Lewis University is building upon a strong tradition of preparing tomorrow’s nursing leaders with the addition of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. What differentiates and distinguishes the DNP graduate from the master’s prepared advanced practice nurse is the scope of education and preparation to assume leadership in changing practice to improve the healthcare system. The DNP curriculum provides course and clinical work beyond the master’s level that includes advanced knowledge in health policy, ethics, evidence-based practice, population based care, leadership and financial skills.

The curriculum is individualized to meet the needs of nurses who hold a baccalaureate degree in nursing, or for those who hold a Master’s degree in nursing, with or without the designation of Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN). Applicants without the APRN credential will earn eligibility to sit for national certification exams as either an Adult or Family Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist. The length of the program is dependent upon the level of educational preparation of the applicant, and will be tailored to the needs of the individual student.

“Lewis University Doctor of Nursing Practice degree recipients will be prepared to provide healthcare services for vulnerable populations, affirming each individual’s dignity, and promoting social responsibility consistent with the Lewis University Mission values of justice and association,” commented Dr. Stephany Schlachter, provost.

The Lewis University College of Nursing and Health Professions graduate program has an excellent faculty to student ratio, sensitivity to the needs of adult learners, online options, and personalized support for students. “DNP students will benefit from Lewis University’s long-standing and positive relationships with healthcare agencies in the Chicago area that provide excellent educational opportunities,” commented Dr. Peggy Rice, dean of the College of Nursing and Health Professions.

Lewis currently offers the Master of Science in Nursing degree for the clinical specialties of Adult and Geriatrics Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Specialist. In 2010, the first graduating class of the Adult Nurse Practitioner program earned a 100 percent pass rate on the national certification exam, which is required for eligibility for licensure as APRNs in the state of Illinois.

For more information, contact the Lewis University Office of Adult and Graduate Admission at 815-836-5610 or grad@lewisu.edu.

Lewis University is a Catholic university offering distinctive undergraduate and graduate programs to nearly 6,500 traditional and adult students. Lewis offers multiple campus locations, online degree programs, and a variety of formats that provide accessibility and convenience to a growing student population. Sponsored by the De La Salle Christian Brothers, Lewis prepares intellectually engaged, ethically grounded, globally connected, and socially responsible graduates. The ninth largest private not-for-profit university in Illinois, Lewis has been nationally recognized by The Princeton Review and U.S. News & World Report.