Loyola offers nursing practice doctorate

On the Web: loyno.edu/nursing

    Loyola University New Orleans has become the first university in Louisiana to offer a “bachelor of science in nursing to doctorate of nursing practice” degree.
    The approval of the degree was made unanimously by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing in December. Loyola’s School of Nursing has been developing and promoting the program and its curriculum for nearly a year, which concluded with a site visit from board officials to finalize the state approval process.
    The B.S.N. to D.N.P. program is an example of the reality of the nation’s changing health care options. Before this program was offered, nurses in Louisiana wanting to receive a D.N.P. degree were required to first obtain a master’s degree. Now, nurses wishing to receive the doctoral degree can receive their D.N.P. degree by completing a three-year, 78-credit-hour program and then be eligible for certification as a family nurse practitioner.

Filling a need in the market
    “There are so many people out there right now without proper access to primary health care,” said Loyola associate professor Cynthia Collins, Ph.D., A.P.R.N., A.N.P.-B.C., G.N.P. “So, with the need for more primary care providers, our professional societies have determined that nurse practitioners need to step up and fill that need. The research suggests, and our professional societies are recommending, that we train our nurse practitioners at a higher level to meet that mandate.”
    The program is offered in an online format, enabling working nurses to advance their careers in their communities, while simultaneously continuing their education.
    The deadline for applications for the B.S.N. to D.N.P. program is Feb. 1, with orientation set for April and classes slated to begin in May.
    The 2012 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s Top Online Education Programs rankings guide also singled out the Loyola University New Orleans School of Nursing as one of the best online graduate programs in the country. Loyola was one of only five nursing schools in the country and the only Jesuit institution to receive the honor roll designation.
    To learn more about the D.N.P. program or to apply, visit the School of Nursing and select doctoral program or contact Elena Ransom at (504) 865-2499 or [email protected].