Dual D.N.P. and Certificate
3.5-year part-time hybrid program
The dual D.N.P. and certificate program allows students to earn a post-professional certificate and a doctorate concurrently with a minimum of 52 credits rather than the 60 credits necessary if the two plans of study were pursued separately. This program is offered hybrid with approximately 50% of instruction online and 50% delivered in-person.
Students are eligible to take the nurse practitioner certification exam at the conclusion of their clinical rotations, two semesters prior to graduation, and be awarded the certificate. At the completion of the program, graduates earn their D.N.P.
Students can earn their dual degree in three different concentrations.
Concentrations
VCU Bulletin is the official source for course and academic program information.
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
The adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP) concentration is designed to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge to provide direct, acute care to a diverse adult population, ranging from young adults to older adults. Coursework and practicum experiences focus on advanced clinical skills, preparing you to address complex health issues across the lifespan and continuum of care.
Family Nurse Practitioner
The family nurse practitioner (FNP) concentration focuses on wellness, preventive care and the management of episodic and chronic conditions for patients of all ages, from children and adolescents to pregnant women, adults and seniors. Through comprehensive coursework and practicum experiences, you will develop the clinical skills necessary to offer advanced, evidence-based care to families across the lifespan.
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
The psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) concentration prepares graduates to deliver psychiatric care to individuals and populations across the lifespan and across the continuum of care. Coursework focuses on the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders, emphasizing a holistic approach to mental health. You will learn about interventions such as psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, nonpharmacologic methods and advanced therapeutic communication.
Plan of Study
View sample plans of study for the dual D.N.P. and certificate program.
Application Info
| Application Opens | Early Admission Deadline | Early Decision Notification | Application Closes | Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 1, 2024 | November 1, 2024 | December 13, 2024 | July 15, 2025* | Ongoing |
*In order to be reviewed for admission, all components of the application (personal statements, transcripts, etc.) must be verified by July 15. Incomplete applications after this date will not be reviewed for the fall semester start.
Complete the NursingCAS application ($80 fee) and the VCU supplemental information application ($75 fee).
Submit the following materials with your application through NursingCAS, including:
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement
- Resume or a curriculum vitae
- RN license
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable): Visit VCU's Graduate International Applicants page and see heading 'Application Materials --> Proof of English Proficiency'
We're here to help! Contact us at VCU_Nurse@vcu.edu with your admissions questions.
Review the functional and technical standards required for participation in the academic programs of the School of Nursing.
Prospective students with a conviction showing on their criminal history record may not be eligible to participate in clinical experiences at selected sites. This may impact the student’s ability to successfully complete program requirements. Applicants with a criminal history record are advised to review eligibility and licensure requirements for states in which they may seek employment (see Virginia eligibility requirements).
Financial Info
Use the following links to understand what your attendance costs will be and how aid and scholarships can help make your degree affordable.
Guaranteed Admission
Students who graduate with the minimum of a bachelor’s degree from the VCU School of Nursing are guaranteed admission to any VCU nursing graduate program provided they meet the requirements for admission and there is program space availability. Contact VCU_Nurse@vcu.edu for more info.