Explore Online BSN-to-DNP Programs Available in 2025
Credit: Thomas Barwick / DigitalVision / Getty ImagesAre you a registered nurse (RN) with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree who wants to advance their career? Online BSN-to-DNP programs offer a flexible path to the terminal nursing degree. These bridge programs prepare you for advanced roles, like being a nurse practitioner (NP) or nurse anesthetist.
These programs provide flexible scheduling and let you study from home. In this guide, we rank the best BSN to DNP online programs, explain admissions and costs, and explore career options after graduation.
Learn More About BSN-to-DNP Programs and Schools
Georgetown University
Washington, DC- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:Â
Prepare for a nurse practitioner career with Georgetown's online DNP. You'll choose one of four NP specializations that lead to board certification eligibility: family, women's health, adult-gerontology acute care, and nurse-midwifery/women's health.
We like that this program prioritizes the preparation of advanced nurses ready to assume leadership roles and make changes in healthcare. Coursework includes organizational theory, ethical leadership, economics and finances, and healthcare quality and safety.
DNP enrollees culminate the BSN-to-DNP with a project that translates research into clinical and leadership best practices.Â
Highlights:
- NP students achieved 94-100% first-time pass rates on recent board examsÂ
- Can complete the online DNP in 33 months
- Full- and part-time enrollment available
Considerations:
- The online DNP requires in-person experiences
- Live (synchronous) classes limit flexibility
- Most expensive program on this rankingÂ
- In-State$61,872
- Out-of-state$61,872
- In-State$56,592
- Out-of-state$56,592
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate13%
- Students Enrolled20,392
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia Southern University
- Statesboro, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:Â
Georgia Southern's BSN-to-DNP includes an MSN exit option with board certification eligibility. You'll complete 77 credits for the DNP, most of which are delivered online. All participants complete a graduate core that includes informatics, role transition for APRN, and research design and dissemination.
The program offers four nurse practitioner specialties: family practitioner, psychiatric mental health, adult-gerontology primary care, and adult-gerontology acute care. You'll complete clinical and practicum experience with a preceptor within 250 miles of the school.
We like that nurses have the flexibility to return within four years to finish the DNP if they choose the opt-out option. Plus, all students pay the same affordable tuition rate regardless of where they reside. This BSN-to-DNP is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- 99% APRN certification exam pass rate
- DNP curriculum meets board certification and licensure requirements in all 50 states
- Lowest tuition on this ranking
Considerations:
- Courses use synchronous (live) and asynchronous formats
- NP students work to secure preceptors for their clinical practicums
- Fall cohort only
- In-State$5,464
- Out-of-state$19,282
- In-State$6,636
- Out-of-state$26,518
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled26,106
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
Kent State University at Kent
- Kent, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:Â
Kent State's online DNP emphasizes evidence-based clinical practice and systems leadership. The systems leadership concentration focuses on developing nurses who can lead teams, improve outcomes, and translate research into practice.
You'll complete 34-37 credits entirely online, covering core topics in clinical analytics and evidence-based practice. Concentration requirements explore organizational systems, advanced leadership in healthcare, and healthcare finance and economic policy.
The DNP culminates with practicum hours and the development and implementation of a project. We like the affordability of this degree and that you can graduate in as few as five semesters.
Highlights:
- System's leadership students receive dual admittance to the master of science in nursing in an advanced practice registered nurse concentration
- The second-lowest per-credit tuition on this rankingÂ
- Graduate in five semesters
Considerations:
- Highly specialized curriculumÂ
- Fewer credits required compared to similar programs
- No transfer credits
- In-State$12,674
- Out-of-state$22,523
- In-State$12,071
- Out-of-state$22,522
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled26,106
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Online
Why We Chose This School:
With the very customizable BSN-to-DNP at NSF Florida, nurses receive training for a variety of nurse practitioner (NP) specialties and other advanced practice nurse roles. You'll take 69-75 credits depending on your choice of six concentrations. The nursing informatics, nursing education, and executive nurse leadership tracks can be completed entirely online.
We like that coursework includes blended (online and face-to-face) NP tracks in family, adult-gerontology acute care, and psychiatric mental health. All DNP enrollees learn how to use advanced healthcare technology and translate research into evidence-based practice.Â
MSN and DNP clinical training provides more than 1,000 hours of hands-on experience. This BSN-to-DNP is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Program meets every state's educational requirements for licensure or certificationÂ
- Access to world-class facilities, such as simulation labs
- Affordable tuition
Considerations:
- All DNP enrollees must complete a summer intensive at the Fort Lauderdale/Davie campus
- Hybrid courses require campus attendance
- Fall and winter start dates
- In-State$34,500
- Out-of-state$34,500
- In-State$22,062
- Out-of-state$22,062
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled20,877
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Ohio State University-Main Campus
- Columbus, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:Â
OSU's BSN-to-DNP prepares nurses for licensure in Ohio, although the degree may meet licensure requirements in other states. We like that the DNP offers great flexibility with full- and part-time enrollment options and six specialties available online.
You'll complete 79-92 credits depending on your choice of specialty. The DNP requires core coursework in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and health informatics. Online specialties include FNP, neonatal care, and nurse anesthesia.
Participants engage in DNP immersion experiences and a final project. You can complete the clinicals for most online specialty tracks in your area, fulfilling the precept hours required for national certification. This BSN-to-DNP is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Nationally recognized as a center for nursing education excellenceÂ
- Ranks among top 10 U.S. nursing colleges receiving National Institute of Health funding
- Completion in three years for full-time students; four years for part-time students
Considerations:
- DNP not available in every state
- Some on-campus visits required
- Classes have a synchronous (live) component
- In-State$11,936
- Out-of-state$36,173
- In-State$12,092
- Out-of-state$38,693
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled60,046
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
Regis College
- Weston, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:Â
Regis's BSN-to-DNP includes strong nursing and health sciences programs. We like that RNs can choose from six NP concentrations: pediatrics, women's health, family, adult gerontology-acute care, adult gerontology-primary care, and psychiatric mental health.Â
The program requires 73-76 credits you'll complete entirely online in as few as 40 months. The core curriculum covers subjects, such as advanced pathophysiology, concepts in nursing leadership, and informatics in healthcare.
We like that all tracks culminate in a scholarly research project. This BSN-to-DNP is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Highlights:Â
- 85-100% first-time certification pass rate in 2023Â
- First DNP program in Boston area
- Three start dates
Considerations:
- Complete DNP in 40 months
- Accepts transfer credits
- High tuition rate
- In-State$46,150
- Out-of-state$46,150
- In-State$24,968
- Out-of-state$24,968
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled2,801
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment82%
- AccreditationYes
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
- Colorado Springs, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:Â
UCCS's online DNP offers multiple tracks: primary care, adult-gerontology, or psychiatric/mental health. The program comprises 70 credits covering topics, such as organizational leadership, advanced healthcare policy, and business finance and entrepreneurship.
You'll learn how to develop, implement, and evaluate healthcare practices and collaborate with interprofessional teams. Participants work one-on-one with a preceptor while fulfilling 1,170 clinical hours. All students must complete a capstone project that translates nursing theory and research into evidence-based practice.
This BSN-to-DNP is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:Â
- Focus on creating better models of care for patients
- Can complete DNP in three years
- Entirely online with no in-person requirements
Considerations:
- Only accepts students from 15 states
- Program uses both synchronous (live) and asynchronous (self-guided) formats
- 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- In-State$10,016
- Out-of-state$26,970
- In-State$14,560
- Out-of-state$28,330
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled11,374
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
University of Missouri-Kansas City
- Kansas City, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:Â
UMKC's DNP, the first of its kind in the region, is affordable with an expansive curriculum for aspiring NPs. Core coursework covers advanced health assessment skills, pharmacology for advanced nursing practice, and healthcare economics and quality.
We like that you can choose an NP specialty, such as family practitioner, acute care pediatric, or adult-gerontology. Participants build clinical expertise by implementing an evidence-based practice project at a partnering site. You'll also assess, diagnose, and treat patients during clinical and practicum hours in your specialization.
All students pay the same affordable tuition rate regardless of where they reside. This BSN-to-DNP is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Top 5% of DNP programs nationwide
- 88-100% first-time certification pass rate in specialties
- DNP available in most states
Considerations:
- Requires on-campus residenciesÂ
- Courses use synchronous (live) and asynchronous (self-guided) formats
- Spring or summer admission
- In-State$11,190
- Out-of-state$29,190
- In-State$10,660
- Out-of-state$27,521
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled15,327
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
UND's online DNP program trains nurses with a bachelor’s or master’s degree to become FNPs. The program is designed for RNs with a BSN or higher and at least one year of work experience.
We like the program's affordability and that busy nurses can complete the 83-credit curriculum using a mostly asynchronous online format. FNP training includes a focus on population health, evidence-based research, NP role development, and informatics.Â
You'll supplement coursework with primary and specialty care clinicals and hands-on experiences completed during campus visits. This BSN-to-DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:Â
- Top-tier nursing school with 97% NCLEX first-time pass rateÂ
- Complete DNP in eight semesters
- Serves large number of online students and offers strong supportÂ
Considerations:
- DNP requires two campus visits for hands-on activities
- RN must reside in a state that approves the delivery of this programÂ
- Same tuition rate for all online students
- In-State$9,237
- Out-of-state$13,856
- In-State$11,963
- Out-of-state$17,944
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled14,172
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
- Pittsburgh, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:Â
Pitt's online BSN-to-DNP offers three NP tracks: family, adult-gerontology acute care, and adult-gerontology primary care. The program enrolls both onsite and distance learners who move through the program together. Graduates are eligible for national board certification.Â
You'll learn how to work with specific patient populations, manage complex health issues, and integrate evidence-based practices into your work. We like that this program also develops you as a leader with a focus on finance, public policy, and leadership.
Plus, Pitt partners with a variety of organizations to provide students with lab and clinical education. This BSN-to-DNP is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- 100% first-time certification pass rates in specialtiesÂ
- Well-established nursing research center
- Full- and part-time enrollment optionsÂ
Considerations:
- On-campus component required in some courses
- More expensive than most programs on this ranking
- In-State$20,154
- Out-of-state$38,520
- In-State$24,962
- Out-of-state$42,324
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate50%
- Students Enrolled29,178
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
How We Rank Schools
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online BSN-to-DNP programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list was created in 2025.
Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in a BSN-to-DNP Program
Specific metrics help you evaluate individual BSN-to-DNP online programs on their merits and compare them to make the best choice for your continued education. The following data points help you compare different schools.
Admission Requirements
BSN-to-DNP programs require a BSN and an active nursing license. Each also has specific admission criteria, including GPA minimums, required work experience, and standardized test scores, which can vary widely. Understanding the unique requirements helps you apply to those that align with your qualifications and goals.
Specializations
A BSN-to-DNP program requires a specialty track that shapes your coursework, clinical training, and career. Your selection must align with your career goals, such as advanced clinical practice or nursing leadership. Your choice will determine the skills you build and the roles you qualify for after graduation.
Clinical Experience
You must complete extensive clinical hours to gain hands-on experience and build your professional network. Before enrolling, determine if the program offers placements that match your career interests. If you’re completing a BSN-to-DNP online program, determine if the school arranges clinical placements in your local area.
Accreditation
Accreditation confirms that the nursing program meets recognized quality standards. Accreditation is required for federal financial aid eligibility, is often necessary to transfer credits between institutions, and is preferred by most employers.
Program Length
A BSN-to-DNP is a significant time investment. Determine how long it takes to complete the degree as a full-time or part-time student. Most BSN-to-DNP programs take full-time students 3-4 years to finish and up to five years or more as a part-time student.
Board Certification Rates
Board certification is essential for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). A high pass rate indicates the program’s curriculum effectively prepares students for certification. It also suggests the school offers strong academic support to help you succeed.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Some programs offer flexible online courses, while others require you to log in at set times. In-person components — like labs or residencies — may also be required. Choose a program format that fits your schedule and lifestyle to ensure long-term success.
Why Is Online BSN-to-DNP Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation means an independent agency has reviewed the nursing program for quality and standards, ensuring a strong curriculum, qualified faculty, and access to student support. In the U.S., the main accrediting bodies are the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation is a requirement for students to qualify for:
- Federal aid
- Education credit transfers
- Board certification eligibility
- State licensure
Additionally, employers typically prefer or require candidates to graduate from accredited programs. Choosing an accredited program helps ensure you receive a high-quality education that supports your professional goals.
Applying to a BSN-to-DNP Program
Application to a BSN-to-DNP program includes several key steps. You must hold a BSN and an active, unencumbered RN license. Some specialties may ask for prior clinical experience. Meeting all application requirements and deadlines is critical, as programs are competitive and selective.
- Admission Materials: These requirements vary slightly by school and specialty track: BSN, valid RN license, 1-3 years clinical experience, resume, letters of recommendation, and interview.
- GPA Requirement: Minimum GPA of 3.0; some schools consider applicants with a lower GPA
Paying for BSN-to-DNP Programs
Earning a BSN-to-DNP degree can be expensive, which unfortunately may make it financially out of reach for many students. However, there are several ways to reduce costs, including through financial aid, scholarships, and employer support.
Start with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal loans and grants. Most options provide aid for online and on-campus programs. From there, explore additional funding options to pay for your degree, such as:
- School-based scholarships and aid packages
- Federal and private student loans
- Nursing-specific scholarships and grants
- Loan forgiveness programs for working in underserved areas
- Employer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs
- Funding from professional nursing organizations or private foundations
What Can You Do With a Degree From a BSN-to-DNP Program?
A BSN-to-DNP program prepares nurses for the highest level of clinical practice. However, not all DNPs are the same. For example, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) is a licensed advanced practice nurse who provides anesthesia care, but requires a doctor of nurse anesthesia practice (DNAP) to become a CRNA.
It’s essential to choose a program with a focus that aligns with your career goals. Graduates of BSN-to-DNP online programs may pursue roles such as:
- Nurse practitioner (NP)
- Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA)
- Clinical nurse specialist (CNS)
- Nurse educator
- Entrepreneurship
- Healthcare administrator
These programs emphasize clinical leadership, evidence-based practice, and systems-level thinking to improve patient outcomes. With a DNP, nurses are qualified for advanced roles, often with increased responsibility and earning potential. According to Payscale, the average base salary for DNP-prepared nurses is approximately $115,000.
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)
Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). There is a growing demand for CNMs to provide care and education throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. They work in hospitals, birthing centers, and community health settings. According to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), CNMs earn an average salary of $128,790.
Certified Nurse Specialist (CNS)
CNSs are APRNs who provide care in specialty areas, such as adult-gerontology, pediatrics, and psychiatric-mental health. They work closely with healthcare teams, educating and caring for different patient populations. According to Payscale, the average salary is $105,060.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
CRNAs administer anesthesia during surgical procedures. They work closely with patients and physicians to ensure safety before, during, and after surgery. The BLS reports a median annual salary of $223,210 for CRNAs.
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Family nurse practitioners provide primary care through the lifespan, from infancy to seniors. FNPs can assess, diagnose, and treat individuals while providing education on preventive care and wellness. The scope of independent practice depends on the state practice environment. The BLS reports an annual wage of $129,210.
Nurse Educator
Nurse educators are vital to nursing education. They instruct student nurses in patient care in both classroom and clinical environments. According to the BLS, the average salary for postsecondary nurse educators is $84,180.
Frequently Asked Questions
BSN-to-DNP online programs are advanced nursing degrees that allow RNs with a BSN to earn a doctoral degree through flexible online coursework. These programs prepare you for leadership or advanced clinical roles while allowing you to study from home and complete clinical hours locally.
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