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The Idaho State Board of Education on Thursday approved a new online doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree program at Boise State University. The program is aimed at nurses who are seeking a terminal degree in nursing that is an alternative to a research-focused Ph.D. The program starts in August 2013.

Boise State’s ninth doctoral program will prepare more nurses to assume leadership responsibilities in education and the clinical work force, and is self-supporting. Entry into the program will require a current registered nurse (RN) license, a bachelor’s degree in nursing with a master’s degree in a related field, or a master’s degree in nursing.

Boise State has forged a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Idaho State University that outlines how graduate education at the two schools can benefit Idaho. The agreement includes a new doctorate in nursing at ISU that will focus on direct care advanced practice nursing.

“We are pleased to work with ISU to coordinate offerings to ensure we can deliver a variety of graduate nursing programs to citizens in Idaho,” said Pam Springer, associate dean of the College of Health Sciences and director of the School of Nursing.

Boise State’s DNP builds upon the content of the School of Nursing’s existing master of nursing and master of science in nursing programs. The doctorate is a part-time program consisting of 40 credits earned over eight semesters. Fifteen students per year will be admitted.

Boise State will continue to work closely with local hospitals and other health care providers, who partner with the university to offer clinical placements for students and faculty assistance. In addition to educating nurse leaders, the new doctorate will assure a strong pool of talented leaders that will benefit local health care organizations for many years to come.