University launches online doctoral program for nursing executives

University launches online doctoral program for nursing executives

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of nurses is expected to grow by 22 percent over the next eight years, which is more than double the national average rate for all other occupations. During this time, researchers expect that more than 581,500 new jobs will be created, and that hundreds of thousands of job openings will result from the need to replace nurses who are retiring.

In order to meet the growing demand for professionals in this field, many colleges are expanding their healthcare degree programs. For example, American Sentinel University recently announced that it will offer an online doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree in executive leadership. The program consists of a flexible online format, eight-week courses, two-week breaks, a bridge program for students who hold non-nursing masters degrees and two 10-day residencies.

The DNP was designed to educate nurse executives on complex, highly-computerized health systems.

"We are excited to introduce a degree program that has been noticeably missing in the healthcare marketplace – a DNP for executive nurses who want to specialize in practical leadership skills," said Catherine Garner, provost and dean of health sciences and nursing at American Sentinel University.

The 43-credit program is open to nurses who have at least three years of executive experience and a masters degree.

Last year, registered nurses held about 2.6 million jobs, the BLS reports.

By Mark Danson