Augusta University DNP-PNP Program: 2026 Admissions and Career Path

The Augusta University College of Nursing has set a June 15, 2026, application deadline for its Doctor of Nursing Practice – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (DNP-PNP) concentration. As the first program of its kind in Georgia, this doctoral-level pathway prepares advanced practice nurses for clinical and leadership roles in pediatric healthcare.

Program Overview and Admission Requirements

The DNP-PNP concentration at Augusta University focuses on the primary health care of children from birth through young adult. According to the university, the curriculum provides students with the clinical, policy, and leadership expertise necessary to improve health outcomes for children and their families.

The program offers both full-time and part-time schedules to accommodate working professionals. Prospective students should note that residency requirements apply: applicants must reside in either Georgia or South Carolina to participate, a policy driven by the need for instructors to visit students, their preceptors, and their clinical sites. Applications submitted after the June 15 deadline are considered only on a space-available basis.

Accreditation and Professional Outcomes

The Augusta University College of Nursing DNP program holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Graduates are prepared to seek certification as an APRN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and licensure as an APRN.

Regarding student success, the university reports that graduates achieved a 100% board pass rate for four out of the last five years. Upon completion of the program, graduates may sit for certification exams in Georgia and other states, as outlined by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

How the Program Compares

Choosing the right path for advanced pediatric nursing requires evaluating tuition, flexibility, and clinical support. For those considering options within the state, here is how the Augusta University DNP-PNP pathway compares to other common models:

| Institution | Program Format | Focus Area |
| :— | :— | :— |
| Augusta University | Hybrid | Affordable doctoral preparation |
| Emory University | Online + Intensives | Elite clinical networks |
| Maryville University | 100% Online | Maximum flexibility |
| Georgia State University | Web-enhanced hybrid | Value-focused MSN pathway |

While programs like Maryville University offer fully online formats without campus visits, Augusta University’s hybrid model emphasizes local clinical placement coordination within Georgia and South Carolina.

Why the DNP-PNP Path Matters

Advanced nursing education is increasingly focused on solving complex health care problems within systems. By earning a DNP, nurses transition from standard clinical practice into expert nurse leadership roles. This shift allows practitioners to influence clinical policy and collaborate on systemic improvements in pediatric care. Whether pursuing an MSN or a DNP, nurses in Georgia have access to a variety of pathways, ranging from private university prestige to the lower-cost public options provided by institutions like Augusta University and Georgia State University.