NURSING SCIENCE

FAQs

Find information about the DNS Program by clicking on the links below.

What is the DNS?

The DNS is the degree of Doctor of Nursing Science. It is a RESEARCH not a practice degree for post masters level nurses. Candidates for the DNS must write a dissertation.

How does the DNS degree differ from the PhD?

Both are research doctorates, concerned with theory testing. However, the DNS is focused on testing theory specifically related to nursing sensitive patient outcomes.

What will the DNS prepare me to do?

The DNS will prepare you to conduct research focused on nursing sensitive patient outcomes in many settings. In addition, those who have earned a DNS degree are eligible to hold positions in academia.

What are the admissions criteria for the CUNY DNS Program?

How long is the DNS program?

The program coursework and dissertation seminar are designed to be completed in a 6 semester period. Additional 3-credit semesters of dissertation seminar may be necessary until the dissertation is completed. The DNS will take four years to complete.

How many credits is the DNS program?

The coursework is 48 credits. Additional dissertation seminar credits may be necessary.

Can I go part time?

No. The DNS program was designed to be a full-time (9 credit) cohort program. Students are admitted once per year each Fall semester and progress through the program together.

Where and when are the DNS classes held?

Classes will be held at The Graduate Center of CUNY on Fridays from 9:30 am until 3:30 pm.

What if I have not taken a graduate-level statistics course?

Please speak with the program adviser concerning options.

What is The Graduate Center Tuition?

Please Note: All fees and tuition charges are subject to change by action of the Board of Trustees of The City University of New York without prior notice.

Are there any tuition benefits if I am a full-time CUNY faculty member or a CUNY adjunct?

Full-time CUNY faculty members and CUNY adjuncts should contact their home colleges to see if they are eligible for tuition-waivers.

When will I reach Level 2?

Once 18 credits of coursework at The Graduate Center are completed, students will take the First Examination. Students will be advanced to Level 2 after successful completion of the First Examination and 45 credits of coursework.

What is the First Examination?

The First Examination is administered after 18 credits of doctoral study have been completed. It is a written examination that consists of essay questions representing core content in nursing science and nursing knowledge, measurement, health disparities and policy initiatives. If the First Examination is not passed the first time, the student must pass the retest administered during the following semester. The student must pass the retest in order to remain in the program.

What is the Second Examination?

The Second Examination is a two-part examination. Part one consists of a written preliminary research proposal. Part two consists of an oral presentation of the written research proposal and response to questions posed by the Examination Committee.

What are the graduation requirements?

Satisfactory completion of the following:

48 credits in the DNS Program
First examination
Second examination
The dissertation

What about financial aid?

I'm an international student. What do I need to know about applying to the program?

Translations and evaluation of transcripts from colleges outside the U.S. must be completed early in the application process. The Office of International Students at the Graduate Center collects the documents and issues the I-20. Please refer to the graduate catalog or graduate application for more detailed information.