Post-MSN leading to the Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP)


Post-MSN DNP Program Description

In October 2004, the members of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) endorsed the Position Statement on the Practice Doctorate in Nursing which called for moving the level of preparation necessary for advanced nursing practice roles from the master's degree to the doctorate level by the year 2015. The practice doctorate is designed for nurses seeking a terminal degree in nursing practice. The DNP curriculum builds on the master's program by providing education in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems thinking among other key areas. DNP graduates will likely seek practice leadership roles such as: advance practice nurses, managers of quality initiatives, executives in healthcare organizations, directors of clinical programs, and faculty responsible for clinical program delivery and clinical teaching.

 

Post-MSN DNP Curriculum

Fall
6 credits
NUR 703 Epidemiology
3 cr
NUR 711 Ethical Issues in Advanced Practice Nursing
3 cr
Spring
6 credits
NUR 712 Organizational & Systems Leadership in Healthcare
3 cr
NUR 713 Business & Legal Aspects of Advanced Nursing Practice
3 cr
Summer
4 credits*
NUR 799L* DNP Project
Lab A: Development
(2 + 2 credits: 140 clinical clock hours)
4 cr*
Fall
4 credits*
NUR 799L* DNP Project
Lab B: Implementation
(2 + 2 credits: 140 clinical clock hours)
4 cr*
Spring
4 credits*
NUR 799L* DNP Project
Lab C: Evaluation
(2 + 2 credits: 140 clinical clock hours)
4 cr*
* VU CNS grads may require course enhancements to complete the 1000 clinical hours required post BSN. Note: VU FNP Grads will not require course enhancements to achieve the required 1000 clinical hours.


2008 Fall Class Schedule: Nur 703 and 711 will alternate meeting on Wednesdays 4:30-7:05 p.m. On-line work required each week.


Criteria for Admission into the Post-MSN DNP Program
Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate Division, which include:

  1. A MSN degree from an accredited university with a grade point average of at least 3.25;
  2. Unencumbered Indiana license or eligibility for RN licensure in the State of Indiana
  3. Copy of all registered nurse licenses
  4. Certification as an advance practice nurse
  5. Copy of current APN certification for advanced practice nursing specialty

As part of the application process, students must provide:

  1. Valparaiso University Graduate Application and DNP Application;
  2. Official transcripts of all prior undergraduate and graduate coursework. If you have received an undergraduate or graduate degree from Valparaiso University, you are not required to submit an official transcript from Valparaiso University;
  3. Letter of recommendation from three clinical peers/supervisors who attest to communication and clinical competence (VU alumni need only submit two letters of recommendation);
  4. A reflective essay relating doctoral study to professinal goals;
  5. Submission of a portfolio to include curriculum vita/resume that includes a description of current and past clinical practice as well as any presentations and/or publications;
  6. Interview with the Dean of the CON and Faculty
  7. Criminal background check and drug screen will be required through VU to begin clinical courses;
  8. Application Fee: $30 for U.S. citizens.

Due to the limited number of seats available, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their application materials by May 30 in order to be considered for the fall 2008 class.

 

For more information about the Post-MSN DNP program
To learn more about the College of Nursing, visit their website at http://www.valpo.edu/nursing/.

Interested students should request an application packet from the Office of Graduate Studies through our website or by e-mailing graduate.studies@valpo.edu.