Best DNP Programs in California 2024 & 2025
Embarking on a doctorate in nursing opens up a multitude of promising career avenues. Navigating through the myriad of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs in California can be challenging. Whether your aspirations lean towards becoming a nurse practitioner, a nurse anesthetist, or delving into nursing education, this comprehensive guide is tailored to equip you with the necessary information to select the most fitting program based on your background and objectives. Explore the workings of California DNP programs, factors to consider, and the application process. In California, advanced practice nurses enjoy lucrative salaries and favorable employment prospects. Uncover the opportunities available for DNP holders and discover the top-ranked programs in the state.
Our evaluation of California DNP programs employs a data-driven methodology, facilitating your search for a program aligned with your needs. The metrics guiding our methodology focus on aspects deemed most crucial for students, encompassing academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
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Snapshot of California DNP Programs
– Azusa Pacific University
– Loma Linda University
– University of California-San Francisco
How do California DNP Programs Work?
DNP programs in California seamlessly integrate classroom instruction, original research, and hands-on clinical experience. Some programs mandate a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree, while others operate as joint MSN-DNP programs. In the latter, students concurrently earn an MSN while progressing through the entire program, culminating in the awarding of the DNP degree. Generally spanning four years, DNP programs may also offer a part-time alternative. Programs admitting students without an MSN may have extended durations. While a DNP is a terminal degree, distinguishing it from a Medical Doctor (MD) program, it holds significant stature in the field.
Applying to a California DNP Program
Each California DNP program possesses unique requirements. Broadly, applicants must hold a current, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license, demonstrate RN work experience, and possess a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an MSN. Some institutions provide bridge programs or admit individuals with health-related degrees outside of nursing.
Application Components
– RN license, Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume, personal statement or essay, a minimum of two references
– GPA Requirement
– A GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred by most schools. If your grades are on the borderline, engaging with the admission counselor is advisable, as substantial RN experience, accolades, or other relevant factors could outweigh a lower GPA.
– Other Requirements
– Programs not mandating an RN license may necessitate a background check. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you; consultation with the admission staff regarding your specific situation is recommended.
Why is California DNP Program Accreditation Important?
Opting for an accredited institution safeguards you, your prospective employers, and your future patients. Accreditation involves a thorough assessment by experts to ascertain if graduates possess the skills to practice nursing safely. Many DNP programs lead to board certification, and nursing boards exclusively consider applicants from accredited programs. Even for programs not leading to certification, graduates from unaccredited programs face limited employment prospects. Given the paramount importance of accreditation, the list of DNP programs in California featured on this website exclusively includes accredited programs.
Refer to our methodology for insights into the creation of our rankings.
Please note that NurseJournal.org is an advertising-supported site. The inclusion of featured or trusted partner programs and the presentation of school search, finder, or match results are based on compensation received by the site. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information presented on this site. Data for these schools is derived from publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and is current as of the publication date of this article. Specific program information may vary.
Best DNP Programs in California 2024 & 2025
Azusa, CA
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + Campus
Azusa Pacific University, grounded in Christian values, offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program emphasizing nursing leadership, care system enhancement, safety, and clinical outcomes. Tailored for working nurses, the program unfolds primarily online, providing flexibility, with occasional on-campus sessions lasting 1-2 days at APU’s Monrovia site.
The curriculum comprises 39-42 credits, including core courses such as advanced pathogenesis, social ethics, translational research, and wellness promotion. Additionally, students partake in 1,000 hours of clinical residency and undertake a comprehensive DNP project.
– Program: Doctor of Nursing Practice
– Campus: Azusa
– Type: Private
– Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $1,160 per credit
– Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing or another field; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; completion of graduate-level statistics and nursing research courses
– Minimum Time Commitment: 20 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021-2022): 80% first-time pass rate
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $40,830
– Out-of-state: $40,830
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $16,571
– Out-of-state: $16,571
– Retention Rate: 76%
– Admission Rate: 94%
– Students Enrolled: 9,006
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 100%
– Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Loma Linda University
Loma Linda, CA
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + Campus
Loma Linda University, with a Seventh-day Adventist focus, invites qualified bachelor’s- or master’s-level registered nurses into its hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. Offering concentrations in various specialties, including clinical nursing specialist, nurse anesthesia, nurse leadership, and nurse practitioner, the program integrates both online and on-campus components.
Core courses in the DNP curriculum cover advanced role development, collaboration, theoretical foundations for evidence-based practice, and healthcare systems leadership.
– Program: Doctor of Nursing Practice
– Campus: Loma Linda
– Type: Private
– Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $870 per credit
– Admission Requirements: Accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing; current RN license; RN experience (for some concentrations); minimum 3.0 GPA
– Minimum Time Commitment: 36-48 months, contingent on concentration area and prior degree earned
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021-2022): 79% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $146,893 for doctoral graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $32,400
– Out-of-state: $32,400
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $27,040
– Out-of-state: $27,040
– Retention Rate: Not provided
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 4,468
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 27%
– Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
University of California-San Francisco
San Francisco, CA
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + Campus
The University of California-San Francisco introduces a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with two pathways: advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or registered nurse with an MSN excluding APRN. This hybrid program seamlessly blends online learning with on-campus immersions.
The curriculum focuses on cultivating clinical expertise and leadership for advancing patient care and policy. Enrollees actively engage in DNP projects and participate in quarterly DNP practicums at diverse sites.
– Program: Doctor of Nursing Practice
– Campus: San Francisco
– Type: Public
– Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $20,310-$40,970 per year
– Admission Requirements: Master’s degree; current RN or APRN license with 240 hours of practice experience; minimum 3.4 GPA; completion of a college-level statistics course
– Minimum Time Commitment: 21 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021-2022): 85% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $119,805 for doctoral graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition: Not provided
– Out-of-state: Not provided
– Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $11,442
– Out-of-state: $26,544
– Retention Rate: Not provided
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 3,201
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 69%
– Accreditation: Yes, Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Frequently Asked Questions About California DNP Programs
1. Can a DNP be called a doctor in California?
In general, DNPs can refer to themselves as doctors in California. However, it is unethical and potentially fraudulent to use the title unless the context is clear that they are not physicians. Different organizations may have internal guidelines regarding who can be referred to as a doctor.
2. Is a DNP required to become a nurse anesthetist in California?
In all states, new graduates must hold a DNP to become a nurse anesthetist. This requirement is not retroactive, so those who obtained board certification with an MSN before the DNP requirement can continue. Nevertheless, many nurse anesthetists with an MSN are pursuing a DNP for competitiveness in the job market.
3. Is getting a DNP in California worth it?
The worth of a degree depends on individual goals and circumstances. However, there is high demand for DNPs, and DNP salaries surpass the national median. Financial considerations can be addressed through grants, loans, scholarships, or potential eligibility for loan forgiveness.
4. How long is an online DNP program in California?
Most online DNP programs in California require four years for students with an MSN. Those with different backgrounds or attending part-time may take longer.
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