Nurse Specialist, Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, DNP

Clinical Nurse Specialists are advanced practice nurses who improve health care at multiple levels—by improving patient outcomes, supporting and mentoring nursing staff, and leading system-wide practice improvements. Rather than focusing only on individual patient care, you’ll work across teams to implement evidence-based practices and improve how care is delivered.

In this role, you may lead quality improvement initiatives, coach clinical teams, evaluate patient outcomes and help implement new practices across health systems. It’s an ideal path for nurses who want to combine clinical expertise with leadership and make a broader impact on patient care and nursing practice.

This program was developed in partnership with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health to prepare nurses to lead quality improvement efforts, support clinical teams and improve patient outcomes across their health system. As a student, you’ll apply what you learn directly to your workplace through practicum experiences and system-focused projects.

Because Virginia Mason Franciscan Health serves communities across the Puget Sound region through hospitals, clinics and specialty care centers, students gain experience working within a large, complex health system—building leadership skills that translate across units, departments and organizations.

Through advanced coursework and practicum experiences, you’ll build expertise in clinical decision-making, quality improvement and health care leadership. Courses in assessment, pharmacology, informatics and population health prepare you to evaluate outcomes and improve care across complex health systems.

You’ll apply these skills in real-world settings through CNS and DNP practicum experiences while also training in Seattle University’s Clinical Performance Lab, where simulation and hands-on learning help you prepare for leadership in complex care environments.

At Seattle University College of Nursing and Health Sciences, you’ll learn from experienced faculty who are active clinicians, researchers and health care leaders committed to improving care in the Pacific Northwest. Small class sizes and faculty mentorship ensure you’re supported throughout the duration of the program.

Grounded in Seattle University’s Jesuit values, the DNP program emphasizes leadership, ethical decision-making and a commitment to improving health care for all communities. Graduates are prepared to lead practice improvements and make a lasting impact on patients, nursing teams and health systems across the region.