The practice doctorate is designed for nurses seeking a terminal degree in nursing practice. The DNP curriculum builds on the baccalaureate program by providing clinical preparation as an advance practice nurse, education in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems thinking among other key areas. DNP graduates will likely seek practice leadership roles such as advanced practice nurses, managers of quality initiatives, executives in healthcare organizations, directors of clinical programs, and faculty responsible for clinical program delivery and clinical teaching.
At the completion of the 70-credit program, the graduate will be able to:
- Assume the role of the advanced practice nurse to provide independent and collaborative health care based on evidence, scientific knowledge, and science-based theory
- Demonstrate organizational and system leadership to improve the quality of health care for persons
- Design, implement, and evaluate strategies to address the environmental influences of culture, economics, ethics, law, policy, politics, society, and technology on health outcomes
- Engage in the processes of critical thinking, communication, change, and lifelong learning as an advanced practice nurse
Admission
In addition to completing the graduate admission requirements (see here ), students applying to the DNP program must submit the following materials by the April 15th deadline:
- A baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited university with a grade point average of at least 3.000
- Unencumbered license or eligibility for RN licensure in the state in which clinical coursework hours will be completed (license will need to be obtained prior to any clinical experiences)
- A 2-page essay indicating the reason for pursuing the DNP degree and the relationship of graduate study to professional goals as a family nurse practitioner
- Submission of a portfolio to include curriculum vita/résumé that includes a description of current and past clinical practice as well as any presentations and or publications
- Copy of all registered nurse licenses
- Letters of recommendation from three clinical peers/supervisors who attest to communication and clinical competence (Valpo alumni are required to submit two letters of recommendation)
A non-refundable seat deposit is required for the DNP program. The seat deposit will be applied to the first semester’s tuition.
Advising
Advising in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program is done by an appointed faculty advisor within the College of Nursing and Health Professions. The major for this program is Family Nurse Practitioner. Students must be unconditionally admitted to the DNP Program prior to enrolling in clinical courses.
Progression Requirements
Students who are on academic probation, due to low GPA or the receipt of two grades below B-, are not eligible to proceed to the NUR 799 series until academic deficiencies are resolved. Students must achieve a grade of B- or higher in NUR 770 to progress to the NUR 799 series. All additional academic policies beginning on page 100 apply to the DNP program.
Nursing Liability Insurance
In connection with the clinical practice component of the nursing program, all BSN to DNP students, beginning with their first clinical course (NUR 605 ), must secure professional liability insurance provided by the University.
Program Requirements
Students may be admitted to the DNP program for two semesters on conditional status. If requirements for unconditional admission are not met at this time, then the student cannot progress. DNP students must meet the admission, progression, and graduation requirements of the GRADUATE CATALOG. No more than nine transfer credits can be applied to program requirements.
BSN to DNP students are required to come to campus for four immersion/intensive experiences: 1. to attend new student orientation at the beginning of their program; 2. to attend DNP Project presentations and participate in a simulated patient experience while enrolled in NUR 605 ; 3. to attend DNP Project presentations and DNP Project orientation activities while enrolled in NUR 770 ; and 4. to deliver their poster and oral presentation at the completion of their studies.
Prior to beginning clinical courses (NUR 605 , NUR 722 . NUR 732 , NUR 742 , NUR 752 , and 799), students must submit evidence of a current nursing license, medical/health insurance, CPR certification, TB skin test results, immunizations (Tdap, MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, and annual influenza), a statement of good health, clear criminal background check, and a negative drug screen. These items must be uploaded on a tracker purchased through the College of Nursing and Health Professions. The clinical clearance items must be updated annually and must be current through the end of the semester.
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