Future Plans for Graduate Program
Planning continues for a new state- of- the- art nursing building with groundbreaking summer 2010 and occupancy fall 2011!
- An advanced generalist master's track is being considered; this track will include the opportunity CNL preparation.
- The Doctor of Nursing Practice post MSN program is under development.
- Curricular revisions to all tracks are being planned in accordance with the new MSN Essentials Document being prepared by AACN at this time with phase in expected fall of 2011.
Mission
The graduate program in nursing prepares advanced practice nurses, nurse educators, and nurse leaders who are dedicated to improving the health of diverse populations through ethical leadership and faithful service.
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 of the School of Nursing
Bonnie J. Nesbitt, Ph.D., ANP-BC Asst. Dean and Director of the Graduate Nursing Program
Judy K. Anderson, PhD, CNE
Julie V. Clements, MSN, ANP/FNP-BC
Jackie K. Kuennen, EdD, ANP-BC
Kellie Backman, MSN, PNP/FNP-BC
Adjunct Faculty
Dorie V. Beres, PhD, ANP-BC Professor Emeritus
Karen Matzke, MSN, RN
Peggy Haggerty, EdD, RN
Karen Briggs, MSN, ANP-BC
David Chakoian, MD
Adam Gregg, Pharm.D., BCPS
Cathy Ford, MSN, FNP-BC
Patricia Zander, PhD Professor Emeritus
Affiliate Faculty
Claudia Swanton, MSN, FNP-BC
Katie Rowan-Koenen, MSN, ANP/FNP-BC
Cost/Financial Aid
Fee per credit is $625 for 2010-11. 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.
We hope you will consider applying for admission to the MSN at Viterbo. Thank you for your interest!
For further information regarding admission contact:
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