Program Description

Application Requirements

Program-Specific Instructions

Program-Specific Requirements:

• Fall 2025 applications received after February 1st will be reviewed on a rolling, space available basis.
• BSN-DNP: graduate of an accredited baccalaureate (BSN) program in nursing
• MSN-DNP: graduate of an accredited master's degree in nursing or a related field
• Active state-based/U.S. license as a registered nurse (RN)
• Current CPR card
• At least 1 year of documented work experience as an RN
• Passed a statistics course within the last 5 years
  • Those who have not passed a statistics course in the past 5 years may be provisionally admitted and must pass statistics in their first semester.

Application Requirements:

• College transcripts
• Goals statement
• Two letters of recommendation
• Resume
• Nursing License

Goals Statement: 

DNP Applicants must complete Prompts #1 AND #2. Applications to the DNP program will not be considered for review unless both prompts are submitted.

Prompt #1

In 750 to 1,000 words (2-3 double space pages, 12 font), state your professional vision, plans and career objectives. Include personal qualities and development, and how they have influenced your career choice. Provide your reasons for seeking this particular degree and describe how your professional work experiences and aspirations will contribute to your success in the program. Lastly, state your reason for choosing George Mason University. If you feel there are areas of your application that require explanation, please do so here.

Prompt #2

In addition to the general prompt above, please include your professional or personal passions for pursuing a DNP degree and your goals related to becoming a leader at the highest level of nursing practice and in healthcare.

Tips for writing the goal statement:

• Follow the above guidelines and cover each topic area.

• Be clear, concise, creative, and persuasive in your writing.

• Review grammar, punctuation, organization; avoid spelling errors.

• Avoid using generative-Artificial Intelligence (AI) such as ChatGPT.

English Proficiency Requirements

All Mason students must have a full command of academic English to be successful in their studies. For this reason, Mason requires applicants to demonstrate English proficiency for admission consideration, regardless of citizenship. Click here to view the requirements.

International Transcript Requirements

All transcripts from colleges or universities outside the United States must be translated into English, if applicable, and submitted for evaluation to the Mason Office of Admissions. Mason will provide evaluation service free of charge for all international transcripts, however, some programs may request an outside evaluation be completed. Because of volume, more time may be needed to process applications requiring a Mason evaluation. You should submit your application 6 weeks prior to the deadline if you plan to utilize Mason’s free evaluation service. For expedited service, students may submit their documents to any NACES member organization at their own expense. If you decide to use an external evaluation service or if your program requires an outside evaluation, GPA and Degree equivalences must be included with your course-by-course evaluation. Mason evaluations are used for internal purposes and are not released to applicants. For information on international transcript requirements, go here.