UK College of Nursing's DNP Program Makes History, Ranks in Top 5 Among Public Universities
The University of Kentucky College of Nursing's Doctor of Nursing Practice program continues to make history, jumping 21 spots to achieve its highest national ranking since being established as the country's first-ever DNP program in 2001.
In the 2022 edition of the U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Graduate Schools," the UK College of Nursing DNP program is ranked 9th overall, up from 30th in 2021, and 4th among public universities, up from 18th in 2021.
"In the past year, the need for nurses and advanced practice nurses has become abundantly clear," said UK College of Nursing Dean Janie Heath, PhD, APRN-BC, FAAN, FNAP, FAANP. "I am extremely proud of our DNP program's faculty and staff who, even amidst a worldwide pandemic, have fostered a top-rated learning environment where our graduate students can gain unparalleled training and experience that will prepare them to become outstanding future nurse leaders. Thank you to Associate Dean of MSN & DNP Faculty Affairs Sheila Melander, PhD, APRN, ACNP-BC, FCCM, FAANP, FAAN, and Assistant Dean of MSN & DNP Programs Debbie Hampton, PhD, MSN, RN, FACHE, NEA-BC, CENP, for their exemplary leadership in developing our DNP program, as well as all of the many distinguished faculty and staff members who have contributed to the program's success."
In the last three years, the UK College of Nursing's DNP program has steadily risen in the national ranks. In the U.S. News and World Report's America's Best Graduate Schools 2021 rankings, the program placed 30th overall and in the 2020 rankings, the program placed 35th overall.
"While rankings and recognition are beneficial in measuring a program's success, we also know that they are not the most important factor," said Dean Heath. "The true achievements of our DNP program and all of the College's programs are reflected in our graduates' service, care, and research that improves the health and wellness of any individual life. As a leading institution, the UK College of Nursing will remain dedicated to transforming the health and well-being of individuals and communities by educating and training the next great generation of nurse clinicians, researchers and leaders."
Learn more about the UK College of Nursing's DNP program.
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