Can I gain certification as an advance practice nurse while being a student in the DNP Program?
The DNP Program is considered a post-master’s program. Therefore, you must demonstrate evidence of advance practice certification in nurse anesthesia or nurse practitioner if applying for one of these tracks. Consideration for the Executive Leadership track does not require prior certification because this is not considered an advance practice nurse role according to CCNE (nurse anesthesia, nurse practitioner, midwifery, and clinical nurse specialist are considered advance practice roles) or the Tennessee Board of Nursing.
