DNP project types

DNP projects come in many forms, and each type tends to run into its own problems. Find the type closest to yours to see what to plan for. Many projects combine two types, so read both if yours does.

• Evidence-Based Practice Change

  Evidence-based practice change projects take an intervention with strong evidence behind it, such as a guideline or protocol, and put it into use in your setting.

• Quality Improvement

  Quality improvement (QI) projects make a specific process or outcome better in a specific setting, usually through a series of small, tested changes.

• Educational Intervention

  Educational intervention projects teach a group, such as patients, caregivers, or staff, new knowledge or skills and measure what changes as a result.

• Program Evaluation

  Program evaluation projects judge how well an existing program is working.

• New Practice Model & Pilot

  Pilot projects try out a new care model or service on a small scale.

• Health Policy

  Health policy projects analyze an existing policy or propose a new one.

• Needs Assessment & Instrument Development

  Needs assessment projects find out what a group needs, often through a survey.

• Economic Evaluation & Business Case

  Economic evaluation projects estimate the costs, savings, or financial case for a change.

• Informatics & Technology Implementation

  Informatics projects introduce or improve a technology, such as an EHR tool, alert, or app.

• Evidence Synthesis & Guideline Development

  Evidence synthesis projects develop a guideline, protocol, or toolkit from a systematic review of the evidence.

Not sure which type fits? Find your project type

Programs name and define project types differently. These categories are a practical guide, not an official classification.