HPSP - Advanced Nursing

The Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) for Nursing, offered by the U.S. Army, provides scholarships to students pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in various specializations. These specializations include Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and Midwife Nurse Practitioner. Each specialization has specific prerequisites; for instance, an applicant for the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program needs at least one year of experience in Medical-Surgical nursing. Similarly, CRNA applicants must have one year of critical care experience, as mandated by the Council on Accreditation (COA).

The program is open exclusively to U.S. citizens. It provides comprehensive financial support, including full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend of over $3,110, and reimbursement for certain academic fees. This robust support significantly eases the financial burden of advanced nursing education. During the program, applicants are appointed and commissioned as a Second Lieutenant (2LT) in the Medical Service (M.S.) Corps. This commission gives students a prestigious standing within the military community and integrates their educational journey with military training and values.

The Active Duty Service Obligation (ADSO) associated with the HPSP is a three-year commitment. Upon graduation, officers are commissioned into the Regular Army after completing the Direct Commission Course (DCC) or Basic Officer Leadership Course (BOLC). In addition, graduates must submit a DA Form 2125 (Academic Worksheet), and their acceptance letter from the nursing school must detail the course format and duration, including start and tentative graduation dates, ensuring they maintain full-time student status every semester.

There are specific guidelines regarding online coursework within the program. The nursing program cannot be conducted entirely online, and online courses cannot include clinical or lab components. Students must opt for the in-person version if a course is offered both in-person and online. Additionally, the coursework and the educational institution are subject to the consultant’s review and approval.

The HPSP for Nursing, with its focus on various DNP specializations, represents a substantial investment in the professional development of military nurses. It facilitates advanced nursing education and prepares graduates for significant roles within the Army, combining healthcare expertise with leadership and service.