Application Evaluation Criteria

Evaluation criteria include previous academic and scholarly work, professional experience, professional references, and a professional goal statement and its relationship to both the mission of the School of Nursing and the area of scholarly inquiry focus. Professional references will be reviewed, and an interview may be required.

Applications will open June 1 and are due October 1.

The Two-Part Application Process

1. Apply to The Graduate School
2. Apply to NURSINGCAS
   • Submit all required documents.
   • DO NOT submit these within the JMU Graduate School application.

Required Documents to be submitted in application process

• Certification
• CV/Resume
• License
• Personal Statement (APA Format, 500 words or less):
  1. Why you are choosing this particular program of study;
  2. Your plans upon completion of the doctoral degree; and,
  3. How your work and life experiences will enhance your success in this DNP Program.
• References
• Letters of Recommendation. Strong professional references from two persons are required: one (1) academic reference and one (1) from a current clinical supervisor. Reference should be current, from within the last two (2) years. Reference contact information is entered in the CAS application system. An email request will automatically be sent to the referrer on your behalf.
• Provide official transcripts from all post-secondary schools where college credit was earned, not just degree-granting institutions.
• Please DO NOT submit these required documents within the JMU Graduate School application.
• Applicants are responsible for ensuring all documents, including professional recommendations, have been submitted.
• All applicants are encouraged to submit their applications to NursingCAS at least 4 weeks prior to the deadline listed or the desired enrollment period, as it can take up to 4-6 weeks for NursingCAS to receive and verify applicant transcripts. Please do not wait on transcripts to be received by NursingCAS before submitting your application. This will help to ensure that your application is reviewed in a timely manner.