Are you a registered nurse in Maryland looking to advance your career and specialize in acute care? Becoming an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) is a rewarding path that allows you to provide expert care to patients with complex and critical conditions. Maryland offers excellent opportunities for nurses seeking to pursue this advanced practice role through Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. This guide will walk you through the essential aspects of DNP programs at the University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON), focusing on admission requirements and what you need to know to apply.
DNP Program Admissions at the University of Maryland School of Nursing
The University of Maryland School of Nursing is a leading institution offering comprehensive DNP programs designed to prepare nurses for advanced practice roles, potentially including specializations relevant to acute care settings. While specific acute care nurse practitioner programs might have dedicated tracks or concentrations within the DNP framework, understanding the general admission process is the first crucial step.
UMSON’s DNP program has different admission timelines depending on the specialty. It’s important to note that while the original document mentions summer admission for Nurse Anesthesia, all other specialties, including those relevant to acute care, typically admit students for the fall semester.
Key Deadlines for Fall 2025 Admission
To ensure your application receives full consideration, especially for merit-based scholarships, be aware of these important deadlines for Fall 2025 entry:
| Fall 2025 Timeline |
|---|
| Priority Deadline & Scholarship Consideration: |
| Final Deadline: |
If a deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, applications are accepted until the next business day.
It’s highly recommended to aim for the priority deadline of November 1, 2024, to maximize your chances for scholarship consideration and ensure your application is reviewed early in the admission cycle.
Essential Qualifications for DNP Admission
To be eligible for the DNP program at UMSON, you must meet the following minimum qualifications:
- Nursing Bachelor’s Degree: You must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution. Acceptable accreditations include:
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), formerly known as NLNAC
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA)
- Equivalent degrees from recognized foreign institutions are also considered.
- GPA Requirement: A minimum undergraduate cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is required.
Work experience requirements may vary depending on the specific DNP specialty track. For details on work experience, you should consult the specific DNP specialty page on the UMSON website, particularly if you are interested in acute care related specializations.
Required Application Materials and Submission Guidelines
A complete application package includes the following materials, all submitted through the UMSON Admissions Dashboard:
| Materials | Submission Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Online Application & Application Fee: | Submit your application and a non-refundable $75 fee through the Admissions Dashboard. This portal is also used for submitting documents and checking your application status. |
| Recommendations: | Two recommendations are required from individuals knowledgeable about your professional work and abilities. Submit recommendation requests via the Admissions Dashboard. Only the first two received recommendations will be reviewed. |
| Essay: | A concise essay (maximum 350 words) is required. Prepare your essay using word processing software and then copy and paste it into the online application. The essay prompt is: How will earning this degree (or postdoctoral certificate) impact your care of the population you expect to serve after graduation? |
| Résumé or CV: | Submit a typed résumé or curriculum vitae, ensuring your full name is included. |
| RN License: | Provide a copy of your current, valid, and unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the United States. For Maryland licenses, you can submit a printable verification from the Maryland Board of Nursing website. |
| Official Transcripts: | Official transcripts are required from every college or university you have attended. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution in a sealed envelope or electronically to [email protected]. Returning UMSON students do not need to resubmit UMSON transcripts. |
| Residency Classification (Maryland Residents): | Applicants claiming Maryland residency for tuition purposes must complete a residency application and submit it to the Office of the Registrar as instructed on the application form. |
After the initial review of your application, selected candidates may be invited for an on-campus interview. Not all applicants will be granted an interview.
Information for Applicants Without U.S. Degrees
If you do not hold a degree from a U.S. high school or university, you may need to demonstrate English proficiency. Additionally, if you have completed coursework outside of the United States, transcript evaluation may be required. More details can be found on the International Students information page.
Please note that the DNP program at UMSON may not be eligible for F-1 or J-1 student visa sponsorship due to online course components.
For any questions regarding admission requirements or the application process, it is recommended to contact the Office of Admissions and Student Scholarships directly to ensure your application process is smooth and accurate.
Embarking on an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program in Maryland, especially through the DNP pathway at the University of Maryland School of Nursing, is a significant step in advancing your nursing career. By understanding these admission requirements and deadlines, you can prepare a strong application and move closer to achieving your goals in acute care nursing.
