Columbia Nursing Launches New DNP in Systems Leadership
Columbia University School of Nursing has launched a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Systems Leadership program to prepare the next generation of healthcare leaders as they face an increasingly complex healthcare environment. Spanning three years, the online program prepares advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) and non-APRN students to drive meaningful change across healthcare systems, academic settings, and policy environments.
This program has two specialty concentrations: one in human-centered artificial intelligence and informatics, the other in nursing education. Students who enroll in either specialty will build competencies in executive-level systems leadership and organizational transformation, quality improvement, and patient safety; evidence-based practice and implementation science; health policy and advocacy; and data-driven strategic decision making. Additionally, the program acts a pathway for students in the online Master’s in Advanced Clinical Management and Leadership (ACML) program to transition to doctoral-level study.
The DNP in Systems Leadership program is designed to provide the flexibility that working professionals need. Students can complete their clinical practicum in their home state, learning to address real-world healthcare challenges through practice. Graduates will be able to serve as healthcare executives; directors of quality, safety, and innovation; academic faculty or program leaders; health policy and systems strategists; and informatics and digital health leaders.
“Columbia Nursing has long been a leader in nursing education, driven by its nationally recognized faculty and innovative curriculum. Through this program, graduates will strengthen their decision-making skills and develop a deeper understanding of large, complex health systems at the macro level. They will also gain advanced data modeling and analytics expertise to support evidence-based decisions and help lead teams in addressing critical care management challenges that improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery,“ says assistant professor Heidi Hahn-Schroeder, DNP.
Meet Students in the Inaugural Cohort
The program has already attracted an inaugural cohort of nurses seeking to expand their leadership capacity and drive change across healthcare settings.
Ashley Caceres, ACML ‘23
“I am excited to return to my alma mater, Columbia Nursing, to begin my Doctorate in Systems Leadership as part of its inaugural cohort. I look forward to this next chapter and the opportunity to broaden my impact within organizations and across the healthcare landscape.”
Arianna Dinelli, ACML ‘21
“I started a new chapter, the Doctor of Nursing Practice program in Systems Leadership at Columbia Nursing, which I’m approaching with gratitude, humility, and enthusiasm for all there is still to learn.”
Erin Testerman-Mitra, ACML ‘23, clinical instructor
“I have considered so many different paths recently, but the only one that gave me true peace was going back to school and working towards a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. When Columbia Nursing launched its DNP in Systems Leadership program with the option of a nursing education focus, I knew I had to apply. Getting my letter of acceptance was a moment of healing. I thank God for this opportunity and look forward to working with my classmates to help build a better world.”
To learn more about the program requirements and admissions deadlines, please visit this page.