UPDATE TO NURSE ANESTHESIA DNP FAQs

The Fitzpatrick College of Nursing recently announced that effective August 21, 2023, it plans to assume sole ownership and control of the Post-baccalaureate Nurse Anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP-NA) program pending approval of this major program change by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA).

Villanova's Nurse Anesthesia Program is following all COA policies and procedures and has submitted a proposal to the COA to review and approve this change. The program will be called the Villanova University Nurse Anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice Program. 

Those who have additional questions after reading the information below should email Dr. Mary Terhaar, Associate Dean of FCN’s Graduate Program, or Dr. Jodie Szlachta, DNP-NA Program Director.

 

 

FAQs

 

I’m a current DNP-NA student. What does this change mean for me?

Beginning August 21, 2023, DNP-NA classes will be held on Villanova’s main campus or at the Inn at Villanova. Classes will no longer be held at the Springfield, Pa., site. Otherwise, all other aspects of the program remain the same.

 

Will the DNP-NA leadership and faculty remain the same?

The DNP-NA track will continue to be led by its director, Dr. Jodie Szlachta. Dr. Carlene McLaughlin is continuing as director of Simulation and of DNP Projects, and Ms. Denise Lamb will continue to capably support the program.

Drs. Matt McCoy and Alice Jurcik have moved on with their careers and their positions will be filled in the near future.

 

Where can I find the DNP-NA faculty and administrative offices?

All DNP-NA faculty and administrative offices will now be located in Driscoll Hall, home of the Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, on Villanova’s main campus.

 

Why is the program’s name changing?

The updated name reflects Villanova Nursing becoming the sole administrator of the DNP-NA program.

 

Are the cost or fees of the DNP-NA program changing?

No, this change has no impact on the program’s costs and/or fees, with the exception of the cost of an on-campus parking pass (see additional information below).

 

Where will I park once classes are moved to campus?  

Beginning August 21, 2023, those wishing to park on campus will need to have an on-campus parking pass. Your lot assignment will be determined by the Parking Office.

Students may apply for an on-campus parking pass (fees apply) on the University's Parking website. There is no cost for parking at the Inn at Villanova.

 

I'm an accepted student for an upcoming program cohort in 2024 or 2025. What does this change mean for me?

All aspects of the program remain the same, except for the change in class location from Springfield, Pa. to Villanova (main campus and the Inn at Villanova).

We look forward to seeing you in January of your cohort year and will be in touch with more details closer to your start date.

 

I'm a prospective student for an upcoming cohort of 2026 or beyond. What does the change mean for me?

All aspects of the program remain the same, except for the change in class location from Springfield, Pa. to Villanova (main campus and the Inn at Villanova).

We look forward to seeing you in January of your cohort year and will be in touch with more details closer to your start date.