KINGSTON, R.I. — April 17, 2025 — Healthcare professionals looking to take the next step to becoming nurse executives and advanced practice nurses influencing health policy at the highest levels now have the opportunity to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the convenience of their home or workplace through the University of Rhode Island College of Nursing.

Offered jointly by the college and URI Online, the DNP program is designed to equip M.S.-prepared nurses with the leadership skills and evidence-based expertise needed to transform healthcare systems. Offered entirely online, the program emphasizes traditional, complementary, and integrative health principles, preparing healthcare professionals with the skills to implement patient-centered care strategies that improve health outcomes.

“With a curriculum focused on innovation, leadership, and real-world application, the online DNP program, like the in-person program, is designed to empower nurse leaders to drive meaningful change in diverse healthcare settings,” said Danny Willis, dean of the College of Nursing.

The post-master’s DNP program prepares advanced practice nurses to translate and implement scientific findings into practice, act as change agents to improve health systems, evaluate programs and outcomes, and influence health systems and policy. The program track consists of 42 credits including 500 clinical practicum hours and the completion of a practice improvement project.

The program is conducted entirely online, offering nurses the same comprehensive education they would get on campus, but conveniently packaged for current healthcare providers who may not otherwise have time in their schedules. The curriculum builds on the core elements of a master’s degree curriculum and advances the practice orientation beyond direct care to advancing practice and health outcomes through innovation and intervention at the systems level.

“At the URI College of Nursing, we are helping to transform human health and well-being, and healthcare organizational environments through our top-notch programs,” Willis said. “Our college’s online programs, including the online post-master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice, with a focus on leadership, and the RN-BS online option, will increase a highly competent healthcare workforce.”

Students can visit the URI Online website for full admission information and to apply. The application deadline is Aug. 5. For more information, contact the college office at RNBSonline@uri.edu or 401-874-5303. Admission requirements include:

• A master’s degree in nursing (GPA minimum 3.30).
• Minimum RN licensure in the state the student resides.
• Completion of a 300- to 500-level statistics course.
• Completion of a master’s level introduction to research course.
• Completed application package with all transcripts.
• Three letters of reference attesting to the applicant’s capability for doctoral study (academic and professional, at least one from a doctorate-prepared nurse).
• One scholarly paper or master’s thesis, or equivalent.
• A statement of purpose indicating goals that are congruent with those of the program and institution and a curriculum vitae/resume.