DNP Programs in Wyoming
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest degree someone can obtain in the nursing field. DNPs are the highest degrees for clinical nursing practice. Nurses who have obtained DNPs can work in executive leadership roles like nursing or hospital administration, as well as advanced practice nursing roles.
The University of Wyoming's BSN to DNP program requires the completion of 84 credit hours and a total of 1200 practical clock hours (equivalent to 20 credits). This program typically takes students 3 years to complete.
Core competencies to be mastered by students during DNP programs will include:
- Advanced pharmacology
- Analyze and communicate critical elements necessary to the selection, use, and evaluation of healthcare information systems and patient care technology
- Advanced physiology and pathophysiology
- Epidemiology for advanced nursing practice
- Public policy in the context of nursing and health
- Quantitative research methods and evidence-based practice
- Actively engage in interdisciplinary collaborations aimed at improving healthcare delivery, care coordination, and policy
- Health and physical assessment
- Clinical research
Choosing a DNP Program
The state of Wyoming has just one university DNP program. It is offered by the University of Wyoming. Before applying to the University of Wyoming's DNP program, here are a few important aspects to consider:
What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program
- Program Cost—Tuition at University of Wyoming costs in-state residents $390 per credit hour. Non-residents will pay $826 per credit hour
- Online Options— University of Wyoming is the only university in the state that offers a DNP program; while the program is not entirely online, courses are designed to be distance-accessible for students.
- Accreditation— Before enrolling in an institution's program, it's important to consider accreditation. DNP programs in the state of Wyoming can be accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Wyoming State Board of Nursing.
- Clinical Residencies— Clinical residencies and fellowships are often required as part of the DNP curriculum, and are an important part of the hands-on portion of the program. Many schools have relationships with area health facilities for this purpose; prospective students can seek out various university nursing professors/faculty and inquire about any possible opportunities.
Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements
Admission
Prospective nursing students applying to University of Wyoming need to have fulfilled the following prerequisite requirements
- Be in possession of an unencumbered RN license
- Possess a BSN or MSN degree
- Have maintained a 3.0 grade point average, based on a 4.0 system in either their undergraduate or graduate degree program (depending on the degree point from which they're entering from)
- Transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities
- 2-3 page essay
- CV/resume
- 3 professional letters of recommendation
- Personal interview
Certification
University of Wyoming's DNP program is accredited by the pertinent agencies and allows students to sit for certification upon successful completion of the program. Students who complete the University of Wyoming's DNP program can become certified as:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP)
Licensing
Prospective advanced practice nurses who have completed their DNP programs are licensed through the Wyoming State Board of Nursing. Becoming licensed as an APRN in Wyoming will typically require the completion of the following steps:
- Provide transcripts from all educational institutions
- Provide proof of around 500 hours of clinical practice during graduate school
- Completion of an application
- Submit verification of specialty certification
- Pass a criminal background check
- Complete fingerprinting
- If seeking prescribing and dispensing authority, individuals should complete the correct section of the application and submit written documentation of a specific number of contact hours of education in pharmacology or clinical management of drug therapy within three years before submitting your APRN application.
BSN to DNP Program Options in Wyoming
The University of Wyoming does offer a BSN to DNP track for those with a baccalaureate degree wanting to directly enter a DNP program without first completing a separate MSN program.
Related Education Paths
- Wyoming Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Wyoming FNP Programs
- Wyoming CRNA Programs
- Wyoming Nurse Midwifery Programs
- BSN to DNP
- RN to NP
Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Wyoming
List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Wyoming
Laramie, WY
University of Wyoming
Laramie, WY 82071
(307) 766-1121
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.