Physician assistants (PAs) are part of the health care team that provides basic medical care under the supervision of a physician. They take medical histories, perform examinations, treat patients, see to minor injuries, prescribe medication, order lab work, and interpret results.

Pharmacists are an integral part of the primary health care system. They educate patients about different medications and serve to ensure safe administration of drugs. Pharmacists also serve to advise other health care providers about drug treatment plans, monitor drug therapy, and they may do research and clinical studies.

Optometrists are primary health care providers who diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system.

A physician trained in allopathic or osteopathic medicine is what most people think of when they imagine a “doctor.” Generally, a physician's responsibilities include diagnosing disease, supervising the health care of patients, and prescribing treatment.

Dentistry is devoted to maintaining the health of the teeth, gums, and other hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity. Most dentists engage in general practice, bringing skills in oral diagnosis, prevention, and rehabilitation directly to the patient.

Occupational therapists (OTs) help patients improve their ability to perform tasks in living and working environments. They work with individuals who suffer from a mentally, physically, developmentally, or emotionally disabling conditions and usually have a strong educational background in the social and behavioral health sciences. This provides the skills and knowledge for them to help patients physically, emotionally, and psychologically deal with injury and recovery.

If you already hold a BSN or MSN degree, our MBA/DNP dual degree prepares you for leadership roles, to educate future nurses, and to influence systems of care. This integrated dual degree program provides registered nurses a direct path to their career goals with critical business and management skills needed for successful health care leaders. Save time and money with this integrated program.

• Leadership Pathway (Does not lead to National Board Certification) 
• 3 year plan; 54-62 credits 
• For students with a BSN who are in or aspire to be in leadership roles where critical business and management skills are needed in the ever-changing health care environment
   

This program is designed for nurses who have their BSN, and are looking to attain their DNP with a focus on gerontology.  Graduates in this track will be prepared to manage health and illness states of varying complexity in adolescents, adults, and aged individuals and to promote optimum health-related quality of life. The provision of high quality, cost effective primary health care to patients/families/aggregates in a variety of settings is emphasized.

• Licensure Pathway (Primary Care)
• 3-4 year plans; 59-62 credits
• For students with a BSN or MSN who want to provide primary care to adolescents through end of life

Viterbo University’s graduate nursing program is specifically designed to be relevant and responsive to the needs of practicing professional nurses who wish to formally advance their knowledge and skills and seek an advanced nursing role. Graduates in this track will be prepared to manage health and illness states of varying complexity in persons across the lifespan and to promote optimum health-related quality of life. The provision of high quality, cost effective primary health care to patients/families/aggregates in a variety of settings is emphasized.

• National Board Certification Pathway (Primary Care)
• 3-4 year plans; 61-64 credits 
• For students with a BSN or MSN who want to provide primary care to patients across the lifespan 

Minors at Viterbo University generally require between 15–25 credits upon completion. Transfer course and waivers and/or substitutions could modify these credit totals.