Duke University School of Nursing
A diverse community of scholars and clinicians, Duke University School of Nursing has been educating transformational leaders in nursing and healthcare since 1931. We advance nursing science in issues of global importance and foster the scholarly practice of nursing.
We have a rich history of pioneering advancements, including being one of the first schools in the nation to offer a graduate nursing program. Today, we continue to lead with innovation, excellence, and a deep commitment to advancing health equity and improving patient care.
Through our world-class nursing programs, including pre-licensure, master’s, Ph.D., and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees, Duke University School of Nursing is committed to shaping the future of healthcare.
Duke University School of Nursing is led by Interim Dean Dr. Michael Relf, Ph.D. He also serves as the Mary T. Champagne Distinguished Professor of Nursing and as Associate Chief Nurse Executive for Academic Partnerships and Innovation for the Duke University Health System.
Interim Dean Relf works with the School of Nursing Leadership Team, as well as department chairs and center and office directors overseeing and managing the School of Nursing.
Interim Relf currently serves as the editor of the Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and the Academy of Nursing Education.
Dean Michael V. Relf
PhD, RN, AACRN, ANEF, CNE, FAAN
Interim Dean
Mary T. Champagne Distinguished Professor of Nursing
Duke University School of Nursing
Associate Chief Nurse Executive for
Academic Partnerships and Innovation
Duke University Health System
School of Nursing Mission, Vision, and Values
At the heart of Duke University School of Nursing is a commitment to improving health equity, social justice, and excellence in nursing education. Our mission, vision, and values guide everything we do, from supporting the academic and professional goals of nursing students to advancing the field of nursing science through research and clinical practice.
Mission
We, at the Duke University School of Nursing, advance health equity and social justice by preparing nurse leaders and innovators with a commitment to improving health outcomes through transformative excellence in education, clinical practice, and nursing science.
Vision Statement
Together transforming the future of nursing, to advance health with individuals, families and communities.
Values
- Excellence
- Integrity
- Collaboration
- Respect
- Innovation
- Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Duke University School of Nursing is committed to increasing diversity and inclusiveness in our community. Diversity is more than broadly representative demographic differences. Rather, diversity embodies cultural sensitivity and openness, collaboration, and inclusion. Diversity fosters learning by reflecting experiences from life, classroom and practice, and social beliefs.
Our Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging supports these efforts by ensuring all students, faculty, and staff are supported, heard, and respected.
Rankings & Distinctions
As one of the top nursing programs in the country, Duke University School of Nursing consistently earns high rankings:
- #2 Best Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs (2025 tie)
- #3 Best Nursing Schools: Master's (2024)
- #3 Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice (2024 tie)
Our Commitment to Health Equity
Advancing health equity and social justice is at the core of everything we do. Guided by our School of Nursing values and mission, we are dedicated to preparing nurse leaders and innovators who tackle systemic, unfair, and avoidable differences in health outcomes across populations. Through excellence in education, clinical practice, and nursing science, we strive to create meaningful advancements that improve health for individuals, families, and communities.
Our History
Since 1931, Duke University School of Nursing has been at the forefront of nursing education. From being among the first to offer a graduate nursing program in 1958 to launching North Carolina’s first Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 2008, we have continually evolved to meet the needs of the nursing profession. Today, our innovative nursing programs continue to emphasize the critical role of nurses in delivering and improving patient care.