How to Apply to the DNP Program

How to apply to the Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Rochester.

The University of Rochester School of Nursing uses a comprehensive, holistic review process during which each application receives individual consideration. We seek applicants who:

• clearly understand the DNP role,
• have goals congruent with program goals,
• are motivated and prepared to pursue this rigorous program of study,
• and are committed to upholding the values of the school and the profession.

Post-BS applicants will also need to be able to articulate reasons for choosing the specialty concentration to which they are applying.

Program Eligibility

Applicants must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the DNP program:

• Post-BS entry: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited school of nursing
• Post-MS entry: Master's degree from an accredited school of nursing
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 from any undergraduate-level work and 3.5 from any graduate-level work
• RN licensure from New York State
• If applicable, national certification in your advanced practice nursing specialty (preferred)
• Statistics course with a grade of C or above
• English language proficiency
  

If applying for Post-BS entry, clinical experience is required for the following specialties:

• Adult-Gero Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: one year clinical experience in acute care
• Pediatric/Neonatal Nurse Practitioner: two years NICU experience in the last five years
• Clinical Nurse Leader: one year of clinical experience

Application Requirements

To complete an application for the DNP program, create an account and complete all sections of the application. Submit the following materials by uploading to your application before the deadline.

• Official transcripts from all schools attended
• Three letters of recommendation (one from an individual with doctoral preparation, one from a current/previous supervisor, and another from a practicing RN or APN)
• Current resume or CV
• Current RN license
• Current APN certification, if applicable
• TOEFL, IELTS, or DET scores for applicants who are non-native English speakers

As part of the application for the DNP programs, you must also respond to a series of five questions each with a 200-word limit, as well as a 500-word essay. Detailed instructions can be found in the application portal. Learn more about how to complete the application and upload these materials.

Application Review Process

Once you complete your application, you may receive a follow-up email to schedule an interview with members of our Admissions Review Committee. We look forward to reviewing your application!