Transformative Nursing Professional Development Education: Leadership Skills and Evidence-Based Projects in a DNE Program

BACKGROUND: Until spring 2023, nurses in professional development did not have terminal degree options tailored to their needs. In response, The Ohio State University College of Nursing launched the Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) program with two tracks: academic nurse educator and nursing professional development (NPD). This program addresses the national shortage of doctorally prepared nurse educators and prepares graduates to lead educational change. METHOD: This article describes the curriculum and leadership focus of the NPD track of the DNE program, aligned with the Association for Nursing Professional Development scope and standards of practice (2022). It highlights four capstone projects implemented by NPD practitioners in health care settings. RESULTS: Students conducted evidence-based, quality improvement, and program evaluation projects that improved clinical teaching, nurse certification, interdisciplinary collaboration, and new graduate nurse mentoring. CONCLUSION: These NPD projects highlight the transformative impact of the DNE program, illustrating how doctoral education drives meaningful improvements in health care practice across diverse settings.