Become an Expert Nurse Executive with a Dual DNP/MBA Degree
Combining a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) can be a powerful educational combination for nurses interested in executive roles in healthcare.
The dual-degree option can provide nurses with a strong foundation in both advanced nursing practice and business administration, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in executive roles and make a significant impact in the healthcare industry.
A DNP degree, which is the highest level of nursing practice education, greatly expands your administrative healthcare opportunities. The DNP degree focuses on advanced clinical practice, evidence-based research, and healthcare leadership. With a DNP, you’ll have a deep understanding of healthcare systems, policy, and quality improvement, enabling you to make informed decisions and drive positive change in healthcare organizations.
On the other hand, an MBA degree provides a broad understanding of business principles and management practices. The MBA curriculum emphasizes leadership, critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, which are vital for effective management and executive positions. To excel in today’s healthcare professions, business skills are also necessary to understand and address critical business functions, and successfully operate any size healthcare facility.
Combining a DNP with an MBA, you’ll be well-equipped for executive roles in nursing and healthcare administration, bridge the gap between clinical expertise and business acumen, manage healthcare organizations, implement innovative strategies, and navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry.
Executive positions that may be pursued with a DNP and MBA combination include Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of healthcare organizations, Director of Nursing, Healthcare Consultant, or positions in healthcare policy and administration.
Explore Pacific Lutheran University's DNP/MBA Program!
PLU’s School of Nursing offers a dual-degree option for nurses with a MSN degree to earn Doctor of Nursing Practice and Master of Business degrees simultaneously. The program integrates coursework from both disciplines, allowing students to complete the requirements for both degrees in a streamlined manner, with either a full-time or part-time option. Advanced practice registered nurses and nurse leaders will acquire the necessary clinical and business management skills to succeed in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.
The dual DNP/MBA program at PLU can be completed full-time in three years, or part-time within 5-7 years. Classes meet on campus in small cohorts and with close faculty support.
Are you interested in knowing more about becoming a nurse executive? Request more information about our program or schedule a phone appointment with us! You can also sign up for an upcoming DNP information session.
If you’re thinking about obtaining a DNP from Pacific Lutheran University, then we encourage you to request more information