Essential Guide to the DNP Practicum Manual for Successful Completion
Introduction to the DNP Practicum Manual
This manual describes the structure and timing of the classroom-based and practicum experiences, and the policies students must follow to be successful.
The manual is intended to provide DNP students with the information they need related to practicum policies and procedures and the DNP Project.
For more information about the nursing programs, students should refer to the Walden University College Catalog and Walden University Student Handbook.
Understanding the DNP Program and Practicum
The DNP program at Walden University is designed to promote Walden University’s vision, mission, and ongoing commitment to social change.
The program is designed to prepare distinguished graduates to advance the greater good of global communities.
The DNP program requires three practicum courses: NUR-9020, NUR-9120, and NUR-9220.
Preparing for the Practicum
To prepare for the Practicums, students must read and access the Practicum Packet.
Forms must be submitted according to the timeline in the packet.
Students must submit forms on time to avoid delays in the Practicum process.
Full-time students: Practicum forms are due three months prior to the start of NUR-9020.
Part-time students: Practicum forms are due six months prior to the start of NUR-9020.
Practicum Roles and Responsibilities
Preceptors are qualified individuals within a practicum site who are responsible for helping to shape student practicum experiences and provide ongoing feedback on their practicum work.
Students at Walden are considered adult learners who are capable of seeking educational opportunities to meet their personal and professional goals.
Walden is responsible for incorporating practicum experiences into its programs, as well as ensuring availability of adequate resources for students to participate in practicum required for completion of the program.
Practicum Course Faculty Members are doctoral-prepared and teach the didactic portion of each practicum course; manage the practicum experience; grade student work related to the practicum experience; assign the final grade for the course; and communicate with preceptors regarding the successful mastery of all competencies.
University Resources and Support
The Office of Field Experience in the College of Nursing is responsible for managing the practicum application process, ensuring that students’ practicum meets program requirements, and supporting students through the practicum process.
Walden’s Career Planning and Development is one possible starting point for students to begin to learn strategies for networking.
The Office of Student Disability Services is available to provide accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Practicum Logistics and Planning
A practicum is a distinctly defined supervised clinical experience in which students implement knowledge and skills acquired in coursework and integrate professional knowledge in a real healthcare context.
A practicum site is a setting that enables students to increase the depth of knowledge of the DNP roles directly related to the area of specialization, where students have applied practice experiences (no direct hands-on care) under the supervision of a preceptor, consistent with their education and meet the requirements of their program.
Supervision by a preceptor is composed of a tutorial and mentoring form of instruction in which practicum preceptors monitor students’ activities in the practicum and facilitate learning and skill-development experiences.
Practicum Evaluation and Assessment
Practicum evaluation and assessment will be based on the student’s ability to demonstrate mastery of the DNP program outcomes.
The practicum evaluation and assessment process will include feedback from preceptors, faculty members, and students.
The practicum evaluation and assessment process will be used to determine the student’s readiness for graduation.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Upon completion of the practicum, students will be able to demonstrate mastery of the DNP program outcomes.
Students will be able to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the practicum to real-world healthcare contexts.
Students will be prepared to take on leadership roles in healthcare and make a positive impact on healthcare outcomes.
