NP Certifiers’ Survey Results: Clinical Hours and DNP Transition in Academic Programs

The National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculty National Task Force’s (NTF) 2021 sixth edition includes a standard mandating that NP academic programs transition to 750 clinical hours (from 500) and move from Master's programs to DNP programs for entry into practice. NP certification organizations cannot modify the minimum requirements to test until it is assured all graduates of current programs can meet the NTF requirements. A survey of NP program directors by the NP certifiers group, including the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB), American Association of Critical-Care Nurses Certification Corporation (AACN), American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), National Certification Corporation (NCC) and Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) offers insights into the current state of academic programs. The results of this comprehensive data collection may support the certification boards in understanding the state of nurse practitioner educational programs. In addition, the survey identifies barriers to implementing the standards and includes guidance from schools after their transition. Results from the overall survey, as well as results specific to AGACNP programs, are reviewed. This is important information for academic programs, current and aspiring NP students, current AGACNPs and nursing regulatory bodies.