The DNP is a practice-oriented doctorate, such as the Doctor of Pharmacy, Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Optometry, or Doctor of Physical Therapy, in contrast to the research-oriented PhD. The purposes of the DNP are to develop advanced competencies for increasingly complex practice, faculty, and leadership roles in nursing and to provide an advanced educational credential for those in advanced practice.
All programs begin every Fall semester (August). The application filing period is from October to March.
Applications for Fall 2026 will begin October 1, 2025
Priority Application Deadline: January 15, 2026
Applications received by the priority deadline will be given priority review and consideration.
Final Application Deadline: March 15, 2026
Applications received after the priority deadline may be considered on a space-available basis.
We strongly encourage interested applicants to apply by the priority application deadline.
Application website: Cal State Apply
Application information and requirements
NOTE: If selected after a review of the application, the applicant will receive a faculty panel interview and complete a proctored writing evaluation (scheduled by the faculty).
Elizabeth Winokur, Ph.D., RN, CEN
[email protected]