Adult-Gerontology Acute Care DNP
Highlights of the DNP in Acute Care Track
In this track, you will:
- Focus on adult and older adult patients with complex acute, acute on chronic illness, and those requiring surgical, procedural, or specialty care management.
- Prepare to lead in diverse clinical settings, including hospitals, intensive care units, emergency departments, urgent care centers, surgical suites, and specialty care environments.
- Gain leadership opportunities, obtain nurse practitioner certification and licensure, and position yourself for potential salary advancement.
Priority Application Window:
September-December 1
Take Your Next Step
Hybrid delivery
2-4-year
time frame
100% certification pass rate
Your Adult-Gerontology Acute Care DNP Experience
A Flexible, Hybrid Program
Our hybrid format blends the convenience of asynchronous online learning with the benefits of in-person sessions, typically held once or twice a month. During on-campus visits, you’ll engage in active learning and advanced simulation technology.
We Arrange Clinical Placements
Our clinical placement coordinators arrange clinical experiences at nationally ranked level-one trauma centers, acute and critical care hospitals, community hospitals, and critical access centers.
Showcase Your Scholarly Excellence
Develop and lead acute care-focused scholarly projects that drive improvements in the care of your chosen patient population and align with your clinical interests.
We Support Your Career Growth
Experience hands-on learning, real-time coaching, a strong sense of community, and enduring professional support designed to advance your career at every stage.
Advanced Practice Certificates
Broaden your clinical expertise with advanced practice certificates from UW–Madison. These programs expand your scope of practice, empowering you to deliver comprehensive care to adult and older adult populations.
Choose Your Program Plan
Advanced Practice Badger Nurses in Action
Nursing Without Constraints
Kelly Ayala DNP’18, uses her passion for innovation to improve the health care landscape for both patients and providers.
Alumni & Student Stories
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System Change Begins with You: Joshua Hermsdorf’s Decision to Lead
From farm kid to nurse leader, Joshua Hermsdorf is devoted to transforming systems and elevating patient care.
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Nurse Advocacy for Better Policies and Better Health
Laura Vergenz, BSN, RN, a graduate student in the systems leadership and innovation track of the UW–Madison School of Nursing’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program, is a strong advocate for older adults.
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From Battlefield to Clinic: Brenda Coupar’s Path from Combat Lifesaver to DNP
Brenda Coupar ’09, DNP’18, knows the true meaning of service. “I didn’t choose nursing. Nursing chose me,” she says.