Online BSN-to-DNP Programs 2025
- Online BSN-to-DNP Programs
- What to Look For
- Accreditation for BSN-to-DNP Programs
- Applying to a BSN-to-DNP Program
- Paying for Nursing School
- DNP Salary and Career Outlook
- FAQ
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: Thomas Barwick / DigitalVision / Getty ImagesAre you a nurse with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree and interested in advanced roles, such as a nurse anesthetist? If so, consider an online BSN-to-DNP bridge program. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, student enrollment in doctor of nursing practice (DNP) programs has grown steadily over the past two decades.
Online BSN-to-DNP programs are ideal for registered nurses (RNs) with a BSN degree who want a flexible, more affordable way to move into an advanced practice role. By graduation, DNP nurses will have obtained the highest degree a nurse can achieve.
In this guide, we’ve ranked the best online BSN-to-DNP programs and outlined how to apply to and pay for this degree, along with potential jobs after graduation.
Popular Online DNP Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Learn More About BSN-to-DNP Programs and Schools
Georgetown University
Washington, DC- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
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.
Highlights:
- NP students achieved 94-100% first-time pass rates on recent board exams
- 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 ranking
- 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:
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:
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 ranking
- Graduate in five semesters
Considerations:
- Highly specialized curriculum
- 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.
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 certification
- 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:
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 excellence
- 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:
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.
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:
- 85-100% first-time certification pass rate in 2023
- 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:
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:
- 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:
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 residencies
- 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.
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:
- Top-tier nursing school with 97% NCLEX first-time pass rate
- Complete DNP in eight semesters
- Serves large number of online students and offers strong support
Considerations:
- DNP requires two campus visits for hands-on activities
- RN must reside in a state that approves the delivery of this program
- 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:
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.
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 specialties
- Well-established nursing research center
- Full- and part-time enrollment options
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 nursing programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list is from 2025.
Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in a BSN-to-DNP Program
When exploring BSN-to-DNP options, looking at specific metrics will help you evaluate individual programs on their own merits and compare them. The following data points can be useful to you as you compare different schools to find the best match for your goals.
Admission Requirements
While there is some overlap in admission requirements among programs (all require a BSN and a nursing license), every program has specific criteria for admission. For example, there are variations in GPA requirements, work experience, and test scores, for instance, so knowing what each program requires for admission ensures you only apply to the best match.
Specializations
When you enroll in a BSN-to-DNP program, you’ll choose a specialty rack that determines your curriculum. A DNP is not a generalist degree, so students must select a track based on their career goals.
You may specialize in a specific area of clinical care or pursue a nursing leadership track. It’s important to choose a program that aligns with your goals.
Clinical Experience
DNP programs require extensive clinical hours, and clinical placements help you build a professional network of nurses. Check out if the program places students in settings where you would like to work. If you are pursuing your BSN-to-DNP program online, ask if the school has placed students in your community.
Accreditation
Accreditation is critical because it ensures your program meets independent quality standards. Employers prefer candidates with degrees from accredited programs. The school must be accredited for students to qualify for federal financial aid and, in most cases, to transfer credits between programs.
Program Length
A BSN-to-DNP is a time investment, and knowing exactly how long it will take to complete your degree is important. Most BSN-to-DNP programs take 3-4 years to finish, depending on whether you study full- or part-time.
Board Certification Rate
Board certification is vital for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). When a program has a high rate of successful board certification, it shows that the curriculum and coursework adequately prepare students for board exams. It also indicates the program has support resources to help ensure student success.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Programs may require students to participate in online courses at specific times or when convenient. You may be required to complete some courses in person, such as labs or residency requirements. Lastly, select a program format that meets your scheduling and lifestyle needs.
Why Is BSN-to-DNP Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation means an independent agency has evaluated a program based on specific criteria. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) are the two main accrediting bodies for nursing programs in the United States.
The process involves a detailed review of every aspect of the program, such as curriculum plans, course descriptions, instructor background, and student services.
All the programs in our rankings are accredited since accreditation is critical in selecting a school for the following reasons:
- Accreditation and certification examination pass rates are the best objective measures of a program’s quality.
- Employers prefer graduates of accredited programs. Many employers will only consider graduates of accredited programs.
- School accreditation ensures you’ll receive a high-quality education that will prepare you for nursing practice.
- Accredited schools attract high-quality teachers and often have strong alumni networks.
- Many state licensing authorities do not accept degrees from unaccredited programs.
Attending an unaccredited program risks losing money, resources and effort invested into your BSN-to-DNP program.
Applying to a BSN-to-DNP Program
BSN-to-DNP programs are designed for RNs with bachelor’s degrees and nursing experience. Applicants select a specialty that matches their career goals.
Prospective students must state their reasons for seeking an advanced degree in a personal statement. Specific requirements vary by program, but most have common similarities, including:
- Admission Requirements: BSN or a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, valid RN license, minimum 1-3 years of clinical experience, successful background check
- Admission Materials: Application, resume, transcripts, professional recommendations, personal statement, personal interview
- GPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
Paying for BSN-to-DNP Programs
Tuition, books, supplies, and program length all factor into the total cost of your BSN-to-DNP degree. Understanding possible on-campus requirements and how many hours you can work while completing your courses can make transitioning into a program easier.
In addition to the school’s financial aid program, you can research loans, grants, or scholarships from various financial aid sources for nurses to pay for your degree.
To attract prospective DNP students, government programs will pay their full program costs or offer loan forgiveness in exchange for working in underserved areas once they graduate.
You can also get scholarships and grants from private foundations, associations, corporations, or other organizations. Your current employer may also help pay for your BSN-to-DNP in exchange for a commitment to work for them for a certain period once you graduate.
Most financial aid applies to both online and on-campus BSN-to-DNP programs.
What Can You Do With a Degree From a BSN-to-DNP Program?
A DNP is the highest clinical practice degree in nursing. It prepares nurses for licensure as advanced practice nurses. DNPs can assess, diagnose, and treat patients, teach at various nursing programs, and hold nursing leadership positions.
Other career opportunities for DNP nurses include:
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
- Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs)
- Nurse educators
- Clinical nurse specialists (CNSs)
- Entrepreneurship
The curriculum in BSN-to-DNP programs focuses on building leadership skills, evidence-based clinical practice, and strategies for improving patient outcomes. Through research and evidence-based practice, this advanced degree equips DNP students to provide the highest-quality patient care.
DNPs have increased earning potential compared to other nursing professionals like RNs and APRNs. According to Payscale, the average base salary for a DNP is $112,000 as of October 2023. With a DNP degree, nurses can pursue many career advancement opportunities. DNPs can teach at the university level and have more negotiating power for higher salaries with an advanced degree.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
CRNAs administer anesthesia to patients undergoing surgical procedures. They work closely with patients and physicians to ensure safety before, during, and after the medication is given to the patient. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a median annual salary of $223,210 for CRNAs.
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
FNPs provide primary care for patients, including infants and older populations. FNPs can assess, diagnose, and treat patients while educating patients on preventative care and wellness. FNPs may practice independently in some states. The BLS reports an annual wage of $129,210 as of 2024.
Certified Nurse Specialist (CNS)
CNSs are APRNs who provide care in specialty areas. They work closely with healthcare teams, educating and caring for different patient populations. According to Payscale, the average salary is $100,392 as of June 2024.
Nurse Educator
Nurse educators are vital to nursing education. They instruct student nurses in patient care in both classroom and clinical environments. According to BLS, the average salary for postsecondary nurse educators is $84,180.
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)
CNMs are APRNs who care for and educate patients before and during pregnancy and during and after childbirth, among other potential clinical responsibilities. Nurse-midwives work in hospitals, birthing centers, and community centers.
There is a push for the need for more CNMs, especially midwives of color, to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in maternal healthcare. There is growing evidence that representation in nursing improves healthcare outcomes. According to the BLS, the average salary for CNMs is $128,790.
Frequently Asked Questions About BSN-to-DNP Programs
DNPs can assess, diagnose, and treat patients. They can also teach at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels, hold leadership positions, and become nurse entrepreneurs.
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