DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Dual Degree
Need your questions answered?
The Johns Hopkins School of Nursing is not accepting applications for the DNP/PHD program (all tracks) for 2025.
OVERVIEW
The best of both worlds
Students in the DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Dual Degree program are motivated by clinical practice and research innovations that will produce practice transformations and improve care. This program is the first in the country where students can receive both degrees simultaneously from one school, and graduates will be prepared at the highest level to conduct clinical research, teach, mentor, and implement innovations to enhance patient outcomes.
The DNP/PHD program creates rigorously prepared clinical scholars that offer the nursing profession a ’best of both worlds’ approach to creating innovative solutions for clinical curriculum development, faculty practice, and scientific inquiry. The program requires completion of both teaching and research residencies. Through the experiences, students will learn how to combine the roles of educator with clinician and scholar. Students will work with Hopkins faculty mentors to select courses and identify opportunities that align with their research and/or clinical training program.
Within the DNP portion of the program, students will select an advanced practice track from six nurse practitioner options, including pediatrics to family to adult/gerontology to psychiatric mental health. By combining the PhD goal of creating leaders in nursing science development with the DNP mission to prepare expert nurse clinicians into an integrated curriculum, students receive both outstanding research and clinical practice experience.
Program Details
Tuition & Fees
Estimated Tuition Cost: $2,266 per credit See Cost of Attendance Details
Financial Aid: There are numerous options for financing your education including grants, scholarships, and federal loans. Learn more.
Upcoming Application Deadlines
Fall entry: November 15
Requirements
Admission Criteria
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree or an entry-level nursing master’s degree from an ACEN or CCNE accredited college or university or an equivalent degree from a comparable foreign institution
Scholastic GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
Proof of current nursing licensure. Students must have or obtain Maryland RN licensure for matriculation (or RN license from a compact state)
One year of full-time RN experience preferred*
Three letters of recommendation (two academic and one professional)**
Official transcripts (from all previous colleges/universities)
Current Resume/CV
A written statement of Advanced Practice role and research goals including reason for interest in Johns Hopkins
Writing sample (publication or graded paper)
GRE scores are accepted but not required
Research interests that match faculty expertise and School resources
Interview with faculty (if moved forward by admissions committee)
Information for applicants with international education
*The DNP Dual Pediatric Primary and Acute Care NP track requires one year of full-time pediatric RN experience in an acute care setting engaged in the direct care of physiologically unstable pediatric patients within an acute care environment (critical care, intermediate care, Level 1 pediatric ED, stepdown, pediatric med-surg, hem-onc preferred) required by the start of the program. The DNP Dual Pediatric Primary and Acute Care NP track also requires Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification.
*The DNP Adult-Gerontological Acute Care NP track requires one year of full-time RN experience engaged in the direct care of adults and older adults who are physiologically unstable, technologically dependent, and require frequent monitoring and intervention within an inpatient, acute care setting (intensive or critical care, intermediate care, progressive care, stepdown or telemetry unit) by the start of the program.
**References should be recent, written for the purpose of your application to this program and from professors who know you as a student or employers who know you as a professional in a job setting preferably in a supervisory role. Personal references from colleagues, friends, or family members do not meet the requirement. For PhD applicants, it is strongly preferred that a least one of your recommenders holds a PhD.
Prerequisites
No prerequisite courses.
Student Sponsorship
This program does not qualify for F-1 or J-1 student sponsorship. Legal Permanent Residents and non-immigrants who are otherwise physically present in the U.S. and in a status that allows for full or part-time study, may pursue this program.
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Curriculum
The program is designed to be completed in a five-year, full-time plan of study. The program highlights both a structured teaching and research residency. The plan below is a sample of the DNP Advanced Practice/PhD curriculum. For a dual degree, all coursework must be completed before either degree is awarded.
DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Total Number Of Credits And Clinical Hours By Track
Year 1 Fall 12 credits
- Quantitative Research Design and Methods [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health I (Biostats I) [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health II (Biostats II) [3cr]
- Philosophical Perspectives in Health [3cr]
Year 1 Spring 12 credits
- Qualitative Research Designs and Methods [2cr]
- Mixed Methods Research Designs [2cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health III (Biostats III) [3cr]
- Scientific Perspectives Nursing [3cr]
- Measurement in Healthcare [2cr]
Year 1 Summer 2 credits
- Grant Development & Writing [1cr]
- Clinical Research Residency I (EBP Project) [1cr]
- Comp Exams [NC]
- Teaching Experience [NC]
Year 2 Fall 12 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- PhD Elective [3cr]
- Introduction to Quality Improvement & Knowledge Translation (1st term) [2cr]
- Advanced Health Policy [2cr]
- Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Healthcare [2cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
Year 2 Spring 9 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Responsibilities and Activities of Nurse Scientist [2cr]
- PhD Elective [4cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
Year 2 Summer 3 credits
- PhD Elective Credit [3cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
- NRSA Submission [NC]
Year 3 Fall 11 credits
- Health Promotion and Disease Across the Lifespan [2cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology I [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice I [2cr]
- Introduction Comparative Effectiveness & Outcome Research (3rd term) [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 3 Spring 11 credits
- Advanced Health Assessment & Measurement [3cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology II [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice II [2cr]
- Diagnostic Skills and Procedures for Advanced Practice Nursing [1cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Year 3 Summer 5 credits, 80 clinical hours
- Introduction to Acute Care Fundamentals [4cr]
- Introduction to Acute Care Clinical Management [1cr, 80 clinical hrs]
- Year 4 Fall 10.5 credits, 160 clinical hours
- Advanced Practice in Acute Care I Diagnostic Reasoning [3.5cr]
- Advanced Practice in Acute Care I Clinical Management [2cr, 160cl]
- Healthcare Finance for Advanced Nursing Practice [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Year 4 Spring 7.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Advanced Practice in Acute Care II Diagnostic Reasoning [2cr]
- Advanced Practice in Acute Care II Clinical Management [2.5cr, 200cl]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
Year 4 Summer 1 credits
- Clinical Research Residency II (EBP) [1cr]
- Clinical Research Residency II (EBP) [1cr]
Year 5 Fall 10.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Advanced Practice in Acute Care III Diagnostic Reasoning [3cr]
- Advanced Practice in Acute Care III Clinical Management [2.5cr, 200cl]
- Advanced Applications of Information Technology in Healthcare Delivery [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Year 5 Spring 8.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Advanced Practice in Acute Care IV Diagnostic Reasoning [3cr]
- Advanced Practice in Acute Care IV Clinical Management [2.5cr, 200cl]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Program Total: 115 credits [cr], 840 Clinical Hours [cl]
Please note, curriculum, credit hours, and sequencing are subject to change.
Year 1 Fall 12 credits
- Quantitative Research Design and Methods [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health I (Biostats I) [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health II (Biostats II) [3cr]
- Philosophical Perspectives in Health [3cr]
Year 1 Spring 12 credits
- Qualitative Research Designs and Methods [2cr]
- Mixed Methods Research Designs [2cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health III (Biostats III) [3cr]
- Scientific Perspectives Nursing [3cr]
- Measurement in Healthcare [2cr]
Year 1 Summer 2 credits
- Grant Development & Writing [1cr]
- Clinical Research Residency I (EBP Project) [1cr]
- Comp Exams [NC]
- Teaching Experience [NC]
Year 2 Fall 12 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- PhD Elective [3cr]
- Introduction to Quality Improvement & Knowledge Translation (1st term) [2cr]
- Advanced Health Policy [2cr]
- Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Healthcare [2cr]
- Research Residency
Year 2 Spring 8 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Responsibilities and Activities of Nurse Scientist [2cr]
- PhD Elective [3cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
Year 2 Summer 3 credits
- PhD Elective Credit [3cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
- NRSA Submission [NC]
Year 3 Fall 11 credits
- Health Promotion and Disease Across the Lifespan [2cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part I [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part I [2cr]
- Introduction Comparative Effectiveness & Outcome Research (3rd term) [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 3 Spring 13 credits
- Advanced Health Assessment and Measurement for Advanced Practice Nurses [3cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part II [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part II [2cr]
- Diagnostic Reasoning I: Wellness in Primary Care and Common Acute Health Conditions Across the Lifespan [3cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [2cr]
Year 3 Summer 6.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning II: Common Acute and Chronic Health Conditions Across the Lifespan [3cr]
- Clinical Management I: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
- Diagnostic Skills and Procedures for Advanced Practice Nursing [1cr]
Year 4 Fall 10.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning III: Clinical Management for the Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: Gender/Reproductive, and Psych/Mental Health Care [3cr]
- Clinical Management II: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
- Healthcare Finance for Advanced Nursing Practice [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
Year 4 Spring 8 credits, 160 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning IV Clinical Management for the Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: Chronic, Complex and Multi-System Illnesses and Conditions [3cr]
- Clinical Management III: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner [2cr, 160cl]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
Year 4 Summer 1 credits
- Clinical Research Residency II (EBP) [1cr]
Year 5 Fall 10.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Clinical Management IV: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
- Advanced Applications of Information Technology in Healthcare Delivery [2cr]
- DNP AP Elective [3cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Year 5 Spring 8.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Clinical Management V: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
- DNP AP Elective [3cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Program Total: 118 credits [cr], 960 clinical hours [cl]
Please note, curriculum, credit hours, and sequencing are subject to change.
Year 1 Fall 12 credits
- Quantitative Research Design and Methods [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health I (Biostats I) [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health II (Biostats II) [3cr]
- Philosophical Perspectives in Health [3cr]
Year 1 Spring 12 credits
- Qualitative Research Designs and Methods [2cr]
- Mixed Methods Research Designs [2cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health III (Biostats III) [3cr]
- Scientific Perspectives Nursing [3cr]
- Measurement in Healthcare [2cr]
Year 1 Summer 2 credits
- Grant Development & Writing [1cr]
- Clinical Research Residency I (EBP Project) [1cr]
- Comp Exams [NC]
- Teaching Experience [NC]
Year 2 Fall 13 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- PhD Elective [3cr]
- Introduction to Quality Improvement & Knowledge Translation (1st term) [3cr]
- Advanced Health Policy [2cr]
- Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Healthcare [2cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
Year 2 Spring 10 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Responsibilities and Activities of Nurse Scientist [2cr]
- PhD Elective [3cr]
- Human Growth, Development and Supervision Birth through Adolescence [2cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
Year 2 Summer 3 credits
- PhD Elective Credit [3cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
- NRSA Submission [NC]
Year 3 Fall 11 credits
- Health Promotion and Disease Across the Lifespan [2cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part I [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part I [2cr]
- Introduction Comparative Effectiveness & Outcome Research (3rd term) [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 3 Spring 13 credits
- Advanced Health Assessment and Measurement for Advanced Practice Nurses [3cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part II [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part II [2cr]
- Diagnostic Reasoning I: Wellness in Primary Care and Common Acute Health Conditions Across the Lifespan [3cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 3 Summer 6.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning II: Common Acute and Chronic Health Conditions Across the Lifespan [3cr]
- Clinical Management I: Family Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
- Diagnostic Skills and Procedures for Advanced Practice Nursing [1cr]
Year 4 Fall 10.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning III: Psych Mental Health, Gender Specific/Reproductive, and Healthcare Conditions Across the Lifespan [3cr]
- Clinical Management II: Family Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
- Healthcare Finance for Advanced Nursing Practice [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
Year 4 Spring 8 credits, 160 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning IV: Complex, Chronic Multi-Symptom, and Special Population Health Across the Lifespan [3cr]
- Clinical Management III: Family Nurse Practitioner [2cr, 160cl]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
Year 4 Summer 2.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Clinical Research Residency II (EBP) [1cr]
Year 5 Fall 10.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Clinical Management IV: Family Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
- Advanced Applications of Information Technology in Healthcare Delivery [2cr]
- DNP AP Elective [3cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Year 5 Spring 8.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Clinical Management V: Family Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
- DNP AP Elective [3cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Program Total: 120 credits [cr], 960 Clinical Hours [cl]
Year 1 Fall 12 credits
- Quantitative Research Design and Methods [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health I (Biostats I) [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health II (Biostats II) [3cr]
- Philosophical Perspectives in Health [3cr]
Year 1 Spring 12 credits
- Qualitative Research Designs and Methods [2cr]
- Mixed Methods Research Designs [2cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health III (Biostats III) [3cr]
- Scientific Perspectives Nursing [3cr]
- Measurement in Healthcare [2cr]
Year 1 Summer 2 credits
- Grant Development & Writing [1cr]
- Clinical Research Residency I (EBP Project) [1cr]
- Comp Exams [NC]
- Teaching Experience [NC]
Year 2 Fall 12 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [2cr]
- PhD Elective [3cr]
- Introduction to Quality Improvement & Knowledge Translation (1st term) [2cr]
- Advanced Health Policy [2cr]
- Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Healthcare [2cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
Year 2 Spring 10 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Responsibilities and Activities of Nurse Scientist [2cr]
- PhD Elective [3cr]
- Human Growth, Development and Supervision Birth through Adolescence [2cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
Year 2 Summer 3 credits
- PhD Elective Credit [3cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
- NRSA Submission [NC]
Year 3 Fall 11 credits
- Health Promotion and Disease Across the Lifespan [2cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part I [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part I [2cr]
- Introduction Comparative Effectiveness & Outcome Research (3rd term) [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 3 Spring 13 credits
- Advanced Health Assessment and Measurement for Advanced Practice Nurses [3cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part II [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part II [2cr]
- Diagnostic Reasoning I: Newborn and Young Child: Wellness, Nutrition, and Developmental Surveillance in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 3 Summer 5.5 credits, 120 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning II: Common Acute Health Conditions in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]
- Clinical Management I PNP [1.5cr, 120cl]
- Diagnostic Skills and Procedures for Advanced Practice Nursing [1cr]
Year 4 Fall 10 credits, 160 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning III: Children and Adolescents: Wellness, Behavioral/Mental Health, and Gender/Reproductive Health in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]
- Clinical Management II: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner [2cr, 160cl]
- Healthcare Finance for Advanced Nursing Practice [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
Year 4 Spring 8 credits, 160 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning IV: Chronic, Complex, and Multi-System Illnesses in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]
- Clinical Management III: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner [2cr, 160cl]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
Year 4 Summer 2 credits
- Clinical Research Residency II (EBP) [1cr]
Year 5 Fall 10.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Clinical Management IV: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
- DNP AP Elective [3cr]
- Advanced Applications of Information Technology in Healthcare Delivery [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Year 5 Spring 8.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Clinical Management V: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner [2.5cr, 200cl]
- DNP AP Elective [3cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Program Total: 118.5 credits [cr], 960 Clinical Hours [cl]
Year 1 Fall 12 credits
- Quantitative Research Design and Methods [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health I (Biostats I) [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health II (Biostats II) [3cr]
- Philosophical Perspectives in Health [3cr]
Year 1 Spring 12 credits
- Qualitative Research Designs and Methods [2cr]
- Mixed Methods Research Designs [2cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health III (Biostats III) [3cr]
- Scientific Perspectives Nursing [3cr]
- Measurement in Healthcare [2cr]
Year 1 Summer 2 credits
- Grant Development & Writing [1cr]
- Clinical Research Residency I (EBP Project) [1cr]
- Comp Exams [NC]
- Teaching Experience [NC]
Year 2 Fall 12 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- PhD Elective [3cr]
- Introduction to Quality Improvement & Knowledge Translation (1st term) [2cr]
- Advanced Health Policy [2cr]
- Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Healthcare [2cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
Year 2 Spring 10 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Responsibilities and Activities of Nurse Scientist [2cr]
- PhD Elective [3cr]
- Human Growth, Development and Supervision Birth through Adolescence [2cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
Year 2 Summer 3 credits
- PhD Elective Credit [3cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
- NRSA Submission [NC]
Year 3 Fall 11 credits
- Health Promotion and Disease Across the Lifespan [2cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part I [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part I [2cr]
- Introduction Comparative Effectiveness & Outcome Research (3rd term) [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 3 Spring 13 credits
- Advanced Health Assessment and Measurement for Advanced Practice Nurses [3cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part II [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part II [2cr]
- Diagnostic Reasoning I: Newborn and Young Child: Wellness, Nutrition, and Developmental Surveillance in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 3 Summer 5.5 credits, 120 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning II: Common Acute Health Conditions in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]
- Clinical Management I PNP [1.5cr, 120cl]
- Diagnostic Skills and Procedures for Advanced Practice Nursing [1cr]
Year 4 Fall 10 credits, 160 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning III: Children and Adolescents: Wellness, Behavioral/Mental Health, and Gender/Reproductive Health in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]
- Clinical Management II: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner [2cr, 160cl]
- Healthcare Finance for Advanced Nursing Practice [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
Year 4 Spring 8 credits, 160 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning IV: Chronic, Complex, and Multi-System Illnesses in Pediatric Primary Care [3cr]
- Clinical Management III: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner [2cr, 160cl]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
Year 4 Summer 2.5 credit, 120 clinical hours
- Clinical Research Residency II (EBP) [1cr]
- Pediatric Acute Care Practicum I [1.5cr, 120cl]
Year 5 Fall 10.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Advanced Topics for the Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner I [3cr]
- Pediatric Acute Care Practicum II [2.5cr, 200cl]
- Advanced Applications of Information Technology in Healthcare Delivery [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Year 5 Spring 8.5 credits, 200 clinical hours
- Advanced Topics for the Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner II [3cr]
- Pediatric Acute Care Practicum III [2.5cr, 200cl]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Please note, curriculum, credit hours, and sequencing are subject to change.
Year 1 Fall 12 credits
- Quantitative Research Design and Methods [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health I (Biostats I) [3cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health II (Biostats II) [3cr]
- Philosophical Perspectives in Health [3cr]
Year 1 Spring 12 credits
- Qualitative Research Designs and Methods [2cr]
- Mixed Methods Research Designs [2cr]
- Statistical Methods in Public Health III (Biostats III) [3cr]
- Scientific Perspectives Nursing [3cr]
- Measurement in Healthcare [2cr]
Year 1 Summer 2 credits
- Grant Development & Writing [1cr]
- Clinical Research Residency I (EBP Project) [1cr]
- Comp Exams [NC]
- Teaching Experience [NC]
Year 2 Fall 12 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- PhD Elective [3cr]
- Introduction to Quality Improvement & Knowledge Translation (1st term) [2cr]
- Advanced Health Policy [2cr]
- Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Healthcare [2cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
Year 2 Spring 10 credits
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Responsibilities and Activities of Nurse Scientist [2cr]
- PhD Elective [3cr]
- Human Growth, Development and Supervision Birth through Adolescence [2cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
Year 2 Summer 3 credits
- PhD Elective Credit [3cr]
- Research Residency [NC]
- Preliminary Oral Exams [NC]
- NRSA Submission [NC]
Year 3 Fall 13 credits
- Health Promotion and Disease Across the Lifespan [2cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part I [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part I [2cr]
- Advanced Applications of Information Technology in Healthcare Delivery [2cr]
- Introduction Comparative Effectiveness & Outcome Research (3rd term) [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 3 Spring 13 credits
- Advanced Health Assessment and Measurement for Advanced Practice Nurses [3cr]
- Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Part II [2cr]
- Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Part II [2cr]
- Diagnostic Reasoning I: Wellness in Primary Care and Common Acute Health Conditions Across the Lifespan [3cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 3 Summer 5 credits
- Introduction to Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Practice Interview Techniques [2cr]
- Diagnostic Skills for Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Practice Nursing [1cr]
- Elective [2cr]
Year 4 Fall 13 credits
- Neurobiology of Mental Disorders [1cr]
- Clinical Psychopharmacology [2cr]
- Differential Diagnosis of Mental Disorders [3cr]
- Psychotherapeutic Frameworks and Modalities [2cr]
- Healthcare Finance for Advanced Nursing Practice [2cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 4 Spring 8 credits, 240 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning I: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: Adult/Gero [1cr]
- Clinical Management I: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: Adult/Gero [3cr, 240cl]
- Integrated Care I for the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner [1cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
Year 4 Summer 4 credits, 160 clinical hours
- Diagnostic Reasoning II: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: Children and Families [1cr]
- Clinical Management II: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: Children and Families [2cr, 160cl]
- Clinical Research Residency II (EBP) [1cr]
Year 5 Fall 11 credits, 320 clinical hours
- Integrated Care II for the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner [1cr]
- Clinical Management III: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner [4cr, 320cl]
- DNP AP Elective [3cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Year 5 Spring 8 credits, 320 clinical hours
- Clinical Management IV: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner [4cr, 320cl]
- DNP AP Elective [1cr]
- Dissertation Seminar [1cr]
- Dissertation [2cr]
- Teaching or Research Residency if needed [NC]
- Final Oral Defense [NC]
Program Total: 126 credits [cr], 1040 Clinical Hours [cl]
Please note, curriculum, credit hours, and sequencing are subject to change.
* Curriculum, credit hours, and sequencing are subject to change.
** Transfer Credits from the JHSON MSN (Entry into Nursing) Program to the DNP Advanced Practice Track can vary based on current curriculum & start date.
***Transfer of credit is granted on an individual basis. Please see the transfer of credit policy and complete the form to make a request.
Note – A minimum of 1000 practice hours is required for the DNP. The Dissertation Seminar & Dissertation courses will provide additional practice hours to meet this requirement.
“I wanted to be a provider to care for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s as well as work toward new treatments and interventions. … The DNP/PhD is training me to become an adult-gerontological nurse practitioner and a researcher—I can get evidence-based care to my patients sooner.”
Inga Antonsdottir, DNP/PhD Candidate
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View the costs for the DNP Advanced Practice/PhD Dual Degree.
2025-2026
State Authorization Disclosures
PhD/DNP Dual Adult Gerontological Acute Care NP
PhD/DNP Dual Adult Gerontological Primary Care NP
PhD/DNP Dual Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NP
PhD/DNP Dual Family Primary Care NP
PhD/DNP Dual Pediatric Primary Care NP
PhD/DNP Dual Psychiatric Mental Health NP
Scholarships & Grants: Grants are awards based on financial need that do not have to be repaid. Many students also benefit from scholarships and awards based on merit. Learn more.
Loans: Many students will avail themselves of loans to help finance their School of Nursing education. If necessary, we encourage you to borrow only what is absolutely essential to cover your educational costs. Learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
The research area in an admission application should be well-defined but not overly rigid. Candidates should demonstrate a clear focus within their field of interest, outlining specific research questions or problems they aim to address. The proposal should show a solid understanding of current literature and gaps in knowledge, indicating how their research could contribute to the field. While applicants may have a general idea of their methodology and potential outcomes, there should be room for refinement and adaptation as they progress in their studies and clinical practice. The research area should align with the program’s strengths, integration with advanced practice role, and faculty expertise. Overall, the essay should reflect the applicant’s understanding of the issue, and critical thinking skills, and potential for conducting meaningful research, while still allowing for guidance and development throughout the program.
Although contacting a faculty member in your research area is not required, it is an opportunity to become familiar with researchers in your area of interest and to ask questions not addressed on the school’s website. While it can be helpful to have a direct match, students often have great success in the program when a piece of the research overlaps with the advisor. If there is a particular faculty member whose work interests you, you may discuss this as part of your application essay. The best place to start is with the DNP/PhD Assistant Director of Recruitment, Cesar Nuñez at [email protected] and with a review of our most recent PhD virtual information session at https://nursing.jhu.edu/admissions/index.html
DNP/PhD faculty advisors take an active role in the education of our DNP/PhD Students who are assigned PhD and DNP faculty advisors. PhD and DNP faculty advisors and are responsible for program oversight and student mentorship. This advising support for DNP/PhD students is for the duration of their clinical and research training with a particular emphasis on transitions and preparing for successful careers as APRN Clinical Scientists
Once you are admitted to the DNP/PhD program, the PhD Admissions Committee determines who will be your PhD advisor. You will also be assigned a DNP faculty advisor whose clinical role and scholarship aligns with your interest as a DNP/PhD Advanced Practice Clinical Scientist. While the DNP/PhD faculty advisors have primary faculty advising for the respective DNP AP and PhD program, the advisors work together to bridge and integrate learning rather than separate parallel program mentorship.
Students will complete one dissertation that integrates rigorous scientific research with direct clinical practice application, bridging the gap between theory and practice in advanced nursing. The study would focus on a significant healthcare issue to address both the depth of inquiry expected in a PhD and the practice-oriented focus of a DNP. This integrated approach would demonstrate the candidate’s ability to conduct high-level research, critically analyze complex healthcare issues, and directly apply findings to improve nursing practice and patient outcomes – effectively meeting the core requirements of both DNP and PhD programs.
The DNP/PhD Advanced Practice program is designed to be completed in a five-year full-time plan of study. This shorter timeframe to achieve two doctoral degrees is accomplished by designing the program to align each educational component with the students desired research focus, creating connections that allow the DNP Advanced Practice Track/PhD student to seamlessly transfer evidence to practice, practice to research, and research to the classroom. Students complete one doctoral dissertation that meets the outcomes of the DNP and PhD programs. The program also highlights both a structured teaching residency and a structured research residency.
In the dual DNP AP/PhD, the first semesters of the combined program focus on developing students’ ability to conduct clinical research. In the second year and third year, students refine their research focus while integrating DNP advanced practice core courses. This provides the basis for students to propose and conduct clinical research while completing clinical specialty experiences (practicums). In the fourth and fifth year, student’s focus their dissertation practice research in the area of their PhD and DNP faculty advisors’ program of research and advanced practice.
GRE scores are accepted but not required.
The DNP/PhD program is a full-time, on-site program. All PhD courses, research and teaching experiences, and NP clinical experiences are in-person in the Baltimore/DC area. DNP courses are hybrid with onsite immersions.
Working while pursuing this dual doctoral program is strongly not advised given the demands of a dual doctoral program. Quality is the defining characteristic of academic life at Johns Hopkins and the School of Nursing. Students can expect to devote fulltime efforts to this program.
DNP/PhD students are required to achieve various milestones (see below) in progressing through the program that culminate in the dissertation and APRN role. These processes assure quality of the scholarship and rigor of the scientific process and actualization of the DNP APRN role.
- Annual Review with advisor in May of each year
- Annual Review with DNP/PhD Dissertation Committee members
- Comprehensive Examination
- Preliminary Oral Examination
- Completion of DNP APRN Core Courses
- Completion of APRN Specialty Core Courses and Clinicals
- Final Defense (Oral Examination)
Coursework completed outside the United States must be evaluated and translated into US equivalencies. Official transcript evaluations must be submitted as part of the application process, and applications will not be considered complete until all evaluations for any work completed outside the United States are received. The Johns Hopkins School of Nursing recommends WES-ICAP.
Contact Cesar Nuñez, Assistant Director of Recruitment for the DNP Executive tracks, at [email protected] with any additional questions or to schedule a phone call to discuss ways to make your application as strong as possible.