Webster 446
2528 McCarthy Mall
Honolulu, HI 96822
Tel: (808) 956-8523
Fax: (808) 956-5296
Web: nursing.hawaii.edu
Faculty
*Graduate Faculty
*M. Boland, DrPH (Dean)—nursing workforce, health policy
*C. Ceria-Ulep, PhD (Associate Dean for Academic Affairs)—adult health, administration, aging
*K. Qureshi, PhD (Associate Dean for Research)—emergency nursing, disaster preparedness, community health
*A. Tse, PhD (Chair)—parent-child, community based participatory research
*C. Albright, PhD—cancer prevention and control, obesity control
E. Ben-Sefer, PhD—medical/surgical nursing
L. Boehm, PhD—medical/surgical, mental health, critical care
M. Bray, MS—public health, critical care
L. Byrnes, PhD—maternal health, psychiatric-mental health
*J. Casken, PhD—administration, public health
P. Clements, MS—medical/surgical nursing
*C. Constantin, PhD—maternal child health, genetics
K. Davis, PhD—evidence-based practice, sleep disorders & behaviors, health outcomes, pediatrics
M. Deutsch, MS—maternal-child health, quality management, simulation learning
*S. Driscoll, PhD—women’s health, HIV/AIDS, vulnerable populations
L. Dubbs, MSN—nursing administration, veteran care
*R. Felicilda-Reynaldo, EdD—perioperative nursing, medical-surgical nursing, faith community nursing
*B. Friedman, DNP—community/public health
C. Gazmen, MS—adult health
G. Glauberman, MS—public health, disaster preparedness
A. Grills, MSN—family medicine
M. Guerriero, MSN—mental health
F. Hale, MS—maternal-child health, nursing education, psychiatric mental health
*A. Hanberg, PhD—simulation learning
T. Higa, MS—adult health
H. Ho, MSN—maternal child health, medical/surgical nursing
D. Ing, MSN—pediatric neonatology, simulation learning
R. Jarman, PhD—higher education administration and student services
*M. Kataoka-Yahiro, DrPH—parent-child, family caregiving
J. Kathman, DNP—pediatric inpatient care, neonatal intensive care, mother-baby care
B. Kilinski, MSN—pediatrics, school-based health
M. Koury, PhD—educational planning and management
*C. Linhares, PhD— maternal child health
*D. Mattheus, PhD—pediatrics, oral health
N. Minton, MA—Native Hawaiian cultural enrichment, clinical psychology
J. Misola, PhD—adult health, nursing administration
*J. Mobley, PhD—statistics, psychology
M. Napihaa, MS—pediatrics
A. Neves, MS—psychiatric mental health
*J. Ng-Osorio, DrPH—Native Hawaiian health, public health
C. Nunokawa, MSN—adult and geriatric medicine
M. O’Brien, DNP—adult medical-surgical, critical care, telemetry
J. Ozeki, MSN—adult health
W. Siegman, MS—medical/surgical nursing
*S. Sinclair, PhD—pediatrics
*K. Tessier, PhD—pediatrics
*J. Uyehara, MS—maternal health
*R. Wada, MD—pediatric hematology, oncology
*C. Wang, PhD—adult health
*L. Wong, PhD—adult health, technology and simulation learning
Emeritus Faculty
J. Inouye, PhD—psychiatric mental health, psychology
B. Kooker, DrPH—nursing administration
L. Magnussen, EdD—maternal child
R. Ryburn, DrPH—pediatrics, complementary care
J. Shoultz, DrPH—community health, adult health
Degrees and Certificate Offered: BS, nursing major; MS, nursing major; DNP, PhD in nursing
The Nursing Profession
Nursing is a dynamic profession that brings many rewards and career advancement opportunities to those committed to lifelong learning. The nurse is a valuable member of the healthcare team and plays a key role in addressing the increasing demand for safe, high quality, and effective healthcare.
UH Manoa Nursing offers a continuum of academic programs with a rich nursing curriculum enhanced by innovative, technological resources such as the UH Translational Health Science Simulation Center and web-based distance learning. Highly qualified and clinically competent faculty, valuable clinical practicums, endeavors in research and scholarship, and internship and interdisciplinary study opportunities are an integral part of the UH Manoa Nursing program experience.
The Academic Program
UH Manoa Nursing offers multiple pathways and degrees to further one’s career goals, whether you are entering the program directly from high school or as a consortium college student, choosing a second career in nursing, or advancing your nursing career with a graduate degree.
The bachelor of science in nursing degree prepares beginning-level generalist professional nurses to deliver care to individuals in a variety of health-care settings, meet the state requirements for eligibility to take the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN), and obtain a sound basis for graduate study in nursing. (for more information about the NCLEX-RN, please visit the SONDH website: <a href="https://www.nursing.hawaii.edu/).
The master of science (MS), nursing major degree program prepares the student in advanced population health. The Graduate Entry Program in Nursing (GEPN) admits the student with a bachelor’s degree or higher in non-nursing areas.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is designed as a professional (practice) doctorate integrating evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems leadership to prepare experts in specialized advanced nursing practice.
The PhD in nursing prepares nursing scholars with particular strength in culturally appropriate clinical research aimed at improving the health of people in diverse populations and to teach in nursing education programs, especially those with underrepresented student populations.
Advising
Office of Student Services
Webster 201
Honolulu, HI 96822
Tel: (808) 956-8939
Email: nursing@hawaii.edu
Potential applicants are highly encouraged to review the program documents posted on our website. Pre-advising is available at both the graduate and undergraduate level for information on application procedures, program description, and degree requirement completion.
Distance Education
A variety of technologies are used in distance education including videoconferencing, HITS, web-based methods, or a combination of technologies. All policies and procedures that apply to UH Manoa students apply to students enrolled in distance learning programs.
Accreditation
The baccalaureate degree in nursing, master’s degree in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at UH Manoa are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (aacn.nche.edu/ccne-accreditation). UH Manoa’s nursing programs are recognized by the Hawai‘i Board of Nursing.
Essential Functions for Nursing
The School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene (SONDH) is committed to training competent, caring nurses through quality undergraduate and graduate education. To ensure that SONDH also meets its ethical responsibility to society to protect the safety and welfare of patients and pay careful and individual attention to the needs of each student, the Department of Nursing (DON) has established a list of essential functions criteria.
In accordance with University of Hawai‘i policies and federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations, reasonable accommodations will be made to facilitate the progress of the otherwise qualified candidate, where such accommodations do not require fundamental alteration of the nature of the program, significantly lower or effect substantial modifications of standards, or significantly affect the rights of other students.
Special Requirements
Nursing students are expected to participate in clinical and field work experiences in many community agencies at variously scheduled times. Therefore, students must make time and transportation arrangements to accommodate an irregular academic schedule.
Students with prerequisite course deficiencies may not register for or attend clinical courses. Students must satisfy any additional requirements set forth by the clinical agencies; students with course deficiencies may not attend clinical courses.
Criminal Background Checks And Drug Testing
Hospitals and other clinical agencies require a criminal background check and drug testing of students in order to meet their hospital accreditation requirements. The Department of Nursing will not be collecting this information. It is the student’s responsibility to provide this information to the clinical facilities, if requested.
It is the responsibility of the student to satisfactorily complete affiliated hospital background checks and drug testing requirements in accordance with procedures and timelines as prescribed by the affiliated hospital. Nursing students are required to complete UH prescribed academic requirements that involve clinical practice in a UH-affiliated hospital setting with no substitution allowable. Failure of a student to complete the prescribed UH nursing clinical practice in a UH-affiliated hospital shall be deemed as not satisfying nursing academic program requirements.
If the requirements set forth by the hospital are not met by the individual student, the university is not responsible to provide a substitute clinical facility or clinical experience. Therefore, refusal of a hospital or clinical facility to allow a student in their clinical facility due to negative information may result in the inability of the student to continue in the nursing program.
Health Certification and Other Requirements
Prior to enrollment, accepted students must provide evidence of sound health and meet other requirements as follows:
- American Heart Association (AHA) BLS CPR;
- TB Clearance;
- Immunizations for Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis and the Flu vaccine (or a signed medical waiver for the flu vaccine only; immunizations for Tetanus/Diptheria/Pertussis cannot be waived);
- Laboratory evidence (positive titer) of immunity for Hepatitis B, Mumps, Rubeola (Measles), Rubella (German Measles), and Varicella (Chicken Pox);
- Health insurance.
All requirements must be cleared by presenting the necessary documentation for all health clearance requirements. Students with health clearance deficiencies may not attend laboratory or clinical classes.
Students must take a tuberculosis screen test or chest x-ray as required.
Students must get the influenza vaccine or submit a signed medical waiver annually in the fall semester.
If a student’s clearance for Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis expires for the end of the upcoming academic year, then the student must renew their clearance in May.
If a student’s certification for AHA BLS CPR expires for the end of the upcoming academic year, the student must recertify in August.
Students are required to have health insurance. Student medical insurance plan information may be obtained through the University Health Services at (808 956-8965).
Note: The student must keep a copy of all certifications and requirements must be kept current for the duration of program enrollment.
Undergraduate Study
With the BS degree, the student is prepared for graduate education and continued career development.
The Department of Nursing’s undergraduate program provides five pathways to the bachelor of science degree:
- High School Direct Entry into Nursing (HS-DEN) Program
- Hawaii Statewide Nursing Consortium (HSNC)
- Hawaii Statewide Nursing Consortium (HSNC) for ADN Graduates from participating UH Community Colleges
- RN to Bachelor of Science
- Executive RN to Bachelor of Science
Applicants are strongly advised to attend an informational session at the School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene before submitting an application to the program. For more information, please visit the SONDH website at nursing.hawaii.edu.
High School Direct Entry into Nursing (HS-DEN)–BS in Nursing Pathway
For high school graduates
This baccalaureate nursing pathway is designed for high school graduates and provides an opportunity for admission into the nursing program directly after high school graduation. The pathway includes 1 year of pre-nursing course work followed by 3 years of nursing and General Education courses required for graduation. Students who complete the degree are eligible to take the RN licensure examination (NCLEX-RN).
During their freshman year, students join an intensive learning community designed for the HS-DEN pathway. This will ensure proper registration and provides the opportunity to network with current nursing students, the department, and the nursing community. Students enroll in NURS 200 (1 cr) and NURS 201 (1 cr) during their freshman year.
Upon successful completion of the first year course work, students take the required nursing courses (as detailed under Hawai‘i Statewide Nursing Consortium BS in Nursing Curriculum) along with remaining general education graduation requirements.
Admission Requirements
The program admits high school students who are eligible for admission to UH Manoa and meet the UH Manoa Nursing requirements noted below.
- Department of Nursing application (available at NursingCAS at www.nursingcas.org)
- SAT: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing 560 and Math 540 or ACT: Reading 22 and Math 22
- High school Grade Point Average (GPA): 3.0 cumulative GPA at the end of the junior year in high school.
Application Requirements
Submit a completed UH System application for UH Manoa and declare NURSING as your major. Submit a UH Manoa Nursing application available at NursingCAS at nursingcas.org. For more information, please visit the SONDH website at nursing.hawaii.edu.
Application Deadline
January 5 (Fall admission only)
All documents, including the UH System application, must be received by the Office of Student Services no later than the deadline. It is highly recommended that the UH System Application be submitted 4-6 weeks prior to the SONDH deadline in order to allow ample processing time in the Office of Admissions. Applications received after the deadline will not be accepted. For more information, please visit our website at nursing.hawaii.edu.
Hawai‘i Statewide Nursing Consortium (HSNC)– BS in Nursing Pathway
For current UH Manoa and transferring college students without an RN
Students admitted directly to UH Manoa’s nursing program complete the 3 year nursing curriculum at UH Manoa.
Required Nursing Courses /Credits
- NURS 210/210L (3/6)
- NURS 211 (2)
- NURS 212 (3)
- NURS 220/220L (3/6)
- NURS 320/320L (4/6)
- NURS 360/360L (3/6)
- NURS 363 (3)
- NURS 450/450L (2/3)
- NURS 452 (3)
- NURS 453 (3)
- NURS 460/460L (4/6)
- NURS 461 (3)
- NURS 465/465L (2/3)
For the Bachelor Degree Program Sheet, go to programsheets/.
Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission to the Department of Nursing, applicants must complete the following pre-nursing requirements by the established deadlines:
- Classified status at UH Manoa for the application term (unclassified, graduating, new, returning, and transfer students must complete the UH System Application);
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better;
- Department of Nursing application (available at NursingCAS at nursingcas.org);
- Prerequisites: 16 credits of prerequisites credits must be satisfactorily completed at the time of application, of which MUST include 1 PHYL lecture/lab and MICR 130.
Applicants must complete all remaining prerequisites by August 1 to remain eligible for admission. No substitutions are allowed.
a. The following courses must be completed with a minimum grade of C (not C-):
*1 FW course, *1 FG course, 2 DS (PSY 100, HDFS 230) 1 DA course (COMG 151 or 251), 1 DP course (CHEM 151, 152,161,162, BIOC 241, 244, or 341).
b. The following courses must be completed with a minimum grade of B (not B-):
*1 FS/FQ course, PHYL 141/141L, PHYL 142/142L, MICR 130.
*Designated by UH Mânoa as General Education courses. These may be found in the “Undergraduate General Education Requirements” section of this Catalog. Students already holding degrees or certificates are not exempt from these requirements. - For Pre-Admission Exam requirements, see the website at nursing.hawaii.edu.
Application Requirements
Submit a completed UH System application for UH Manoa or be a continuing classified student at UH Manoa. Submit a Department of Nursing application available at NursingCAS at nursingcas.org to include an electronic copy of your exam scores and current student schedule (non-UH applicants only) demonstrating current registration in any outstanding prerequisite courses. For more information, please visit the SONDH website at nursing.hawaii.edu.
Application Deadline
January 5 (Fall admission only)
All documents, including the UH System application, must be received by the Office of Student Services no later than the deadline. It is highly recommended that the UH System Application be submitted 4-6 weeks prior to the SONDH deadline in order to allow ample processing time in the Office of Admissions. Applications received after the deadline will not be accepted. For more information, please visit our website at nursing.hawaii.edu.
Hawai‘i Statewide Nursing Consortium (HSNC)–BS in Nursing for ADN Graduates from the Consortium Pathway
For ADN graduates from a UH Consortium Program
The Hawai‘i Statewide Nursing Consortium’s (HSNC) Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing pathway for associate degree nursing (ADN) graduates is a statewide continuing consortium nursing curriculum available to UH students from Maui College, Kaua‘i Community College, and Kapi‘olani Community College. The HSNC program is designed to provide an efficient pathway to the baccalaureate for the RN with an associate degree. The pathway builds upon initial nursing preparation with course work to enhance professional development, prepare for a broader scope of practice, and provide an increased understanding of the cultural, economic, and social issues that affect the delivery of safe, quality patient care (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2011).
Students admitted to the associate degree nursing programs at Kapi‘olani, Maui, or Kaua‘i complete prerequisites and 2 years of the nursing curriculum at their home campus. UH Mânoa senior year didactic courses are offered via distance based education, and the clinical courses are offered on Maui and Kaua‘i. Students complete the final year of the nursing curriculum and receive the bachelor’s degree from UH Manoa.
For further information, contact the Office of Student Services at (808) 956-8939 or visit our website at nursing.hawaii.edu.
Required Nursing Courses completed at the participating UH community college
- NURS 210 (9)
- NURS 211 (1)
- NURS 212 (3)
- NURS 220 (10)
- NURS 320 (10)
- NURS 360 (9)
- NURS 362 (1)
- NURS 363 (3)
Year 4 Courses completed at UHM
- NURS 450/450L (2/3)
- NURS 452 (3)
- NURS 453 (3)
- NURS 460/460L (4/6)
- NURS 461 (3)
- Approved nursing electives (6)
For the BS in Nursing for ADN graduates Bachelor Degree Program Sheet, go to programsheets/#nursing.
Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission to the Department of Nursing, applicants must complete the following requirements by the established deadlines:
- Documentation of graduation from associate degree HSNC program within the past 2 years (all others may apply to the RN to BS programs);
- Classified status at UH Manoa for the application term (unclassified, graduating, new, returning, and transfer students must complete the UH System Application);
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better;
- Department of Nursing application available at NursingCAS at nursingcas.org;
- Minimum grade of C (not C-) in the following prerequisite courses:
*1 FW course, *1 FS course, *2 FG courses from different groups, *2 DA/H/L courses from different groups, *2 DS courses from different departments, *1 DP course, 11 credits of *Natural Sciences, PHRM 203, Statistics, NURS 363.
*Designated by UH Manoa as General Education courses. These may be found in the “Undergraduate General Education Requirements” section of this Catalog. Students already holding degrees or certificates are not exempt from these requirements.
Application Requirements
Submit a completed UH System application for UH Manoa or be a continuing classified student at UH Manoa. Submit a Department of Nursing application available at NursingCAS at nursingcas.org. For more information, please visit the SONDH website at nursing.hawaii.edu.
Application Deadline
January 5 (Fall admission only)
All documents, including the UH System application, must be received by the Office of Student Services no later than the deadline. It is highly recommended that the UH System Application be submitted 4-6 weeks prior to the SONDH deadline in order to allow ample processing time in the Office of Admissions. Applications received after the deadline will not be accepted. For more information, please visit our website at nursing.hawaii.edu.
RN to BS in Nursing Pathway
For non-HSNC ADN or nursing diploma graduates
The RN to Bachelor of Science (BS) in Nursing pathway for associate degree nursing (ADN) or diploma graduates, is a complement to the statewide HSCN consortium nursing curriculum. It is designed to provide an efficient pathway to the baccalaureate degree. The pathway builds upon initial nursing preparation with course work to enhance professional development, prepare for a broader scope of practice, and provide an increased understanding of the cultural, economic, and social issues that affect the delivery of safe, quality patient care (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2011).
Students enter the program in the fall. Maui and Kauai students take didactic course via distance-based education; clinical courses are offered on-site. O‘ahu students take didactic courses on campus.
Admission to the program requires completion of 44 credits of prerequisite course work. In addition, 42 credits of course work, inclusive of the student’s associate degree in nursing and remaining general education requirements, must be completed for the program. A total of 120 credits are required for the baccalaureate degree. Upon admission, each student will receive a personalized review of completed course work to create an individualized progression plan.
34 credits of upper division nursing course work with a grade of C (not C-) is required for the program. The upper division nursing course work includes two didactic courses that must be completed before beginning clinical course work.
Required Upper Division Nursing Courses/Credits
Courses Required Prior to Clinical Course work
- NURS 301 (3)
- NURS 363 (3)
400-Level Nursing Courses
- NURS 450/450L (2/3)
- NURS 452 (3)
- NURS 453 (3)
- NURS 460/460L (4/6)
- NURS 461 (3)
- Approved nursing electives (4)
Admission Requirements
To be admitted, applicants must complete the following requirements by the established deadlines:
To qualify for admission to the Department of Nursing, applicants must complete the following requirements by the established deadlines:
- Documentation of graduation from an accredited associate degree or diploma nursing program;
- Current unrestricted RN license in state or jurisdiction of practice. Applicants who have not passed the NCLEX-RN exam must provide evidence of passing the NCLEX-RN exam and have a current RN license in the state or jurisdiction of practice by the end of the first semester of the program.
- Classified status at UH Manoa for the application term (unclassified, graduating, new, returning, and transfer students must complete the UH System Application);
- A GPA of 2.0 or better if transferring from a UH System campus; a GPA of 2.5 or better if transferring from a non-UH System campus;
5. Department of Nursing application available at NursingCAS at www.nursingcas.org;
6. Minimum grade of C (not C-) in the following prerequisite courses:
*1 FW course, *1 FS course, *2 FG courses from different groups, *2 DA/H/L courses from different groups, *2 DS courses from different departments, *1 DP course, 11 credits of *Natural Sciences, PHRM 203, Statistics.
*Designated by UH Manoa as General Education courses. These may be found in the “Undergraduate General Education Requirements” section of this Catalog. Students already holding degrees or certificates are not exempt from these requirements.
Application Requirements
Submit a completed UH System application for UH Manoa or be a continuing classified student at UH Manoa. Submit a Department of Nursing application (available at NursingCAS at nursingcas.org) and current student schedule (non-UH applicants only) demonstrating current registration in any outstanding prerequisite courses. For more information, please visit the SONDH website at nursing.hawaii.edu.
Application Deadline
January 5 (Fall admission only)
All documents, including the UH System application, must be received by the Office of Student Services no later than the deadline. It is highly recommended that the UH System Application be submitted 4-6 weeks prior to the SONDH deadline in order to allow ample processing time in the Office of Admissions. Applications received after the deadline will not be accepted. For more information, please visit our website at nursing.hawaii.edu.
Graduate Study
UH Manoa School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene offers graduate nursing education at the master’s and doctoral levels to prepare nurses with advanced skills for the dynamic nursing profession.
UH Manoa nurses with graduate preparation provide direct and indirect patient care at an advanced level with a focus on the adult, family, geriatric, and population health areas; conduct research; teach; lead health systems; create public policy; and implement evidence-based solutions in healthcare. Nurses with master’s or doctoral degrees impact the systems level design and implementation of care.
Graduate nursing courses are offered in online, face-to-face, and hybrid formats. Programs may be part-time or full-time, depending on the pathway.
Pathways
The pathways provide a seamless, accelerated approach to a graduate nursing degree for:
- Non-nurses with a bachelor’s degree or higher in a field other than nursing: Graduate Entry Program in Nursing (GEPN) pathway to the MS, DNP, and PhD
- RNs with a bachelor’s degree in nursing: MS, DNP, and PhD
- RNs with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field: MS, DNP, and PhD
- RNs with a master’s degree: MS, DNP, and PhD
Degrees and Specialties
The school offers the following degrees and specialty focus areas:
- Master of Science: prepares the nurse for an advanced role
– Advanced Population Health Nursing (APHN) - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): provides the terminal degree in nursing practice
– Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
– Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
– Masters in Business Administration to DNP
– Post-Master’s to DNP - PhD in Nursing: prepares the nurse for a career in research
For additional information about graduate program offerings, please visit the SONDH website at nursing.hawaii.edu/graduate.
Graduate Entry Program in Nursing (GEPN)
The Graduate Entry Program in Nursing is designed for adult learners with no prior nursing experience and a baccalaureate degree or higher in a field other than nursing. This program equips students with entry-level professional nurse competencies as a foundation for advanced practice roles.
The program uses a cohort model that consists of a pre-licensure year of rigorous and intensive study that is delivered across three continuous semesters. Upon completion of the first year, the students will transition into their graduate specialty track and begin courses for their advanced degree. Depending on the selected specialty area, students may graduate with the MS, DNP, or PhD degree.
The first year curriculum is based on a competency model appropriate for graduate level adult learners. Active learning strategies are emphasized including clinical experience and simulation based learning to inform the actions of the nurse. A substantial amount of the curriculum is clinical practicum in hospital/health care settings where students are actively engaged in nursing care under the supervision and guidance of faculty. Threaded throughout the curriculum are evidence-based principles, patient safety, and cultural diversity as well as the various contexts (i.e., historical & social) of nursing, nursing roles, and the core values of the profession.
Upon successful completion of the GEPN pre-licensure year, the student is required to take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination–Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN). Students immediately transition into their chosen specialty track after successful completion of the pre-licensure year. In order to progress beyond the first semester of specialty study, students must obtain a registered nurse license. The post-licensure specialty curriculum prepares students for their chosen role in advanced nursing.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet the requirements of both the Graduate Division and the Department of Nursing for admission to the program. Admission and application requirements vary by the chosen pathway and degree.
- Education: Baccalaureate degree (or higher) in any field from an accredited college or university earned by July 15 of the year admitted to the program.
- Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale.
- Prerequisite courses must be completed by August 1 prior to fall admission. If you are taking courses after your application has been submitted, please send in a copy of the course registration as soon as you have registered.
a. The following pre-requisite courses must be completed with a grade of B or better on the first attempt:
Two semesters of Human Anatomy and Physiology with lab
One semester of General Microbiology lecture course (lab not required)
b. The following courses must be completed with a grade of C or better:
One semester of Nutrition
One semester of Human Growth and Development
One semester of an upper division or graduate level Research course - English Language Proficiency: If applicant’s native language is not English or has not obtained a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an English speaking college, then the applicant must submit either official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores with a minimum score of 600, or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores with a minimum score of 6.00.
- Licensure. Before beginning the second semester of the MS, DNP, or PhD Program, GEPN students must submit evidence of having passed the NCLEX-RN exam and an active RN license in the state or jurisdiction of practice. Students who do not take or pass the NCLEX-RN exam may not continue to progress in the graduate program until the receipt of the RN license.
Application Requirements
Prior to submitting an application, please download and review the important information contained in the complete application instruction packet on the SONDH website (nursing.hawaii.edu/howtoapply).
- Graduate Division application and fee (apply.hawaii.edu)
- NursingCAS application and fee (www.nursingcas.org)
- Resume/CV
- An uploaded letter of recommendation
- MS, DNP, and PhD applicants must submit an essay in response to questions provided (500 word maximum)
Application Deadline
January 5 (Fall admission only)
The GEPN program uses a rolling admission model. Applications are reviewed upon submission and applicants are notified as decisions are made.
Contact Information
GEPN Program
Phone: (808) 956-0445
Fax: (808) 956-5977
Email: gepn@hawaii.edu
Office of Student Services
School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene
University of Hawai‘i at Manoa
2528 McCarthy Mall, Webster Hall
Honolulu, HI 96822
Master’s Degree in Advanced Population Health Nursing
The Master of Science (MS) program is designed for registered nurses who seek to expand their knowledge and expertise to assume leadership roles in population health nursing.
A total of 30 credits is required to receive the MS degree in Advanced Population Health Nursing. Part-time and full-time study options are available. Faculty provide individual student advising to develop a program of study that facilitates student progression through the program.
The Advanced Population Health Nursing (APHN) Program is a distance based master’s in nursing degree for registered nurses who wish to practice in Hawai‘i, the U.S., and international settings. Course work is completed via online learning and fieldwork that is conducted in the student’s own local community. The APHN program focuses on population-level health, wellness, health promotion, and disease prevention. The students learn critical population health skills such as community and population assessment; complex project/program management; global health, disaster nursing, health services research and health policy analysis. The aim of the program is to educate the future leaders for population health nursing. The course work pathway requires a minimum of 30 credits to graduate. At the conclusion of the program, the students are awarded a Master of Science degree.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet the requirements of both the Graduate Division and the Department of Nursing for admission to the program. Admission and application requirements vary by the pathway.
GEPN to MS Pathway
Non-nurses may apply to the Graduate Entry Program in Nursing (GEPN) to MS pathway. Please see the GEPN section above for pathway specific deadlines and requirements.
RN (with non-nursing baccalaureate) to MS Pathway
- Education: Baccalaureate degree (or higher) in any field from an accredited college or earned by July 15 of the year admitted to the program.
a. Admission is contingent upon completion of the baccalaureate degree requirements no later than the first day of class of the first semester of master’s course work.
b. Minimum grade point average (GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale). - Licensure. Current unrestricted RN license in state or jurisdiction of practice.
- Research Course Completion. Successful completion of an undergraduate research course or equivalent within 7 years.
- Applicants with a non-nursing baccalaureate should have evidence of baccalaureate level knowledge in research, community, public, and global health; and an integrative clinical practicum and leadership development within the last seven years. Competency in each of the areas may have been obtained through course work, professional programs, and/or professional or life experience.
The admitted student can petition to waive the course work by submitting an experiential portfolio to demonstrate either course work or experience in the required areas. Samples of evidence include: resume, transcripts for previous college course work; course syllabi which outline course descriptions and learning objectives; professional training programs course work that includes learning objectives. Guidelines for the experiential portfolio are available from the Nursing Office of Student Services. - English Language Proficiency: If an applicant’s native language is not English or has not obtained a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an English speaking college, then the applicant must submit either official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL scores with a minimum score of 600, or International English Language Testing System (IELTS scores with a minimum score of 6.00.
Bachelor’s to MS Pathway
- Education: Baccalaureate degree (or higher) in any field from an accredited college or earned by July 15 of the year admitted to the program.
a. Admission is contingent upon completion of the baccalaureate degree requirements no later than the first day of class of the first semester of master’s course work.
b. Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale. - Licensure*. Current unrestricted RN license in state or jurisdiction of practice. Applicants completing their baccalaureate degree who have not passed the NCLEX-RN exam yet, must provide evidence of passing the NCLEX-RN exam and have a current RN license in the state or jurisdiction of practice before beginning the second semester of the master’s program.
- Research Course Completion. Successful completion of an undergraduate research course or equivalent within 7 years.
- English Language Proficiency: If an applicant’s native language is not English or has not obtained a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an English speaking college, then the applicant must submit either official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores with a minimum score of 600, or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores with a minimum score of 6.00.
*Note: special cohorts of international students may be admitted. These applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and be licensed or credentialed in the country of origin. All other admission requirements must be met.
Application Requirements
Prior to submitting an application, please download and review the important information contained in the complete application instruction packet on the SONDH website (nursing.hawaii.edu/how-to-apply).
- Graduate Division application and fee (manoa.hawaii.edu/how-apply)
- NursingCAS application and fee (nursingcas.org)
- Resume/CV
- RN license (see admission requirements)
- Essay in response to question provided (500 word maximum)
Application Deadline
January 5 (Fall admission only)
The master’s program uses a rolling admission model. Applications are reviewed upon submission and applicants are notified as decisions are made.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree
The DNP program offers the terminal degree in Nursing Practice and is designed as a post-baccalaureate or higher degree program to meet our statewide demand for highly competent nursing workforce equipped with the skills to ensure the delivery of safe, quality nursing care. The curriculum incorporates the AACN Essentials for Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice as the foundation for the curriculum, integrating evidence based practice, quality improvement, and systems leadership to prepare experts in specialized advanced nursing practice.
Partnership in the Nursing Education Exchange
UH Manoa is a member of NEXus (The Nursing Education Xchange). NEXus is a collaboration between participating doctoral programs in nursing that allows doctoral students enrolled at member colleges and universities to take courses that may not be offered at his or her home institution for a common price.
DNP Degree Specialties
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Specialty
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) specialty prepares students to provide comprehensive primary, acute, and chronic care services to young, older, and elderly adult patients in a variety of community and long-term care settings.
Special emphasis is placed on the delivery of care to vulnerable populations in a changing health system. The program consists of core advanced practice registered nurse courses with specialty courses in adult-gerontology health. The specialty requires 77 credits, including 720 supervised clinical hours.
Program Outcomes
At the conclusion of the program, the student is eligible to obtain national certification as an Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) Nurse Practitioner and awarded a Doctor of Nursing practice (DNP). The graduate is prepared to:
- Assume the responsibilities of a AGPCNP with expertise in the provision of primary care for young, older and elderly adults; and
- Assume a leadership role in translating emerging science to improve clinical practice and population-based health care delivery.
Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty
The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialty prepares nurses to meet the primary care needs of individuals and families across the life span. Family nurse practitioners provide comprehensive, primary care services to patients of all ages within the context of family and community. Special emphasis is placed on the delivery of care to vulnerable populations in a changing health system. The program consists of core advanced practice registered nurse courses with specialty courses in family health. The specialty requires 77 credits, including 720 supervised clinical hours.
Program Outcomes
At the conclusion of the program, the student is eligible to obtain national certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and awarded a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The graduate is prepared to:
- Assume the responsibilities of a FNP with expertise in the provision of primary care to patients across the lifespan; and
- Assume an emerging leadership role in translating science to improve clinical practice and population-based health care delivery.
Master’s to DNP
The program admits licensed RNs possessing a master’s degree. The program prepares students to serve as leaders in clinical and executive positions within the larger healthcare system, translating emerging science to improve patient and population-based care, and inform health policy. Students complete 36-53 credits (30 didactic credits and a minimum of 6 credits for the DNP project) in two years including summer sessions.
Master’s in Business Administration to DNP
The school reviews the MBA curriculum that the applicant has completed and may grant credit for completed course work. At UH Mânoa, the student must complete a minimum of 9 didactic credits and a varying number of clinical credits depending on practicum hours that the applicant completed during the MBA program. The DNP curriculum can be completed part-time over three semesters including summer sessions, but may require additional semesters depending on credit granted by the school.
For information about the specific curriculum for each pathway, please visit the SONDH website at nursing.hawaii.edu/graduate/dnp.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet the requirements of both the Graduate Division and the Department of Nursing for admission to the program. Admission and application requirements vary by the pathway:
GEPN to DNP Pathway
Non-nurses may apply to the Graduate Entry Program in Nursing (GEPN) to DNP pathway. Please see the previous GEPN section for pathway specific deadlines and requirements.
Bachelor’s to DNP Pathway
Prospective students may apply for admission to the AGPCNP, FNP, and MBA to DNP specialties.
- Education: Baccalaureate degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university
a. Admission is contingent upon completion of the bachelor’s degree no later than the first day of the first semester of DNP course work.
b. Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale - Licensure. Current unrestricted RN license in state or jurisdiction of practice. Applicants completing their baccalaureate degree who have not passed the NCLEX-RN exam yet must provide evidence of passing the NCLEX-RN exam and have a current RN license in the state or jurisdiction of practice before beginning the second semester of the DNP program.
- English Language Proficiency: If an applicant’s native language is not English or has not obtained a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an English speaking college, then the applicant must submit either official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores with a minimum score of 600, or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores with a minimum score of 6.00.
Master’s to DNP Pathway
- Education: Master’s degree (or higher) in any field from an accredited college or university.
a. Admission is contingent upon completion of the master’s degree requirements no later than the first day of the first semester of DNP course work.
b. Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale. - Licensure. Current unrestricted RN license in state or jurisdiction of practice where the student will conduct the DNP project.
- National Certification. Copy of national certifications held, if applicable.
- English Language Proficiency: If an applicant’s native language is not English or has not obtained a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an English speaking college, then the applicant must submit either official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores with a minimum score of 600, or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores with a minimum score of 6.00.
Application Requirements
Prior to submitting an application, please download and review the important information contained in the complete application instruction packet on the SONDH website (nursing.hawaii.edu/how-to-apply).
Bachelor’s to DNP Pathway
- Graduate Division application and fee (manoa.hawaii.edu/how-apply)
- NursingCAS application and fee (nursingcas.org)
- Resume/CV
- RN license, if applicable (see admission requirements)
- Essay in response to question provided (500 word maximum)
Master’s to DNP Pathway
- Graduate Division application and fee (manoa.hawaii.edu/how-apply)
- NursingCAS application and fee (nursingcas.org)
- Resume/CV
- RN license (see admission requirements)
- Statement of objectives regarding proposed DNP project (500 words maximum)
Application Deadline
January 5 (Fall admission only)
The DNP program uses a rolling admission model. Applications are reviewed upon submission and applicants are notified as decisions are made.
Contact Information
DNP Program
Phone: (808) 956-8401
Fax: (808) 956-5977
Email: dnpnurs@hawaii.edu
Office of Student Services
School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene
University of Hawai‘i at Manoa
2528 McCarthy Mall, Webster Hall
Honolulu, HI 96822
PhD Degree
The PhD nursing program is designed to prepare visionary scholars with expertise in conducting research to improve the health of culturally diverse populations, especially in Hawai‘i and the Pacific Basin regions and countries. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in research methodologies with each course contributing to the development of the dissertation study. The full-time on-campus program is rigorous and requires students demonstrate strong critical thinking and writing skills that allow them to coherently and logically communicate their course assignments, and their dissertation.
Students can enter the PhD program through one of the following pathways.
- RNs that have a baccalaureate or higher degree in nursing or another field
- Graduate Entry Program in Nursing (GEPN)
Program Outcomes
The goal of the program is to graduate independent nursing scholars capable of conducting research that generates new knowledge focusing on health and well being of a diverse population primarily from Hawai‘i and the Asia/Pacific region.
Partnership in the Nursing Education Exchange
UH Manoa is a member of NEXus (The Nursing Education Xchange). NEXus is a collaboration between participating doctoral programs in nursing that allows doctoral students enrolled at member colleges and universities to take courses that may not be offered at his or her home institution for a common price.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must meet the requirements of both the Graduate Division and the Department of Nursing for admission to the program. Admission and application requirements vary by the pathway:
GEPN to PhD Pathway
Non-nurses may apply to the Graduate Entry Program in Nursing (GEPN) to PhD pathway. Please see the previous GEPN section for pathway specific deadlines and requirements.
Bachelor’s to PhD Pathway
- Education: Baccalaureate degree (or higher) in any field from an accredited college or university earned by July 15 of the year admitted to the program.
a. Admission is contingent upon completion of the baccalaureate degree requirements no later than the first day of the first semester of PhD course work.
b. Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale. - Licensure. Current unrestricted RN license in state or jurisdiction of practice. Applicants must provide evidence of passing the NCLEX-RN exam and have a current RN license in the state or jurisdiction of practice before beginning the second semester of the PhD program.
- English Language Proficiency: If an applicant’s native language is not English or has not obtained a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an English speaking college, the applicant must submit either official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores with a minimum score of 600, or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores with a minimum score of 6.00.
Master’s to PhD Pathway
- Education: Master’s degree (or higher) in any field from an accredited college or university.
a. Admission is contingent upon completion of the master’s degree requirements no later than the first day of the first semester of PhD course work.
b. Minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale. - Licensure. Current unrestricted RN license in state or jurisdiction of practice
- English Language Proficiency: If an applicant’s native language is not English or has not obtained a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an English speaking college, the applicant must submit either official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores with a minimum score of 600, or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores with a minimum score of 6.00.
Application Requirements
Prior to submitting an application, please download and review the important information contained in the complete application instruction packet on the SONDH website (nursing.hawaii.edu/how-to-apply).
Bachelor’s to PhD and Master’s to PhD Pathway
- Graduate Division application and fee (manoa.hawaii.edu/how-apply)
- NursingCAS application and fee (nursingcas.org)
- Resume/CV
- RN license (see admission requirements)
- Essay in response to question provided (500 word maximum)
Master’s to PhD Pathway
1. Graduate Division application and fee (manoa.hawaii.edu/how-apply)
2. NursingCAS application and fee (nursingcas.org)
3. Resume/CV
4. RN license (see admission requirements)
5. Essay in response to question provided (500 word maximum)
Application Deadline
January 5 (Fall admission only)
The PhD program uses a rolling admission model. Applications are reviewed upon submission and applicants are notified as decisions are made.
Contact Information
PhD Program
Phone: (808) 956-8401
Fax: (808) 956-5977
Email: phdnurs@hawaii.edu
Office of Student Services
School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene
University of Hawaii at Manoa
2528 McCarthy Mall, Webster Hall
Honolulu, HI 96822
UH Translational Health Science Simulation Center (UH THSSC)
Please see the information in the “Instructional Support, Research, and Service Units” section.
Hawai‘i State Center for Nursing
Please see the information in the “Instructional Support, Research, and Service Units” section.