An online Doctor of Nursing Practice degree is the highest level of nursing expertise in which an individual can engage. The coursework prepares students for leadership and administrative roles that are both high-paying and involve large levels of responsibility over organizations, patients, and employees alike.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the job outlook for these professionals at around 38% over the next ten years, which is much faster than average. The average salary is about $125,900 annually.
spective Online Doctor of Nursing Practice Students Should Know
Earning a DNP degree online may be a good option for many practicing nurses who already have an MSN. The online doctoral coursework’s flexibility is ideal for those who do not want or cannot afford to leave their jobs to attend school full-time.
Students interested in pursuing a doctor of nursing practice have several options, including a BSN to DNP track for those looking to enter a doctoral program immediately following their bachelor’s degree and an MSN to DNP track for master’s of nursing students.
The BSN to DNP track is obviously longer and more intensive, but it can be an excellent option for becoming a practicing DNP.
But before enrolling in an online DNP program, here are five things you need to know:
- A DNP degree will not make you a physician.
- The DNP is a degree, not a position.
- You can have a DNP but not work as an APRN.
- Not all online DNP programs are the same.
- You can still get a master’s degree in APRN training.
Benefits of Pursuing Online Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs
If you are undecided about pursuing an online DNP program, considering the long-term benefits may help you make a final decision. The following is a list of advantages of pursuing online DNP programs.
- You’ll become one of the leaders in the nursing industry: DNP programs focus on teaching programs that aid in the development of advanced nursing expertise, such as Organizational and Systems Leadership. A Doctor of Nursing Practice program graduates learns to improve healthcare delivery, patient outcomes, and nursing practices. These characteristics will help you land leadership positions in the nursing industry.
- Gain the respect of your professional colleagues: A terminal degree, such as a DNP, necessitates dedication and hard work. Other healthcare professionals understand the effort required to obtain this degree and are likely to regard you highly.
- A DNP will help you become a nursing leader: A DNP is the highest nursing degree available. Accredited online Doctor of Nursing Practice program graduates understands all aspects of nursing practice, making them valuable to potential employers. A DNP will give you an advantage when applying for the job you want.
- You can negotiate for higher pay or an increase in your current position: DNP programs teach students skills such as addressing clinical issues and identifying changes in the healthcare industry that can be implemented in inpatient care. These skills qualify a DNP to take on more responsibilities, which means a higher earning potential. You’re most likely to become a nurse executive with a DNP degree.
- Increased chances of long-term employment prospects: According to the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties, all entry-level nursing practice programs would be required to transition from MSN to DNP by 2025. By pursuing one of the many DNP online programs, such as those mentioned in this article, you are taking the initiative to secure your career’s long-term future and community health outcomes.
Paying for an Online DNP Program
The total cost of an online DNP program in a nursing college varies on several factors, including:
- The length of the program
- The amount of financial aid you receive
- In-state or out-of-state tuition
Fortunately, many funding opportunities will help you reduce the total cost of the online DNP program. In fact, all private and public institutions accept federal funding and provide students with federal grants and loans. To qualify, you need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and demonstrate financial need.
You may also be eligible for various federal loans based on your FAFSA score. Online DNP programs may offer a combination of federal grants and loans and any available private loans. Grants are non-repayable funds, whereas loans are repaid with interest.
Some employers provide a tuition reimbursement program to help their nursing staff further their education. If you accept a tuition reimbursement program, you may be required to work for the organization for a set period after graduation.
Working part-time while completing your online DNP program may also help you offset the cost of nursing college.
Methodology
These online schools provide outstanding curricula, many of which have concentration and specialization options that further prepare students for various positions within the field of nursing.
Listed in random order, we present to you our choices for the Best Online Schools for Doctor of Nursing Practice based on the following viewpoints:
- Awarded as a terminal degree – Doctor of Nursing Practice, or DNP degree,
- 100% Online or Hybrid availability,
- Positive student experiences and reviews,
- Instruct students in advanced skills needed to be leaders or Nurse Practitioners in the field of Nursing,
- Provides research opportunities to improve healthcare systems,
- Distinguished professors as quality instructors, experience in the field of Nursing,
- Clinical internships completed in your area,
- Financial Aid opportunities,
- Designed to elevate skills in patient care, communications, patient safety, and business principles, such as economics, finance, and public health policy, as well as ethical and legal aspects of the healthcare industry, among other topics,
- Offers opportunities for specializations,
- Ease of credit transfers and properly accredited.
To learn more, please see our Methodology page.
Best Online Schools for Doctor of Nursing
UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST
Program Standouts:
The University of Massachusetts provides one of the most respected nursing programs in the country and offers an outstanding online Doctor of Nursing Practice that includes numerous concentration options that will significantly enhance students’ understanding of the discipline as a whole, as well as in their specific specialization. The school’s clinical placements enrich the nursing experience of all DNP students.
Campus Location: Amherst, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Acceptance Rate: 64%
Retention Rate: 91%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- the nonrefundable application fee,
- official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution,
- a personal statement,
- two letters of recommendation,
- and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Program Options:
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Public Health Nurse Leader
- Post-MS DNP Completion
Degree Outcomes:
This DNP online program was one of the first of its kind and, over the last decade, has trained students to become the top of their field in research and practice.
Graduates are prepared to develop the advanced practice knowledge and skills needed to manage patients as well as lead healthcare administrations.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS’ DNP ONLINE DEGREE PROGRAM
UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH
Program Standouts:
The University of Pittsburgh is another extremely well-respected online school offering various nursing programs. The school’s online Doctor of Nursing Practice has been ranked one of the absolute finest in the country.
This curriculum includes various major options, as well as evidence-based research theories to influence daily practice and career goals.
Campus Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 49%
Retention Rate: 93%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- the nonrefundable application fee,
- official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities,
- GRE scores,
- three letters of recommendation,
- a personal essay,
- and a current résumé or CV.
Program Options:
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Health Systems Executive Leadership
- Nurse Anesthesia
- Nurse-Midwife
- Nurse Practitioner (six additional concentration options)
Degree Outcomes:
Career options vary depending on individual students’ concentration of choice; however, the general coursework of the school’s advanced nursing practice program has a strong emphasis on advanced evidence-based practice, organizational and systems leadership, clinical research and analytical methods, ethics, finance, and interprofessional collaboration. Some of the school’s graduates become nurse anesthetists.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE DEGREE PROGRAM.
DREXEL UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
Drexel University provides exceedingly professional nursing programs, including one of the best online DNP programs in the country. The Doctor of Nursing Practice is designed for nurses seeking a terminal degree in nursing practice and offers an alternative to research-focused doctoral programs.
Campus Location: Philadelphia, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; Collegiate Commission on Nursing Education
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Retention Rate: 93%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution,
- TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language,
- a personal essay,
- a current résumé,
- letters of recommendation,
- and financial aid documentation.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Human Responses to Altered Function in Health and Illness
- Quantitative Methods in Clinical Nursing
- Leadership in Organizations and Systems
Degree Outcomes:
Upon completion of this DNP program, graduates are able to evaluate patient care delivery approaches to meet individual needs, utilize advanced communication skills, and demonstrate knowledge in business, finance, economics, and policy.
Drexel University gives students the skill, reputation, and connection to land high-paying positions of employment.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DREXEL UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DNRP DOCTORAL NURSING DEGREE PROGRAM
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER
Program Standouts:
The University of Colorado Denver is a superb state school offering an online DNP that is a competency-based curriculum that includes various concentrations within the coursework so that students gain a wide perspective into a complex discipline. The coursework builds upon master’s work and experience.
Campus Location: Denver, CO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 72%
Retention Rate: 89%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- the nonrefundable application fee,
- and official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities attended.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Applied Evidence-Based Practice
- Design Theory-Guided Care
- Intercampus DNP Special Topics
Degree Outcomes:
This in-depth and challenging online DNP degree will prepare graduates for such positions as clinical nurse educator, clinician-scholar, develop/evaluator of healthcare programs, healthcare entrepreneur, and care manager. Alumni go on to become leaders in the industry.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER’S ONLINE PREMIUM DOCTOR OF NURSING DEGREE PROGRAM
DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
Duquesne University’s online Doctor of Nursing Practice is one of nation’s best online nursing programs that will expand the student’s horizons drastically. The coursework has a strong evidence-based foundation and focuses on effectively assessing health care policy, organizational effectiveness, and economic trends.
Campus Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Retention Rate: 86%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- the nonrefundable application fee,
- official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities,
- and three letters of recommendation.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics
- Social Justice and Vulnerable Populations
- Ethical Leadership in Complex Organizations
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this fine program demonstrate effective clinical judgment through the synthesis and interpretation of multiple data sources. Alumni have the ability to develop, integrate, and foster strategies to address issues within the system to enhance patient care services and outcomes.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DNP PROGRAM
UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
Program Standouts:
The University of Arizona College of Nursing offers excellent programs that include a wide range of specialty coursework. There is a strong focus on clinical leadership and management of groups of employees. Students engage in theories and research practices that drastically enhance their understanding.
Campus Location: Tucson, AZ
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 87%
Retention Rate: 84%
Admission Requirements:
- a compiled online application,
- the nonrefundable application fee,
- and official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities attended.
Program Options:
- General Nursing Practice
- Nurse Anesthesia
- Family Nurse Practitioner
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this DNP program are prepared as advanced practice nurses who generate and disseminate nursing practice knowledge to stimulate research and improve clinical outcomes, improve health outcomes, engage in and lead teams, and influence clinical practice.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
GRACELAND UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
Graceland University is a leader in nursing education, and the goal of the online Doctor of Nursing Practice program is to prepare nurses for advanced practice roles and as clinical scholars skilled in the application of theory and research, evidence-based practice, and transformation of health care systems.
Campus Location: Lamoni, IA
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Retention Rate: 66%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- the nonrefundable application fee,
- official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended representing GPA’s of no less than 3.0,
- proof of current nursing licensure,
- and a successfully completed background check,
- TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Program Options:
- General Nursing Practice
- Organizational Leadership
Degree Outcomes:
Whether or not students concentrate their coursework on the path of Organizational Leadership or not, they have the administrative leadership skills, as well as the practical nursing practice skills, to enter into positions of management and authority within all kinds of nursing and health care environments.
LEARN MORE ABOUT GRACELAND UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE (DNP) DEGREE
UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA, LAS VEGAS
Program Standouts:
This online school provides a Doctor of Nursing Practice which is a terminal degree intended for nurses to assume leadership roles in clinical practice, administration, clinical teaching, and clinical research.
No matter the level of degree in which students may be entering, there are pathways leading to a DNP for all. The school also offers an accelerated baccalaureate degree program for students without a master’s degree in nursing.
Campus Location: Las Vegas, NV
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Retention Rate: 77%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- the nonrefundable application fee,
- official transcripts from an accredited graduate institution representing a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher,
- three letters of recommendation,
- a current CV,
- a personal statement,
- and TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Applicants must also complete an interview with two core faculty members.
Program Options:
- BSN to DNP
- MSN to DNP
Degree Outcomes:
Each pathway contains concentration options such as Family Nurse Practitioner or Advanced Practice tracks for those who wish to focus their coursework in a specific area of interest. Graduates have the ability to lead and collaborate with teams to affect the best health care possible.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA, LAS VEGAS’ ONLINE DNP PROGRAM
GONZAGA UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
Gonzaga University offers this online Doctor of Nursing Practice that is founded on the Jesuit values of Cura Personalis, by educating the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. The coursework rigorously trains influential thinkers to be practice ready.
Campus Location: Spokane, WA
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities;
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Retention Rate: 94%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- the nonrefundable application fee,
- and official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities attended.
Program Options:
- DNP – Post-Master’s
- DNP – Post-Baccalaureate
- DNP – Anesthesia Practice
Degree Outcomes:
Skills exhibited by Gonzaga graduates include the ability to lead quality improvement, lead change, solve complex health policy issues, improve systems, research and evidence-based practice, and teamwork collaboration.
Gonzaga is known for being a highly supportive educational institution for students and graduates alike.
LEARN MORE ABOUT GONZAGA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING DEGREE PROGRAMS
GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
George Washington University is a highly reputed American higher education institution that purveys an outstanding online DNP program. There are numerous pathways through which students can earn their doctorate, as well as various concentration options that can focus their coursework in specific directions.
Campus Location: Washington, D.C.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Acceptance Rate: 50%
Retention Rate: 90%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- the nonrefundable application fee,
- official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities attended representing a degree in occupational therapy,
- a statement of purpose,
- two letters of recommendation,
- TOEFL scores from students who use English as a second language.
Program Options:
- Post-BSN to DNP (various concentrations)
- Post-MSN to DNP (various concentrations)
Degree Outcomes:
No matter what level a student is upon entering their DNP when they leave the program, they have the skill and expertise to take on positions of leadership and management in their current places of employment or in new areas.
Coursework is taught by exceptional faculty members who endow students with fabulous connections and practices.
LEARN MORE ABOUT GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE POST-BSN AND POST-MSN TO DNP DEGREE PROGRAM
UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA IN HUNTSVILLE
Program Standouts:
The University of Alabama in Huntsville prepares nurses to be leaders in the field through a curriculum that is designed for advanced practice nurses.
The doctorate degree focuses on administrative, organizational, and systems leadership competencies that prepare individuals for various nursing positions.
Campus Location: Huntsville, AL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Retention Rate: 79%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- the nonrefundable application fee,
- official transcripts from all schools attended with a GPA level of no less than 3.0,
- proof of current licensure,
- and a current résumé or CV.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Interdisciplinary Leadership and Role Development for Practice Excellence
- Informatics for Advanced Practice Nursing
- Health Policy and Politics: Implications in Health Care
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of the UAH doctoral nursing program will be prepared to synthesize scientific evidence for the development of clinical interventions for practice and can assume complex leadership roles to advance clinical practice and health care delivery systems.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA IN HUNTSVILLE’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
The Doctoral Nursing Practice degree program from New Mexico State University is a practice-focused doctoral nursing program that prepares leaders for the highest level of practice and is the terminal practice degree. The coursework offers two unique concentration options that drastically enhance one’s standing.
Campus Location: Las Cruces, NM
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 57%
Retention Rate: 72%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- the nonrefundable application fee,
- official transcripts from an accredited graduate institution representing an exemplary GPA,
- a current résumé or CV,
- and a writing sample.
Program Options:
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from New Mexico State University take on varying positions depending on their area of specialization. However, no matter their career path, these alumni are well-prepared to take on large responsibilities that include both administration and practice.
LEARN MORE ABOUT NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY
Program Standouts:
THE WEBSITE CURRENTLY STATES, “ADMISSIONS SUSPENDED”
This online school has been repeatedly recognized for its outstanding achievement in distance education. The Doctorate of Nursing Practice is intended for nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse midwives.
The distinctive coursework provides the leadership focus and team-building experience to make the best leaders in the industry.
Campus Location: Muncie, IN
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 68%
Retention Rate: 80%
Admission Requirements:
- a completed online application,
- official transcripts from an accredited graduate institution representing an exemplary GPA,
- GRE scores,
- letters of recommendation,
- proof of current licensure,
- a C.V.,
- and five references.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Statistics for Health Care Research
- Outcomes Research and Evaluation
- Population-Focused Care
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this online DNP program will be able to demonstrate advanced nursing practice, translate research and data to support evidence-based practice, lead inter-professional collaboration for improving patient and population health outcomes, and more!
LEARN MORE ABOUT BALL STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTORATE OF NP DEGREE PROGRAM
Frequently Asked Questions
Will employers trust a graduate from an Online DNP program?
Employers will be less concerned about your online coursework if you have all of your clinical ducks in a row. Of course, this assumes that the doctoral degree received online DNP program accreditation. Many online Doctor of Nursing Programs brings students to campus for extra support and even seminars that are difficult to attend virtually. This is to say that online content in online nursing programs is frequently hybridized.
Can I work full-time while enrolled in an online DNP program?
Working part-time or full-time as a registered nurse or taking time off during the DNP program is a personal choice. Working full-time while enrolled in online programs may not be impossible. However, it is important to understand that the DNP curriculum can be demanding, even when taken part-time. Academic advisors may advise registered nurse applicants to make changes to their work schedules to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
Is an MSN required for admission to a DNP online?
The majority of the time, the answer is no. While there are many MSN to DNP programs, there are also many BSN to DNP programs, including bridge programs, specifically designed for a DNP student who wants to go all the way from their bachelor’s. Many of the master’s degree program options or nursing administration programs discussed here provide both MSN to DNP and online BSN to DNP options.
Key Takeaways
While an online Doctor of Nursing Practice program is difficult regardless of employment status, it can be even more difficult if you work during the program. On the other hand, a nursing career will push you to be the best that you can be.
Whether you are working in an executive leadership role, providing direct patient care, or educating future nurses, what you do every day is to propel quality improvement initiatives and impact someone else’s life.
Starting your DNP degree journey will allow you to thrive professionally in clinical settings as a nurse educator, an advanced practice registered nurse, a pediatric nurse practitioner, or a nurse executive to improve patient outcomes. Similarly, DNP program online students can benefit from the academic journey personally as they embrace the role.
