About Viterbo’s DNP Pathways
Our long tradition of developing nurse leaders continues with innovative DNP pathways, including primary care, CRNA, and business (MBA) leadership tracks.
Viterbo University prepares nurses to take their careers to the next level, lead teams, and shape the future of nursing. Through partnerships with leading local health systems, we equip nurses to make a greater impact on patient care, guided by ethical, servant leadership and a commitment to advancing the profession and supporting communities.
Program Highlights:
- Hybrid format, designed with working professionals in mind
- Clinical placements provided
- Approachable, student-centered faculty with clinical expertise in primary care, occupational health, specialty practice, and acute care
Available Pathways
Doctor of Nursing Practice
DNP in Ethical Leadership
- Leadership Pathway (Does not lead to National Board Certification)
- 3 year plan; 37 credits
- For students with an MSN who want to focus on leading improvements across health care organizations, systems, and patient populations.
Dual DNP and MBA
- Leadership Pathway (Does not lead to National Board Certification)
- 3 year plan; 54-62 credits
- For students with a BSN who are in or aspire to be in leadership roles where critical business and management skills are needed in the ever-changing health care environment
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- National Board Certification Pathway (Primary Care)
- 3-4 year plans; 61-64 credits
- For students with a BSN or MSN who want to provide primary care to patients across the lifespan
AGAC-NP (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
- National Board Certification Pathway (Acute Care)
- 3.5 year plan; 71-74 credits
- For students with a BSN or MSN who want to provide care for adolescents through end of life with complex or critical health conditions in hospital and specialty care settings.
AGAC-NP Post Grad Certificate (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Post Graduate Certificate)
- Certificate (Acute Care)
- 5 semester plan; 21 credits
- For students who are a post-master's or DNP nationally certified primary care nurse practitioner with a family or adult-gerontology population focus.
AGNP (Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner)
- Licensure Pathway (Primary Care)
- 3-4 year plans; 59-62 credits
- For students with a BSN or MSN who want to provide primary care to adolescents through end of life
CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist)
- National Board Certification Pathway
- 3 year plan; 78 credits
- For students with a BSN who want to provide anesthesia care for procedures and surgeries and work in a variety of settings (for example: operating rooms, surgical centers, same-day procedures).
Our DNP and post-graduate certificate graduates are prepared to work in the following settings
- Clinic
- Rural health
- Surgery
- ICU
- Hospital
According to US News & World Report
NPs are the fastest-growing, most employable role due to high demand for primary/mental health care, high salaries, and strong autonomy
Provide exceptional care
Strong nursing leadership is linked to better patient safety, improved staff engagement, and higher quality care
Job outlook
38–46% Projected Growth Rate
Why study this program at Viterbo?
Clinical placements provided
Viterbo's graduate nursing students benefit from a dedicated clinical liaison who coordinates clinical placements, removing the burden of finding sites and preceptors independently.
Approachable, Student-centered Faculty
Our faculty are well prepared in their respective nursing and teaching roles. Many are practicing nurse practitioners who are engaged in research, clinical practice, and national conferences. Clinical expertise includes primary care, occupational health, specialty practice, and acute care. They are dedicated to helping you succeed.
Designed with working professionals in mind.
Courses are offered in a hybrid (online/on-campus) format, making them accessible for commuter students and those balancing other commitments. In-person meeting days are typically on Wednesdays with some Saturdays.
Ready to get started?
