Nursing
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Graduate Major
Grand Rapids • Hybrid • 75 - 87 Credits
Nursing is a healthcare profession focused on the care of individuals, families, and communities, with many nurses pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to enhance their career opportunities and leadership skills.
Overview
Grand Valley's Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) is designed for nurses seeking a terminal degree in nursing practice. This hybrid program combines online coursework with specialty practicums in healthcare settings, and it is the only program of its kind in West Michigan. The curriculum is structured to accommodate the busy schedules of working nurses, with nurse practitioner students attending on-campus sessions 1-2 times per semester in the Interprofessional Simulation Center.
The program covers a wide range of topics essential for advanced nurses. Students will study applied statistics, informatics, innovation and technologies, evidence-based practice, health issues in vulnerable populations, and quality management in healthcare. These courses are designed to align with the national agenda to transform American healthcare, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the field.
The college has established partnerships with over 1,700 healthcare organizations, providing students with ample opportunities for practical experience. Additionally, students have access to a dedicated full-time placement coordinator, graduate assistantships, scholarships, and financial aid. The faculty are highly qualified and invested in student success, offering relevant coursework and support throughout the program.
The Kirkhof College of Nursing’s programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and are highly respected by employers.
Kirkhof College of Nursing Office of Student Services
DNP Program
gvsu.edu/nursingdnp
333
Michigan St NE, Ste. 410
(616) 331-7160
Program Director
Nicole Harpold, DNP
(616) 331-5606
Application Deadline
Preferred application deadline for the Fall cohort is May 1. Applications received after that date are accepted based on space available until the final application deadline of July 15.
Career Opportunities
Diagnose and treat acute, episodic, or chronic illness, independently or as part of a healthcare team. May focus on health promotion and disease prevention. May order, perform, or interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and x rays. May prescribe medication. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Complex Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Social Perceptiveness
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 99,598.33 | 10% |
| $109,025.25 | 25% |
| $124,713.95 | 50% |
| $135,019.81 | 75% |
| $151,711.13 | 90% |
Provide specialized nursing care for patients in critical or coronary care units.
Top skills- Monitoring
- Social Perceptiveness
- Critical Thinking
- Service Orientation
- Reading Comprehension
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 69,722.23 | 10% |
| $ 79,656.71 | 25% |
| $ 85,435.63 | 50% |
| $101,145.04 | 75% |
| $107,302.11 | 90% |
Direct nursing staff in the provision of patient care in a clinical practice setting, such as a hospital, hospice, clinic, or home. Ensure adherence to established clinical policies, protocols, regulations, and standards.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Service Orientation
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 69,722.23 | 10% |
| $ 79,656.71 | 25% |
| $ 85,435.63 | 50% |
| $101,145.04 | 75% |
| $107,302.11 | 90% |
Care for ill, injured, or convalescing patients or persons with disabilities in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, private homes, group homes, and similar institutions. May work under the supervision of a registered nurse. Licensing required.
Top skills- Service Orientation
- Social Perceptiveness
- Coordination
- Monitoring
- Active Listening
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 52,521.48 | 10% |
| $ 59,901.09 | 25% |
| $ 63,377.87 | 50% |
| $ 71,388.26 | 75% |
| $ 78,357.45 | 90% |
Provide advanced nursing care for patients with acute conditions such as heart attacks, respiratory distress syndrome, or shock. May care for pre- and post-operative patients or perform advanced, invasive diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
Top skills- Social Perceptiveness
- Reading Comprehension
- Monitoring
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 69,722.23 | 10% |
| $ 79,656.71 | 25% |
| $ 85,435.63 | 50% |
| $101,145.04 | 75% |
| $107,302.11 | 90% |
A Unique Opportunity
The Only D.N.P. in West Michigan
Accreditation
The Kirkhof College of Nursing’s programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and are highly respected by employers.
Dedicated Clinical Placement Coordinator
You will have access to a dedicated full-time placement coordinator who manages all of your clinical placements and academic advisors who create tailored program plans for each student.
Related Programs
Request Information