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. The program requires the completion of 30 credit hours. A graduate-level statistics course is required, unless it has been previously completed during the MSN program.
While most of the coursework is delivered online, students may be required to participate in virtual synchronous activities. These requirements are provided at the start of each semester to ensure adequate planning.
The DNP project is a key component of the program, which focuses on translating research into practice by addressing a specific clinical issue. Projects must be evidence-based and feasible to complete within 600 practice hours. Students are encouraged to select a project that reflects their professional interests and aligns with healthcare needs in their clinical or community setting. Although many projects are conducted in clinical environments, community-based initiatives are also acceptable. It is recommended that students consult with stakeholders in their organization or community to identify meaningful opportunities for improving healthcare outcomes and to establish a supportive network during the planning and implementation phases.
Students are not required to have a confirmed project before beginning the program; project development starts in the early coursework and intensifies during the final three semesters (DNP I, II, and III). The program maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio of 4:1 in project courses, ensuring individualized guidance and support.
For more information, visit the Department of Nursing’s DNP Scholars page.
Why pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) at Fort Hays State University?
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) pathway features a sequential course structure, where each course builds upon the knowledge and skills developed in the previous one. Assignments are intentionally aligned across courses, gradually guiding students toward completing a comprehensive project proposal and, ultimately, a final DNP project paper. This structured, progressive approach ensures students understand the material deeply and develop essential skills.
A key strength of the program is its commitment to maintaining small class sizes. In the project courses, the student-to-faculty ratio is an impressive 4:1, ensuring that each student receives personalized attention and consistent support from experienced faculty members throughout the project development and implementation process.
Who is this program for?
Created to address the diverse needs of advanced practice nurses (APRN, CRNA, and others) with master’s degrees, this program attracts a wide range of healthcare leaders. It provides a flexible and comprehensive pathway that supports career advancement while fostering innovation, evidence-based practice, and leadership in the evolving healthcare landscape.
- Advanced practice registered nurses with an MSN
- Working advanced practice nurses seeking flexibility
- Advanced practice nurses passionate about quality improvement
Real-World Applications
A central component of this program is implementing a DNP project focused on quality improvement. This project enables students to apply their knowledge to a specific clinical challenge within their specialty. By conducting research, analyzing data, and developing evidence-based solutions, students gain valuable experience in translating scientific knowledge into meaningful improvements in patient care. Throughout the program, students receive guidance from 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 incorporates the latest advancements and trends into its evidence-based curriculum, ensuring graduates possess the knowledge and skills necessary for success in advanced practice nursing. All courses are grounded in current evidence-based practices and are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect ongoing developments in the field.
Additionally, the program’s distinguished nursing faculty actively participate in research and clinical practice, bringing their real-world expertise directly into the classroom.
Hands-on Activities
A key feature of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) pathway is its focus on quality improvement (QI) and leadership. This pathway does not include preceptored clinical hours. Instead, students complete a project that involves independent work and collaboration with healthcare facility teams to implement a QI initiative, effectively translating research into practice. The project requires at least 600 hours, typically completed over three semesters at 200 hours per semester.
Before beginning the project courses, students must complete all clinical clearance requirements. This may include vaccinations and/or titer verification. Additional costs related to clinical clearance, such as fees for clinical tracking systems, drug testing, laboratory work, and immunizations, may apply. Failure to obtain the necessary clearance will prevent students from participating in clinical and project courses, potentially delaying or halting their progression through the program.
What You’ll Learn:
- Application of learning to real-world situations
- Consecutive structured courses for deep understanding
- Implementing a Quality Improvement project
How You’ll Learn:
- Flexibility for working advanced practice nurses' schedules
- Opportunities to participate in conferences and present a Quality Improvement project
- Engaging in real-world quality improvement projects
- Consecutive courses building comprehensive skills
- Small class sizes for personalized attention
Students progress through this pathway in cohorts, with each cohort beginning in the summer semester. The study plan is fixed for all students in a cohort and cannot be modified, except for the option to complete up to two courses as a non-degree student.
Prospective students who wish to begin coursework prior to the summer cohort may apply as Nursing Graduate Non-Degree students and later apply for formal admission to the next summer cohort. This option allows enrollment in up to six credit hours before official admission. Eligible courses include NURS 808 Advanced Statistics and NURS 872 Informatics in Healthcare Systems, subject to seat availability. Completion of these courses does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
Prospective students are encouraged to contact Dr. Michelle Van Der Wege for additional information.
NURS 957, 958, and 959: DNP Project I, II, III
These courses collectively ensure that students develop a practical DNP project and acquire the skills to implement, evaluate, and disseminate their work effectively.
NURS 914: Healthcare Finance and Policy for the APRN
This course will analyze the strategies employed by advanced practice registered nurses in health policy, finance, politics, and delivery systems to improve population health.
NURS 945: Population Health
This course examines 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.
The program’s comprehensive curriculum and personalized support equip students for rewarding, high-demand careers in the healthcare industry. Graduates are well-prepared to assume advanced roles within their chosen specialties, fostering meaningful professional growth and leadership opportunities.
Leadership Roles
Graduates are well-prepared to assume leadership positions across a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and public health organizations. In these roles, they may lead policy development, program management, and quality improvement efforts, contributing to the advancement and transformation of healthcare systems on a broader scale.
The Fort Hays State University Department of Nursing accepts applications from residents of 46 states. However, applications from the following states cannot be accepted for the nursing program: Tennessee, Utah, Alabama, or Washington. All applicants are required to hold a current APRN license at the time of application.
- Complete the Fort Hays State University Graduate Student Application
- Submit all official transcripts:
- Applicants must hold an MSN from an accredited program, either CCNE or ACEN.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 based on an MSN degree.
- Resume: Email the Graduate School with the applicant’s full name in the subject line.
- Personal Statement: Email the Graduate School with the applicant’s full name in the subject line.
- Provide a personal statement of no more than 500 words outlining an applicant’s motivation for pursuing the DNP, along with 2–3 potential DNP project ideas and possible sites for completing those projects. The statement will be evaluated for proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
- Current RN and APRN licenses: Email the Graduate School with the applicant’s full name in the subject line.
- APRN licensure in any of the accepted 46 states is required.
- Current national board certification: Email the Graduate School with the applicant’s full name in the subject line.
- Complete the DNP Clinical Acknowledgement Form
All nursing courses and transcripts from institutions outside the United States require additional evaluation by the Commission of Graduates Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS). A detailed course-by-course assessment is required to verify the degree, course credits, grades, and overall grade point average.
Clinical Clearance Requirements
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) pathway at FHSU requires completion of DNP projects through courses NURS 957, NURS 958, and NURS 959, which may require clinical clearance.
Clinical clearance requirements include obtaining student liability insurance, completing a background check and drug testing, and submitting immunization records. A complete list of requirements is available by contacting Dr. Michelle Van Der Wege.
All costs associated with meeting clinical clearance requirements are the student's responsibility. Failure to obtain and maintain clinical clearance 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.
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:
- Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Administration)
- Master of Science in Nursing (Nursing Education)
- Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration
- Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education
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.
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.
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 designed to deepen understanding, enhance clinical decision-making, and develop leadership skills.
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.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (MSN to DNP) pathway is a two-year program, including two summer terms. It totals 30 credit hours.
All students travel as a cohort and must take the classes listed on the plan of study. If the student cannot progress as planned, the Graduate Committee must approve an alternate plan of study.
Credit transfer 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 to use for the DNP degree.
Information about the Department of Nursing
The Department of Nursing at FHSU offers programs and courses that integrate the latest technology in a student-centered, feedback-driven learning environment. Students benefit from close interaction with highly qualified faculty who bring extensive clinical and nursing experience to the classroom. This supportive and engaging atmosphere ensures that graduates are well-prepared to earn an in-demand degree and pursue a rewarding career in nursing.
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, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, (202) 887-6791.
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