Transformative Leadership: Systems DNP

Rush's Approach: Transformative Leadership: Systems DNP Program

Our program prepares students in the specialty of nursing leadership, equipping them to lead in any context or role. 

Our students receive an education based on the following: 

• The American Association of Colleges of Nursing Essentials Core Competencies for Professional Education 
• The American Organization for Nursing Leadership Nurse Leader Executive Competencies 

Expert faculty have decades of nursing leadership experience in clinical practice, education, nursing administration, policy development and informatics, leading at local and national levels. Many are certified nurse executives.  

Additionally, many faculty have been recognized for their leadership expertise with one or two fellow designations from leadership organizations, including: 

• The American Academy of Nursing 
• The American Organization for Nursing Leadership 
• The American College of Healthcare Executives 
• Clinical specialty organizations 

Consistent with Rush’s practitioner-teacher model, our faculty maintain leadership positions in professional, community, health system and service organizations. 

Influential alumni serve on an advisory committee for the program providing valuable input to ensure the program is relevant for today’s complex challenges, prepares nurses to lead with insight and innovation, and equips them to address issues with intention and sound solutions.  

Transformative Leadership: Systems DNP Program Length and Location

The program is designed for working professionals.  

• Online, asynchronous, interactive coursework 
• 2 two-day campus visits  
• Offered on a part-time basis and takes two years to complete.*  

Required sessions occur virtually and in person. Virtual orientation (Sept 4, 2025 3 – 5p) and problem statement session (March 13, 2026 all day). On campus sessions: July 23 – 25, 2026 and March 2027 (2 day session)

The program requires at least 12-18 hours of study per week.  

Most students remain employed during the program. In fact, we encourage students to implement their DNP projects at their place of employment.  

To support students to be successful in this rigorous program,  

• Knowledgeable program faculty and the student’s advisor provide guidance and support.  
• A cohort model where students progress through the program together offers rich student engagement as a group of peer leaders from diverse settings, creating a community of learning and support.  
• Numerous student services at Rush University to help students be successful while attending to your wellbeing.  

*The College of Nursing reserves the right to modify course requirements or credits in consideration of the following: 

• Certification standards 
• Design and accreditation 
• Overall curricular goals 

Transformative Leadership: Systems DNP Program Tuition

At Rush University, we know your education is a big investment. We want to make sure you have all the information to be able to make the best financial decisions for you and your family.

Tuition for the Transformative Leadership: Systems DNP program is $1,344 per credit hour.

Learn about student financial aid options.

Transformative Leadership: Systems DNP Career Opportunities

Prepared to lead systems-level change in all health care settings, advance health equity, and influence policy development,  

graduates excel in leadership roles, including: 

• Advanced practice provider lead and director roles 
• Program directors 
• Dean 
• Directors and Executives (ACNO, CNO, COO, CEO, CIO) 
• Roles in health care organizations and health departments 
• President of national professional organizations 

The Future of Nursing Report 2020 – 2030 calls on nurses to lead self, lead others, lead health care and lead beyond health care with the goal of impacting the health of the nation and addressing health equity.  

To do this well, nurses need to be equipped to lead in many different capacities. The Rush Transformative Leadership Systems DNP meets this need, providing nurses in advanced practice, administration, clinical practice, professional development, professional organizations, with the ability to lead with vision, strategy and skill. 

Lead APP and CNO salaries vary by geographical location and range from $110,000 to $250,000, or more.