Explore Online DNP Programs (2025)
Credit: sturti / E+ / Getty ImagesA doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree is the terminal degree for a nurse. A DNP prepares you for the highest levels of clinical practice, including advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles. It can also lead to research, teaching, and administrative or leadership positions.
Explore our 2025 online DNP program guide for information on courses, application requirements, financial aid, and career paths.
Popular Online DNP Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Online DNP Programs
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Carolina's DNP program allows you to choose from one of five NP tracks: adult-gerontology acute or primary care, family NP, psychiatric-mental health NP, or pediatric NP primary care. The nursing school also offers an online DNP healthcare and administration program.
The curriculum includes both synchronous (live interaction) and asynchronous (no live interaction) courses. It emphasizes evidence-based practice, health policy, information technology, organizational and systems leadership, and patient safety.
Graduates qualify to practice in all 50 states with national certification. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Ranked fourth U.S. nursing school by the American Health Council
- 92% graduation rate
- Several NP, BSN-to-DNP, and MSN-to-DNP options available
Considerations:
- 1-5-day campus immersions once per semester
- BSN-to-DNP students must enroll full time
- 18% of students receive loans from the institution
- In-State$7,020
- Out-of-state$37,360
- In-State$10,552
- Out-of-state$28,844
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate19%
- Students Enrolled32,496
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Online students enrolled in Florida State University's DNP program can specialize in adult-gerontology acute care NP, executive health systems leadership, family nurse practitioner, psychiatric-mental health NP, and lifestyle medicine. The adult-gerontology acute care track offers mostly asynchronous courses, except for 3-5 synchronous classes and five on-campus sessions each semester. Family NP courses are primarily synchronous, and this track requires minimal on-campus requirements.
Executive health systems leadership students study part-time and fully online. Lifestyle medicine graduates empower their patients to take an active role in their nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle interventions. The program holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Tops the rankings for federal research funding to public nursing schools
- Preceptor tuition waiver of six credits for every 300 preceptor hours
- Full- and part-time enrollment options for most concentrations
Considerations:
- Does not accept students from Arizona, California, Hawaii, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, or Oregon
- GRE/MAT scores required (unless waived)
- In-State$5,616
- Out-of-state$18,746
- In-State$10,662
- Out-of-state$26,657
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate25%
- Students Enrolled43,234
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
UF offers a DNP program with a practice focus for MSN or BSN degree holders. We like the flexible online classes and the culminating project, which builds clinical expertise and can result in publication and conference presentations.
The 75-78 credit BSN-to-DNP track offers specializations in adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, family nurse practitioner, pediatric primary and acute care nurse practitioner, and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. The program requires periodic on-campus attendance, along with onsite clinical placements within the state of Florida.
The 35-credit MSN-to-DNP option offers a flexible curriculum for working nurse practitioners with minimal campus visits. You can complete your DNP projects at your current practice site. The programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Lowest net tuition price before financial aid
- Nurse faculty loan cancellation for graduates who pursue full-time faculty positions
- No GRE scores required
Considerations:
- Admission requires a Florida or nurse compact multi-state RN license
- MSN-to-DNP also requires an active APRN license and nurse practitioner national certification
- In-State$4,477
- Out-of-state$25,694
- In-State$10,770
- Out-of-state$27,335
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate24%
- Students Enrolled54,814
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment57%
- AccreditationYes
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
UCF Online’s DNP programs include advanced practice and executive tracks. We like the flexible classes that students can access anywhere, anytime. Both tracks require 42 credits.
The post-master's advanced practice track prepares clinical leaders from various specializations. You'll engage in scholarly research and inquiry within your current practice environment. You'll also develop and implement new care models. Courses include epidemiology principles in advanced practice nursing, healthcare systems and policy, and nursing environment management.
Executive track coursework trains nurse leaders and includes coursework in nursing management, data management, innovative technologies, and program development. You may also complete clinical residencies, independent projects, or professional practice immersions. The nursing school is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- The most affordable tuition on the list
- Faculty members include advanced healthcare simulation educators and innovative researchers
Considerations:
- Applicants must reside in Florida or a nurse-license compact member state
- Advanced practice track students must hold master's in nursing degrees and be employed in an existing practice environment
- Lowest graduation rate on the list at 75%
- In-State$6,368
- Out-of-state$22,467
- In-State$6,916
- Out-of-state$25,759
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate43%
- Students Enrolled68,842
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment9%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
The online DNP programs at Johns Hopkins University include three-year advanced practice tracks in adult-gerontological acute care and primary care, family primary care, pediatric primary and dual primary/acute care, and psychiatric-mental health. Hopkins also offers a six-semester DNP executive track with master of public health or MBA dual-degree options.
We noted that all concentration tracks combine online coursework with on-campus immersions at Johns Hopkins' Baltimore campus. Distance learners complete a DNP project as part of their in-person clinical practicums. Johns Hopkins nursing programs hold accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- 50% first-generation and 24% underrepresented students in 2024 executive track cohort
- Advanced nursing track enrollees collaborate with a clinical placement team
Considerations:
- DNP executive track requires a master's in nursing and current employment in a clinical setting as an advanced-practice nurse
- Adult-gerontological acute care students must reside in Maryland or Washington, D.C., by the third semester
- Programs are highly competitive
- In-State$60,480
- Out-of-state$60,480
- In-State$60,480
- Out-of-state$60,480
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate8%
- Students Enrolled30,363
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
Georgetown University
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
The online DNP programs at Georgetown University focus on preparing nursing professionals to improve healthcare accessibility and quality of care for underserved populations. We like the two entry options: BSN-to-DNP or post-master's DNP.
BSN-to-DNP students can study full or part-time and complete the full-time option in 33 months. The curriculum includes master's and doctoral coursework to prepare graduates for advanced nursing certification. You'll choose a specialization in adult-gerontology acute care, family practice, dual nurse-midwifery/women's health, or women's health.
Learners complete the post-master's track part-time, including online coursework, DNP practice hours at their current place of employment, and campus-based executive sessions. Georgetown's DNP nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Rolling admissions and several start dates per year
- Weekly, live online courses facilitate collaboration
- Washington, D.C. location offers access to top healthcare facilities and government agencies
Considerations:
- Post-master's DNP track requires employment in an advanced practice nursing role
- All DNP students complete a scholarly project
- 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
Ohio State University-Main Campus
- Columbus, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
The DNP programs at OSU offer online learners two options: BSN-to-DNP and a post-master's DNP.
The BSN-to-DNP focuses on clinical practice expertise and certification in an advanced practice specialty. We like the numerous nurse practitioner specialties available to BSN-to-DNP students: adult-gerontology acute and primary care, family practice, neonatal care, pediatric acute and primary care, psychiatric-mental health, and women's health. You can also select nurse anesthesia or nurse midwifery.
The post-master's DNP features clinical expert and nurse executive options. To apply, you'll need an MSN and national advanced practice nursing certification. Nurse executive eligibility requires an MSN, MBA, master of public health, or other master's degree.
The DNP programs hold Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation.
Highlights:
- Highest online enrollment among the schools on this list
- Most classes delivered synchronously (live online) once a week
Considerations:
- The college of nursing cannot enroll distance learners from all 50 states
- On-campus visits and in-person clinical training required for BSN-to-DNP students
- 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
Duke University
- Durham, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Duke University's DNP program focuses on translating research into positive change. The curriculum combines distance-based coursework with some on-campus sessions and includes a DNP project that merges practice and scholarship.
Duke offers three online DNP options tailored to working professionals: a post-master's DNP for advanced practice or healthcare administrative nurses; a BSN-to-DNP track; and an executive leadership DNP.
We like the optional DNP certificates in executive leadership and nursing education, along with specialty certificates that include cardiology, HIV, oncology, and palliative care. The programs hold CCNE accreditation.
Highlights:
- Applicants automatically considered for merit scholarships
- Hundreds of students have their DNP projects published
Considerations:
- Rigorous admissions process includes 3.0 GPA and 3-6 written essays
- Nurse anesthesia DNP available only on campus
- In-State$60,435
- Out-of-state$60,435
- In-State$60,220
- Out-of-state$60,220
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate7%
- Students Enrolled17,112
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
University of Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Penn Nusing’s online DNP program is designed for working professionals. The two-year curriculum develops skills in practice and policy leadership, featuring fully online classes and requires 10 course units. Courses span topics in healthcare informatics, data analytics, the business of healthcare, and current issues in health and social policy.
Penn also offers an online executive leadership DNP for nursing professionals with leadership experience and executive-level skills. This track takes about 22 months to complete and includes a weeklong on-campus intensive.
Both programs require students to complete a DNP project in collaboration with a faculty mentor. Both DNP programs hold Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation.
Highlights:
- 97% graduation rate is the highest on this list
- Executive leadership DNP collaborates with Wharton Executive Education and the School of Medicine's healthcare innovation program
Considerations:
- One of the most expensive options on the list
- Rigorous admissions requirements include a master's in nursing with a 3.2 GPA
- In-State$56,212
- Out-of-state$56,212
- In-State$39,838
- Out-of-state$39,838
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate6%
- Students Enrolled23,790
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
Texas Christian University
- Fort Worth, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
The DNP programs at TCU feature 100% online study, clinical practice you can do in your local area, and a choice of specialization areas. Options include adult-gerontology acute care, family NP, and psychiatric-mental health tracks for BSN degree holders. If you have an MSN, you can pursue an executive nurse leadership and practice DNP.
We like the programs' goals of improving healthcare, collaboration across communities and professions to lead team-based, and policy analysis to address health outcomes and equity. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- 97% national certification pass rate for BSN-to-DNP-FNP graduates
- Nurse faculty loan forgiveness program
Considerations:
- Admission requires a Texas RN license or RN license in the state where you'll complete clinical practicums
- Lowest number of online enrollees on the list
- In-State$53,890
- Out-of-state$53,890
- In-State$33,660
- Out-of-state$33,660
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate43%
- Students Enrolled12,785
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment3%
- 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.
Nurse Featured Online DNP Programs
NurseJournal asked Elizabeth Clarke, FNP, MSN, RN, MSSW, to review the online DNP programs below. In their review, they considered factors that influence nursing student experiences, including reputation, faculty, program quality, and value.
1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
“UNC-Chapel Hill is a great option for both BSN RNs or MSN APRNs who are looking to advance their education with a DNP. The program is offered in both hybrid and online formats and can be completed in two or three years.”
“There are programs for a BSN-DNP or MSN-DNP. There are also several options for specialty tracks, including adult-gerontology (primary care), adult-gerontology (oncology focus), family, pediatric primary, and psychiatric mental health. The BSN-DNP is hybrid, meaning both online and in-person, while the MSN-DNP is online completely. The program appears to be very versatile.”
2. University of Florida
“The University of Florida offers a robust list of specialty tracks for their DNP. Tracks include pediatric primary care, pediatric acute care, adult-gerontology primary care, adult-gerontology acute care, family, psychiatric mental health, and pediatric/adult acute care combined track.”
“UF does not require the GRE for admission and provides clinical placement assignments for students residing in Florida. The majority of online programs typically do not assist with or assign clinical placement. Having a program that helps with clinical placements can remove a great deal of stress for the student, since finding a preceptor and site can be challenging.”
3. University of Pennsylvania
“The University of Pennsylvania’s post-MSN DNP program can be completed in 21 months. This is relatively quick in comparison to other MSN-DNP programs, which are typically 2-3 years depending on part-time or full-time enrollment. The university encourages students to continue working; this shows they support their students and their careers.”
“The program is small, with about 20-30 students per cohort, which allows for more individualized attention. An online DNP program provides students with a great deal of flexibility, especially those who may be working or out-of-state. Students who are employed at one of UPenn’s health partners can receive a discount on tuition of up to 25%. Tuition reimbursement for employees is a fantastic way to allow the employee to further their education and career while continuing to work and obtain their DNP.”
Using Our Rankings: What To Look For in an Online DNP Program
When researching online DNP programs, consider the following key factors to help you narrow down your options.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary by program, but many include a minimum degree and GPA. In most cases, a bachelor’s degree, a 3.0 GPA, and a valid RN license meet the minimum requirements.
However, some of the more competitive programs may require a master’s degree, a higher GPA, or relevant professional experience.
Specializations
A DNP specialization can help you focus your studies and direct your career path in an area that interests you most. Many nursing programs offer APRN-related tracks, including both general and specialized nurse anesthesia, nurse midwife, and nurse practitioner options. Some programs also offer non-clinical specializations, such as management and executive leadership for nurse educators.
Program Curriculum
The program curriculum determines the courses you’ll take, but it can also affect your educational experience, prerequisites, and career path. Find a curriculum that aligns with your study interests and career goals.
Clinical Experience
While most online DNP classes run remotely, you still need to complete your clinical hours in person. Many online schools allow you to complete your clinical placements at a site near you, which limits your commute and expands your program options. Other important considerations include the clinical hour requirement (typically 1,000 hours minimum) and whether the school provides assistance in finding clinical placements (which can be helpful).
Accreditation
Only graduates from accredited DNP programs are eligible for licensure and certification. Look for DNP programs with programmatic accreditation from organizations, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Certification Exam Pass Pass Rate
Some schools publish their certification exam pass rates, which can give you an idea of how well the program prepares its graduates. You might use the national average pass rates as a comparison point. For example, the first-time pass rate for the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s family nurse practitioner exam was 85% in 2023.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Online DNP programs feature different learning formats that can affect your schedule and experience.
Some programs feature asynchronous delivery with deadline dates but no set class times, which offers flexible but independent learning, which can suit students who are working while going to school. Some offer synchronous delivery with scheduled classes, often during the evenings and weekends, which offers more engagement opportunities. Others combine these formats into a hybrid delivery for students who want a blend of flexibility and interaction.
Your learning style and scheduling needs will help you figure out which option is best for you.
Why Is Online DNP Program Accreditation Important?
Online DNP accreditation is a voluntary process that evaluates the program’s curriculum, student outcomes, and faculty to ensure it meets the industry standards and minimum requirements. Organizations like ACEN and CCNE review factors like teaching practices and student resources, and they verify that the program properly prepares graduates for certification and licensure.
Additional considerations for DNP accreditation include:
- Accredited programs have the proper number of practicum hours for certification.
- Credits earned from non-accredited programs may not transfer between DNP programs.
- Employers may not hire graduates from non-accredited online DNP programs.
- Accreditation encourages DNP programs to improve their curriculums and outcomes.
All of the programs listed in our rankings hold accreditation.
What to Expect from an Online DNP Program
Online DNP programs prepare nurses for expanded professional roles in clinical practice, administration, education, and research. The typical accredited DNP curriculum features 30-40 credits and focuses on leadership in evidence-based nursing practice, data analytics, and healthcare business and finance.
Students develop advanced diagnostic, intervention, and treatment skills. They also learn how to evaluate and apply evidence to clinical decisions and patient care.
Many online DNP programs offer specializations that help you to tailor your coursework and career path to your unique interests.
A few of the most popular DNP specialties include:
- Family nurse practitioner
- Neonatal nurse practitioner
- Certified registered nurse anesthetist
- Pediatric nurse practitioner
Online DNP programs may offer asynchronous delivery (independent learning) that provides 24-hour access to course materials, more structured synchronous delivery (real-time classes) with specific login times, or hybrid delivery (a combination of both formats).
All accredited DNP programs require a minimum of 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. Some schools allow distance learners to complete these clinical hours at approved sites near their homes.
Online DNP students typically need a reliable high-speed internet connection and a computer that meets the minimum technical requirements with a microphone and/or webcam. Some programs require video-conferencing tools or special software, but the school may provide these or help you get them.
Applying to an Online DNP program
An online DNP program provides students with the highest level of clinical education in nursing. Incoming DNP students typically have years of nursing experience and education. Application requirements vary by school, with some programs only accepting MSN degree-holders, while others offer BSN-to-DNP pathways.
Admission Requirements
Most online DNP programs require applicants to hold an MSN from an accredited nursing school, but some schools provide dual degree tracks for nurses with a BSN. Many schools also require 1-2 years of professional nursing experience.
Admission Materials
Admission materials vary by program, but they typically include:
- Official transcripts
- Valid RN licensure
- Three letters of recommendation
- A resume
- Personal statement/essay
GPA Requirement
The minimum GPA requirements can vary, but many admitted DNP students hold at least a 3.0 GPA. Some of the most competitive programs require a minimum 3.5 GPA. Applicants must submit official transcripts as proof of their grades.
While GRE scores are not typically required, some schools may accept them as supplemental materials.
If you need assistance and guidance throughout the application process, contact the admissions or student affairs office. An advisor should be available to answer your questions or point you in the right direction.
Paying for Your Online DNP Program
With the rising costs of education, tuition has become one of the biggest concerns for DNP students. The average cost of completing an online DNP can range $700-$2,300 per credit.
But it’s important to know that prices vary based on the school and program you choose. For example, public universities typically charge lower tuition rates than private schools. Also, most public schools charge in-state students lower rates than out-of-state students, though some online programs charge a standard online tuition rate for all.
While the numbers and options can feel overwhelming, there are ways to make your DNP more affordable.
You might consider an online DNP program that allows you to continue working as a nurse while you study. Many hospitals even offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs for employees.
You can also apply for financial aid to help you pay for your nursing degree. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) could qualify you for grants and federal loans. You can apply for nursing grants and scholarships from your school and healthcare organizations who demonstrate financial need and/or academic excellence. Some healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement for employees.
Online DNP Student Testimonials
On Choosing the Best Online DNP Program
“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
Challenges and Benefits
“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
Is an Online DNP Program Worth It?
“Achieving my DNP online was 100% worth all my time and effort!”
— Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN
What Can You Do With a Degree from an Online DNP Program?
An online DNP degree can pave the way to advanced clinical and leadership roles in the healthcare sector. Here’s an overview of potential career paths available to you after graduation:
| Job Title | Description | Median Annual Salary (April 2024) | Job Growth (2023-23) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing Instructors | Nurse educators teach nursing principles and patient care in classrooms and clinical settings. | $79,940 | +8% |
| Clinical directors | Clinical directors and managers oversee the health services of a nursing department or facility. They may take care of staffing, budgeting, and regulatory requirements. | $117,960 | +29% |
| Nurse executives | Top nurse executives oversee the strategies and policies of an organization. They may coordinate with other managers, guide the activities of the facility, and handle standard supervisor duties. | $206,420 | +6% |
| Nurse anesthetists | CRNAs administer and care for patients receiving anesthesia. They assess patients, administer medication, and help create post-surgery pain management plans. | $223,210 | +10% |
| Nurse-midwives | Nurse-midwives provide pregnant individuals with prenatal and postpartum care, including labor monitoring, pain management, and surgical assistance. | $128,790 | +7% |
| Nurse practitioners | NPs offer primary and specialty care to patients in the form of assessments, diagnoses, and treatments. | $129,210 | +46% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online DNP Programs
You can get your DNP online, with most, if not all, of the courses running remotely. However, you will need to complete the clinical requirements in person, potentially at a site near you.
Related DNP Career Resources
Why Get a Doctorate in Nursing (DNP)?
Graduating with a doctoral degree in nursing can advance careers, increase salaries, and lead to rewarding jobs. Learn why and how to become a DNP.
DNP vs. Ph.D. in Nursing: What’s the Difference?
Explore the differences between earning an DNP and Ph.D. in nursing including their duties and responsibilities as well as salary and career outlook.
What Is the Average Salary With a DNP Degree?
Earning a DNP degree can pay off. Discover DNP salary data by job title, work setting, and location.