Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program and Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program

The DNP degree represents the culmination of study that prepares graduates for advanced levels of nursing practice. Emphasis is placed on nursing care that is based upon philosophical, ethical, and scientific principles. In addition to the advanced clinical practice series, all students enroll in core courses focusing on concepts essential for analysis and evaluation of practice outcomes. Students select an area for scholarly examination of internal and external factors that influence nursing care in their clinical areas. This process guides the students in identification and evaluation of practice issues. Students collaborate with expert clinicians in their specialty areas.

Course work in all DNP concentrations, other than Nurse Anesthesia, is conducted primarily online with specific on-campus days as determined by each concentration. The Advanced Health Assessment course requires on-campus demonstration of a comprehensive physical examination as well as attendance of the sensitive examination with standardized patients. Faculty meet with students during the on-campus sessions for classroom instruction, competency testing, and advisement. Clinical experiences are scheduled in proximity to the student's residence.

Students wear their UTHSC picture identification while on-campus and at clinical sites. Student placement in clinical sites is verified by preceptors, and faculty conduct clinical site visits or videoconferencing sessions with the student and preceptors.

1. Demonstrate proficient clinical reasoning in advanced nursing practice.
2. Lead within health care systems to deliver safe, quality care for diverse populations.
3. Disseminate findings from evidence-based practice and research for optimal healthcare outcomes.
4. Integrate health information and patient care technologies to transform healthcare outcomes across the lifespan.
5. Advocate for social justice and equity through strategic initiatives to influence public policy.
6. Lead interprofessional teams to improve patient and population health outcomes.  
7. Integrate concepts of social determinants of health, epidemiology and ethics to improve population health.
8. Design, implement, and evaluate quality care based on science to facilitate optimal patient outcomes.

2. Chose the program that's right for you

After comparing programs, if you still have questions, visit our Admissions website or contact the program of your choice's admissions site.