November 10-16, 2024, marks National Nurse Practitioner Week, a time to celebrate the critical role of nurse practitioners (NPs) in providing community-based, patient-centered health care. At the WSU College of Nursing, we recognize the dedication of our current and future NPs who strive to improve health outcomes in their communities. NPs are uniquely positioned to diagnose, treat, and manage health conditions with a comprehensive, whole person approach, bringing both clinical expertise and compassionate care to patients across diverse settings.
The WSU College of Nursing prepares nurse leaders through its Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, offering advanced tracks such as Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. A Post-Master’s General track is also available for nurse practitioners who would like to pursue a DNP degree. Our DNP students gain hands-on experience and advanced clinical training, equipping them to provide high-quality, evidence-based care in independent practice. Whether addressing primary care needs, leading mental health initiatives, or innovating in health care leadership, our DNP graduates are ready to meet the demands of today’s evolving health care landscape.
Reflecting on the journey of the DNP degree, Dr. Jose A. Pares-Avila, Clinical Professor and Interim Director of the DNP Program at WSU, shared his own experience:
“I was the third graduate of the DNP program at the University of Washington, which was an early-adopter in the West. The program initially faced significant pushback, but it gained momentum when clinical organizations like the Veteran’s Administration (VA) health system began offering higher pay to DNP-prepared nurses. At the Palo Alto VA, my supervising physician advocated for a grade and step increase, recognizing the value of DNP-prepared expertise. It was a significant step forward, supported by leaders like VA Chief Nursing Officer Cathy Rick, RN NEA-BC FAAN FACHE, who championed full practice scope for all APRNs, including Clinical Nurse Specialists.”
For an inspiring look at the impact of our program, we invite you to read the story of Paisha Andersen, a WSU nursing student who exemplifies resilience and a passion for rural health care. Her journey from a small town in British Columbia to the Spokane campus is a testament to dedication and the desire to make a difference as a Nurse Practitioner. Learn more about her journey and how WSU has supported her dream: Pursuing a Dream: Paisha Andersen’s Journey to Nursing.
The DNP program at WSU is designed to prepare Nurse Practitioners and leaders in primary care who apply the latest research and evidence-informed practices. As health care evolves, our DNP students are positioned to be at the forefront, ensuring that patients, families, and communities receive the highest quality care.
For an inspiring look at the impact of our program, we invite you to read the story of Paisha Andersen, a WSU nursing student who exemplifies resilience and a passion for rural health care. Her journey from a small town in British Columbia to the Spokane campus is a testament to dedication and the desire to make a difference as a Nurse Practitioner. Learn more about her journey and how WSU has supported her dream: Pursuing a Dream: Paisha Andersen’s Journey to Nursing.
The DNP program at WSU is designed to prepare Nurse Practitioners and leaders in primary care who apply the latest research and evidence-informed practices. As health care evolves, our DNP students are positioned to be at the forefront, ensuring that patients, families, and communities receive the highest quality care.
