Doctor of Nursing Practice
A higher level of nursing leadership
Alverno College's Doctor of Nursing Practice degree will prepare you to assume leadership roles in complex clinical environments, lead the development of health care policy, translate research into practice and serve as role models, facilitators, consultants and expert clinicians in health care.
In response to market demand and the increasingly complex health care landscape, Alverno launched the Doctor of Nursing degree in January 2017. Throughout the program, you will have access to the expertise and resources you need to take your leadership skills to the next level.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Two tracks
• Leadership (32 credits)
• Direct Care (30 credits)
DNP program highlights
- Twelve courses are offered in a flexible hybrid format that blends online and classroom education to develop knowledge and skills in key areas.
- The cohort model offers year-round classes in manageable, eight-week blocks. Cohort starts are in January.
- Students can attend full or part time; the program can be completed in 18 months with full time attendance.
- Advanced outcomes include leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based translation practice, advanced communication and informatics.
Graduate Nursing Program Leaders
Diane Duffy PhD, RN Associate Dean of Graduate Nursing Studies diane.duffy@alverno.edu, 414-382-6293 |
PATTI VARGA PhD, RN, CNE Joann McGrath School of Nursing and Health Profesionals Dean Doctorate of Nursing Practice Program Director 414-382-6303 |
Contact Janet Stikel at 414-382-6112 or janet.stikel@alverno.edu for admissions requirements.

DNP SAMPLE CURRICULUM
8 WEEK COURSES YEAR ROUND
- Epidemiology
- Practice-based Inquiry
- Clinical Practicum I & II
- Information technology & Data Driven Inquiry
- Translational Research I & II
- Scholarly Project I & II
- Health Systems and Public policy
- Ethical Leadership in Health Care
- Genetics and Genomics in Health Care (Direct care only)
- Creating Agility in Dynamic Environments (Leadership only)
Accreditation
The baccalaureate degree in nursing program, master’s degree program, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Alverno College are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC, 20001, 202-887-6791.
To view accreditation, click here.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Alverno College is seeking accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
The JoAnn McGrath School of Nursing and Health Professions is also approved by the Wisconsin Board of Nursing. Alverno College maintains continuous accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.