Post-Master’s DNP

The post-masters DNP is an asynchronous online program with a required on campus intensive at the time of graduation where students present their DNP project. Our student to faculty ratio allows for a strong connection between students and faculty, and our online environment also allows for numerous opportunities to connect with peers. Our asynchronous online program accommodates working advanced practice nurses. The evidence-based practice project, within the NUR 799 series, may be completed within the advanced practice nurse’s place of employment.

Summer Semester

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.

Applications can be submitted for spring, summer or fall admission.  Interested students should contact Christina Cavinder, Assistant Dean for Graduate Nursing for more information at christina.cavinder@valpo.edu.