Highlights of the DNP Primary Care Track
In this track, you will:
- Focus on holistic patient-centered care for individuals from age 13 through the lifespan.
- Learn about health promotion, disease prevention, and the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic conditions.
- Develop clinical expertise to step into a high-demand role and directly improve patient outcomes in urban and rural health care systems.
- Cultivate leadership capabilities so you can advocate for patients, drive positive change, and shape the future of health care in diverse internal medicine and specialty settings.
Take Your Next Step
Priority Application Window:
September-December 1
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Hybrid delivery
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2–4 year
time frame
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100% certification pass rate
Your Adult-Gerontology Primary 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 specialist works with our faculty to arrange in diverse settings, including academic and national healthcare systems, college health clinics, correctional facilities, long-term care, community health, urgent care, and homecare.
Share Your Scholarly Excellence
Work with primary care practice leaders to identify areas for improvement in primary care. Your scholarly project includes opportunities for podium presentations and manuscript development.
We Support Your Career Growth
Engage in hands-on learning, real-time coaching, a tight-knit community, and ongoing professional support. Our expert faculty provide personalized mentorship grounded in diverse, real-world experience.
Additional Learning Opportunities
Broaden your clinical expertise with advanced practice certificates from UW–Madison. These certificates complement the curriculum and set you up for success.
Advanced Practice Badger Nurses in Action
Brenda Coupar, DNP’18, RN, shares her inspiring journey. From her time as an Army combat lifesaver to becoming a Badger nurse, Brenda highlights how UW–Madison provided her with the tools and confidence to drive change in health care.
Student & Alumni Stories

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.

Meet Rachel Stanek: CTEN Clinical Assistant Professor
Two-time Badger Rachel Stanek shares her journey from BSN student to assistant professor.

5 Reasons to Choose a DNP: Lead, Specialize, and Make a Difference
Starting a career in advanced health care can feel confusing. We help you understand the differences so you can make a choice that's best for you.
- More Stories
