MSN-DNP in Population Health Leadership

The MSN-DNP in Population Health Leadership program at New Mexico State University (NMSU) is designed to prepare advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in improving population health outcomes. Our program focuses on developing the skills necessary to lead interdisciplinary healthcare teams, implement evidence-based practices, and influence health policy to enhance the health and well-being of diverse populations.

The MSN-DNP in Population Health Leadership does not lead to certification or licensure, however APRNs interested in dual certification as a PMHNP or FNP can combine their doctoral education with an 18-credit post graduate APRN certificate program.

Application Deadline for  2025 Fall Cohort
May 15, 2025

Program Overview

Degree Awarded: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Program Duration: 2-3 years (full-time)
Format: Online with on-campus orientation and clinical practicum conducted in the student’s hometown
Credit Hours: 36-42 credit hours

Degree Plan   Info Sessions

Why Choose NMSU

Comprehensive Curriculum

Our curriculum integrates advanced nursing practice with leadership, policy, and population health. Courses cover topics such as quality improvement, health informatics, health policy, and healthcare finance. Clinical practicum experiences focus on leadership development and execution of a quality improvement project.

Distance Education

Although many of our students live in southern New Mexico, our distance education format allows nurses to earn their DNP degree in their hometown while continuing to practice. Information eligibility for distance education by state please refer to the School of Nursing’s Distance Education State Authorization Information website.

Expert Faculty

Learn from experienced faculty members who are leaders in the field of population health and advanced nursing practice. Our faculty are dedicated to providing personalized mentorship and support throughout your academic journey.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

We embrace diversity and strive to create an inclusive learning environment where all students feel valued and respected. Join a supportive community that celebrates diversity and prepares you to provide culturally competent care to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through partnerships with underserved communities and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), students can gain firsthand experience in addressing issues in healthcare systems that deliver care to diverse populations.

Flexible Learning

Designed for working professionals, our online format allows you to balance your studies with your professional and personal responsibilities. Didactic courses are delivered in a flexible, mostly asynchronous format.

Career Advancement

Graduates of our program are equipped to take on leadership roles in a variety of settings, including healthcare organizations, government agencies, non-profits, and academic institutions.

 

Curriculum Highlights

  • Population and Environmental Health: Explore the distribution and determinants of health and disease, and learn to design, implement, and evaluate interventions aimed at improving the health of specific populations, using data-driven approaches.
  • Healthcare Policy and Advocacy: Understand the impact of health policy on population health and develop strategies to advocate for policy changes that promote health equity.
  • Leadership in Healthcare Systems: Develop the leadership skills needed to manage and transform healthcare systems, with a focus on quality improvement and patient outcomes.

Embark on a transformative journey into the field of population health leadership with the MSN-DNP program at the NMSU School of Nursing. Apply today and take the first step toward advancing your career as nurse leader and change agent!

 

How To Apply

Ready to take the next step in your nursing career? To apply you must complete the following:

  • Apply to the DNP Program through the NMSU Graduate School (here) and select ‘NMSU Global Campus’ to find the MSN-DNP program.
  • Upload the following documents:
    • Current CV/resume.
    • RN license or APRN license and certification
    • Unofficial transcripts from nursing programs/degrees
    • A letter of intent specifying career goals and a clear statement of how the DNP will advance the applicant’s career
    • A two to four (2-4) page paper (double spaced, 12 pt font) describing an example of a common problem in clinical practice that, if changed, could improve patient outcomes, population health outcomes, and/or healthcare delivery in your specialty area. This problem could be the basis for the DNP Project. Please use APA format and cite references.
    • Names and contact information for three (3) references from colleagues in clinical practice
  • Official transcripts from all prior college and universities (1 set from each) attended sent directly to the School of Nursing at: nursing@nmsu.edu or rcastro@nmsu.edu. You need official transcripts submitted before the end of the first semester.
  • After an initial review of applications, selected applicants will be invited to attend an interview with faculty (on campus or via videoconferencing)

MSN-DNP Admission Criteria 

  • Successful admission to the NMSU Graduate School
  • Masters degree in Nursing from a nationally accredited nursing program with a minimum nursing GPA of 3.0 or better
  • Current unencumbered RN or APRN license from one of the 50 U.S. States or Territories
  • Undergraduate or graduate level statistics course
  • Admission to the DNP Program is a competitive process based on the components of the application and interview
  • Students are required to obtain official documentation or letter from the MSN or DNP program that they attended clearly denoting the total number of clinical hours completed
  • Must sign a commitment to enroll as well as attend a 2-day program on-campus orientation at the start of the fall semester.

 

Contact Us

Our graduate advisors are here to assist you with any questions you may have. For more information about the MSN-DNP in Population Health Leadership program, please contact:

Anthony Castro, SON Graduate Advisor