into meaningful improvements in patient care. Throughout the program, they are guided by experienced faculty who understand the educational needs and career goals of post-master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The program directly integrates the latest advancements and trends into its evidence-based curriculum, ensuring students graduate with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in advanced practice nursing. All courses are grounded in current evidence-based practice and are continually reviewed and updated to reflect real-world developments in the field.

Furthermore, our renowned nurse faculty actively engages in research and clinical practice. They bring their real-world expertise directly into the classroom.

Hands-on Activities

One of the key features of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) pathway is its focus on quality improvement (QI) and leadership. The MSN to DNP pathway does not include preceptored clinical. Instead, students will complete a project that involves working independently and collaborating with facility team members to implement a QI initiative, translating research into practice. The project requires a minimum of 600 hours (200 hours over 3 semesters).

Students must complete all clinical clearance requirements in the semester prior to beginning project courses. Vaccinations and/or titers may be required for clinical clearance. Additional costs, such as those for the clinical tracker, drug tests, lab work, and immunizations, may apply. Failure to obtain clearance will prevent participation in clinical and/or project courses, potentially delaying or halting progression in the program.

What You’ll Learn:

Application of learning to real-world situations
Consecutive structured courses for deep understanding
Implementing quality improvement project

How You’ll Learn:

Flexibility for working advanced practice nurses' schedules
Opportunities to participate in conferences and present your quality improvement project
Engaging in real-world quality improvement projects
Consecutive courses building comprehensive skills
Small class sizes for personalized attention

Courses

Students progress through the Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) pathway in cohorts, with all cohorts starting in the summer. The plan of study is fixed for all students in a cohort and cannot be altered.

Students wishing to take courses prior to the summer cohort may apply as Nursing Graduate Non-degree students and subsequently apply for admission to the next summer cohort. This option permits enrollment in up to six credit hours before formal admission to the DNP program. The available courses include NURS 808 Advanced Statistics and NURS 872 Informatics in Healthcare Systems, subject to seat availability. Completing these courses does not guarantee admission to the DNP program. Before applying, contact Dr. Michelle Van Der Wege at mlvanderwege@fhsu.edu with questions.

Below are a few of the courses in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) pathway:

NURS 957, 958, and 959: DNP Project I, II, III

These courses collectively ensure that students develop a practical DNP project and gain the skills to implement, evaluate, and disseminate their work effectively.

NURS 914: Healthcare Finance and Policy for the APRN

This course will analyze strategies in health policy, finances, politics, and delivery systems utilized by advanced practice registered nurses to improve population health.

NURS 945: Population Health

This course is designed to examine health promotion and disease prevention interventions, preparing leaders to integrate evidence-based approaches that impact population health. It builds upon the skills and knowledge developed throughout the DNP program.

Discover the full Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Admission Requirements

Admitted cohorts for the Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) begin in the summer semester each year. Students wishing to take courses prior to the summer cohort may apply as Nursing Graduate Non-degree students and subsequently apply for admission to the next summer cohort. This option permits enrollment in up to six credit hours before formal admission to the DNP program. 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 NLNAC
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
- MSN-DNP
A personal interview may be required.

APRN licensure in any of the accepted 46 states is required. Proof of National Board Certification is required.

Fort Hays State University Department of Nursing does not accept applications for the nursing program from the following states: Tennessee, Utah, Alabama, and Washington.

Clinical Clearance Requirements

The MSN-DNP Program at FHSU requires completion of DNP projects through courses NURS 957, NURS 958, and NURS 959, which may require 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 $14,018.70 during their time as a student.

*Estimated cost based on 30 credit hours required to complete the DNP program at the FHSU Online 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.

Apply

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers a variety of programs tailored to meet students’ unique needs and interests. Below is a comprehensive list of options designed to align with diverse professional goals and aspirations:

FAQ

What distinguishes MSN from the DNP program?

Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) programs offer a seamless transition for advanced practice nurses holding a Master of Science in Nursing degree who aspire to attain a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.

Is the program accredited?

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.

How do these programs facilitate the transition from MSN to DNP?

Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) programs provide a structured curriculum that builds upon the foundational knowledge and skills acquired during the MSN degree. Courses are created to deepen understanding, enhance clinical decision-making, and foster leadership abilities.

Are there specific specializations or tracks within the Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) program?

The program doesn't consist of specific specializations or tracks. Still, the curriculum emphasizes developing leadership skills and preparing nurses to guide complex healthcare environments, which applies to various advanced practice roles.

How long is the program?

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) pathway is two years long, including two summer terms. It is a total of 30 credit hours.

All students travel as a cohort and must take the classes as listed on the plan of study. If the student is unable to progress as planned, an alternate plan of study must be approved by the Graduate Committee.

Can courses from other graduate programs be transferred into the DNP degree?

Transfer of credits is handled on a case-by-case basis. A maximum of 6 credit hours can be transferred. No credits used for another degree can be transferred for the use of the DNP degree.

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.

Student Organizations

Accreditation

Nursing Practice

Doctorate

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