Revising a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program in Response to Student Focus Group Feedback

Strategies for successfully completing a DNP final project

ABSTRACT

Completion of a final project is an essential component of Doctor of Nursing Practice programs. Strategies for successful project planning, implementation, and evaluation are outlined, from identifying an evidence-based practice or quality improvement project, advisor, and practice mentor through completion, presentation, and dissemination of your work.

Unique Issues of DNP Students: A Content Analysis

AIM

The purpose of this study was to explore, analyze, and describe nursing doctoral students' perceptions of factors that impacted them during their doctoral program.

BACKGROUND

There are two major pathways for nurses to earn a doctoral degree, the most recent of which is the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree. Enrollment in and graduates from nursing DNP programs have increased dramatically over the last decade.

METHOD

Answers to an open-ended question in a national descriptive survey study of nursing doctoral students across the United States were analyzed. Colaizzi's procedural methods were used as a guideline.

RESULTS

The content analysis identified issues unique to DNP students, which related to lack of clarity for the DNP degree and student concerns within academic settings.

CONCLUSION

Recommendations include having DNP faculty on DNP project committees and for standardization of guidelines for the DNP project to ensure rigor and consistency.

Navigating DNP Student Needs: Faculty Advising Competencies and Effective Strategies for Development and Support

Doctor of nursing practice (DNP) faculty advisers help students navigate academic challenges, professional development, and leadership opportunities while earning a DNP degree. Student needs during DNP education are unique from other programs and require careful advising to address common challenges. This article links student needs with advising competencies and presents strategies for faculty development and support.