Nurses often enter the profession to care for others — but over time, their calling can expand. At Biola University, programs rooted in both clinical excellence and Christian compassion are equipping nurses to step into new roles as educators, leaders and changemakers in healthcare.`

Biola University’s new Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), launching Fall 2026 in the School of Science, Technology and Health, was created for those seeking to expand their sphere of influence. The program is designed for nurses who want to move beyond meeting immediate needs to shaping the future of healthcare — as executives, educators and leaders who integrate faith with practice.

“Building on the strength of our bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program, this һƵ degree is grounded in biblical truth. It culminates in an innovative DNP project that equips students to transform their passion into meaningful impact for patients, families, and communities. Along the way, they’ll gain a strong theoretical foundation, designed to prepare them as a Christ-centered leader in today’s complex healthcare environment,” said Dr. Rachel Van Niekerk, director of nursing at Biola.

Unlike a research-focused doctorate, the Doctor of Nursing Practice program equips nurses to take research off the shelf and into real-world practice. Students will translate evidence into solutions that improve patient outcomes, prevent burnout and strengthen organizations. The program’s Executive Nurse Leadership track prepares һƵs for roles in hospitals, public health agencies, universities and beyond.

Every course integrates a Christian worldview, preparing һƵs to lead with humility, compassion and resilience while gaining expertise in business, public health, education and theology alongside advanced nursing. This holistic approach is unique to Biola’s dedication to teaching nurses how to model the care and compassion of Jesus to hurting people — sometimes during the most traumatic or trying moments of their lives. The final project in the program allows students to design and implement changes that directly impact healthcare systems and communities, emphasizing the program's real-world focus.

Students will have the opportunity to learn from experts across disciplines, including finance and organizational leadership, spiritual integration and public health systems. This cross-disciplinary approach will equip students with the broad skills required to thrive in complex health care environments. The program will be offered entirely online, with entry points for both BSN- and MSN-prepared nurses. The program will combine asynchronous coursework with faculty mentorship and practicum experiences tailored to each student’s professional goals. Most students in the cohort can complete the program while continuing to work full-time, making it both accessible and practical for advancing their careers without pausing their calling.

“Biola's intentional approach to preparing future Christian nurses allowed me to feel loved, valued and capable of being a competent nurse who strives to be the hands and feet of Jesus," said alumnus and pediatric nurse Liam Kelly (BSN, ’24). “During our training at Biola, I experienced many different clinical settings and found that working in pediatrics was where the Lord wanted me. I can now say after leaving Biola that I feel confident and equipped to be a pediatric nurse who serves the children of LA County, holding space for both joyful and difficult moments with patients and their families.”

The need for nurse leaders has never been greater and the DNP program allows nurses like Kelly to step into leadership roles at healthcare organizations or fill nursing faculty roles.

For over 50 years, Biola has equipped nurses to serve with excellence and integrity. This new doctoral program strengthens that tradition, forming Christ-centered leaders who will influence healthcare for generations to come. Learn more about becoming part of the first cohort of Biola University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice and apply today.