DNP Program Outcomes

The PLU Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is in alignment with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education (AACN, 2021, April) and prepares registered nurses to become Family Nurse Practitioners or, if an ARNP from another role or population focus, to advance their practice. Successful completion of the BSN or Non-ARNP MSN to DNP FNP program qualifies students to sit for national certifying examinations for Family Nurse Practitioner, making them eligible under Washington State law for Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) licensure. All DNP graduates will be prepared to play a key role in providing strong, effective nursing leadership and ensuring the continued quality of patient care and evidence-based outcomes in our nation’s health care system.

1. Integrate and actively use science-based theories and concepts in advanced nursing practice.
2. Develop and/or evaluate effective strategies for improvement in practice including risk assessment and quality care delivery approaches that meet current and future needs of patient populations.
3. Integrate and apply current research knowledge to solve complex practice situations while identifying strategies to continuously incorporate and communicate new knowledge.
4. Use information systems/technology to support and improve patient care and healthcare systems.
5. Assume leadership to design, implement, and advocate for health care policy that addresses issues of access, resource management, and equity in health care.
6. Effectively collaborate as a member and/or leader of an interprofessional or a multidisciplinary team to improve health outcomes.
7. Evaluate care delivery models and/or concepts to provide health promotion and risk reduction/illness prevention strategies.
8. Assume the role and distinct skills of the Doctor of Nursing Practice in an area of specialized nursing practice.