Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Admissions Requirements

Graduate Studies at The W Admission Requirements

• A completed Graduate Application form.
• Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work from each institution attended, including transcripts from The W. Transcripts must verify that the applicant received a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited four-year institution and that the applicant has a minimum 3.0 overall GPA on a four-point scale for undergraduate studies.
• Three letters of professional recommendation stating the applicant's qualifications for graduate work from persons who have personal knowledge of the applicant's academic/work performance.
• An immunization form showing two doses of the MMR vaccine. See the Graduate Bulletin for more details.
• The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required of all applicants who are not citizens of the U.S. including permanent resident applicants who hold a "green card" in the U.S. and international applicants currently in the U.S. on any type of visa. The minimum TOEFL is 550.
• A $25 application fee.

DNP Program Admission Requirements

• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from an academic institution with national and regional accreditation and official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work from each institution attended.
• Unencumbered MS RN/APRN license.
• All candidates must have a criminal background check with no disqualifying events as mandated by the State of Mississippi and must pass a drug screen (9 panel or higher)
• The following courses must be completed (with a grade of B or better) prior to admission to DNP courses: Graduate research and graduate level Advanced Pathophysiology course.
• Three letters of professional recommendation are required. The letters must state the applicant's qualifications for graduate work from persons who have personal knowledge of the applicant's academic or work performance.
• Admission interviews are an important part of the application process. Invitations to interview are sent after a preliminary review of applications in each round. Candidates chosen to interview receive an e-mail with instructions on how to schedule an interview. Interviews take place on The W campus.
• Applicants must enclose a one-to two-page current resume describing all chronological work experience and education since becoming an RN. The applicant must include full legal name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address with the resume.
• The required 1000 word essay allows the admissions committee to learn about the applicant, his/her accomplishments and professional aspirations. The required essay requires the applicant to describe their career goals and explain how a DNP from MUW will help them accomplish those goals. Questions include reasons for seeking admission to the DNP program; areas of planned research; goals while in the program; long-range career plans; qualifications and readiness for the program; and mentorship by program faculty. Essay should be double spaced and each page should include your name and page number.