Academics
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program
The School of Nursing is pleased to announce the approval of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree by the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System. The first class admitted to the program will be post-master's students, entering study in Fall 2010. Applications from individuals with a baccalaureate degree in nursing will be accepted after September 2010 for Fall 2011 admission.
The purpose of the DNP program is to prepare nurses for leadership roles in advanced nursing practice. The practice doctorate is focused on nursing practice as defined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN):
any form of nursing intervention that influences health care outcomes for individuals or populations, including the direct care of individual patients, management of care for individuals and populations, administration of nursing and health care organizations, and the development and implementation of health policy. (AACN 2004)
At the UW-Madison School of Nursing students prepare for roles as clinical nurse specialists or nurse practitioners in their selected population focus. Those interested in dual preparation as an advanced practice nurse and nurse educator may add a nursing education focus.
Three population foci are available in our program:
- Adult/gerontology
- Pediatrics
- Psychiatric-mental health
Students in the adult/gerontology population focus will have the option to select between acute care and primary care.
The curriculum is organized around three core components: systematic evaluation of practice, leadership/policy, and practice. These core components prepare graduates with the requisite knowledge and skills to influence health care practice for the future.
The program of study is congruent with the AACN's Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice.