CSUSB to launch Doctor of Nursing Practice program

California State University, San Bernardino has announced the launch of a new Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program starting this fall. This program will expand advanced nursing education opportunities and addressing a critical shortage of primary care providers across the Inland Empire.

The program is designed to prepare registered nurses with bachelor of science in nursing degrees (BSN) for family nurse practitioner certification and for the highest level of professional nursing practice. Applications are currently being accepted for the inaugural cohort, which will serve as a pilot year for the program.

“The vision behind CSUSB’s DNP program is to prepare practice-ready, doctoral-level family nurse practitioners who are equipped to lead, innovate and provide high-quality, holistic primary care,” said Renee Chastain, professor of nursing and founding director of the DNP program. “This is a rigorous BSN-to-DNP program designed to prepare registered nurses for family nurse practitioner (FNP) certification and to assume the highest levels of professional practice upon graduation.”

An FNP is an advanced practice nurse who provides primary care for patients of all ages, including diagnosing illnesses, prescribing medications and managing ongoing health conditions. The DNP is the highest clinical degree in nursing, preparing nurse practitioners not only for advanced patient care, but also for leadership and improving health systems.

The initial cohort will include up to 16 students, with future cohorts expanding to as many as 24. As a new program, the first year will serve as a pilot period before the university becomes eligible to apply for accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

As the program grows, the Department of Nursing will also be recruiting additional faculty to support instruction, clinical placements and student mentorship.