Best Online Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs 2020-2030

Are you ready to take your nursing career to the next level with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree? Explore this guide to discover the best online DNP programs available in 2020-2030. A DNP is a practice-based terminal degree that opens doors to leadership roles across various healthcare settings. It’s not only the preferred credential for administrative and educational positions but is also increasingly becoming the entry-level educational requirement for nurse practitioner roles.

This comprehensive guide delves into the online DNP programs offered in 2020-2030. Graduates of DNP programs enjoy robust employment prospects and the potential for high earning. Explore the various career paths, typical coursework in online DNP programs, application prerequisites, and financial aid opportunities.

Comparing Nurse Practitioner Degrees: MSN, DNP, and BSN

“Earning my DNP was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life.” — Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN

Top Online DNP Programs

Learn more about start dates, credit transfer policies, financial aid availability, and more by contacting the universities mentioned below.

We employ a data-driven methodology to rank the top online DNP programs, making it easier for you to find a program that aligns with your needs. Our methodology centers on metrics that we believe are most pertinent to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

Leading Online DNP Programs According to Our Nurse Panel

We consulted with a panel of two experienced nurses to assess each of the online DNP programs listed below. Their evaluation encompassed factors influencing the student experience in nursing, such as the program’s reputation, faculty quality, program excellence, and overall value.

Here are the top-scoring programs according to our nurse panel:

1. Georgetown University

“Georgetown offers students the opportunity to earn a doctorate from a highly regarded university. Nurses with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can enter the DNP program through one of the two tracks, which allows for a shorter completion time. The DNP program is exclusive to those holding or aspiring to attain an advanced practice nursing designation.”

Meet Gleason

“Georgetown University boasts a high graduation rate, provides excellent program information on the website, is widely recognized for its school name, focuses on addressing healthcare inequalities, and assists with clinical placement. One drawback is that it is one of the most expensive programs in the country.”

Meet Clarke

2. Maryville University of Saint Louis

“Students with advanced practice certifications can earn their degree from Maryville University in as little as 20 months, with a DNP-NP option for those wishing to become a nurse practitioner (NP). The program is highly respected and offers five specialty areas, including the PMHNP, which is in high demand nationally. Students will have the opportunity to learn from faculty members with extensive experience or who are currently nurse leaders.”

Meet Gleason

“Maryville’s online DNP is provided in both online and in-person formats. The program offers several clinical tracks and boasts decent graduation rates.”

Meet Clarke

3. Saint Mary’s College

“Saint Mary’s College offers students the opportunity to learn from a unique perspective, one focused on data analytics and social entrepreneurship, with the goal of preparing future leaders to make meaningful changes to the current healthcare system. There are only two tracks in this program, DNP-FNP or AG-ACNP, which may exclude students who wish to focus on other specialties. Students must complete courses over four years, including summer terms, and there is a required on-campus visit each semester.”

Meet Gleason

“Saint Mary’s offers a flexible online DNP program with two career tracks/clinical tracks, clinical preceptor assistance, and a high graduation rate with affordable tuition.”

Meet Clarke

Learn more about the key factors to consider when selecting a program or proceed directly to our data-driven ranking of the best online DNP programs.

How to Utilize Our Rankings: Key Aspects to Consider in an Online DNP Program

When researching nursing schools, focus on essential factors that distinguish online DNP programs, including admission prerequisites, areas of specialization, and program curricula.

Admission Prerequisites

Examine the admission requirements of potential DNP programs to help you narrow down your choices. This can assist you in identifying schools that match your qualifications and which programs will accept your application materials.

Specializations

DNP specializations can help you realize your career goals. A nursing program may offer advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specializations, such as adult gerontology or nurse midwifery. Other programs may provide non-clinical specializations in management and executive leadership for nurse educators.

Program Curriculum

Online DNP programs feature didactic and clinical coursework designed to equip students to build evidence-based practice. The standard curriculum includes topics like healthcare policy, research methods, and organizational leadership. When selecting a program, determine the courses you need to complete an online DNP program.

Clinical Experience

Although online DNP programs are conducted remotely, students must complete clinical hours in person to earn their degree. Determine if the program offers local clinical placements, which can minimize your commute time. Clinical requirements differ among schools, but most programs mandate at least 1,000 clinical hours.

Accreditation

Only graduates from accredited DNP programs qualify for licensure and certification. Accreditation is a voluntary process that assesses a DNP program’s curriculum, student outcomes, and faculty to ensure it aligns with educational standards. DNP programs receive programmatic accreditation from organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Program Duration

Full-time students can complete online DNP programs in roughly 1-3 years. Part-time students may take twice as long to graduate. The timeframe varies due to the required curriculum, practicum hours, and the type of degree. For example, a BSN-to-DNP program takes longer to complete than an online DNP program.

School Graduation Rate

Graduation rates at nursing schools reveal how many DNP students complete their programs online and on time. This is one method of gauging a program’s quality. Graduation rates hold schools accountable and assist states in allocating funds to higher education.

Online Learning Format and Requirements

Online DNP programs provide convenient learning formats, but the details can vary. The program may offer a balanced mix of synchronous and asynchronous coursework, only asynchronous assignments, or primarily online courses that necessitate students to log in at specific times.

Why Is Online DNP Program Accreditation Important?

Online DNP accreditation is a voluntary process that provides transparency about nursing schools and ensures that the curriculum and practicum hours meet industry standards. Besides contributing to a school’s reputation, accreditation guarantees that nurses receive a standardized, high-quality education.

Colleges and programs, including online DNP programs, receive accreditation after the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education evaluates the nursing curriculum. Accreditation agencies assess factors like faculty qualifications, the integration of research into coursework, and clinical experience opportunities.

Choosing an accredited online DNP program helps nurses meet the educational prerequisites for state licensure and national certification.

The Significance of Online DNP Program Accreditation

• Accreditation ensures students complete practicum hours needed for certification and employment.
• Credits from unaccredited online DNP programs may not transfer.
• Employers may not hire graduates from unaccredited online DNP programs.
• Accreditation encourages DNP programs to improve the curriculum, which leads to better patient outcomes.

Online DNP Curriculum

Nursing practice is an evolving field. To stay ahead of the curve, many nurses choose to complete a DNP program, which includes coursework on evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, leadership, and research methods. Students also receive comprehensive training in their chosen DNP specialty area.

Online DNP programs require 35-50 credits for graduation. The required credits depend on the chosen DNP specialty, school, and prior education. Students with a master of science in nursing (MSN) typically need fewer credits than those who hold a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). To complete their DNP program, students must satisfy all requirements.

Didactic Courses

Online DNP programs include didactic coursework, which is delivered in an online format. In addition to general education requirements, DNP students receive training in their chosen DNP specialty area. Students explore coursework in research methods, healthcare policy, leadership, and evidence-based practice. In the final year, students focus on their DNP project.

Clinical Experience

To ensure online DNP students receive proper training, programs include a clinical experience requirement. Students must meet the minimum number of required clinical hours to graduate. The precise number of hours varies by specialty area and school. Students should consult their program’s academic advisor to ensure they fulfill this requirement.

DNP Project

An online DNP program culminates in a DNP project, which is similar to a dissertation. This project enables DNP students to apply their knowledge to a specific issue in nursing practice. Students collaborate with a faculty advisor to design and execute their DNP project. In the final semester, students defend their project to a panel of experts.

Online DNP Program Specializations

DNP programs offer various specialty areas to meet the diverse career goals of nurses. Students can choose a specialty area that aligns with their interests and career aspirations. The chosen specialty area influences the didactic coursework and clinical experience requirements.

Specialty areas may include:

• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Midwifery
• Nurse Executive Leadership
• Nurse Educator

Graduates can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and educational institutions.

Financial Aid for Online DNP Programs

Earning a DNP is a significant investment, but financial aid can help nursing students afford their education. Financial aid opportunities for online DNP students may include scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. The specific types of financial aid available depend on factors like financial need, academic merit, and program enrollment status.

Scholarships

Nursing students can apply for scholarships offered by professional organizations, schools, and private foundations. Scholarships can be need-based or merit-based. Need-based scholarships are awarded to students with financial need, while merit-based scholarships are given to students with exceptional academic or professional achievements.

Grants

Grants are a form of financial aid that does not require repayment. They are typically awarded to students with financial need. Nursing students can apply for federal grants, such as the Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). In addition to federal grants, students may be eligible for state and school-specific grants.

Loans

Students can apply for federal student loans, including Direct Subsidized Loans and Direct Unsubsidized Loans. Federal loans offer competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options. Private student loans are another option for financing an online DNP program. Students are encouraged to compare loan terms and interest rates before borrowing.

Work-Study Programs

Work-study programs provide part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need. These programs are funded by the federal government and provide students with the opportunity to earn money to help pay for educational expenses. Work-study jobs are often related to a student’s course of study or career goals.

Employer Tuition Assistance

Some employers offer tuition assistance programs for employees pursuing advanced degrees. Nurses who work for healthcare organizations or hospitals may be eligible for employer-sponsored tuition assistance. Students should check with their employer to see if this benefit is available.

Military Benefits

Military personnel and veterans may be eligible for military benefits to help cover the cost of an online DNP program. The Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program are two examples of military benefits that can be used to pay for education.

Professional Nursing Organizations

Nursing students can explore financial aid opportunities offered by professional nursing organizations. Many organizations provide scholarships and grants to support the education of future nurses. These scholarships are often available to members of the organization, so students are encouraged to join and take advantage of these opportunities.

Financial Aid Application Process

To apply for financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is used to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Students should also check with their school’s financial aid office for information on school-specific scholarships and grants.

Students should begin the financial aid application process early to ensure they meet all application deadlines. It’s important to research and apply for as many financial aid opportunities as possible to help cover the cost of an online DNP program.

Top Online DNP Programs for Nurse Practitioners

Discover the best online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs for nurse practitioners in 2020-2030. These programs offer advanced training and specialization options to help nurse practitioners excel in their careers.

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a terminal degree in nursing that equips nurse practitioners with advanced clinical and leadership skills. DNP programs for nurse practitioners are designed to enhance their expertise and prepare them for high-level roles in healthcare.

Explore the top online DNP programs for nurse practitioners in 2020-2030, including details about curriculum, admission requirements, and career opportunities. These programs offer the flexibility of online learning, making it easier for working professionals to advance their education.

Why Pursue a DNP as a Nurse Practitioner?

Nurse practitioners (NPs) play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing primary and specialty care to patients of all ages. Pursuing a DNP as an NP offers several advantages:

1. Advanced Clinical Skills: DNP programs for NPs enhance clinical skills, enabling them to provide high-quality, evidence-based care.
2. Leadership Opportunities: A DNP degree opens doors to leadership roles in healthcare organizations, allowing NPs to influence healthcare policies and practices.
3. Increased Autonomy: With a DNP, NPs have more autonomy in their practice, making decisions about patient care and treatment plans.
4. Career Advancement: DNP-prepared NPs often have better career prospects and earning potential.
5. Research and Teaching Opportunities: A DNP degree can lead to research and teaching positions in academia or healthcare institutions.

Explore Online DNP Programs and Universities

We’ve utilized publicly accessible provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data regarding these universities. The information presented here is current as of the date of this article. It’s important to note that program-specific details may vary.

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in 2020-2030

Bradley University
Location: Peoria, Illinois
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + Campus

Bradley University provides a unique online doctor of nursing practice program designed for experienced nurses who wish to attain both a master’s degree and a doctorate within a three-year timeframe. Successful graduates are eligible to take the certification exam for advanced practice nursing. This program offers concentrations in adult-gerontology acute care, primary care, family practice, and psychiatric mental health. Nurses who already hold master’s degrees can pursue a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) in leadership.

The DNP program at Bradley, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), equips nurses to become leaders in their field. It encompasses 1,000 hours of clinical experience and 10-11 semesters of coursework.

Programs Offered: DNP – adult gerontology acute care; DNP – gerontology primary care; DNP – family; DNP – leadership; DNP – psychiatric mental health
Campus: Peoria, Illinois
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $990 per credit hour
Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s or master’s degree (for leadership track) from an accredited program; current unencumbered RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
On-Campus Requirements: None

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $35,060
Out-of-state: $35,060

Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $16,740
Out-of-state: $16,740
Retention Rate: 86%
Admission Rate: 73%
Students Enrolled: 5,855
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 97%
Accreditation: Yes, Higher Learning Commission

 

Carlow University
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + Campus

Carlow University offers nurses the opportunity to complete their DNP in just 15 months of full-time study. This program is tailored for those who already possess a master’s degree and emphasizes the development of leadership skills to prepare nurses for making an impact on healthcare.

Carlow University’s DNP program employs a cohort model, ensuring that students progress through the program with the same group. The curriculum includes 12-16 asynchronous courses, 1,000 clinical practice hours, and a substantial practice-based scholarly project.

Program: Doctor of nursing practice
Campus: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $1091 per credit hour
Admission Requirements: Master of science in nursing from an accredited program; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; interview; resume or CV; personal statement; recommendations
Minimum Time Commitment: 15 months
On-Campus Requirements: None
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $81,812 for DNP graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $30,542
Out-of-state: $30,542

Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $19,844
Out-of-state: $19,844
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 94%
Students Enrolled: 1,976
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 92%
Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

 

Georgetown University
Location: Washington, D.C.
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + Campus

Georgetown University offers online DNP programs for both bachelor’s and master’s-level nurses. These CCNE-accredited programs focus on fostering leadership skills and preparing nurses to enhance healthcare access and quality for traditionally underserved populations.

Georgetown’s DNP programs incorporate classroom credits, on-campus clinical intensives, and clinical practice hours. BSN-to-DNP students complete both master’s and doctoral-level coursework, along with 1,000 clinical practice hours over 33 months. MSN-to-DNP students can complete their program in 20 months, which includes 1-2 on-campus executive sessions and a minimum of 250 clinical practice hours.

Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP; MSN-to-DNP
Campus: Washington, D.C.
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $2,358 per credit hour
Admission Requirements: BSN or MSN from an accredited program; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; “C” or better in college-level statistics course; interview; personal statement; letters of recommendation
Minimum Time Commitment: 33 months (BSN-to-DNP); 20 months (MSN-to-DNP)
On-Campus Requirements: Yes (MSN-to-DNP)

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $57,384
Out-of-state: $57,384

Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $53,136
Out-of-state: $53,136
Retention Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 17%
Students Enrolled: 19,371
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 100%
Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

 

Loyola University New Orleans
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Duration: 4 years
Delivery: Online + Campus

Loyola University New Orleans, renowned for educating healthcare professionals, offers two online DNP programs: a BSN-to-DNP option for family nurse practitioners and an MSN-to-DNP program with a leadership focus.

These DNP programs enable nurses to obtain their terminal degrees in about three years by leveraging their existing education and experience. All coursework in this CCNE-accredited program is completed online, with students benefiting from the expertise of accomplished experts and healthcare professionals.

Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP; MSN-to-DNP
Campus: New Orleans, Louisiana
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Southern Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $818 per credit hour
Admission Requirements: BSN or MSN from an accredited program; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; CV or resume documenting at least 1,800 hours of nursing experience; interview; personal statement; letters of recommendation
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
On-Campus Requirements: None

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $40,288
Out-of-state: $40,288

Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $16,322
Out-of-state: $16,322
Retention Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 72%
Students Enrolled: 4,497
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 99%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Online DNP Programs in 2020-2030

Marymount University
Arlington, Virginia
Duration: 4 years (Online + On-campus)

Marymount University is well-known for being a top choice for veterans and non-traditional students. It has earned recognition as a College of Distinction for Nursing. Marymount offers an online BSN-to-DNP program, accredited by CCNE, to prepare nurses to become family nurse practitioners.

During this 36-month program, DNP students complete 63-70 hours of coursework, attend two on-campus residencies, and gain 1,000 hours of clinical experience. The program offers assistance in finding clinical placements and provides student success advisors for additional support.

Program: Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus: Arlington, Virginia
Institution Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Southern Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $1,190 per credit
Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program, current RN license, minimum 3.0 GPA, and at least one year of nursing practice.
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes (On-campus components included)
Average Undergraduate Tuition (In-state): $33,200
Average Undergraduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $33,200
Average Graduate Tuition (In-state): $19,620
Average Graduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $19,620
Retention Rate: 71%
Admission Rate: 85%
Students Enrolled: 3,294
Percent Online Enrollment: 69%
Accreditation: Yes (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges)

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in 2020-2030

Maryville University of Saint Louis
St. Louis, Missouri
Duration: 4 years (Online + On-campus)

Maryville University St. Louis offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program designed for experienced nurses who aim to become nurse practitioners or enhance their leadership skills. This CCNE-accredited program is tailored for working professionals and features entirely online asynchronous coursework. Students in the DNP-nurse practitioner program can specialize in various areas, including adult-gerontology acute or primary care, family or pediatric nurse practitioner, or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.

Programs: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP); DNP – Nurse Practitioner
Campus: St. Louis, Missouri
Institution Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $813-$897 per credit
Admission Requirements: Applicants need either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing or a diploma in nursing from an accredited program, a current RN license, and a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Minimum Time Commitment: 20 months (DNP); 36 months (DNP-FP)
On-Campus Requirements: No (No on-campus components)
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: Graduates earn an average of $123,517, as per College Scorecard data.
Average Undergraduate Tuition (In-state): $24,766
Average Undergraduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $24,766
Average Graduate Tuition (In-state): $14,346
Average Graduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $14,346
Retention Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 95%
Students Enrolled: 10,979
Percent Online Enrollment: 83%
Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in 2020-2030

 

Northern Illinois University
DeKalb, Illinois
Duration: 4 years (Online + On-campus)

Northern Illinois University (NIU) offers a DNP program building upon its well-regarded nursing degree. This program is suitable for both bachelor’s and master’s level nurses looking to enhance their skills in evidence-based practice to care for diverse patient populations.

The coursework for NIU’s DNP program is entirely online, but it includes in-person clinicals. The university collaborates with local healthcare organizations to assist with clinical placements and offers program-specific scholarship opportunities for qualified students.

Programs: BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP
Campus: DeKalb, Illinois
Institution Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $744 per credit
Admission Requirements: Requirements vary by program and include a current Illinois nursing license, a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited nursing program, a minimum GPA of 3.0 (or 3.2 for MSN-to-DNP), verified clinical hours, personal statements, and recommendations.
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months (MSN-to-DNP); 72 months (BSN-to-DNP)
On-Campus Requirements: No (No on-campus components for MSN-to-DNP, On-campus clinicals for BSN-to-DNP)
Average Undergraduate Tuition (In-state): $9,466
Average Undergraduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $9,466
Average Graduate Tuition (In-state): $8,858
Average Graduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $8,858

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in 2020-2030

 

Regis College
Weston, Massachusetts
Duration: 4 years (Online + On-campus)

Regis College, the first DNP program in the Boston area, is known for its excellence in preparing nurses for advanced practice. This program, accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, offers six nurse practitioner tracks with entirely online coursework.

Regis College allows students to transfer credits from other colleges and offers tuition discounts for employees of partner organizations, federal employees, and military members. Students have the flexibility to choose from three start times each year and can complete their degrees in as little as 40 months.

Program: BSN-to-DNP
Campus: Weston, Massachusetts
Institution Type: Private
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing; New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition: $895 per credit
Admission Requirements: Applicants need a BSN from an accredited program, a current RN license, a minimum GPA of 3.0, a “C” or better in a college-level statistics course, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
Minimum Time Commitment: 40 months
On-Campus Requirements: No (No on-campus components)
Average Undergraduate Tuition (In-state): $43,716
Average Undergraduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $43,716
Average Graduate Tuition (In-state): $38,280
Average Graduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $38,280
Retention Rate: 80%
Admission Rate: 84%
Students Enrolled: 3,460
Percent Online Enrollment: 49%
Accreditation: Yes (New England Commission on Higher Education)

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in 2020-2030

 

Rivier University
Nashua, New Hampshire
Duration: 4 years (Online + On-campus)

Rivier University offers two DNP tracks: a professional practice track and a systems leadership track. The professional practice track is designed for advanced practice nurses looking to develop their leadership skills, while the systems leadership track prepares licensed nurses for advanced practice.

Both tracks include a scholarly project, requiring students to conduct in-depth research aimed at improving patient safety and care. All coursework is completed online.

However, due to state licensing and higher education requirements, Rivier University cannot accept students from California, Iowa, or Washington. Students from Alabama, Louisiana, New York, Oregon, South Dakota, and Wyoming may also face admission restrictions.

Program: Doctor of Nursing Practice
Campus: Nashua, New Hampshire
Institution Type: Private
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $836 per credit
Admission Requirements: Applicants need a BSN from an accredited program and an MSN or a master’s in a field outside of nursing, a current RN license, a minimum GPA of 3.2, completion of a graduate-level statistics course, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
Minimum Time Commitment: 30-60 months
On-Campus Requirements: No (No on-campus components)
Average Undergraduate Tuition (In-state): $33,410
Average Undergraduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $33,410
Average Graduate Tuition (In-state): $11,430
Average Graduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $11,430
Retention Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 76%
Students Enrolled: 2,178
Percent Online Enrollment: 49%
Accreditation: Yes (New England Commission on Higher Education)

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs in 2020-2030

 

Saint Mary’s College
Notre Dame, Indiana
Duration: 4 years (Online + On-campus)

Saint Mary’s College offers a BSN-to-DNP program concentrating on two areas: adult-gerontology acute care and family nurse practitioner. Work experience is not required for qualified students to apply for either track. This CCNE-accredited program can be completed in 40 months and includes online coursework, clinical rotations, and a weekend visit to campus each semester.

As one of Indiana’s respected nursing schools, Saint Mary’s College equips students with entrepreneurial skills necessary for opening their own practices or developing cost-effective care approaches.

Program: Doctor of Nursing Practice – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care; Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus: Notre Dame, Indiana
Institution Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $964 per credit
Admission Requirements: Applicants need a BSN from an accredited program, a current RN license, a minimum GPA of 3.0, completion of a statistics course, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes (On-campus components included)
Average Undergraduate Tuition (In-state): $44,760
Average Undergraduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $44,760
Average Graduate Tuition (In-state): $27,287
Average Graduate Tuition (Out-of-state): $27,287
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 82%
Students Enrolled: 1,581
Percent Online Enrollment: 39%
Accreditation: Yes (Higher Learning Commission)

Understanding Online DNP Programs

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are designed for registered nurses who want to advance in clinical practice, administration, education, and research. Typically, these programs require around 30 credits and follow standards established by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. These standards emphasize leadership in nursing practice based on evidence. Students in DNP programs learn how to assess evidence to make better clinical decisions and enhance the quality of care.

Specializations

Both online and campus-based DNP programs offer specializations that cater to various career interests. Some popular specializations include family nurse practitioner, adult gerontology nurse practitioner, and certified registered nurse anesthetist. There are also options for concentrations in nurse administration, nursing informatics, and nurse education.

Program Formats

Online DNP programs offer different study formats. Some are asynchronous, meaning students can access course materials 24/7, while others are synchronous, requiring students to log in at specific times. Some programs combine both approaches, and there are also hybrid programs that involve some on-campus classes.

Clinical Requirements

All DNP degrees have a requirement for a minimum of 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. Online DNP programs may allow students to complete these clinical hours at approved sites near their homes.

Admission to Online DNP Programs

Admission requirements for online DNP programs can vary but typically include:

1. Education:

Most online DNP programs require applicants to hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from an accredited nursing school, although some programs may admit nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

2. Experience:

Applicants may need 1-2 years of nursing experience.

3. Prerequisite Courses:

Some programs may require completion of a statistics course with a minimum C grade.

4. Licensing:

Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and hold a current Registered Nurse (RN) license.

5. Transcripts:

Applicants often need to provide graduate and undergraduate transcripts.

Financing Your Online DNP Program

The cost of an online DNP program varies depending on the school and program type. Public universities typically have lower tuition than private institutions. Completing a BSN-to-DNP program, which takes longer than a post-master’s DNP, typically incurs higher costs. Tuition can range from $700 to $2,300 per credit hour at ranked schools.

Many working nurses prefer online DNP programs that allow them to continue working and pay for tuition out of pocket. Some hospitals offer tuition reimbursement to their employees. However, some online DNP programs may charge higher tuition for out-of-state residents, and program duration may vary.

To cover unforeseen educational expenses, DNP students can explore financial aid options such as grants, nursing scholarships, federal loans, and grants offered by accredited online DNP programs.

Online DNP Student Testimonials

Here are some testimonials from online DNP students:

“I was looking for a program that fit my needs as a working nurse, where I would get individualized attention at a respected university.” — Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN

“The benefit of earning this degree online is that it was fast because of the competency-based and flexible model where I can work at my own pace. I was able to work on my coursework before and after work and on the weekends.” — Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN

“Achieving my DNP online was 100% worth all my time and effort!” — Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN

Career Opportunities with an Online DNP Degree

Graduates of online DNP programs possess advanced expertise that opens doors to various career opportunities. These professionals can pursue roles such as certified registered nurse anesthetists, chief nursing officers, nurse practitioners, or healthcare leadership positions. They can also work in academia as professors, clinical directors, or clinical researchers.

DNP courses typically focus on quality improvement, patient safety, health policy, health sciences statistics, organizational and systems management, and scholarly writing. DNP students also complete between 500 and 1,000 clinical hours as part of their education.

Some potential career paths for DNP graduates include:

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA):

CRNAs collaborate with doctors, surgeons, and dentists to administer anesthesia and monitor patients during surgical procedures. They earn an average salary of $205,770, as of 2022.

Nurse Practitioner (NP):

NPs specialize in various areas of nursing and can earn an average salary of $124,680, as reported in 2022.

Chief Nursing Officer (CNO):

CNOs lead healthcare teams in various settings and earn an average salary of $139,910, as of July 2023.

Back in 2023, the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties reinforced its decision to make the DNP the minimum requirement for APRN roles by 2025, aiming to improve healthcare outcomes and elevate nursing practice. While state licensing requirements currently accept an MSN, the shift to requiring a DNP is expected in the near future.