We are not currently accepting applications for this specialty area. Please reach out to us at [email protected] to explore how your interests and goals may align with our available specialty areas.
What Makes Our Program Distinct?
- Since 1993, the School of Nursing has prepared outstanding pediatric nurse leaders who are highly valued for their ability to drive change that transforms health care
- Each student benefits from institution-arranged clinical placements, secured with trusted preceptors to match the student’s interests.
- Students are mentored by nationally recognized faculty advancing practice, research, and policy.
- Students join a small, close-knit cohort and gain access to the robust resources and alumni network of a Top Research Institution
- Our graduates care for the health of children and youth from diverse backgrounds including those who are at risk or have a chronic illness or disability
- Education is grounded in interprofessional collaboration, with distinct opportunities to engage with colleagues across the University of Minnesota’s health sciences schools.
- Students are eligible for the Disability Policy & Services Certificate, offered through the Institute on Community Integration.
Our graduates are prepared to:
- Practice as pediatric clinical nurse specialists in inpatient and outpatient settings, schools and community health settings
- Lead system changes to improve health care for children and youth
- Provide consultation to nurses, medical staff and interdisciplinary colleagues
- Advocate for children and families at organizational, state and national levels
- Implement evidence-based practice and quality improvement to all patient care
- Educate pediatric nurses in clinical and academic settings
All students who complete required coursework for the pediatric clinical nurse specialist DNP program are also eligible for the Disability Policy & Services Certificate, offered through the Institute on Community Integration.
The role of the clinical nurse specialist
Information sessions
Frequently Asked Questions
Are students required to coordinate their own clinical placements?
No, students are not required to arrange their own clinical placements. With institution-arranged clinical placements, students focus on their studies while our dedicated faculty and clinical placement team professionals place them with trusted preceptors based on their interests. The School of Nursing maintains a robust network of over 200 health site partners, providing opportunities for students to engage in diverse clinical experiences. Student clinical hours are divided throughout five semesters.
Can I work while in the program?
Many students continue to work while in the DNP program. Finding the balance between doctoral level academics and work amount is different for every student. Some factors to consider are the phase of the program you are in (didactic courses vs. practicum courses which require more daytime, weekday availability), your employer’s flexibility, and your other personal commitments.
What is the DNP project?
The University of Minnesota School of Nursing has been instrumental in designing a true systems improvement project since the inception of the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. The DNP Project is about translating research into practice and we engage with our community partners to develop projects that address emerging health care needs.
Components of the DNP project include:
- Student identification of a systems based, quality improvement problem in health care
- Implementation of a sustainable, evidence based solution to address the problem
- Evaluation of process and outcome objectives of the project
- Completion of a paper that describes the project and outcomes
- Dissemination of the project outcomes, learning and sustainability plans
What resources are available to support student wellbeing?
DNP students partner with dedicated advisors for support and successful completion of the program:
- Program Advisor – Assigned at the time of admission to the program, this faculty member will provide specialty specific guidance as you complete the degree.
- Professional Advisor – Located within Student and Career Advancement Services, the professional advisor assists with day to day questions, navigating challenges that arise, guides degree completion steps, and facilitates connections to University resources.
- DNP Project Advisor – Determined prior to the first semester of DNP project related coursework and will provide guidance in completion of the DNP project.
Students communicate openly and regularly with their faculty and preceptors about concerns that affect their successful completion of learning goals. Students are encouraged to engage in self-care activities which enhance their ability to work effectively with patients.
Are Teaching Assistant opportunities available to DNP students?
Yes! Many of our DNP students serve as Teaching Assistants for the School of Nursing to develop nurse educator skills and earn tuition remission.
Tuition is covered based on the percent appointment. Below are some examples:
15% TA—approximately 30% of tuition covered
25% TA—approximately 50% of tuition covered
30% TA—approximately 60% of tuition covered
50% TA—100% of tuition covered
Teaching Assistants provide mentorship in three areas – in the skills lab coaching students through simulations, in classroom settings supporting faculty, and in clinical settings supporting students in their clinical rotations.
Certifications
Successful completion of required DNP Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist coursework and practice hours provides eligibility to take the PCNS Certification Examination through the American Association of Critical Care Nurses.