The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program
The Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program provides a
professional practice doctorate in nursing that is designed for applicants to
matriculate at two entry points: post baccalaureate or post master’s degree
with a major in nursing. The degree prepares you for a career with a focus on
one of the following advanced professional practice specialties:
Community Behavior
Direct Practice
Leadership/Administration
Practitioner/Educator
The sequence of courses provides the DNP graduate with the
skills to assume leadership in meeting the healthcare needs of clients in a
variety of settings; the program has an emphasis on the care of vulnerable
populations.
Admission to the Doctor of Nursing Practice is competitive; only
a limited number of applicants will be admitted to the program. DNP
applications are due by May 1st every year. Apply by visiting the Apply
Online page of this website.
Approval to grant the degree was granted by the Illinois Board
of Higher Education in December, 2007. Approval for the Doctor of Nursing
Practice has also been awarded by the Higher
Learning Commission.
DNP Fact Sheet
Nancy MacMullen, Chair and Director of the Department of Nursing
Our nursing students typically are nontraditional, juggling job and family responsibilities on top of school—and they work hard and collaborate with faculty to achieve their career goals. Upon graduation, our nursing students are prepared at to advance in their profession and provide excellent nursing care to local, regional, national, and international communities.