Online RN-to-DNP Programs 2025
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- RN-to-DNP Programs
- What to Look For
- Applying
- Program Accreditation
- Paying for an Online RN-to-DNP Program
- Career Opportunities
- RN-to-DNP Program FAQ
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: baona / E+ / Getty ImagesDoctor of nursing practice (DNP) degrees prepare the next generation of nurses to meet the demands of a rapidly changing healthcare industry. DNP graduates become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in administration, academia, research, and clinical practice.
Online RN-to-DNP programs, also called bridge programs, allow nurses without a master’s degree to earn a doctorate in 3-6 years while working in clinical practice.
Explore online RN-to-DNP programs and learn more about how they work and the next steps in applying to and paying for nursing school.
Popular Online DNP Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Learn More About Online RN-to-DNP Programs & Schools
George Washington University
Washington, DC- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
For active RNs, GW's DNP program runs in a hybrid format with specializations available in adult-gerontology acute care, adult-gerontology primary care, family, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. The program emphasizes building clinical practice skills, along with leadership and policy expertise.
We like GW's rigorous clinical curriculum, regularly including over 1,100 direct and indirect hours. We also like the school's focus on building strong student-instructor relationships and encouraging students to lead and innovate through field studies.
This program is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Hybrid format comprising online courses, on-campus activities, and on-site clinicals
- Can lead to certification in four advanced-practice specialization areas
- Part-time study options for working professionals
Considerations:
- Clinical placements in Northern Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C.
- On-campus training at the Virginia Science & Technology Campus simulation center
- One year of experience required for adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner
- In-State$60,856
- Out-of-state$60,856
- In-State$33,930
- Out-of-state$33,930
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate44%
- Students Enrolled25,568
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Georgetown University
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Georgetown's online DNP program admits either RNs or advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), as long as you already have a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or a master of science in nursing (MSN). Along with focus areas on nursing science, organizational leadership, and professional ethics, the program features specializations in adult-gerontology acute care, family nurse practitioner, dual nurse-midwifery/women's health, and women's health nurse practitioner.
We like that Georgetown's online programs feature live weekly classes and real-time discussions and presentations. We also like that online students attend clinical intensives (hands-on clinical activities) that feature peer-to-peer collaborations and high-quality simulations.
This program is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Complete in as few as 33 months
- Network of nearly 10,000 clinical sites throughout 49 states
- Four specialization options
Considerations:
- Costliest program on this list
- Requires occasional in-person attendance
- All hands-on clinical activities in Washington, D.C. metro area
- 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 State University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
In GSU's online DNP program, you can choose between a BSN-to-DNP or an MSN-to-DNP pathway. You can also choose among adult health-gerontology primary care, adult health-gerontology, pediatric, family, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specialties.
The BSN-to-DNP program features a minimum of 81 credits, including an extensive DNP project and at least 1,000 clinical hours.
We like that GSU's online DNP program accommodates working students, with 100% of its cohort participants working full time. Campus sessions are scheduled in advance, which allows you to plan your visits.
This program is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Advanced practice certification available in five specialties
- All DNP students working full time throughout the program
- Wide range of settings available in the state for hands-on clinical activities
Considerations:
- Program costlier than others
- 53% average graduation rate
- Need 1-2 years of clinical practice experience in specialty for admission
- In-State$8,948
- Out-of-state$27,986
- In-State$7,164
- Out-of-state$22,662
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate52%
- Students Enrolled34,995
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Partnering with one of the most widely respected academic health centers in the world, JHU's online doctor of nursing practice (DNP) advanced practice program offers learners the opportunity to earn a nursing doctorate in one of seven tracks, including adult-gerontological acute care, psychiatric mental health, and nurse anesthesia.
Registered nurses (RNs) who do not live in Maryland but have a multi-state license through the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) may apply.
We like JHU's DNP program because of its extensive clinical and practicum requirements, which exceed 1,000 hours. We also appreciate the intimate clinical experiences offered by the school, with 1-6 students per instructor.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights:
- Seven DNP study tracks
- Cohorts comprise 32% underrepresented minority students on average
- Small learner-to-instructor ratios
Considerations:
- Nurse anesthesia track offered only on campus
- On-site immersion activities with all program tracks
- Highly competitive admissions process
- 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
Ohio State University-Main Campus
- Columbus, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Designed for active RNs, OSU's BSN-to-DNP features 10 advanced-practice specializations, including six that run online. Online specializations include pediatric acute care, adult-gerontology primary care, family nurse practitioner, nurse anesthesia, neonatal, and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner.
We like that OSU's DNP programs feature courses you can typically complete entirely online. The required minimum 1,000 clinical hours can also be completed in an area near you.
This program is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Can lead to an MSN, DNP, or certification in an advanced specialty
- Three-year full-time and four-year part-time study options
- Recognized as a Center of Excellence for Creating Environments that Enhance Student Learning and Professional Development by the National League for Nursing
Considerations:
- Nurse anesthesia track features on-campus courses
- On-campus components include orientations and project defenses
- Two application windows for most tracks (only one for the anesthesia track)
- 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
Samford University
- Birmingham, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Designed for active RNs, Samford's online DNP program offers a family nurse practitioner track for BSN graduates and emergency and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner tracks for MSN graduates. The programs include courses in health assessment, primary care, and evidence- and systems-based practice, plus a DNP project and practicum.
We like that this Birmingham, Alabama, campus has hundreds of relationships with clinical sites around the country. We also like that the school was named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League of Nursing.
This program is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Most courses run asynchronously, or at a more self-guided pace
- Three-year program for BSN graduates
- 16-20 hours of clinicals each week
Considerations:
- One of the costliest programs on this list
- BSN degree required at minimum
- Three 2-4 day on-campus sessions in Birmingham, Alabama
- In-State$35,750
- Out-of-state$35,750
- In-State$21,265
- Out-of-state$21,265
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled5,790
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
University of Arizona
- Tucson, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
UA's DNP program provides a blend of online coursework, on-campus intensives, and on-site practicums. With a final project and a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours, this hybrid DNP program prepares you for certification in adult-gerontology acute care, pediatrics, family practice, or psychiatric mental health. Nurse anesthesiology and certified nurse-midwifery specialties are also available.
UA emphasizes clinical experiences with resident and clinical intensives throughout the year, plus simulation labs and clinical preceptorships. We like that the school allows applicants with fewer than 1,800 clinical hours to study part time to accumulate hours before transitioning to the full-time program.
This program is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Qualifies graduates for certification in their practice state
- Finish in as little as 2.5 years
- Full- and part-time study options available for several specialties
Considerations:
- Program is highly competitive and requires a BSN and RN license
- Full-time students need one year (1,800 hours) of RN experience
- Several in-person requirements throughout the year
- In-State$11,210
- Out-of-state$35,628
- In-State$12,348
- Out-of-state$32,290
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled53,187
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
UC's DNP programs include online options in several specialties, including adult-gerontology primary care, family, pediatric acute care, psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. Public health nursing, systems leadership, occupational health nursing, and post-MSN DNP tracks are also available online.
We like that most online DNP courses at UC run twice per year, helping you move through the program without unwanted breaks. In addition, most of the teaching is done by UC faculty who have leadership experience in their specialty.
This program is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Wide range of fully online tracks and learning options
- Limited on-campus requirements for most students
- Part-time study options available
Considerations:
- Most programs require one year of RN experience
- Program does not accept online students from all states
- BSN required at minimum
- In-State$11,892
- Out-of-state$27,226
- In-State$13,224
- Out-of-state$24,966
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled43,976
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
University of Iowa
- Iowa City, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
UI's online DNP program includes specialty tracks in adult-gerontology (acute and primary care), family, psychiatric mental health, and pediatric nurse practitioner, as well as health systems and nurse anesthesia. Most programs have both BSN-to-DNP and post-master's pathways.
We like that UI arranges your preceptors and clinical sites for you, so you don't have to worry about finding a practicum. We also like that the school tries to accommodate you according to your location, so you won't have to travel long distances.
This program is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Three- and four-year study plans depending on education and scheduling needs
- Small class sizes
- 100% certification pass and employment rates
Considerations:
- Clinical experiences must occur in Iowa
- Students typically attend campus once per week
- Minimum one year of RN experience required
- In-State$9,016
- Out-of-state$30,979
- In-State$10,875
- Out-of-state$29,822
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled30,042
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
- Pittsburgh, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Pitt's online DNP program features three specialization tracks: adult-gerontology acute care, adult-gerontology primary care, and family (individual across the lifespan). Each concentration includes courses in diagnosis, evidence-based practice, and leadership.
We like that Pitt leverages its industry partnerships to make it easier to complete clinical experiences — even if you cannot make it to Pittsburgh. Pitt also offers both full-time and part-time tracks to accommodate diverse student schedules.
This program is accredited by the CCNE.
Highlights:
- Emphasis on health management and disease prevention
- 100% certification pass rates for all 2022-2023 nurse practitioner cohorts
- Primarily asynchronous or self-guided courses
Considerations:
- Requires BSN as a minimum degree
- Valid RN license and clinical expertise in your specialty may be required
- Not all specialty tracks available online
- 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.
What to Look For in an Online RN-to-DNP Program
A DNP degree prepares you for the highest level of clinical practice and leadership. Your education enhances clinical decision-making skills, improves patient outcomes, and supports your participation in system-level change. An online RN-to-DNP program allows registered nurses to earn their DNP degrees while maintaining professional responsibilities.
These programs combine advanced clinical training, leadership development, and evidence-based practice to prepare you for advanced practice roles in healthcare. Online formats offer flexibility, but the program should align with your learning style, career goals, and schedule.
We evaluated online RN-to-DNP programs using key metrics that impact quality, admissions, and graduation outcomes. Consider these factors to find the best fit for your goals.
Admission Requirements
RN-to-DNP programs have similar admission requirements, including practice experience, an unencumbered and active RN license, and recommendations. However, some programs have unique requirements that influence admission eligibility.
Specializations
As a DNP, you can specialize in areas like informatics, leadership, pediatrics, mental health, family practice, or midwifery. Choose a program that offers your desired focus.
Clinical Experience
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) requires a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours in a DNP program. These can be divided across practicums, residencies, and project work. Plan your hour distribution strategically.
Accreditation
To earn APRN certification, you must graduate from an accredited program. Unaccredited RN-to-DNP programs may be quicker or cheaper, but most employers won’t recognize them.
Program Curriculum
Most RN-to-DNP programs require 33–43 credit hours and take about two years full-time or 3-6 years part-time.
Certification Exam Pass Rate
After passing the national certification exam in your specialty, you can begin clinical practice as a DNP. Most programs share their pass rates, offering insight into how well they prepare their students.
School Graduation Rate
Schools often share their graduation rates, reflecting student support, program quality, and how effectively they prepare candidates for success.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
RN-to-DNP programs may be fully online or include in-person components. Know your learning style — whether you prefer video lectures or self-paced reading — and check if tech support is available before enrolling.
Applying to an Online RN-to-DNP Program
Online RN-to-DNP programs share common admission requirements, like a minimum GPA, although standards typically vary. Start preparing your application early and consult the program’s admissions counselor to ensure you meet all requirements and submit complete documentation.
- Admission Requirements: Most online RN-to-DNP programs require an unencumbered and active RN license, two years of RN experience, and prerequisite coursework, including science courses and an upper-level statistics course.
- Admission Materials: Some programs require NCLEX scores for admission. Applications typically include fees, a background check, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
- GPA Requirement: Most programs require a 3.0 GPA, but some expect a 3.5. Talk with the admission counselor if your GPA is lower, as some programs accept a GRE examination or relevant work experience.
Why is Online RN-to-DNP Program Accreditation Important?
Accreditation ensures the DNP program you choose meets national standards and delivers a quality education. Although the DNP is a terminal nursing degree, graduating from an accredited program is essential to practice as an APRN. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredit RN-to-DNP programs.
Each program in our rankings is accredited and meets peer-reviewed standards. Choosing an accredited nursing program is crucial because of the following benefits:
- Ensures your nursing education meets national standards
- Validates your educational preparation
- Lets you to apply for federal student aid
- Meets APRN licensure requirements; Most states will not grant licensure to graduates of a non-accredited program.
- Fulfills AANPCB and ANCC certification exam eligibility requirements
- Qualifies you to pursue employment and advancement opportunities; Most employers only hire graduates from an accredited program.
- Allows you to transfer credits into another accredited program
How Online RN-to-DNP Programs Work
Online RN-to-DNP programs offer greater flexibility and reduce your commuting costs compared to in-person programs. However, online programs require a higher degree of discipline and independence than in-person programs.
Some programs may accept transfer credits, while others do not. Clinical and skills check-off requirements vary—some schools assist with clinical placement, while others require you to find them independently. Your program may require a skills check-off at an in-person lab or with a clinical preceptor.
Paying for Online RN-to-DNP Programs
Several factors affect the cost of an online RN-to-DNP program, including in-state vs. out-of-state tuition, program length, and cost per credit. Working during your program can help offset your expenses.
Financial aid options can help cover some of the cost. Consider scholarships, grants, loans, and employer tuition reimbursement. However, your employer may require a post-graduation work commitment to cover the cost of your education.
Loan forgiveness programs may reduce debt, but be sure to understand the eligibility requirements and your post-graduation commitment.
What Can You Do With a Degree from an RN-to-DNP Program?
A DNP prepares nurses for roles in advanced clinical practice, administration, education, and research, and equips them to improve patient outcomes and apply evidence-based care. Some example careers you can pursue with a DNP include:
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Nurse anesthetists need a DNP to practice. These APRNs provide anesthesia-related care to patients before, during, and after surgery. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary is $223,210.
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
An FNP provides continuing and comprehensive healthcare across all body systems, diseases, ages, and genders. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for nurse practitioners is $129,210.
Nurse Administrator
Administrators supervise nurses and other healthcare team members. The BLS reports that the median annual salary for medical and health services managers is $117,960.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online RN-to-DNP Programs
An RN-to-DNP program typically takes two to six years, depending on your past education and whether you study full or part-time. Using an RN-to-DNP program is shorter than the traditional pathway of getting a BSN, an MSN, and a DNP separately. Program length also varies by specialization, clinical hour requirements, and course load.
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