Policy 2.6: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Track Changes  

I. Policy Statement

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students are admitted to a specific population focus track at the time of admission. Track assignment determines the plan of study, faculty advising, and clinical training capacity.

Students who wish to change to a different track must re-apply to the DNP program during the regular admission cycle. Applications are considered within the competitive applicant pool for the desired track. Admission to an alternative track is not guaranteed.

II. Process

A. Advising Prior to Application

Students considering a track change are encouraged to consult with:

• Their current track adviser
• The Specialty Directors for both the current and desired track
• The DNP Program Director

B. Application Requirement

• Students must submit a full application for admission to the desired track during the established DNP admissions cycle.
• Only upon formal admission to the new track may students register for track-specific or APRN/ASPH core courses.

C. Clinical Cohort Capacity

• Because many DNP tracks have limited clinical training capacity, an offer of admission to a new track does not guarantee immediate placement in clinical training.
• In some cases, admitted students may be required to request Graduate On-Leave Status until clinical training capacity becomes available, which may extend up to one year. On-Leave Status is requested and paid on a quarterly basis (see UW School of Nursing Policy 2.3: Leave of Absence).
• Time spent on leave counts toward Graduate School time-to-degree limits. Students should review UW School of Nursing Policy 1.5: Program Duration & Graduation Eligibility before accepting an admission offer that requires a period of leave.

III. Roles and Responsibilities Summary

Last updated: September 2026