Post-Master’s DNP

The post-masters DNP is a hybrid program, offering students numerous opportunities to connect with peers and faculty. Courses are offered in the evening hours mid-week to accommodate working advanced practice nurses. Synchronous requirements may vary by course, but students are able to attend synchronously scheduled classes through live stream technology. The evidence-based practice project, within the NUR 799 series, may be completed within the advanced practice nurse’s place of employment.

Fall Semester

Spring Semester

Summer

Fall Semester

Spring Semester

* Course enhancements may be required if post-BSN clinical hours do not total 1000.

A nursing lab fee is payable by each graduate nursing student enrolled in NUR 799.

Program Requirements

DNP students must meet the admission, progression, and graduation requirements of the university Graduate Catalog.

DNP students are required to come to campus three times: to attend new student orientation at the beginning of their program, to attend oral and poster presentations while enrolled in NUR 770, and to deliver their poster and oral presentation at the completion of their studies.

Prior to beginning clinical courses (NUR 799A for post-master’s DNP), students must submit evidence of current license, medical/health insurance, CPR certification, TB skin test results, immunizations (Tdap, MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, and annual influenza) statement of good health, a 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.

In additional to the academic progression policies of the Graduate School, the following CONHP policy applies to all DNP students: 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.

Nursing Liability Insurance

In connection with the clinical practice component of the nursing program, all students in the DNP program, beginning with their first clinical course, must secure professional liability insurance provided by the university (fees to be determined).

Criteria for Admission into the Post-MSN/DNP Program

Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate School, which include:

• Completed Post MSN-DNP application form;
• A MSN degree from an accredited university with a grade point average of at least 3.25;
• Unencumbered RN license in the State in which clinical course work hours will be completed;
• Copy of all registered nurse licenses;
• Certification as an advance practice nurse;
• Copy of current APN certification for advanced practice nursing specialty

As part of the application process, students must provide:

• Valparaiso University Graduate Application and Post-MSN/DNP Application;
• Official transcripts of all prior undergraduate and graduate coursework;
• Letter of recommendation from three clinical peers/supervisors who attest to communication and clinical competence (Valpo alumni need only submit two letters of recommendation);
• A two-page reflective essay relating doctoral study to professional goals;
• 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;
• Criminal background check and drug screen will be required through Valpo to begin clinical courses;
• Application Fee: $30 for U.S. citizens.

Admission is only for the fall semester. 

Interested students should request information from the Graduate School through our website or by emailing graduate.studies@valpo.edu. Post-Master’s DNP applicants submitting all required materials by March 1st are eligible for an expedited admission decision. Contact the Graduate School for additional information about the expedited decision process.