Cover Photo Image

To be considered for admission to the DNP program prospective students must:

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing from a nationally accredited institution with a minimum 3.2 undergraduate studies GPA.
  • Submit an official transcript from each institution attended.
  • Hold a current unrestricted Virginia RN license or an RN license from a compact state.
  • Meet the school’s technical standards for admission.
  • Provide a current resume or curriculum vitae.
  • Complete an interview upon request.
  • Complete health documentation and CPR certification.
  • For international students, you will need to pass the CGFNS Exam (both parts), apply for Virginia R.N. License, and have either: an IELTS score of 7, Duoling score of 105, or TOEFL score of 80 or higher. Contact program director for more information. Additional documentation will be required upon admission.

Licensure/Certification For the Advanced Practiced Practice BSN-DNP

This program meets the educational requirements for licensure or certification in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Please refer to the JMU Professional Licensure Program Status by Jurisdiction Index to determine if this JMU program meets the educational requirements specified by the associated licensing or certification agency in the state or territory in which you are located while enrolled. You can also determine if the program meets the educational requirements specified by the licensing boards in other states and territories. Requirements vary by state and are subject to change. The information provided is current as of the review date indicated in the table.

Criminal Background & Sexual Offender Checks

The JMU School of Nursing Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs are graduate-level, clinical programs. Based on Code of Virginia § 23.1-407.1 (https://law.justia.com/codes/virginia/2020/title-23-1/chapter-4/section-23-1-407-1/), the James Madison University School of Nursing (SON) Program will not deny admission to any applicant solely on the basis of criminal history. However, for any applicant who has been admitted, but not yet enrolled, the Graduate Programs may inquire about the applicant’s criminal history. The Graduate Program may then withdraw an offer of admission to anyone whom James Madison University determines has a criminal history that poses a threat to the institution’s community. Therefore, for individuals admitted to the JMU SON Graduate Programs:

  • It is required that a criminal background and sexual offender check be completed.
  • These must be completed prior to enrollment. Additional checks may be required later in the Program, just prior to the start of fieldwork.
  •  The student must comply with these additional checks in order to remain a student in good standing within the Program and before clinical placement can take place.
  • The cost of these background checks will be the sole responsibility of the student.

It is imperative for prospective students to understand that depending on the information appearing on the criminal history record, it is possible that the student may not be able to participate in a clinical site practicum, which will prevent progression in the program. Students may seek placement at alternative sites; however, it is possible that program completion would be in jeopardy if all fieldwork cannot be completed.

Back to Top