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PhD in Nursing

Admissions

How long does the PhD in Nursing program take to complete?

Note: The length of time listed is based on the total amount of required courses for each program. An analysis of previous coursework may shorten total length of time to complete.

Course length is 15 weeks, and the PhD in Nursing takes 17 courses / 9 terms/ 3 years (on average — depending on dissertation)

Are the GRE or GMAT required to enter the online nursing programs?

No, there are no GRE or GMAT requirements to enroll. 

Are Wilkes/the online nursing programs accredited?

Yes, they're accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)*.

*The baccalaureate degree in nursing/master’s degree in nursing/doctor of nursing practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Wilkes University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Where can I find information on applying to Wilkes University's online nursing programs?

Information can be found on our Get Started page, and by completing the form at the top of the page. Or, you can contact an admissions counselor by emailing us at admissions@onlinenursingdegrees.wilkes.edu, calling us at  888-413-5633 , or scheduling a time to chat. .

Financial Aid

Is financial aid available to online nursing students?

Yes, financial aid is available to qualifying nursing students. Please fill out a form or schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor to learn if you qualify for financial assistance. You can also give us a call at  888-413-5633 . We're happy to help! 

Tuition

How much does the PhD in Nursing program cost?

Note: Tuition listed is based on the number of required courses for each program. An analysis of previous coursework may allow for fewer courses and a lower net cost, when applicable. A review of official transcripts will determine a student’s course of study.

Tuition totals presented are maximum amount.

Tuition for the PhD in Nursing program: $48,175

Other

Are Wilkes’ online nursing programs accredited?

Yes. They’re accredited by the CCNE*. 

*The baccalaureate degree in nursing/master’s degree in nursing/doctor of nursing practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Wilkes University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Are the classes 100% online?

All coursework is 100% online. Each course experience is primarily asynchronous. 

RN to MSN

Admissions

How does the nursing clinical placement process work?

We do the heavy lifting for you. For more information on the nursing clinical placement process, visit our Clinical Placement Services page, access your free program guide , or email us at admissions@onlinenursingdegrees.wilkes.edu. You can also call us directly at  888-413-5633 or schedule a time to speak with us

How long does the RN to MSN program take to complete?

Note: The length of time listed is based on the total amount of required courses for each program. An analysis of previous coursework may shorten total length of time to complete.
Course length is 15 weeks, and each program varies. 

Associate Degree in Nursing (RN) to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) — Nurse Practitioner program:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration: 19 courses / 9 terms / 3 years
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) concentration: 17 courses / 8 terms / 2.6 years
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) concentration: 18 courses / 9 terms / 3 years
Are Wilkes/the online nursing programs accredited?

Yes, they're accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)*.

*The baccalaureate degree in nursing/master’s degree in nursing/doctor of nursing practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Wilkes University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Where can I find information on applying to Wilkes University's online nursing programs?

Information can be found on our Get Started page, and by completing the form at the top of the page. Or, you can contact an admissions counselor by emailing us at admissions@onlinenursingdegrees.wilkes.edu, calling us at  888-413-5633 , or scheduling a time to chat. .

Are the GRE or GMAT required to enter the online nursing programs?

No, there are no GRE or GMAT requirements to enroll. 

Financial Aid

Is financial aid available to online nursing students?

Yes, financial aid is available to qualifying nursing students. Please fill out a form or schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor to learn if you qualify for financial assistance. You can also give us a call at  888-413-5633 . We're happy to help! 

Tuition

How much does the RN to MSN program cost?

Note: Tuition listed is based on the number of required courses for each program. An analysis of previous coursework may allow for fewer courses and a lower net cost, when applicable.
Each program is different but highly competitive. A review of official transcripts will determine a student’s course of study.

Associate Degree in Nursing (RN) to Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) — Nurse Practitioner program

Tuition totals presented are maximum amounts not including fees.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration: $39,366
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) concentration: $37,179
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) concentration: $38,637

Other

Are the classes 100% online?

Excluding nursing clinicals, all coursework is 100% online. Each course experience is primarily asynchronous. 

Are Wilkes’ online nursing programs accredited?

Yes. They’re accredited by the CCNE*. 

*The baccalaureate degree in nursing/master’s degree in nursing/doctor of nursing practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Wilkes University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

MSN

Admissions

Are Wilkes/the online nursing programs accredited?

Yes, they're accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)*.

*The baccalaureate degree in nursing/master’s degree in nursing/doctor of nursing practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Wilkes University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Where can I find information on applying to Wilkes University's online nursing programs?

Information can be found on our Get Started page, and by completing the form at the top of the page. Or, you can contact an admissions counselor by emailing us at admissions@onlinenursingdegrees.wilkes.edu, calling us at  888-413-5633 , or scheduling a time to chat. .

Are the GRE or GMAT required to enter the online nursing programs?

No, there are no GRE or GMAT requirements to enroll. 

How does the nursing clinical placement process work?

We do the heavy lifting for you. For more information on the nursing clinical placement process, visit our Clinical Placement Services page, access your free program guide , or email us at admissions@onlinenursingdegrees.wilkes.edu. You can also call us directly at  888-413-5633 or schedule a time to speak with us

How long does the MSN program take to complete?

Note: The length of time listed is based on the total amount of required courses for each program. An analysis of previous coursework may shorten total length of time to complete.
Course length is 15 weeks, and each program varies: 

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) — Nurse Practitioner (NP) program:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration: 16 courses / 7 terms / 2.3 years
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) concentration: 14 courses / 6 terms / 2 years
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) concentration: 15 courses / 7 terms / 2.3 years

Financial Aid

Is financial aid available to online nursing students?

Yes, financial aid is available to qualifying nursing students. Please fill out a form or schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor to learn if you qualify for financial assistance. You can also give us a call at  888-413-5633 . We're happy to help! 

Tuition

How much does the MSN program cost?

Note: Tuition listed is based on the number of required courses for each program. An analysis of previous coursework may allow for fewer courses and a lower net cost, when applicable.

Each program is different but highly competitive. A review of official transcripts will determine a student’s course of study. 

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) — Nurse Practitioner (NP) program

Tuition totals presented are maximum amounts not including fees.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration: $31,347
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) concentration: $29,160
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) concentration: $30,618

Other

Are Wilkes’ online nursing programs accredited?

Yes. They’re accredited by the CCNE*. 

*The baccalaureate degree in nursing/master’s degree in nursing/doctor of nursing practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Wilkes University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Are the classes 100% online?

Excluding nursing clinicals, all coursework is 100% online. Each course experience is primarily asynchronous. 

DNP

Admissions

How long does the DNP program take to complete?

Note: The length of time listed is based on the total amount of required courses for each program. An analysis of previous coursework may shorten total length of time to complete.

Course length is 12 weeks (the last two courses are 15 weeks), and the Doctor of Nursing Practice takes 10 courses / 6 terms / 2 years

An elective practicum course is available for students entering the M.S.-D.N.P. program with less than 400 hours from their master’s degree and post graduate certificate programs. This course provides students with additional time to complete the required 1000 hours for the D.N.P. degree, prior to the start of the D.N.P. project.

Are Wilkes/the online nursing programs accredited?

Yes, they're accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)*.

*The baccalaureate degree in nursing/master’s degree in nursing/doctor of nursing practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Wilkes University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Where can I find information on applying to Wilkes University's online nursing programs?

Information can be found on our Get Started page, and by completing the form at the top of the page. Or, you can contact an admissions counselor by emailing us at admissions@onlinenursingdegrees.wilkes.edu, calling us at  888-413-5633 , or scheduling a time to chat. .

Are the GRE or GMAT required to enter the online nursing programs?

No, there are no GRE or GMAT requirements to enroll. 

Financial Aid

Is financial aid available to online nursing students?

Yes, financial aid is available to qualifying nursing students. Please fill out a form or schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor to learn if you qualify for financial assistance. You can also give us a call at  888-413-5633 . We're happy to help! 

Tuition

How much does the DNP program cost?

Note: Tuition listed is based on the number of required courses for each program. An analysis of previous coursework may allow for fewer courses and a lower net cost, when applicable. A review of official transcripts will determine a student’s course of study. 

Tuition: $21,525 - $36,900 (Tuition range presented is based on total credits. The average amount of transfer credits applied is 30.)

Other

Are the classes 100% online?

All coursework is 100% online. Each course experience is primarily asynchronous. 

Are Wilkes’ online nursing programs accredited?

Yes. They’re accredited by the CCNE*. 

*The baccalaureate degree in nursing/master’s degree in nursing/doctor of nursing practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Wilkes University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Post-Grad APRN Certificate

Admissions

How does the nursing clinical placement process work?

We do the heavy lifting for you. For more information on the nursing clinical placement process, visit our Clinical Placement Services page, access your free program guide , or email us at admissions@onlinenursingdegrees.wilkes.edu. You can also call us directly at  888-413-5633 or schedule a time to speak with us

Are Wilkes/the online nursing programs accredited?

Yes, they're accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)*.

*The baccalaureate degree in nursing/master’s degree in nursing/doctor of nursing practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Wilkes University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

How long does the post-graduate APRN certificate program take to complete?

Note: The length of time listed is based on the total amount of required courses for each program. An analysis of previous coursework may shorten total length of time to complete.
Course length is 15 weeks, and each program varies: 

Post-Graduate/APRN Certificate program:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration: 12 courses / 5 terms / 1.67 years
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) concentration:  10 courses / 4 terms / 1.3 years 
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) concentration: 11 courses / 5 terms / 1.67 years
Where can I find information on applying to Wilkes University's online nursing programs?

Information can be found on our Get Started page, and by completing the form at the top of the page. Or, you can contact an admissions counselor by emailing us at admissions@onlinenursingdegrees.wilkes.edu, calling us at  888-413-5633 , or scheduling a time to chat. .

Are the GRE or GMAT required to enter the online nursing programs?

No, there are no GRE or GMAT requirements to enroll. 

Financial Aid

Is financial aid available to online nursing students?

Yes, financial aid is available to qualifying nursing students. Please fill out a form or schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor to learn if you qualify for financial assistance. You can also give us a call at  888-413-5633 . We're happy to help! 

Tuition

How much does the post-graduate APRN certificate program cost?

Note: Tuition listed is based on the number of required courses for each program. An analysis of previous coursework may allow for fewer courses and a lower net cost, when applicable.

Each program is different but highly competitive. A review of official transcripts will determine a student’s course of study. 

Post-Graduate/APRN Certificate program

Tuition totals presented are maximum amounts not including fees.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (F.N.P.) concentration: $20,412
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (A.G.P.C.N.P.) concentration: $18,225
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (P.M.H.N.P.) concentration: $19,683

Other

Are Wilkes’ online nursing programs accredited?

Yes. They’re accredited by the CCNE*. 

*The baccalaureate degree in nursing/master’s degree in nursing/doctor of nursing practice, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Wilkes University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Are the classes 100% online?

Excluding nursing clinicals, all coursework is 100% online. Each course experience is primarily asynchronous. 

Preceptor

What are the criteria for a physician to become a preceptor?
  • Unencumbered license to practice medicine in the state where the preceptorship will take place 
  • Engaged in an active practice directly affiliated with the rotation
How are students screened?

Students must complete annual physical exams, background checks, immunization verifications, drug screenings, and OSHA and HIPAA training.

What if I change employers?

Please notify the Placement Specialist as soon as possible and have the student notify the Placement Coordinator.

What are the responsibilities of the student?
  • Reviews goals/objectives for fulfilling clinical requirements
  • Provides the preceptor with written objectives and evaluation forms for the clinical experience
  • Provides proof of nursing license, immunization status and any other documentation required by the clinical site, as necessary
  • Reviews existing agency protocols and Wilkes University protocols with preceptor
  • Documents all clinical encounters in the respective health records using a SOAP format. (Note: All entries must be co-signed by the preceptor.)
  • Arrives at a designated site on time and dressed professionally with Wilkes University student name tag
How do I handle a student nurse’s absence?

Contact the student’s Clinical Faculty Advisor immediately and follow the policy on clinical absences and make-ups in the handbook. Students are required to notify the preceptor and Clinical Faculty Advisor immediately in the case of an emergency or situation that would result in an absence.

Do preceptors get paid?

No.

What is a preceptor?

A preceptor is an experienced, licensed practitioner who provides supervision during clinical practice and facilitates the application of theory to practice for nursing students.

May I request an interview or a resume prior to agreeing to precept a student?

Yes.

What if I have a calendar conflict during the preceptorship (i.e., vacation, conference, court, jury duty, etc.)?

Please notify the student and clinical placement team so that an alternative plan may be arranged.

What is the time commitment?

The time commitment varies by course.

What are the responsibilities of the faculty?
  • Is available to discuss the clinical program requirements and objectives with the preceptor
  • Assesses the adequacy of space and appropriateness of clients for the student’s learning objectives and clinical experiences
  • Communicates with preceptor regarding the student’s conduct and progress
  • Schedules on-site visits, when deemed necessary, by the faculty, student or preceptor
What if the student is unsafe/failing to progress/not meeting expectations?

Please contact the Clinical Faculty Advisor immediately if you become concerned or notice that a student is not meeting expectations.

Will there be a university faculty contact?

Yes. All clinical rotations are associated with a specific course and Clinical Faculty Advisor.

How will I know what to focus on?

Each course has associated clinical course objectives and competencies to help guide you and the students during the preceptorship. The course objectives are outlined in the curriculum section. Contact the Clinical Faculty Advisor for any additional questions related to clinical outcomes.

What if the student asks questions for which I don’t have answers?

Contact the student’s Clinical Faculty Advisor via email or phone so that we may assist in finding the answer.

Do I have to precept every semester?

There are no requirements for the frequency of preceptorship. We are grateful for the value you provide in each preceptorship. Many preceptors take students intermittently.

What are the responsibilities of the preceptor?
  • Bridges the gap between theory and actual practice
  • Orients student to practice setting, organizational policies and key personnel
  • Orients student to institutional policies
  • Assists student in planning clinical assignments based on course objectives and student-articulated learning needs
  • Provides supervision of student on a one-to-one clinical basis until such time as student and preceptor deem direct supervision is no longer necessary
  • Provides daily feedback to student
  • Reviews and co-signs all student documentation in clinical records
  • Submits a Student Evaluation Form to clinical faculty of the practice experience, as requested
  • Serves as a role model to the nursing student
  • Maintains an open line of communication with the student’s clinical advisor
Who provides malpractice insurance?

All currently enrolled Wilkes University nursing students are covered under the Medical Professions Liability Insurance. (A copy is on file in the Graduate Nursing office at Wilkes University.)

What if a personal emergency comes up on a day I am precepting?

Please notify the student as soon as possible and have the student notify the Clinical Faculty Advisor.

How do preceptors evaluate nursing students?

Preceptors have opportunities for immediate feedback and for a more formal assessment of student performance. Preceptors will complete evaluations in writing on Wilkes-designated forms at intervals during the semester, usually at the mid-point and end of the semester.

What should I do if a student gets injured while completing his/her clinical hours with me?

The student should report the incident to your agency and follow the internal procedure. The incident should also be reported to the Program Coordinator.

What are the benefits of preceptorship?

Clinical preceptors will receive a certificate demonstrating the number of hours in which he or she has precepted a student. Depending on your certifying organization, this may be used toward license renewal or national recertification.

More About Wilkes

At Wilkes, we support and applaud lifelong learning. We are constantly changing, evolving and growing to meet the needs of our online student nurses. We look ahead to the degree programs, experiences and opportunities our students will need to succeed, and that includes complimentary nursing clinical placement services.

Our online nursing programs offer a variety of options for working nurses. Whether you're looking to advance your current role or broaden your career path and pursue a new specialty, Wilkes has a flexible program for you. Going back to school is a big decision. That's why we offer the mentoring and faculty member support of skilled nurse educators you need to succeed.

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Reach Out to an Admissions Counselor

We’re here to talk about everything Wilkes, everything nursing and anything you need to make the right choice for your career. We'll even help with the application process. Call us or click the link below to start the conversation. We can’t wait! 

888-413-5633
Get Started

Out-of-State Students

Our online nursing degree programs prepare graduates to take the national board certification exam appropriate to their degree or chosen NP concentration. Please see our full list of state authorizations to determine whether our program fulfills requirements for licensure in your home state. Wilkes University will not be able to place any students who move to an unauthorized state before or during the program and this may impact your ability to continue with the program.

Primary State of Residence (PSOR)

Your PSOR is the state in which you declare as your primary residence for legal purposes. Sources used to verify your PSOR may include driver's license, federal income tax return, or voter registration. Only one state can be identified as the primary state of legal residence.

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