Program Description
The MS to DNP program allows nurses who already have a masters degree to achieve a doctoral degree. The LLU School of Nursing offers many options within this program:1- Nurses with an Advance Practice RN certificate in the same specialty can apply to the MS to DNP and follow the normal curriculum.
2- Nurses with an Advance Practice RN certificate applying for a different specialty can apply to the MS to DNP and will need to add a couple of courses and clinical hours to make up for the change in specialty. We recommend students to meet with the program coordinator to identify which courses will need to be taken before applying.
3- Nurses without an Advance Practice RN certificate that would like a DNP in Leadership can apply and follow the curriculum for leadership DNP. Although the student receives a doctoral degree, this program does not prepare students to pass APRN certification.
Students without an Advance Practice RN certificate wanting to achieve one should apply to the BS to DNP program and transcripts will be evaluated to see how many courses can be used towards the degree.
Part-time option is also available. The program is offered in a hybrid format, only requiring four days on campus each quarter.
Program Length
Possible Careers
Application Deadlines
| Quarter | Application Open | Priority Deadline | Final Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter of 2021 | Sep 2, 2020 | — | Nov 1, 2020 |
| Spring of 2021 | Mar 18, 2020 | — | Nov 2, 2020 |
| Autumn of 2021 | Oct 1, 2020 | — | Apr 1, 2021 |
Discipline Accrediting Agency
The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Graduates are prepared for certification by the State of California and the American Nurses Association as a Nurse Practitioner.State Accrediting Agency
Loma Linda University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).The California Board of Registered Nursing granted continuing approval in 2010 to the School of Nursing.
