[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/dnp/”]doctor of nursing practice (DNP)[/hen-ui-link] degree is the terminal degree for a nurse. A DNP prepares you for the highest levels of clinical practice, including [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/advanced-practice-nursing/”]advanced practice registered nurse (APRN)[/hen-ui-link] roles. It can also lead to research, teaching, and administrative or leadership positions.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Explore our 2025 online DNP program guide for information on courses, application requirements, financial aid, and career paths.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online DNP Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Online DNP Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″][hen-ui-icon icon=”badge-check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /] How We Rank Schools[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We use a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/methodology/”]data-driven methodology[/hen-ui-link] 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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ class=”not-prose pt-10″]Nurse Featured Online DNP Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]NurseJournal asked [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/healthcare-review-partners/elizabeth-clarke/”]Elizabeth Clarke, FNP, MSN, RN, MSSW[/hen-ui-link], 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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”UNC-Chapel Hill is a great option for either RNs with a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/best-bsn-programs-online/”]bachelor of science in nursing (BSN)[/hen-ui-link] degree or APRNs with a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/best-online-msn-programs/”]master of science in nursing (MSN)[/hen-ui-link] degree 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.”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”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.”[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]2. University of Florida[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”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.”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”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.”[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]3. University of Pennsylvania[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”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.”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]”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.”[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Using Our Rankings: What To Look For in an Online DNP Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When researching online DNP programs, consider the following key factors to help you narrow down your options.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Is Online DNP Program Accreditation Important?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Additional considerations for DNP accreditation include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accredited programs have the proper number of practicum hours for certification.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credits earned from non-accredited programs may not transfer between DNP programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Employers may not hire graduates from non-accredited online DNP programs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accreditation encourages DNP programs to improve their curriculums and outcomes.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]All of the programs listed in our rankings hold accreditation.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What to Expect from an Online DNP Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students develop advanced diagnostic, intervention, and treatment skills. They also learn how to evaluate and apply evidence to clinical decisions and patient care.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many online DNP programs offer specializations that help you to tailor your coursework and career path to your unique interests.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A few of the most popular DNP specialties include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/fnp/”]Family NP[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/neonatal/”]Neonatal NP[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-anesthetist/how-to-become-a-crna/”]Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pediatric NP[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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).[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Applying to an Online DNP program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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 [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/dnp/best-online-bsn-to-dnp-programs/”]BSN-to-DNP pathways[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Admission Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Admission Materials[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Admission materials vary by program, but they typically include:[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Valid RN licensure[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Three letters of recommendation[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A resume[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Personal statement/essay[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]GPA Requirement[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While GRE scores are not typically required, some schools may accept them as supplemental materials.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Paying for Your Online DNP Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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 from $700-$2,300 per credit.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While the numbers and options can feel overwhelming, there are ways to make your DNP more affordable.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can also apply for [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/financial-aid/”]financial aid[/hen-ui-link] to help you [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/paying-for-your-nursing-degree/”]pay for your nursing degree[/hen-ui-link]. Completing the [hen-ui-link href=”https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa” target=”_blank”]Free Application for Federal Student Aid[/hen-ui-link] (FAFSA) could qualify you for grants and federal loans. You can apply for [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/”]nursing grants and scholarships[/hen-ui-link] from your school and healthcare organizations who demonstrate financial need and/or academic excellence. Some healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement for employees.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Online DNP Student Testimonials[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]On Choosing the Best Online DNP Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-lg”]”I was looking for a program that fit my needs as a working nurse, where I would get individualized attention at a respected university.”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]— Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Challenges and Benefits[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-lg”]”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.”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]— Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Is an Online DNP Program Worth It?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-lg”]”Achieving my DNP online was 100% worth all my time and effort!”[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm”]— Melissa Plummer, DNP, MHI, RN[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do With a Degree from an Online DNP Program?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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:[/hen-ui-text]

[hen-ui-table][hen-ui-table-caption]Salary and Job Growth for Common DNP Positions[/hen-ui-table-caption][hen-ui-table-header][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job Title[/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Description[/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary (May 2024)[/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job Growth (2024-34)[/hen-ui-table-head][/hen-ui-table-row][/hen-ui-table-header][hen-ui-table-body][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Title”]Nursing Instructors[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Description”]Nurse educators teach nursing principles and patient care in classrooms and clinical settings. [/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (May 2024)”]$79,940[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth (2024-34)”]+17%[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Title”]Clinical Directors[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Description”]Clinical directors and managers oversee the health services of a nursing department or facility. They may take care of staffing, budgeting, and regulatory requirements. [/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (May 2024)”]$117,960[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth (2024-34)”]+23%[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Title”]Nurse Executives[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Description”]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. [/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (May 2024)”]$206,420[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth (2024-34)”]+4%[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Title”]Nurse Anesthetists[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Description”]CRNAs administer and care for patients receiving anesthesia. They assess patients, administer medication, and help create post-surgery pain management plans.[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (May 2024)”]$223,210[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth (2024-34)”]+9%[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Title”]Nurse-Midwives[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Description”]Nurse-midwives provide pregnant individuals with prenatal and postpartum care, including labor monitoring, pain management, and surgical assistance. [/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (May 2024)”]$128,790[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth (2024-34)”]+11%[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-row][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Title”]Nurse Practitioners[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Description”]NPs offer primary and specialty care to patients in the form of assessments, diagnoses, and treatments. [/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (May 2024)”]$129,210[/hen-ui-table-cell][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth (2024-34)”]+40%[/hen-ui-table-cell][/hen-ui-table-row][/hen-ui-table-body][/hen-ui-table]

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Can you get your DNP online?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Do DNPs get paid more than NPs?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]NPs with a DNP may earn higher wages than NPs with a master’s degree, but it depends on the employer. For example, a DNP may open the door to higher-paying leadership positions.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the fastest way to become a DNP?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The fastest degree pathway to a DNP is through a BSN-to-DNP, which fast-tracks through the MSN, saving you 1-2 years. You can also save time in your studies by taking accelerated courses and heavy course loads.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is getting a DNP worth it?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A DNP can be worthwhile if you want to access the APRN profession or nurse leadership or educator roles. While an MSN can also lead to APRN licensure, the requirements could change at any point in the near future.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion]