DNP- Executive Health Systems Leadership
Overview
A DNP in Executive Health Systems Leadership (EHSL) focuses on leadership development, specifically for nurses across complex health and educational organizations. The DNP in EHSL has been explicitly developed to disseminate knowledge of the inner workings of healthcare systems, helping nurses advance their careers in administration and leadership through achieving learning outcomes involving human resources, finance, governance, law, business and policy change. Graduates of this DNP will be well-positioned to practice in a range of multifaceted clinical, organizational and educational systems. They will also be able to influence changes in healthcare outcomes through evidence-based decision-making and system redesign. Graduates from our EHSL track are equipped to practice in a wide variety of roles and settings, including Chief Nursing Officer, Nurse Education/Policy, Executive Director, Nursing Managerial Positions, University/College Faculty.
As part of the program, students will have the opportunity to explore executive coaching and executive internships to gain real-world experience.
Our EHSL students are prepared to:
- Serve in senior leadership roles
- Influence positive financial fitness in healthcare settings
- Increase patient safety
- Mitigate organizational risks
- Lead positive changes in workplace environments
- Strategic planning
- Lead evidence-based practice changes
- Lead policy change
- Improve healthcare outcomes
- Influence and create paths for workforce development
- Human Resource administration
How to Apply:
Application Window
New cohorts are accepted each fall semester. The application for the fall 2027 semester will open December 1, 2026. The deadline for all application materials to be submitted will be April 1, 2027.
Complete the Florida State University Graduate Application. Upload all required admissions documents to the application.
Florida State University Graduate Application
Application Requirements
1. MSN degree from a nationally accredited program with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher; or a BSN with a master’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum grade point average of 3.0. Master’s degrees will be evaluated on an individual basis for relevancy and accreditation.
2. Submit proof of clinical hours completed for the MSN program (Send summary of clinical hours from Typhon or contact the institution that awarded the MSN and have them email a letter to the College of Nursing stating the total of clinical hours completed for the program)
3. Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
4. Unencumbered and unrestricted RN license.
5. Three (3) letters of recommendation.
6. Current CV or resume.
For more information on the Graduate application process, contact Student Services at grad-info@nursing.fsu.edu
For information regarding Tuition and fees, visit https://tuition.fsu.edu/
Expected Costs
| All DNP Program Costs | ||
|---|---|---|
| COMPLIO | $154 | |
| Typhon | $90 | |
| Books | $750 | |
| EHSL Track | In-State | Out of State |
| Tuition for EHSL Track | $444.26 (per credit hour) | $1,075.66 (per credit hour) |
Curriculum
The DNP Role
Our DNP program prepares students for progressive, executive nursing leadership roles. The DNP program’s academic (didactic) curriculum and required clinical hours provide each student with a solid foundation to become a leader within the nursing profession. Each student will have the opportunity to work with faculty who are nationally recognized for their clinical practice and research. Additionally, students will gain experience within organizations with expert preceptors.
The Executive Health Systems Leadership DNP track is a fully online, part-time program for experienced nurses with an MSN or qualifying master’s degree and/or a BSN. The program begins each fall and spring and spans six semesters (entry with MSN) and eight semesters (entry with BSN).
- DNP Roles in Healthcare
- Executive Leadership in Complex Health Systems
- Executive Practicum
- Executive Coaching
- Organizational Change: Quality and Safety
- Employment Law
- Methods for Evidence-Based Practice
- Finance, Economics, and Business
- Medical Malpractice Law
- Executive Coaching
- Health Policy and Ethics
- DNP Project planning, application and implementation
- Executive Practicum and Final Immersion
Students may request an extended program if needed, allowing for a lighter course load each semester. This is subject to approval by the track coordinator and course availability.
In addition to the coursework above, students may consider adding a certificate in Health Law and Policy to their plan of study. Applications will be submitted to the FSU College of Law. More information can be found on their website here: https://law.fsu.edu/healthlawcertificate
