Trial by Fire: Implementing a DNP MPH Dual Degree Program

background: The shortage of highly prepared nursing providers, faculty, and researchers is an obstacle to advancing the nursing profession and improving the delivery of care across settings. The evidence is clear for increasing the size and capabilities of the advanced Public Health Nursing workforce nationwide. Lacking roadmaps and models,  implementation of a dual degree DNP/MPH program posed many challenges.

description: The University of Colorado College of Nursing and Colorado School of Public Health offer a HRSA-funded post-baccalaureate DNP/MPH program that addresses program objectives for interprofessional education, MPH and PHN competencies, and the DNP Essentials. To date, 14 students have matriculated into the dual degree program.

lessons learned: Build It and They Will Come- The program appeals to nurses of varied educational backgrounds and work experiences. Options were created to assure grounding in public health nursing and sufficient pre-doctoral supervised practica required for the DNP.

The Times They Are a Changin’- Program development occurred amidst institutional leadership changes, and conversion of Public Health courses to online format facilitated by grant funding. The DNP program plan was strengthened by MPH courses in health policy, economics, systems management, and program evaluation.

Romancing the Capstone- Nursing faculty expanded the DNP capstone options to include public health program development and evaluation as well as quality improvement projects.

implications: A dual degree nursing curriculum that meets program and discipline competencies may be developed in interprofessional partnerships. External funding resources are enormously helpful to maintain engagement in the predictable multiple iterations of agreements and program plans.