Doctor of Nursing Practice Program at Gardner-Webb Equips Nurses for Advance Practice Roles

Three Options Prepare Nurses to Implement Best-Practice Approaches for Highest Level of Care

By Avery Copeland, Intern for University Communications

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers transformative learning experiences for nurses seeking advance practice roles in healthcare. Taught through a Christian lens, this program is dedicated to improving patient care and making a meaningful impact on the industry by integrating Christian principles into medical practice.

The DNP offers three program options for Registered Nurses (RNs) looking to expand their roles in the healthcare industry: Post-MSN (36 credit hours), post-BSN DNP Family Nurse Practitioner (79 credit hours), and post-BSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (81 credit hours). Additionally, a post-doctoral certificate is offered for nurses with a DNP who are looking to pursue additional certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse.

Pamela Cox, a Post-Baccalaureate DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP-PMHNP) student, emphasizes the unique difference between Gardner-Webb’s DNP and other nursing programs. “I’ve gone through so many nursing programs, and this is the one where the instructors really care about you,” Cox related. “They take patient-centered care and turn it into person-centered care. If you have things going on in your personal life, they’ll work with you.”

She likes the program’s hybrid structure, which combines online coursework with on-campus intensives held once per semester. This approach offers personalized instruction and flexibility, allowing students to easily manage their coursework alongside their personal schedule. By working closely online with classmates and instructors, Cox shared that she has built close relationships with them. The sense of community fostered during the program builds a strong network of colleagues who transition into practice. 

The curriculum is designed to integrate scientific and theoretical knowledge from nursing and other disciplines to implement best-practice approaches at the highest level of nursing. Students collaborate with intra- and inter-professional teams to advocate for change within the industry and apply inclusive, evidence-based clinical prevention and health services for diverse populations. In addition to their coursework, students in the DNP program gain practicum experience in healthcare and educational settings, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.

“This program fills the gaps and hones your personal strengths while equipping you with new skills that you can now apply as a practitioner,” Cox commented. “And I think that’s the best way to utilize them.”

Join Gardner-Webb’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program to enhance your skills and make a lasting impact on the healthcare industry.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.

Avery Copeland, of Atlanta, Ga., is a senior English major.