Using Implementation Science as the Core of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Inquiry Project

• The paper describes an implementation science course developed for a DNP program
• The course design is described including assignments and rational
• Challenges of addressing the integration of the course into the life of the school are discussed
• Examples of how students implemented assignments are included

New knowledge in health care needs to be implemented for continuous practice improvement. Doctor of nursing practice (DNP) programs are designed to increase clinical practice knowledge and leadership skills of graduates. This article describes an implementation science course developed in a DNP program focused on advancing graduates' capacity for health systems leadership. Curriculum and course development are presented, and the course is mapped to depict how the course objectives and assignments were aligned with DNP Essentials. Course modules with rational are described, and examples of how students implemented assignments are provided. The challenges of integrating this course into the life of the school are discussed as well as steps taken to develop faculty for this capstone learning experience. This article describes a model of using implementation science to provide DNP students an experience in designing and managing an evidence-based practice change project.