Future Plans for Graduate Program
A new state-of–the-art nursing building is being planned!
The Family Nurse Practitioner specialty will be available for fall 2009 applicants.
- An advanced, generalist role master's degree track is under development.
- The Doctor of Nursing Practice is under development.
Mission
The Master of Science in Nursing offered at Viterbo is designed to prepare professional nurses for advanced roles in which the health care of diverse populations is influenced, life and situational transitions facilitated, and optimum quality of life promoted.
Curriculum
The curriculum is a 38-49 credit program offering core courses and a choice of three tracks that prepare graduates for a specific role and population foci: Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family 
Nurse Practitioner , or Nurse Educator. The degree can be accomplished in three years of study with lighter than average credit loads considered full time (6-7 semester). The FNP program requires up to 10 credits a semester during the last year of the curriculum. Total credits & clinical hours needed for graduation vary according to choice of tracks. Classes are normally scheduled on one day a week. Clinical practicums require additional time and can be done in the student's own location if possible. Partially online courses reduce the number of campus visits necessary each semester.
The curriculum will prepare graduates for advanced nursing roles that enhance the standard of practice in a variety of settings. Depending on the plan of study chosen, they may function as nurse practitioners, educators, or in other leadership roles requiring expanded knowledge and skills.
Accreditation
The North Central Commission on Higher Education
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Faculty
Silvana F. Richardson, Ph.D., RN, Dean
Bonnie J. Nesbitt, Ph.D., ANP-BC Assistand Dean for the Graduate Program
Judy K. Anderson, PhD, CNE
Dorie V. Beres, PhD, ANP-BC
Julie V. Clements, MSN, FNP/ANP-BC
Jackie K. Kuennen, EdD, ANP-BC
Kellie Backman, MSN, PNP/FNP-BC
Adjunct Faculty
Karen Matzke, MSN, RN
Kris Brueggen, MSN, FNP/ANP-BC
Peggy Haggerty, EdD, RN
Mary Lu Gerke, PhD, RN
Karen Briggs, MSN, ANP-BC
David Chakoian, MD
Adam Gregg, Pharm.D., BCPS
Cathy Ford, MSN, FNP-BC
Affiliate Faculty
Claudia Swanton, MSN, FNP-BC
Katie Rowan-Koenen, MSN, ANP/FNP-BC
Cost/Financial Aid
Fee per credit is $605 for 2009-10. Additional course fees may apply. Federal loan monies may be available to those who qualify. Contact the Viterbo University Financial Aid office for information (608)796-3900. A limited number of scholarships are available to continuing students.
About the University
Viterbo University, located in beautiful La Crosse, Wisconsin, is a co-educational liberal arts university with a student body consisting of undergraduate and graduate students attending the main campus and extended learning facilities throughout the region. Founded in 1890 by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration the word “Viterbo” is synonymous with: quality education, hands on experience, and a warm, friendly, and caring atmosphere. Attractive student to faculty ratios mean small classes and personalized instruction.
Expected Outcomes for Graduates
This program will prepare nurse professionals in advanced roles to:
- Practice in an expanded, specialized, and/or advanced nursing role.
- Affirm the dignity of life and human diversity.
- Utilize ethical decision-making strategies in complex health care situations.
- Advocate for quality of health care practices, especially for those who are vulnerable and underserved.
- Demonstrate ethical leadership and faithful service within a variety of settings.
- Engage in a research/evidence-based practice.
- Assume accountability for life-long learning.
Certification
Graduates may be eligible for various certification exams depending on options chosen within the curriculum & individual clinical backgrounds. Graduates of the Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult Nurse Practitioner tracks are eligible to apply for the national certification exams available for these specialties (ANCC or AANP). Graduates of the Nurse Educator track are eligible for the NLN CNE exam after they have completed the required professional role hours. 
For further information regarding admission contact:
We hope you will consider applying for admission to the MSN at Viterbo. Thank you for your interest!
Bonnie Nesbitt, Ph.D., ANP-BC
Assistant Dean
Graduate Program Director
Viterbo University School of Nursing
900 Viterbo Dr.
La Crosse, WI 54601
(608) 796-3688
OR
Bobbi Hundt
Graduate Program Administrative Assistant
Viterbo University School of Nursing
900 Viterbo Dr.
La Crosse, WI 54601
(608) 796-3671