Guidelines on Writing Personal Statement (DNP Programs)

Applicants must submit a personal statement that discusses the following:

  • How graduate education will promote professional growth and help in transitioning into the role of advanced practice and discuss why you are pursuing the DNP degree.
  • Preparation for graduate work. How has your background and experience influenced and shaped your goals for the future and prepared you for graduate study?
  • Academic strengths and weaknesses that may affect program success.
  • Unique qualities you possess and how you can add to the diversity of the program.
  • DNP Project idea-a problem, specific population, or practice/system change to be considered for a DNP Project proposal
  • Goal statement to include what kind of work or position you will seek after graduation

Tips for writing the personal statement:

  • It is absolutely imperative that you follow these guidelines and that you cover each topic area. Be clear, concise, and cogent.
  • The personal statement is limited to not more than three double spaced pages, using a legible 12 font. Grammar, punctuation, organization, and creativity will be evaluated in the scoring. Include and introduction and conclusion.
  • Make certain that the statement is grammatically and technically correct. There should be no spelling errors.
  • Do not rush. Write drafts, edit, and have someone else read the statement prior to finalizing.