How to guide students through a DNP project: A practical guide for faculty

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Doctoral Studies

Background:

• Increasing enrollment in Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs necessitates more faculty DNP project chairs.
• Some faculty report discomfort or lack of confidence in guiding DNP students through project completion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide faculty with an adaptable template for effectively guiding Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students through their DNP projects.
• To enhance faculty confidence and competence in DNP project mentorship.

Main Methods:

• Guidance on identifying practice problems, developing projects, data collection/evaluation, and dissemination.
• Examples from a leading DNP program, including a comprehensive guide, chair toolkit, and flowchart tutorial.

Main Results:

• The article offers practical strategies and tools for faculty DNP project chairs.
• Examples illustrate key steps in the DNP project lifecycle.

Conclusions:

• Nursing schools can adapt this information to create effective DNP program guides.
• This resource supports the development of robust faculty mentorship for DNP students.