A doctor of nursing practice (DNP) can help you advance to the highest levels of leadership in various healthcare settings. This practice-based, terminal degree has become the preferred credential for administrative and educational positions and increasingly serves as the entry-level educational requirement for nurse practitioner roles.
This guide explores online DNP programs offered in 2023. DNP graduates have strong employment opportunities and high earning potential.
Explore career paths, common coursework in online DNP programs, application requirements, and financial aid information.
"Earning my DNP was one of the most difficult and rewarding experiences of my life."
— Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN
Popular DNP Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online DNP programs, making it easier 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.
Top Online DNP Programs According to Our Nurse Panel
NurseJournal asked a two-person panel of nurses to review each of the online DNP programs below. In their review, they considered factors that influence nursing student experiences, including reputation, faculty, program quality, and value.
The following are the top-scoring programs according to our panel of nurses.
“Georgetown provides students the opportunity to achieve a doctorate from a well-respected university. Nurses with a master of science in nursing (MSN) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) may enter the DNP program through one of the two tracks, allowing for a shorter timeframe for completion. The DNP program is exclusive to those holding or desiring an advanced practice nursing designation.”
“Georgetown University offers a high graduation rate, excellent program info on website, name recognition of school, focuses on healthcare inequalities, and assists with clinical placement. Drawbacks are that it is one of the most expensive programs in the country.”
“Students with an advanced practice certification can earn their degree from Maryville University in as little as 20 months, but there is 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 that have extensive experience or are currently nurse leaders.”
“Maryville's online DNP is provided in both online and in-person formats. The program offers several clinical tracks, and decent graduation rates.”
“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 of four years — including summer terms — and there is a required on-campus visit each semester.”
“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.”
Learn more about the key factors to consider when choosing a program, or go straight to our data-driven ranking of the best online DNP programs.
Using Our Rankings: What to Look for in an Online DNP Program
When researching nursing schools, consider the key factors that differentiate online DNP programs, such as admission requirements, specializations, and curricula.
Admission Requirements
Review the admission requirements of potential DNP programs to narrow down your choices. Doing this can help you identify schools that align with your qualifications and pinpoint which programs will accept your application materials.
Specializations
DNP specializations can help students achieve their career goals. A nursing program may only offer advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specializations, such as adult gerontology or nurse midwifery. Other programs have non-clinical specializations in management and executive leadership for nurse educators.
Program Curriculum
Online DNP programs feature didactic and clinical coursework that trains students to build evidence-based practice. The common curriculum includes healthcare policy, research methods, and organizational leadership. When selecting a program, determine what courses you need to take to complete an online DNP program.
Clinical Experience
While online DNP programs take place remotely, students complete clinical hours in person to earn a degree. Find out if the program offers local clinical placements, which can limit your commute time. Clinical requirements vary by school, but most programs require at least 1,000 hours.
Accreditation
Only graduates from accredited DNP programs are eligible for licensure and certification. Accreditation is a voluntary process that reviews a DNP program's curriculum, student outcomes, and faculty to ensure it meets educational standards. DNP programs receive programmatic accreditation from organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Program Length
Full-time students can complete online DNP programs in about 1-3 years. Part-time students may take twice as long to graduate. Timeframes vary because of the required curriculum, practicum hours, and type of degree. For instance, a BSN-to-DNP degree takes longer to complete than an online DNP program.
School Graduation Rate
Nursing school graduation rates show many DNP students complete their programs online and on time, which is one way to measure a program's quality. Graduation rates hold schools accountable and help states allocate funds to higher education.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Online DNP programs feature convenient learning formats but can vary in detail. The program may offer an equal blend of synchronous and asynchronous coursework, only asynchronous assignments, or primarily online courses that require students to log into a learning platform at set times.
Why Is Online DNP Program Accreditation Important?
Online DNP accreditation is a voluntary process that offers transparency about nursing schools and ensures that curriculum and practicum hours meet industry standards. Beyond contributing to a school's reputation, accreditation ensures that nurses get a standardized quality education.
Colleges and programs — such as online DNP programs — receive accreditation after independent accrediting agencies, such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, review the program's curriculum, instructional practices, and student resources. Other important factors of DNP accreditation include the following.
- 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.
Learn More About Online DNP Programs and Schools
See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.
Online DNP Programs of 2023
Bradley University
- Peoria, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bradley University's online doctor of nursing practice program prepares experienced nurses to earn both their master's degree and a doctorate in a three-year program. Graduates qualify to take the certification exam for advanced practice nursing. Concentrations include adult-gerontology acute care, primary care, family practice, and psychiatric mental health. Nurses who already hold master's degrees can earn a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) in leadership.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)-accredited DNP program at Bradley prepares nurses to become leaders in the field. The full-time program includes 1,000 hours of clinical experience and 10-11 semesters of coursework.
- Program: 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: No
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Online DNP Programs of 2023
Carlow University
- Pittsburgh, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Carlow University allows nurses to earn their DNP in as few as 15 months of full-time study. Designed for those who already hold a master's degree, the program focuses on developing leadership skills and preparing nurses to influence change in healthcare.
Carlow University's DNP program uses a cohort model in which students share a schedule with the same group throughout their program. The curriculum includes 12-16 asynchronous courses, 1,000 clinical practice hours, and an in-depth 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: No
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $81,812 for DNP graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online DNP Programs of 2023
Georgetown University
- Washington, DC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Georgetown University offers online doctor of nursing practice programs for bachelor's and master's-level nurses. The CCNE-accredited program focuses on developing leadership skills and preparing nurses to improve access to healthcare and care quality for traditionally underserved populations.
Georgetown's DNP programs include classroom credits, on-campus clinical intensives, and clinical practice hours. BSN-to-DNP students complete both master's and doctoral-level coursework and 1,000 clinical practice hours over the course of the 33-month program. MSN-to-DNP students can complete their program in 20 months. This program requires 1-2 on-campus executive sessions and at least 250 clinical practice hours.
- Program: 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)
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online DNP Programs of 2023
Loyola University New Orleans
- New Orleans, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Well-known for educating healthcare professionals, Loyola University New Orleans offers two online DNP programs: a BSN-to-DNP option that prepares students to become family nurse practitioners and a leadership-focused MSN-to-DNP program.
Loyola University New Orleans' DNP programs allow nurses to earn their terminal degrees in about three years by leveraging their existing education and experience. All coursework in this CCNE-accredited program is completed online, and students learn from accomplished experts and healthcare professionals.
- Program: 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: No
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online DNP Programs of 2023
Marymount University
- Arlington, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Marymount University is recognized as one of the top schools for veterans and non-traditional students and has been designated a College of Distinction for Nursing. The CCNE-accredited online BSN-to-DNP program prepares nurses for practice as family nurse practitioners.
Over the course of the 36-month program, DNP students complete 63-70 hours of coursework, two on-campus residencies, and 1,000 hours of clinical practice. The program provides free clinical placement assistance, as well as student success advisors to provide additional support throughout the program.
- Program: DNP - family nurse practitioner
- Campus: Arlington, Virginia
- 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; one year of nursing practice
- Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online DNP Programs of 2023
Maryville University of Saint Louis
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Maryville University St. Louis' online doctor of nursing practice program caters to experienced nurses who want to become nurse practitioners or who are currently nurse practitioners and want to expand their leadership skills. The program focuses on preparing future leaders in healthcare.
The CCNE-accredited program is designed for working professionals, with entirely online asynchronous coursework. Students in the DNP-nurse practitioner program can specialize in adult-gerontology acute or primary care, family or pediatric nurse practitioner, or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
- Program: DNP; DNP - nurse practitioner
- Campus: St. Louis, Missouri
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $813-$897 per credit
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor's or master's degree in nursing or a diploma in nursing from an accredited program; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA
- Minimum Time Commitment: 20 months (DNP); 36 months (DNP-FP)
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $123,517 for DNP graduates, according to College Scorecard
Percent Online Enrollment
83%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Online DNP Programs of 2023
Northern Illinois University
- Dekalb, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Northern Illinois University's DNP program expands upon the school's well-respected nursing degree. Both bachelor's- and master's-level nurses develop skills in evidence-based practice to care for diverse patient populations.
NIU's DNP program coursework is entirely online with in-person clinicals. The school offers assistance with clinical placements through existing partnerships with local healthcare organizations, as well as program-specific scholarship funds for qualified students.
- Program: BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP
- Campus: Dekalb, Illinois
- Type: Public
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $744 per credit hour
- Admission Requirements: Current Illinois nursing license, bachelor's or master's degree from an accredited nursing program, minimum 3.0 GPA (3.2 for MSN-to-DNP); verified clinical hours; personal statement; recommendations
- Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months (MSN-to-DNP); 72 months (BSN-to-DNP)
- On-Campus Requirements: No
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Online DNP Programs of 2023
Regis College
- Weston, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
As the first DNP program in the Boston area, Regis College has developed a reputation for excellence in preparing nurses for advanced practice. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing-accredited program offers six nurse practitioner tracks with entirely online coursework.
Students at Regis College can transfer credits from other colleges. Employees of partner organizations, as well as federal employees and military members, may qualify for tuition discounts. Students can choose from three start times each year and complete their degree in as few as 40 months.
- Program: BSN-to-DNP
- Campus: Weston, Massachusetts
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing; New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $895 per credit hour
- Admission Requirements: BSN from an accredited program; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; "C" or better in college-level statistics course; personal statement, letters of recommendation
- Minimum Time Commitment: 40 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
Online DNP Programs of 2023
Rivier University
- Nashua, NH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Rivier University offers two DNP tracks: a professional practice track and a systems leadership track. Students who are already advanced practice nurses can develop their leadership skills through the professional practice track, while the systems leadership track prepares licensed nurses for advanced practice.
Both tracks include a scholarly project, which requires students to conduct an in-depth research project designed to improve patient safety and care. Students complete all coursework online. 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 have admission restrictions.
- Program: Doctor of nursing practice
- Campus: Nashua, New Hampshire
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
- Tuition: $836 per credit
- Admission Requirements: BSN from an accredited program and an MSN or a master's in a field outside of nursing; current RN license; minimum 3.2 GPA; completion of a graduate-level statistics course; personal statement; letters of recommendation
- Minimum Time Commitment: 30-60 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
Online DNP Programs of 2023
Saint Mary's College
- Notre Dame, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint Mary's College offers a BSN-to-DNP program with two concentrations: adult-gerontology acute care or family nurse practitioner. Qualified students do not need work experience to apply for either track. The CCNE-accredited program takes 40 months to complete and includes online coursework, clinical rotations, and one weekend visit to campus each semester.
One of Indiana's most respected nursing schools, Saint Mary's College prepares students with the entrepreneurial skills they need to open their own practices or develop cost-effective approaches to care.
- Program: Doctor of nursing practice - adult-gerontology acute care; doctor of nursing practice - family nurse practitioner
- Campus: Notre Dame, Indiana
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $964 per credit hour
- Admission Requirements: BSN from an accredited program; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; completion of a statistics course; personal statement; letters of recommendation
- Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
What to Expect from an Online DNP Program
Online DNP programs prepare registered nurses for expanded professional roles in clinical practice, administration, education, and research. The DNP curriculum, which typically requires 30 credits, follows standards defined by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing that focus on leadership in evidence-based nursing practice. Students learn how to evaluate evidence to guide clinical decision-making and improve quality care.
Both campus-based and online DNP programs offer specializations that align with particular career interests. Popular specialties include family nurse practitioner, adult gerontology nurse practitioner, and certified registered nurse anesthetist. Some programs offer nurse administrator, nursing informatics, and nurse educator concentrations.
Online DNP programs may offer asynchronous plans of study that provide 24-hour access to course materials, or more structured synchronous formats, requiring students to log in at specific times. Some programs combine both synchronous and asynchronous formats. Hybrid programs, which require students to take some classes on campus, are also available.
All DNP degrees require a minimum of 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. Online DNP programs may allow distance learners to complete their clinical hours at approved clinical sites near their homes.
Applying to an Online DNP Program
An online DNP program provides students with the highest clinical education in nursing. Incoming DNP students have years of nursing experience and education. Application materials differ by school. Online DNP programs may only accept applicants with an MSN degree or open admissions to BSN degree-holders.
-
Admission Requirements: Most online DNP programs require applicants to hold an MSN degree from an accredited nursing school, but some dual degree programs open admissions to nurses with a BSN. Admissions may also require applicants to have 1-2 years of nursing experience.
-
Admission Materials: Incoming students may need to have completed a statistics course with a minimum C grade. They must also be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and hold a current RN license.
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GPA Requirement: Admitted DNP students often hold at least a 3.0 GPA. To show proof of their grades, applicants must submit graduate and undergraduate transcripts with their applications.
Paying for Online DNP Programs
The cost of getting an online DNP depends on the type of school and the program you choose. For example, public universities usually charge lower tuition than private schools. A BSN-to-DNP, which takes longer than a post-master's DNP, costs more to complete. The average cost of completing your online DNP at one of these schools included in our ranking ranges $700-$2,300 per credit hour.
Working nurses often want to attend online DNP programs that allow them to continue working, and pay out-of-pocket for some or all of their tuition. Many hospitals also offer tuition reimbursement to employees.
Some online DNP programs may charge out-of-state residents more tuition, or a program may take longer to complete.
To cover unexpected college costs, DNP students can access financial aid options, including awards like grants and nursing scholarships that do not require repayment if students maintain good academic standing. Accredited online DNP programs offer federal loans and grants to help nurses pay for their nursing degrees.
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?
Online DNP degree-holders have the advanced expertise to pursue APRN roles that offer greater independence. After earning a DNP, nurses become certified registered nurse anesthetists, chief nursing officers, and nurse practitioners, or pursue other healthcare leadership roles. They can work in academia as professors, clinical directors, and clinical researchers.
DNP courses focus on quality improvement and patient safety, health policy, health sciences statistics, organizational and systems management, and scholarly writing. DNP students also complete 500-1,000 clinical hours.
Some DNP careers include:
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): CRNAs collaborate with doctors, surgeons, and dentists to monitor patients under anesthesia and other medications before, during, and after surgery. They conduct patient assessments before surgery, administer medication during surgery, and help create pain management plans for patients recovering from an operation. According to the BLS, CRNAs earned an average salary of $205,770 in 2022.
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): NPs specialize in areas of nursing in graduate school and later take certifications in family nursing, adult-gerontology acute care, adult-gerontology primary care, pediatrics, psychiatric mental health, and women's health. According to the BLS, CRNAs earned an average salary of $124,680 in 2022.
- Chief Nursing Officer (CNO): In hospitals, outpatient care facilities, physician offices, and nursing homes, CNOs lead teams of healthcare clinicians. CNOs handle onboarding of new nurses and oversee staff to carry out the healthcare strategic plans. According to Payscale, CNOs earn an average salary of $139,910 as of July 2023.
In 2023, the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties reaffirmed the decision to make a DNP the minimum requirement for APRN roles by 2025 to improve healthcare outcomes and elevate nursing practice as a whole. While state licensing requirements currently require an MSN, it is expected that some may begin to make the shift to requiring a DNP in the near future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online DNP Programs
How long does it take to complete an online DNP program?
Full-time DNP students with an MSN can graduate within 1-2 years. Students with a BSN can earn a DNP degree in 3-4 years. Part-time students often take twice as long to complete online DNP programs.
Do nurse practitioners with a DNP get paid more than those with a master's degree?
Generally, nurses with a DNP make more than nurses with an MSN degree. According to Payscale, DNP degree-holders make an average of $111,000, and MSN nurses earn an average of $102,000 as of July 2023. However, specialty nursing areas requiring only an MSN can earn competitive salaries.
What is the difference between a DNP and a nursing Ph.D.?
A DNP prepares graduates for clinical roles as APRNs or executive administrator positions and jobs in colleges and universities. A Ph.D. in nursing primarily trains graduates to work in academic and clinical research.
Is a DNP required to become a certified registered nurse anesthetist?
Yes. As of January 2022, a DNP is the minimum degree requirement to become a CRNA.
Page last reviewed August 8, 2023. The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team. The top programs according to our nurse panel were reviewed by Brandy Gleason, MSN, MHA, BC-NC, and Elizabeth Clarke, FNP, MSN, RN, MSSW, on January 2, 2023.
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