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Doctor of Nursing Practice - Post-MSN
book_2 Learning Mode: Hybrid
Program Overiew
Built for nurses who hold a master's degree, this hybrid program elevates your ability to lead systems-level change and deliver exceptional care. You will deepen clinical judgment, translate evidence into practice and design quality initiatives that improve outcomes for patients and populations. Flexible hybrid delivery supports your work and life while you learn from dedicated faculty and an engaged peer network. Through purposeful coursework and mentored practice experiences, you will strengthen your voice as a leader who advances patient advocacy . Graduates emerge prepared to influence policy, steward resources wisely and guide teams to consistent, measurable improvement.
Application Timeline
Spring
Jul 1 – Sep 15
Fall
Aug 15 – May 1
Learning Experience
Engage in in-depth online coursework, hands-on clinical rotations, immersive residencies and expert mentorship to develop advanced practice excellence.
There are two areas of study for the Doctor of Nursing Practice – Post-MSN program: Advanced Practice Nursing and Lifespan in Palliative Care.
Advanced Practice Nursing – Fall Start
Year 1, Fall B (8/25/25–12/12/25)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 850 | Organizational Theory & Healthcare Management | 3 |
| NRDNP 860 | Applied Epidemiology & Biostatistics | 4 |
| NRDNP 873 | Scientific Underpinnings IV | 3 |
Semester Total: 10
Year 1, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 858 | Evidence-Based Practice, Quality & Safety | 3 |
| NRDNP 846 | Frameworks for Leadership | 3 |
Semester Total: 6
Year 1, Summer A, Trailer (5/4/26–8/14/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 862 | Practice Inquiry and IRB | 3 |
| NRDNP 830 | Applied Healthcare Economics & Finance | 3 |
Semester Total: 6
Year 2, Fall B (8/25/25–12/12/25)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 890 | Residency | 5 |
| NRDNP 836 | Informatics in Healthcare Delivery | 3 |
Semester Total: 8
Year 2, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 890 | Residency | 5 |
| NRPHD 708 | Advanced Health Policy and Advocacy | 3 |
Semester Total: 8
Curriculum Minimum Total: 38
Advanced Practice Nursing – Spring Start
Year 1, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRPHD 708 | Advanced Health Policy and Advocacy | 3 |
| NRDNP 846 | Frameworks for Leadership | 3 |
Semester Total: 6
Year 1, Summer A, Trailer (5/4/26–8/14/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 860 | Applied Epidemiology and Biostatistics | 4 |
Semester Total: 4
Year 1, Fall B (8/25/25–12/12/25)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 836 | Informatics in Healthcare Delivery | 3 |
| NRDNP 873 | Scientific Underpinnings IV | 3 |
Semester Total: 6
Year 2, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 890 | Residency | 2 |
| NRDNP 858 | Evidence-Based Practice, Quality & Safety | 3 |
Semester Total: 5
Year 2, Summer A, Trailer (5/4/26–8/14/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 830 | Applied Healthcare Economics & Finance | 3 |
| NRDNP 862 | Practice Inquiry and IRB | 3 |
Semester Total: 6
Year 2, Fall B (8/25/25–12/12/25)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 850 | Organizational Theory & Healthcare Management | 3 |
| NRDNP 890 | Residency | 3 |
Semester Total: 6
Year 3, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 890 | Residency | 5 |
Semester Total: 5
Curriculum Minimum Total: 38
Lifespan in Palliative Care – Fall Start
Year 1, Fall B (8/25/25–12/12/25)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 850 | Organizational Theory & Healthcare Management | 3 |
| NRDNP 860 | App Epi Biostat Healthcare | 4 |
| NRDNP 873 | Scientific Underpinnings IV | 3 |
Semester Total: 10
Year 1, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 846 | Frameworks for Leadership | 3 |
| NRDNP 858 | Evidence-Based Practice, Quality & Safety | 3 |
| NRDNP 874 | Palliative Care Management I | 3 |
Semester Total: 9
Year 1, Summer A, Trailer (5/4/26–8/14/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 830 | Applied Healthcare Economics & Finance | 3 |
| NRDNP 875 | Palliative Care Management II | 3 |
| NRDNP 862 | Practice Inquiry and IRB | 3 |
Semester Total: 9
Year 2, Fall B (8/25/25–12/12/25)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 836 | Informatics in Healthcare Delivery | 3 |
| NRDNP 890 | Residency | 5 |
Semester Total: 8
Year 2, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRPHD 708 | Adv Health Policy and Advocacy | 3 |
| NRDNP 890 | Residency | 5 |
Semester Total: 8
Curriculum Minimum Total: 44
Lifespan in Palliative Care – Spring Start
Year 1, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRPHD 708 | Advanced Health Policy & Advocacy | 3 |
| NRDNP 846 | Frameworks for Leadership | 3 |
| NRDNP 874 | Palliative Care I | 3 |
Semester Total: 9
Year 1, Summer A, Trailer (5/4/26–8/14/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 860 | Applied Epidemiology and Biostatistics | 4 |
| NRDNP 875 | Palliative Care II | 3 |
Semester Total: 7
Year 1, Fall B (8/25/25–12/12/25)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 873 | Scientific Underpinnings IV | 3 |
| NRDNP 836 | Informatics in Healthcare Delivery | 3 |
Semester Total: 6
Year 2, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 858 | Evidence-Based Practice, Quality & Safety | 3 |
| NRDNP 890 | Residency | 2 |
Semester Total: 5
Year 2, Summer A, Trailer (5/4/26–8/14/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 862 | Practice Inquiry and IRB | 3 |
| NRDNP 830 | Applied Healthcare Economics & Finance | 3 |
Semester Total: 6
Year 2, Fall B (8/25/25–12/12/25)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 850 | Organizational Theory & Healthcare Management | 3 |
| NRDNP 890 | Residency | 3 |
Semester Total: 6
Year 3, Spring (1/5/26–5/1/26)
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NRDNP 890 | Residency | 5 |
Semester Total: 5
Curriculum Minimum Total: 44
Additional palliative care clinical hours may be added based on individual student goals/needs via NRDNP 876.
Nurse Educator Course Options (Electives)
Clinical Education
Clinical education is a vital component of the Post-MSN DNP program. Students build on their prior master’s-level experiences through advanced, faculty-guided clinical training designed to expand competencies in leadership, evidence-based practice, and patient care. Faculty work closely with each student to ensure that clinical experiences align with program expectations, professional standards, and exposure to a broad range of patient populations.
Students pursuing the Psychiatric Mental Health (PMH) certificate also engage in structured clinical experiences across multiple semesters, with faculty providing mentorship and oversight to ensure readiness for advanced practice roles.
Areas of Study
You’ll choose one area of study to guide your advanced practice journey. Each prepares you to meet today’s health care challenges with clinical expertise, compassion and purpose.
The Advanced Practice Nursing area of study is designed for certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) seeking to elevate their leadership in direct care, systems improvement and health policy. Through this pathway, students build upon their existing clinical expertise and acquire advanced skills in evidence-based practice, clinical scholarship and interprofessional collaboration. The curriculum strengthens critical thinking and prepares APRNs to serve as catalysts for transformative change across the continuum of care.
Graduates are positioned to lead health care innovations in complex practice environments and drive measurable improvements in population health. Emphasizing quality improvement, informatics and organizational leadership, this area of study reflects MUSC's commitment to shaping confident, forward-thinking leaders who are ready to take on emerging challenges in health care and deliver real impact in their communities.
The Lifespan Palliative Care area of study prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver expert, compassionate care. Students gain advanced clinical skills in symptom management, communication and psychosocial support while learning to lead interprofessional teams in health care environments. The curriculum emphasizes ethical decision-making and person-centered approaches that preserve dignity and enhance quality of life.
Rooted in MUSC's mission to improve health and transform care, this pathway empowers nurses to become change agents in one of the fastest-growing fields in health care. Graduates are uniquely positioned to lead palliative care innovations, expand access to services and ensure that individuals and families receive holistic, evidence-based care throughout their health care journey.
Engage with our community
Build connections through virtual cohorts, annual on-campus residencies and a vibrant online community that supports peer learning and professional growth.
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Your path to admission
Discover key information about application steps and required documentation to help you move forward with confidence.
Eligibility Requirements
All applicants must have the following:
- A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from nationally accredited programs by the initial date of enrollment.
- Unencumbered, active advanced practice nursing (APRN) licensure in the state where practicums will be conducted by the initial date of enrollment.
- Undergraduate or graduate coursework in Statistics.
- Evidence of a current practice in APRN scope where the DNP project can be implemented.
- Evidence of national certification in an advanced practice specialty.
- Preference is given to applicants with a nursing GPA of 3.0 and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Minimum Abilities
At MUSC, we actively support all students to ensure their success in both academic and clinical settings. To support this goal, the university outlines the essential qualities and functional abilities required for participation in its educational programs. These include a range of observational, communication, motor, intellectual and behavioral skills necessary for safe and effective practice. You can view the full list of minimum abilities by visiting the Minimum Abilities page.
Application Process
The following process outlines how and when your materials will be reviewed.
- Submit the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) NursingCAS application as early as possible. After fee payment and official transcripts are received, it usually takes four to six weeks to process and verify the application. The application must be verified by the application deadline to be eligible for review.
- Review the MUSC admissions process.
- Complete the MUSC Supplemental Application.
- Once both applications are complete and the AACN NursingCAS application has been verified, your application will be reviewed. Selected applicants will be contacted for an interview.
Application Requirements
- AACN NursingCAS Application: All applicants must submit the NursingCAS application. You do not need to send any of the following information directly to MUSC.
- Letters of Recommendation: All applicants must provide three letters of recommendation, including one academic reference.
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended.
- Personal essay: All applicants must submit a personal essay.
- Resume: Applicants must provide an updated resume detailing relevant academic and professional experiences. It is highly recommended that applicants have work or volunteer experience in a health care setting.
- MUSC Application: All applicants must submit the MUSC Application.
- Supplemental Materials: In addition to the application itself, applicants must review supplemental materials specific to the program. These forms are sent via email once an application has been submitted.
- Non-MUSC Clinical Hour Verification: Graduates from nurse practitioner (NP) programs other than MUSC must provide verification of supervised clinical hours from their graduate program.
- Immunization Records: Due to the clinical components of this program, official immunization records are required for all students upon admission and matriculation.
- Out-of-state Clinical Experiences: Out-of-state applicants and students are responsible for contacting their State Board of Nursing to determine any requirements needed to complete clinical rotations as a distance student. The NCSBN provides a quick search of Prelicensure Distance Education Requirements per state. Students should notify their Program Director upon entry if there are requirements MUSC must complete for Board of Nursing approval. Currently, MUSC cannot accept applications from students residing in Washington, Arizona, Louisiana and Oregon.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Scores: The TOEFL is required for all applicants whose native language is not English. A minimum score of 80 is required.
International Students
MUSC's College of Nursing degree programs are unable to admit international students requiring an F-1 visa. Applications will only be accepted from U.S. citizens, permanent residents or those holding other valid nonimmigrant visa classifications that allow participation in lawful study while in the United States.
Funding your path forward
Explore cost awareness, financial aid options and scholarships designed explicitly for APRNs transitioning into doctoral studies.
Tuition
| Fee Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application Fee (per application) | $50 |
| Matriculation Fee (upon applicant acceptance) | $485 |
Course Fees
| Fee Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Clinical Course Fee (per course) | $250 |
| NRDNP 890, Residency | $233 |
| Online Program Fee (additional fee per credit hour) | $70 |
Tuition and fees listed below are per semester unless otherwise noted.
Full-time
| Tuition/Fee Type | Fall | Spring | Summer | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-state Tuition | $8,116 | $8,116 | $8,116 | - |
| Out-of-state Tuition | $10,858 | $10,858 | $10,858 | - |
| Program Fee | $560 | $560 | $560 | - |
Part-time
| Tuition/Fee Type | Fall | Spring | Summer | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-state Tuition (per credit hour) | $835 | $835 | $835 | - |
| Out-of-state Tuition (per credit hour) | $1,120 | $1,120 | $1,120 | - |
| Part-time Student Fee | $861 | $861 | $861 | - |
| Program Fee | $285 | $285 | $285 | - |
Cost of Attendance
| Item | Year 1 | Year 2 | Est. Total* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Costs | |||
| Tuition – In-state/Out-of-state | $24,348 / $32,574 | $16,232 / $21,716 | $40,580 / $54,290 |
| Health Insurance | $3,780 | $3,780 | $7,560 |
| Fees | $4,180 | $2,880 | $7,060 |
| Direct Costs Subtotal | $32,308 / $40,534 | $22,892 / $28,376 | $55,200 / $68,910 |
| Indirect Costs | |||
| Housing/Food | $24,882 | $18,096 | $42,978 |
| Personal | $2,640 | $1,920 | $4,560 |
| Transportation | $2,970 | $2,160 | $5,130 |
| Books/Required Expenses | $5,114 | $1,886 | $7,000 |
| Indirect Costs Subtotal | $35,606 / $35,606 | $24,062 / $24,062 | $59,668 / $59,668 |
| Total – In-state/Out-of-state | $67,914 / $76,140 | $46,954 / $52,438 | $114,868 / $128,578 |
Disclaimer: The Estimated Total listed above reflects an approximation of educational costs for planning purposes only. Actual expenses may vary based on individual circumstances, program requirements and annual changes in tuition, fees and other costs. The Medical University of South Carolina reserves the right to adjust tuition, fees and other charges at any time without prior notice.
Scholarships
MUSC offers scholarships for which you may be eligible. Some are awarded based on academic achievement; others are awarded based on community service, for example. However, the majority of scholarships awarded at MUSC are based on financial need. This means that these scholarships are only awarded to students who need some financial assistance to cover the cost of tuition and fees.
If you would like to be considered for a financial need-based scholarship, you must have an up-to-date Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file. Make sure you list the Medical University of South Carolina on your FAFSA form, along with MUSC's code: 003438. We encourage you to submit your FAFSA as early as possible. It is recommended to submit your FAFSA in January if you plan to enroll in the fall.
Program Faculty
Whitney Smith, DNP, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, GNP
Co-Director of Education and Outreach
Amy Williams
Hannah Robidoux, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Assistant Professor
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Admissions, Progression and Graduation Committee review each application in its entirety. Undergraduate and BSN GPA, professional goals and references are used in the decision-making process. Another important aspect is what an applicant shares in their essay, as well as their leadership and volunteer experiences.
MUSC accepts applications to the Doctor of Nursing Practice program from students who live in all states except the following: Louisiana, Arizona, Oregon, Mississippi and Washington.
The College of Nursing is an integral part of the Medical University of South Carolina, which is the only academic health science center in the state. We are widely recognized for providing a supportive learning environment that has a low student-to-faculty ratio, expert faculty and preceptors as well as highly successful complex clinical settings.
We do offer a campus virtual tour and multiple information sessions to educate prospective students about the programs we offer in the College of Nursing. For more information on current sessions and when tours will resume, please visit our campus tours page.
All newly admitted DNP students will travel to MUSC to attend orientation held over the summer. Students living in South Carolina will present their project proposal during NRDNP 862 and the final poster presentation during the last Residency course on campus. Out-of-state students in these courses are able to present remotely. In addition, Post-MSN certificate students will have to travel to campus during NRDNP 856B and NRDNP 865. Please refer to the posted program plans of study to determine if and when these classes are scheduled. Each of these visits is 2-4 days and students are given at least 90 days’ notice of exact dates.
The integrity of our doctoral coursework, mentoring, and interaction with faculty and students is preserved in our online doctoral program through the use of synchronous and asynchronous technology. The only thing that differs between an online and campus-based program is the method through which access is achieved - through advanced technology and yearly Residency programs.
The DNP program consists of four post-baccalaureate clinical specializations all with a primary care focus, which include adult-gerontology, pediatric, family, psychiatric mental health and acute care pediatric nurse practitioner, and a post-master's option for advanced practice nurses. A DNP student may elect to take education courses as well.
The Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program will open in Fall 2026.
Please click here to learn more about about the similarities and differences between a Nurse Practitioner and Physician Assistant.
Please click here to review your options of adding Nurse Educator courses to your plan of study.
The Board of Nursing for each state dictates licensure requirements for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. MUSC College of Nursing applicants and students should familiarize themselves with the requirements for the state(s) in which they intend to practice using this site. DNP graduates are eligible to sit for national certification (ANCC, AANP, PNCB) in their specified track (A/GNP, FNP, PMHNP, PNP, ACPNP).
Living in Charleston
Charleston offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and modern convenience. With top-rated dining, scenic waterfronts and endless outdoor activities, the city offers an unmatched quality of life for residents, striking a balance between work and leisure.
Guided by Purpose and Principles
Grounded in evidence-based health care practice and community impact, the program aligns with MUSC’s commitment to purposeful leadership, professional integrity and patient-centered care.
Objectives
The DNP – Post-MSN program aims to prepare graduates to:
- Advance the integration of clinical practice and applied research to inform health system innovation, policy and improved patient outcomes.
- Assume scholarly leadership roles across diverse settings, contributing to ethical and system-level improvements in health care delivery.
- Engage in lifelong, evidence-informed inquiry that shapes professional practice, education and health care systems in regional and broader societal contexts.
Competencies
Upon completion of the DNP – Post-MSN program, graduates should be able to:
- Critically evaluate and synthesize scientific literature to guide evidence-based practice and health system redesign.
- Design, implement and assess rigorous practice improvement projects that reflect ethical principles and scholarly rigor.
- Demonstrate advanced leadership in clinical, policy or organizational contexts to influence care quality and health outcomes.
- Employ health informatics, epidemiology and biostatistics to analyze complex data and drive system-level decision-making.
- Advocate effectively for health policy development and reform using scholarly and ethical reasoning.
- Contribute to the scholarly community through dissemination of findings in peer-reviewed forums, interprofessional collaboration and teaching.
Vision
To lead a bold new era in nursing.
Mission
To transform health care through education, practice and research.
Values
At the core of our program, we are guided by a commitment to the following values that drive our mission:
- Compassion: We act with kindness, empathy and dignity.
- Collaboration: We achieve common goals through teamwork and partnerships.
- Innovation: We drive transformation by embracing new ideas, discoveries and practices.
- Integrity: We do the right thing and commit to accountability in words, actions and use of resources.
- Respect: We value everyone and their many perspectives to build trust and a sense of belonging.
Stories worth sharing
Hear from DNP students whose journeys highlight support, transformation and leadership in nursing.
Accreditation & Recognition
Fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), our online DNP program empowers graduates to pursue national certification and licensure, preparing them to become competent leaders in advanced nursing practice.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice programs at the Medical University of South Carolina are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. CCNE accreditation means that our program meets or exceeds established standards for a professional program leading to the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.