App State Launches Innovative Doctor of Nursing Practice Program to Address Rural Health Needs
Appalachian State University is excited to announce a new hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, designed to prepare highly skilled nurse practitioners and address the growing need for health care access in rural communities. Set to launch in fall 2026, this program represents a significant step towards strengthening the nursing workforce and improving health outcomes in North Carolina and beyond.
The DNP program, approved by the University of North Carolina System Board of Governors, is designed to be approachable for working nurses.
“This new program is a key part of our strategic plan to offer innovative academic programs that meet the needs of our region, especially within rural communities,” said App State Interim Chancellor Heather Norris. “Nurse practitioners play a vital role in bringing quality health care to underserved communities.
North Carolina currently faces a shortage of healthcare providers, with 38 out of 100 counties lacking sufficient staffing ratios. This issue is even more urgent in rural regions like Western North Carolina, where access to quality care is often limited.
Specialized Training for Rural Health Leaders
The DNP program will be part of the Beaver College of Health Sciences, renowned for its commitment to preparing highly qualified healthcare professionals. Students will have the opportunity to tailor their studies through three concentrations: nursing education, public/policy health, and health care administration.
“This program will build on the strong nursing tradition at App State. Our experienced faculty are looking forward to guiding the next generation of nurse practitioners,”
Graduates will be prepared to serve as family nurse practitioners, equipped with specialized training in areas such as nursing education, public and population health, or private practice. The program caters to working nurses who can complete the doctoral degree through a blend of online coursework and on-campus experiences. In-person components, including a regular week-long intensive session held at the App State Hickory campus.
Governor Roy Cooper has also remarked on the importance of addressing rural healthcare disparities, noting that access to quality healthcare is fundamental to the wellbeing of all NorthCarolinians.
The App State program aims to establish a strong pipeline of skilled and compassionate Nurse practitioners ready to answer the call for service in rural regions.”
Bridging the Gap
The DNP program anticipates its first cohort in fall 2026, with a projection of 77 students enrolled by 2030. This new program adds to a robust suite of nursing programs offered by the university.
The DNP program is expected to have a significant impact on regional healthcare.
Applications open soon for the DNP program, with academic requirements including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a current North Carolina nursing license and at least one year of clinical experience. For individuals who want to learn more, visit .
Practice Nurse Practitionersales. Please visit our website for more information on eligibility to enroll in flight.
The DNP class will be held on campus each Fall semester.
The program will
What are the three specialized concentrations offered within the DNP program?
## Addressing Rural Healthcare Needs: A New DNP Program at Appalachian State
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Dr. Huff. Appalachian State University is launching a new Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and it seems particularly focused on addressing rural healthcare needs. Can you tell us more about this initiative?
**Dr. Huff:** Absolutely. We’re very excited about this new program, which is set to launch in fall 2026. It’s a hybrid program designed to be accessible for working nurses, and it directly acknowledges the critical shortage of healthcare providers, particularly in rural areas like Western North Carolina.
**Interviewer:** What makes this program unique and how does it specifically target the challenges faced by rural communities?
**Dr. Huff:** This DNP program within the Beaver College of Health Sciences offers three specialized concentrations: nursing education, public/policy health, and healthcare administration. We believe this multi-faceted approach equips our graduates to not only provide direct patient care but also become leaders and innovators within complex rural healthcare environments. They’ll be prepared to advocate for policy changes, educate future nurses, and manage healthcare systems in a way that meets the unique needs of these communities.
**Interviewer:** How does Appalachian State’s existing nursing program contribute to the success of this new DNP initiative?
**Dr. Huff:** Appalachian State has a long-standing commitment to preparing highly qualified healthcare professionals. [[1](https://nursing.appstate.edu/academics)]Our Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in nursing are already accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, demonstrating our commitment to excellence. This new DNP program builds upon that strong foundation, leverages the expertise of our faculty, and reinforces App State’s dedication to serving the people of North Carolina, especially those in underserved rural areas.
**Interviewer:** For registered nurses considering a DNP, what would be the key takeaways about this program?
**Dr. Huff:** If you’re a nurse passionate about making a real difference in rural communities, this program is designed for you. It’s about developing leaders who can drive change and improve access to quality healthcare for those who need it most. With its hybrid format and specialized concentrations, it offers a flexible and focused path to advance your career and have a profound impact on the health and well-being of rural communities.
