Davidson–Duke Nursing Bridge Program: Your Pathway to a Nursing Career
A Direct Path from Davidson College to Duke Nursing
The Davidson–Duke Nursing Bridge Program offers Davidson College students a pathway to continue their education at Duke University School of Nursing through an early admission opportunity into Duke's Master’s Entry program program, which awards a Master of Nursing (MN) degree.
Students accepted through the program can receive an early admissions decision during their junior year at Davidson, allowing them to confidently plan their transition from undergraduate studies to a future nursing career. The program combines the strengths of a Davidson education with mentorship, academic planning, and admissions support from Duke University School of Nursing.
Why Consider the Davidson–Duke Nursing Bridge Program?
The nursing profession requires critical thinking, compassion, leadership, and a strong academic foundation. Through this partnership, Davidson students can explore nursing early and receive guidance throughout their undergraduate experience. Program participants benefit from:
- An opportunity to apply to Duke Nursing during their junior year at Davidson College
- Early admission decision before graduating from Davidson
- Dedicated academic planning with Davidson advisors and Duke Nursing faculty
- Faculty mentorship through Duke University School of Nursing
- A waived application fee for eligible Davidson College students
- Potential $3,000 per semester scholarship support (up to four semesters) once enrolled in the Duke Master of Nursing program
How the Davidson Bridge Pathway Program Works
Freshman and Sophomore Years (Davidson College)
Students interested in pursuing nursing should connect with their Davidson academic advisor early to discuss academic goals and prerequisite planning. Early preparation helps ensure required coursework can be completed before enrolling at Duke.
Junior Year
Students submit their Duke Nursing application through the Davidson Bridge Program during the spring semester of their junior year. Applications are submitted in January, and admission decisions are communicated in March.
Senior Year
Accepted students continue completing their Davidson degree requirements, participate in Duke Nursing admissions and onboarding activities, and prepare for enrollment at Duke after graduation.
After Graduation
Graduates begin the Duke Master of Nursing curriculum and continue their preparation for professional nursing practice.
Personalized Advising and Mentorship
Students in the Davidson–Duke Nursing Bridge Program receive support from both institutions throughout the planning process. Working together, Davidson advisors and Duke faculty help students:
- Select prerequisite coursework
- Understand admissions requirements
- Explore nursing career pathways
- Prepare for a successful transition to Duke School of Nursing
Faculty mentorship is led by Associate Professor Dr. Ernest Grant, PhD, DSc(h), RN, FADLN, FAAN, who serves as the Duke Nursing faculty advisor for the program and works closely with participating students and Davidson advisors.
Admission Requirements
Students participating in the program complete the same admissions application required as all other Duke Nursing applicants.
To be eligible, students must complete all Duke Nursing prerequisite requirements before enrolling.
Current prerequisite courses include:
Prerequisite Courses
| Course | Minimum Credits |
|---|---|
| Human Anatomy and Physiology | 6 |
| Microbiology | 3 |
| Basic Statistics | 3 |
| Human Growth and Development or Developmental Psychology | 3 |
Students should work closely with their Davidson advisor to ensure all prerequisite requirements are completed on time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply to the Davidson–Duke Nursing Bridge Program?
Any Davidson College undergraduate who meets Duke Nursing admissions requirements and prerequisite coursework requirements may apply.
When should I express interest in the program?
Students are encouraged to discuss the program with their Davidson advisor during their freshman or sophomore year to allow sufficient time for academic planning.
When do I apply?
Students apply during the spring of their junior year, with applications submitted in January. Admission decisions are communicated in March.
Is the application fee waived?
Yes. Davidson–Duke Nursing Bridge Program participants are eligible for an application fee waiver.
Will I receive faculty mentorship?
Yes. Students receive mentorship and guidance from Duke Nursing faculty, including Dr. Ernest Grant, throughout their planning and transition process.
Are scholarships available?
Students enrolled through the program may receive scholarship support of up to $3,000 per semester for up to four semesters while enrolled in the Duke Nursing program.
Ready to Learn More?
Speak with your Davidson academic advisor or contact Duke University School of Nursing Admissions at SONAdmissions@dm.duke.edu to explore the Davidson–Duke Nursing Bridge Program.