Doctorate of Nursing Practice

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The purpose of this program leading to the degree of Doctorate of Nursing Practice is to prepare the graduate for advanced independent practice, nursing education, and/or leadership in health care. Nursing practice as defined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) (2004) refers to any nursing intervention that influences health care outcomes for individuals or populations. Objectives for the program are based upon recommendations for essential curriculum elements as identified by the AACN.

Upon completion of the program the graduate will be able to:

1. Implement and evaluate clinical practice based on scientific knowledge.
2. Assume advanced nursing roles in education, clinical practice, or health care management.
3. Demonstrate advanced leadership skills necessary to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex health care setting .
4. Demonstrate analytical methodologies for the evaluation of clinical practice and the application of scientific evidence
5. Use advanced skills to access and utilize contemporary technological information systems.
6. Demonstrate expertise in the analysis and formulation of health care policy.
7. Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams necessary to meet health care needs of individuals and populations.
8. Apply ethical theories and legal standards to decision making in health care issues.

Approved: November 10, 2005 by the Board of Trustees, University of South Florida.