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A BSN to DNP program is built for nurses with an accredited BSN and an RN license who wish to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Like MSN programs, BSN to DNP degrees are designed to help RNs qualify for national certification exams and state licensure in their chosen specialty. Unlike the MSN, BSN to DNP programs also include training in leadership, management, and strategic thinking.
Use our directory to find more than 700 ACEN- and CCNE-accredited BSN to DNP programs from 47 states plus the District of Columbia. To help you understand your choices, this guide also includes advice on the admissions process, details on delivery formats, and answers to FAQs. We also address the thorny question of why some nurses are opting for a DNP instead of an MSN.
How to Use the BSN to DNP Program Directory
The BSN to DNP directory is organized by state, specialty, and delivery format so you can quickly locate accredited programs. Online programs make up a significant share of the listings, spanning both direct care specialties like FNP and PMHNP and indirect care tracks like Nurse Executive. Look for the Online badge to spot distance-learning options.
| States Covered | Delivery Formats Included | Direct Care (Clinical) Tracks | Indirect Care (Non-Clinical) Tracks | Accrediting Bodies Represented | Program Listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 47 States + DC | On-Campus, Hybrid & 100% Online | FNP; AGACNP; AGPCNP; NNP; PNP; PMHNP; WHNP; CRNA; CNM; CNS | Nurse Educator; Nurse Executive | CCNE; ACEN; ACME; COA | State-by-state listings |
CCNE = Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education; ACEN = Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. ACME = Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education. COA = Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs.
Compare Online BSN to DNP Programs
Focusing your search specifically on online BSN to DNP programs? Not sure whether you’re ready for distance learning? We’ve created a series of resources to make your life easier. In particular, our unique rankings evaluate online BSN to DNP programs on strengths like institutional research status, program length, and clinical support.
BSN to DNP Admission Requirements
| Admission Criterion | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Degree | BSN from a program with nursing accreditation (CCNE or ACEN). Schools may also want to see that the university was regionally accredited. |
| GPA | Most common minimum is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; some schools go lower (e.g. 2.75), prestigious schools may go higher (e.g. 3.2–3.5). Check whether the minimum applies cumulatively, to the last 60 credits, or to nursing/science coursework only. |
| RN License | May need to match the university’s state or be a compact license. Many online and hybrid programs accept out-of-state RN licensure. |
| GRE | Often optional; schools have moved away from it since the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurse Anesthesia programs may still require it. |
| Letters of Recommendation | Schools may request one letter from an APRN. (This is where working for a few years before entering the program could help with your application.) |
| Work Experience | Varies by track: 1–2+ years of full-time RN experience for some specialties; FNP and indirect care tracks may have no stipulation. Acute care, NNP, and Nurse Anesthesia tracks are usually the most stringent. |
Note: Are you unable to meet the baseline work experience requirement? Some schools will allow you to obtain your clinical work experience at the same time as you’re taking core courses or prerequisites. We cover the work experience debate in more depth below.
No GRE BSN to DNP Programs
No GRE vs. GRE
If you’re an experienced RN, the thought of an expensive exam like the GRE may be less than appealing! However, there are pros and cons to choosing a BSN to DNP program without a GRE requirement.
- No GRE: The GRE isn’t really a good barometer for clinical expertise and hands-on knowledge. That’s why many well-regarded schools have done away with the requirement entirely! Instead, admissions committees want to see strong letters of recommendation, relevant work experience, and great résumés.
- GRE Required: If you choose a school that requires the GRE, you’ll know that students in the online DNP are committed to their learning. Everyone is coming into class with a certain academic baseline.
Optional GRE
Keep in mind, too, that some schools have an “Optional GRE” policy:
- If you don’t have a lot of work & life experience, good GRE scores may give you a boost when the admissions committee compares you to applicants with similar qualifications.
- Some schools will waive the GRE requirement for BSN to DNP candidates with great GPAs (e.g. 3.5 or above)
- Students who have low GPAs (e.g. 3.0 or below) may be able to voluntarily submit GRE scores to show their academic potential.
Visit our guide to No GRE BSN to DNP Programs for more background.
Do You Need Clinical Experience to Apply for a BSN to DNP?
Clinical Experience vs. No Experience
Many nursing students wonder if they need a lot of real-world clinical experience in order to apply to a DNP. The short answer is no—some DNP programs accept BSN graduates with no work experience whatsoever. In your program, your classmates may be a mix of case-hardened RNs, fresh-faced BSN graduates, and nurses who have worked in a variety of healthcare roles such as administration or education. Regardless of experience levels, you will all have to pass APRN certification and licensure exams at the end of your DNP.
However, it’s a no-brainer to say you can learn a lot from working as an RN before you pursue a doctorate. For example, a nurse in a rural ER will be exposed to a vast range of healthcare issues that he or she may wish to study in a DNP. What’s more:
- Because they’re trying to cover a lot of ground, undergraduate programs don’t always prepare you for real-world situations.
- Some DNP teachers will assume a certain amount of background knowledge. Those without clinical experience may struggle to keep up.
- The DNP curriculum may be geared towards nurses who can apply their capstone project to their current workplace.
Ask your program to explain how NP candidates with no significant work experience deal with the capstone project and clinical practice requirements. For instance, instead of applying the project to a workplace setting, some students choose to conduct small-scale studies in their local area or school district.
Options for Gaining Clinical Experience
You don’t have to give up on a DNP just because you don’t have clinical experience. There are many creative ways you can combine work and education.
- Enroll in a DNP that doesn’t have RN work experience requirements and accrue clinical practice hours during the course of your degree.
- Find work and pursue a BSN to DNP (with an MSN included) on a part-time basis. This will add years to your degree, but you will be able to sit for national certification exams halfway through the program. You’ll also be earning money to pay for fees and living expenses as you accrue real-world experience.
- Find part-time work as an RN and pursue a DNP on a full-time basis. This is an extremely tough challenge.
- Find work, earn enough money to pay for your degree, and then earn a DNP on a full-time plan of study.
- Find work, enroll in a part-time DNP while you gain some work experience, and then switch to a full-time degree a few years later. Be aware that you run the risk of alienating your employers if you leave them after a short time period.
BSN to DNP Program Structure
| Component | What to Expect | Worth Noting |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3-4 full-time years; 4+ part-time years (~75-90 credit hours). | For nurses juggling a regular job and family, the DNP is a challenging prospect. Examine the plan of study carefully and talk to recent graduates to understand your weekly time commitments. |
| Coursework | Depends on the focus of the degree. View the list of available BSN to DNP specialties. | Classes should cover AACN competencies (e.g. scientific underpinnings for practice, clinical scholarship and analytical methods, healthcare policy, etc.). |
| Clinical Practice Hours | 1,000 hours for post-BSN programs; 2,000 hours + 600 clinical cases for CRNA programs. | In APRN specialties, these will be a combination of direct care and indirect care hours. In leadership specialties, indirect care is the focus. |
| DNP Capstone Project | DNP students must complete an evidence-based capstone project. | The DNP project will make up a significant portion of your 1,000 clinical hours. |
| Certification/Licensure Preparation | Just like MSN programs, the DNP prepares APRN candidates to sit for national certification exams and apply for state licensure. | To accommodate busy professionals, some DNP programs offer students an option to earn an MSN after they complete the first few years of the degree. You’ll be eligible to take national certification exams and begin practicing as you finish your doctoral studies. |
What BSN to DNP Specialties Are Available?
BSN to DNP programs are available in traditional advanced nursing specialties (clinical/direct care), nursing leadership & teaching specialties (non-clinical/indirect care), and budding fields (e.g. informatics, public health, etc.). You could even choose a dual concentration! Each of the following specialty pages contains curriculum details, certification requirements, examples of capstone projects, and program listings.
Nurse Practitioner Specialties
- BSN to DNP – Family (FNP)
- BSN to DNP – Gerontological (AGPCNP or AGACNP)
- BSN to DNP – Neonatal (NNP)
- BSN to DNP – Pediatric (PNP)
- BSN to DNP – Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP)
- BSN to DNP – Women’s Health (WHNP)
BSN to DNP programs in FNP, AGACNP, AGPCNP, and PMHNP are the most common NP specialties in distance learning. You could also consider combos (e.g. FNP/AGPCNP or FNP/PMHNP) for greater flexibility.
If you’re interested in BSN to DNP programs that deal with acute care (e.g. PNP-AC or NNP), check the admissions section. Schools are usually looking for specific work experiences (e.g. NICU experience for the NNP). Whatever specialty you opt for, make sure it includes all the necessary clinical hours required for NP certification. Inexperienced RNs should try to complete as many direct care hours as they can to improve employment prospects.
APRN Specialties
These are high-level clinical fields, so universities often offer these specialties in blended/hybrid programs with a fair amount of campus time. Before applying, aspiring CRNAs will need to have critical care experience; some schools may want extra proof of your expertise, including ICU hours, the CCRN, and critical care certifications.
Clinical Nurse Specialist
The vast majority of BSN to DNP programs in CNS specialties focus on adult health. These are designed to prepare you for AGCNS-BC certification from the ANCC. Thanks to their leadership focus, CNS programs may be predominantly online, with clinical hours completed in your home community. Check the curriculum to see if you’re required to visit campus.
Leadership & Teaching Specialties
These tend to be the most flexible online programs (i.e. minimal time on campus). BSN to DNP programs in leadership come in plenty of intriguing flavors (e.g. healthcare systems administration, community systems administration, executive leadership, practice & leadership innovations, etc.). You can really tailor the degree to your job requirements. BSN to DNP programs in nursing education do exist, but they tend to be less common. Most universities reserve these DNP programs for MSN graduates.
Which BSN to DNP Format is Right for You: On-Campus, Hybrid, or Online?
Our state-by-state directory of accredited BSN to DNP programs includes a wide range of formats, including 100% online doctorates, online doctorates with on-campus intensives, hybrid doctorates with more frequent campus visits, and on-campus programs that expect weekly attendance. Which format you choose will depend on your career goals and current work commitments. Here is a table that outlines typical formats for each specialty, as well as clinical placement expectations.
| Format | Common Specialty Types Available | Clinical Hour Arrangement | Best Fit For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100% Online (No campus visits) | Primarily Indirect Care (Nurse Executive, CNE, some CNS) | Student-arranged or school-assisted placements in home community | Nurses prioritizing maximum schedule flexibility with no travel |
| Online (Once per Semester or Fewer) | Most Direct Care/APRN tracks (FNP, AGACNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP, WHNP, PNP, NNP) | Local clinical placements with occasional campus intensives for skills labs | Nurses who want NP/APRN certification with minimal travel |
| Hybrid (2–3 Visits per Semester) | APRN tracks requiring more supervised skills practice (e.g. dual NP concentrations) | Blend of school-arranged and self-arranged placements, plus in-person skills sessions | Nurses who want more structured support without full relocation |
| On-Campus (Weekly or More) | CRNA, CNM, and select high-acuity APRN tracks | Often coordinated through university-affiliated clinical partners | Nurses pursuing high-acuity specialties needing frequent simulation/skills labs |
Online BSN to DNP Programs & State Authorization
State authorization is a critical matter for anyone considering an online or hybrid BSN to DNP. These formats carry the most exposure to state-rule issues. On-campus formats usually sidestep this problem because DNP students typically live in the state where they are completing the program.
If you are an out-of-state RN considering an online or hybrid BSN to DNP, state authorization may affect enrollment eligibility, Board of Nursing (BON) approval for clinical placements, and licensure requirements. Before you fall in love with any online or hybrid BSN to DNP, review our Online DNP guide for more advice on navigating state authorization.
Why Choose the BSN to DNP Instead of the MSN?
Many aspiring APRNs have a hard time deciding whether a BSN to DNP or an MSN is the better choice. We evaluated recent message boards to discover why nurses were opting to forgo the MSN and commit to a doctorate. Here are the top 10 reasons for earning a BSN to DNP, as cited by working nurses.
- Someone is paying your tuition: If you have an employer who’s willing to subsidize your education or a grant that covers tuition, it’s well worth the extra year or two of study to earn a doctorate.
- You’re able to finish it while working: Online BSN to DNP programs are designed to accommodate working nurses, with asynchronous coursework and—potentially—occasional weekend or evening live sessions. You won’t be losing any money while you study.
- It gives you the option to teach: This is a big one for many nurses who are looking to mix their current clinical practice with a less frenetic teaching gig. Although many clinical instructor and adjunct positions still accept an MSN, a doctorate is increasingly expected for tenure-track or full-time faculty roles.
- You want to qualify for management positions: High-level executive and clinical management positions may stipulate that a terminal degree such as a DNP is preferred for application. Aspiring executives could even consider combining a DNP with an MBA.
- You don’t want to go back to school: There continues to be a push in some circles (including the AACN) to make the DNP the standard qualification for APRNs. In order to “future-proof” themselves against that day, some RNs are choosing to earn a doctorate now.
- You can complete more clinical hours than an MSN: Top-quality BSN to DNP programs have a lot of direct care clinical hours, often exceeding the required minimums. In the best doctorates, you may be getting a lot more practical experience than an MSN.
- You enjoy the research aspect: In the post-master’s phase of the DNP, you’ll have a chance to really dig into a practical workplace challenge with your DNP project. You’ll be well-versed in applied research by the time you graduate.
- Your specialty requires advanced training: If you are focusing on a sub-specialty such as addiction or emergency care, you may feel more comfortable with a longer, more in-depth program than an MSN.
- It sets you up to run your own clinic: An APRN with a doctorate and a solid amount of work experience is going to be in a prime position to open their own practice. DNP programs teach skills in finance, management, organizational efficiency, quality improvement, and more.
- It’s the right time of life for a doctorate: Nurses often point to life-stage factors—financial stability, no kids, time to study—as the deciding factor in their decision to earn a doctorate. That window can close when family comes along.
FAQs: BSN to DNP Programs
How Many CCNE- vs. ACEN-Accredited Programs Are in the BSN to DNP Directory?
Within our directory, you’ll find 700+ BSN to DNP programs that have been accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The vast majority of these programs are CCNE-accredited.
What’s the Difference Between a Direct Care and Indirect Care BSN to DNP Track?
A direct care or clinical BSN to DNP track is one that involves bedside patient care & direct clinical practice—Nurse Practitioner (NP) and other APRN tracks (Nurse-Midwifery and Nurse Anesthesia) would fall into the category of direct care. An indirect care BSN to DNP track prepares nurses for executive, administrative, or systems-level roles. Nursing leadership, nurse executive, nurse educator, informatics, and health policy tracks would fall into this category.
Can I Pursue a Dual-Specialty BSN to DNP?
Yes—it is very common to find universities that offer dual BSN to DNP specialties. Some of the most popular dual BSN to DNP specialty pairings are: FNP/PMHNP, PNP-AC/PNP-PC, AGACNP or AGPCNP/FNP, and Nurse-Midwifery/WHNP.
Can I Pursue a Dual Degree with the BSN to DNP?
Yes. A number of universities will allow BSN to DNP students to combine their studies with another degree such as a PhD, MBA, or Master of Public Health (MPH). Studying for two degrees will obviously increase the time it takes to earn your qualifications. But you may feel that the additional degree will give you an edge in your career journey (e.g. PhD/DNP for high-level university roles).
Is Every BSN to DNP Specialty Available in Every State?
No. Big states like Illinois, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, New York, North Carolina, and Ohio tend to have the largest number of universities with the most varied BSN to DNP specialties. Small states like New Hampshire will have very limited choices. If you can’t find a specialty being offered by a school in your state, you always have the option to consider an online BSN to DNP. See our Online DNP guide for more details.
Which Universities Offer the Most BSN to DNP Specialties?
You will usually find the most BSN to DNP specialty breadth at large research universities or free-standing academic health science institutions that have developed major hospital & clinical partnerships. Nurse Anesthesia/CRNA programs are widely available at schools with ties to hospital surgical/anesthesia departments. Nurse-Midwifery/CNM programs cluster around large academic medical centers with established midwifery/obstetrics clinical partnerships.
Do All BSN to DNP Programs Require an MSN Along the Way?
No. Although some BSN to DNP programs will confer an MSN along the way toward earning a doctorate, some programs are designed as direct-pathway degrees that bypass a master’s degree completely. This will usually be stated on the program website, but you should double-check with the DNP program coordinator if you are in any doubt.
List of All BSN to DNP Programs
244 schoolsBSN to DNP Programs in Alabama
Jacksonville State University
Jacksonville, Alabama
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN-prepared nurses can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner through online programs offered by Jacksonville State University. For each population focus, students will gain skills in advanced clinical practice, informatics, leadership, using evidence to improve practice, and how to improve quality and outcomes. The university has 12-semester and 15-semester plans of study for each of these tracks. Students must complete 69 credit hours and 1,330 practicum hours for either degree. Additional requirements include a DNP project and paper, a professional electronic portfolio, and a comprehensive exam. The School of Health Professions and Wellness does not allow DNP students to transfer any credits to the program. Graduates are eligible to take the certification exam required to earn the FNP or AGACNP credential.
Samford University
Birmingham, Alabama
Accreditation: CCNE
Students in the nurse anesthesia DNP program at Samford University begin the program in May. They attend three days of orientation and on-campus intensives, then take two semesters of online classwork. The format allows students who are entering the program to continue to work for two semesters. Starting in January, they begin full-time, on-campus courses in Birmingham, Alabama, for three semesters. During the final four semesters, students complete their clinical education while taking distance courses and working on a DNP project. Samford arranges clinical practicum in rural and urban settings so that students can work with diverse patients in underserved communities. Graduates are prepared for the certification exam to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. Over the last five years, the university's graduates have amassed a 92% first-time pass rate on the exam. During the same period, the average graduate employment rate within six months exceeds 99%.
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Dual Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner TrackOnlineBSN to DNP option
BSN-prepared nurses can earn an MSN and a DNP through the University of Alabama's Doctor of Nursing Practice program, with both degrees awarded at the end of the program. Students select a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, or a dual concentration in both specialties. Students enter the program in the fall and complete their clinical hours at a site of their choice. Students must find their own practicum sites and preceptor, who must be approved by the university. Depending on the concentration, students complete between 1,080 and 1,620 practicum hours. Classes are delivered online, but students attend two on-campus skills days and one DNP intensive in Tuscaloosa during the program. Depending on the concentration, students can complete the degree in four or five years. Nurses who live in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, or Mississippi are eligible to apply for the BSN to DNP program.
Troy University
Troy, Alabama
Accreditation: ACEN
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Post Baccalaureate Family Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Troy University has two BSN to DNP specialization tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner (70 to 74 credit hours) and Nurse Leader (62 to 66 credit hours). Both require 1,000 clinical hours. With the exception of a brief orientation visit, students have no campus attendance requirements. All classes are offered online. Faculty mentors work closely with students to ensure they're staying on track as they progress through coursework and final projects. Graduates are ready to tackle nursing roles such as clinical practitioner, program director, educational faculty, and healthcare executive or manager. Applicants need a valid RN license (in Alabama or the state where they'll do practicum). GRE scores, letters of recommendation, a resume, essay, and transcripts are also needed. Students must maintain liability insurance, pass a drug screening, background check, and annual physical exam. This program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama
Accreditation: CCNE
The University of Alabama at Birmingham has an online, part-time BSN to DNP program that allows nurses to continue to work while studying for an advanced degree. In addition to taking online classes, students complete clinical practice in their home community and come to campus once a year for intensives. The program takes ten semesters and offers eight specialization track options: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology NP (acute care or primary care), Women's Health NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, Pediatric NP (acute care or primary care), and Neonatal NP. In the first and second years, students take foundational classes such as leadership, health policy, and diagnostic reasoning. They then transition into courses that focus on their practice specialization and complete practicums and a residency. Starting in the eighth semester, they begin work on the culminating DNP project. UAB has a $10 million endowed fund to support nursing scholarships.
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, Alabama
Accreditation: CCNE
The University of Alabama in Huntsville has BSN to DNP programs that are fully or partly online, depending upon the specialty. The post-baccalaureate DNP in Nursing Administration uses all online classes, and students must come to the campus in Huntsville, Alabama, for a three-day intensive after they finish the MSN portion of the curriculum. Intensives feature nationally known speakers and DNP project presentations from UAH students. RNs seeking Nurse Practitioner training can select from Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner tracks. Both of those BSN to DNP programs use a hybrid format during the master's degree portion. In the hybrid format, students attend class on campus every other week. Once they advance to DNP classes, coursework is online. UAH awards a Master of Science in Nursing after students finish all the didactic and clinical practice requirements for the MSN.
University of Mobile
Mobile, Alabama
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses with a BSN enter a Family Nurse Practitioner track when they begin the BSN to DNP program at the University of Mobile. They'll learn to use evidence-based practice to lead health care initiatives at all levels of health care delivery. The program is primarily online, although students must come to the campus in Mobile, Alabama, three times during their studies. The on-campus intensives focus on improving skills through hands-on practice and give students the chance to network with faculty and fellow students. The curriculum requires students to complete 84 credits and 1,100 clinical hours. Full-time students can finish the degree in nine semesters, and they can perform their clinical practice in their home community, working with a preceptor. Graduates are prepared for a range of career moves, including finding employment in primary care facilities, private practices, or public health departments.
University of South Alabama
Mobile, Alabama
Accreditation: CCNE
Advanced Emergency Nursing (Family NP/Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Dual Role NP)OnlineBSN to DNP option
The University of South Alabama College of Nursing offers 15 specialty certifications in its BSN to DNP program. Nurses can pursue specializations in a variety of nurse practitioner roles, including several dual roles, as well as in areas such as informatics, nursing administration, and Clinical Nurse Specialist. The program also allows nurses to select from five DNP sub-specialties: advanced forensic nursing care, cardiovascular, clinical lipidology, nursing education, and palliative care. Students earn an MSN as they advance through the program. All students complete a major project designed to improve patient outcomes based on evidence, with implementation at a clinical site. Students enter the program in the fall or spring semester. Applicants must have a BSN with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Before they begin clinical courses, all accepted students must have at least two years of nursing experiencing in an area related to the specialty track they have selected.
BSN to DNP Programs in Arizona
Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona
Accreditation: CCNE
Arizona State University's Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation offers several 84-credit hour options for BSN to DNP. The Advanced Nursing Practice (Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner) focuses on primary care, case management, screening, and health for adults within a range of care settings. The Advanced Nursing Practice is geared towards application and integration of research in clinical practice to improve outcomes. ASU's Family Nurse Practitioner DNP focuses on practice giving primary care to individuals of all ages. Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner students learn to provide mental health care to patients from all walks of life. The Pediatric Nurse Practitioner DNP's curriculum focuses on creating family- and culturally-focused nurses who work with infants and children. Women's Health Nurse Practitioner students master skills related to gynecological issues and the maternity cycle. Applicants submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, plus a resume, goal statement, and admission essay.
University of Arizona
Tucson, Arizona
Accreditation: CCNE
University of Arizona is a public institution offering a BSN to DNP Pathway for specialties in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, Family NP, Nurse Anesthetist, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, and Pediatric NP (which focuses on care from newborns up to 21-year-olds). There's also a PhD/DNP dual degree path which takes between five to seven years to complete. Required credit hours vary for each tack, but at least 1,000 clinical immersion hours are needed. Students also complete a scholarly DNP project under the guidance of experienced faculty. Graduates are ready to sit for their applicable national certification exams. The Nurse Anesthetist track, which has 13 graduate students enrolled as of 2019, requires a minimum of one year of critical care nursing in an ICU. The Anesthetist program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia. The other DNP paths are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
BSN to DNP Programs in Arkansas
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Little Rock, Arkansas
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-BSN to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-BSN to DNP - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-BSN to DNP - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-BSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is part of the region's academic health center with a reputation for scholarly excellence and research. Students in the BSN to DNP program benefit from the school's outreach programs in every Arkansas county and modern simulation center. BSN-prepared students can choose from six specialties: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology NP (acute care or primary care focus), Psychiatric Mental Health NP, Pediatric NP (primary or acute care focus). Once they select a specialty, students cannot change specialties without reapplying to the program. BSN to DNP students begin classes in August, and they can complete the degree in three to four years. Nurses gain skills in leadership, clinical practice, organizational leadership, and economics as they prepare to be innovators and change agents in the health care system. The program is available on campus and in a distance accessible format with lab experiences at UAMS regional centers.
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Through the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing, the University of Arkansas has two flexible 78-credit hour BSN to DNP concentrations: Family NP and Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP. DNP courses topics cover policy, informatics, evaluation methods, translational research, economics, organization management, systems leadership, statistics, and scholarly writing. General coursework includes classes like Scientific Foundations and Role Development. Students have access to the Epley Center for Health Professions, which houses modern simulations labs and rooms such as a health-assessment lab, ICU, labor and delivery room, medical surgery unit, and more. High-fidelity mannequins and the latest equipment are used to allow for realistic training environments. Students must finish all clinical practicum and a final capstone project with their sponsor site. Only one course grade of C or less is allowed. Graduates of U of A's program are ready for applicable American Nurses Credentialing Center or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners exams.
University of Central Arkansas
Conway, Arkansas
Accreditation: AACN
Nurses with a BSN can prepare to become a Family Nurse Practitioner in the online BSN to DNP program that the University of Central Arkansas presents. Classes for the degree are primarily online. While enrolled in the FNP clinical courses and the advanced health assessments class, students are required to come to campus three or four times per semester. The program is arranged for part-time students, requiring students to complete six to eight credits per semester, with semesters running for about 15 weeks. Students can finish all the requirements in 11 semesters. When taking clinical courses, students have to keep up with coursework and spend another 12 or 13 hours a week fulfilling clinical practice hour requirements. To earn the degree, students must complete 73 credits and 1,125 practice hours. Graduates are prepared to take the certification exam for Family Nurse Practitioner
BSN to DNP Programs in California
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, California
Accreditation: CCNE
Azusa's DNP curriculum covers a minimum of 39 program units to lay the theoretical and empirical knowledge foundation needed for advanced nursing practice, research, and policy creation. Core courses cover wellness, statistics, ethics, pathogenesis, translational research, spirituality, and organizational leadership. Students participate in intensive campus experiences every semester at Monrovia, California. A residency course is offered for students to develop their clinical and leadership skills. Per AACN guidelines, 1,000 hours of clinical residency is needed. Up to 500 clinical hours may be transferred from prior qualifying programs. A final DNP Project of scholarly clinical inquiry will serve as a capstone experience. APU is a Yellow Ribbon school, meaning it's "military friendly" and works closely with Veterans Affairs to ensure military members, veterans, and qualified family members can maximize their G.I.Bill benefits to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Licensed nurse practitioners can co-enroll in an Oncology NP Certificate, if desired.
National University
La Jolla, California
Accreditation: COA
National University has a hybrid program for BSN-prepared nurses who want to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. The BSN-DNP program includes a 15-month residency at the Fresno campus, where students take classes and high-fidelity simulation courses. There are also some online classes. After completing the initial coursework, students move to the second phase of their education, taking clinical courses at an affiliate hospital, and gaining hands-on experience. During this phase, students work under the supervision of a CRNA mentor and administer anesthesia to patients undergoing a range of procedures. National University anesthetist DNP graduates have a 100% pass rate on the CRNA certification exam. Moreover, nearly 100% of graduates are employed as an anesthetist within six months of graduation. National University requires applicants to have at least one year of full-time critical care experience and have certification such as CCRN, TNC, ECN, or CFRN.
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, California
Accreditation: CCNE
Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California, has a straightforward 81-credit hour Doctorate of Nursing Practice program for BSN students. There are no specialty tracks offered. Class topics include statistics analysis, healthcare policy leadership, project management, evidence-based practice, special topics, and more. Clinical residency and a final project round out program requirements. Students should maintain at least an overall 3.0 GPA and earn a B- or better on theory and elective classes. Class sizes are no larger than 25 students. Graduates are ready to move into advanced NP roles, nurse management, or administration. Applicants to PLNU's program need a current RN license and at least a year of nursing experience. U.S. News & World Report ranks PLNU No. 173 in Best Nursing Schools for its master's program. As a faith-based institution, Point Loma Nazarene emphasizes work in mission programs, homeless outreach, and other expressions of caring.
Samuel Merritt University
Oakland, California
Accreditation: CCNE
Samuel Merritt University teaches its 65-unit BSN to DNP curriculum at its Sacramento campus. The program takes nine semesters and trains students for roles as chief nursing officers, director of nursing, administrator, and researchers. Classes include research, ethics and roles, population health, information systems, project design, policy, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and more. 525 FNP clinical practice hours plus 475 DNP hours will round out requirements. Hands-on practice provides experiential learning by incorporating diagnosing and treatment of a range of conditions and patient types within primary care settings, with learning opportunities at SMU's advanced Health Sciences Simulation Center and the high-tech Motion Analysis Research Center, as well as potential community outreach at health clinics, schools, and churches. Samuel Merritt's DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. SMU boasts small faculty-to-student ratios, a 95% NCLEX pass rate for graduates, and a whopping 100% DNP alumni employment rate.
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, California
The University of California is a sprawling public university system with campuses throughout the state. The Irvine campus, through the Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, offers a full-time DNP degree for Family Nurse Practitioners which takes three years to complete. UCI's inter-professional program incorporates teachings from the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, and Program in Public Health. The comprehensive curriculum covers leadership, research, policy, population health, prevention, and plenty of patient care during the 1,020 clinical hours. Students will complete a capstone scholarly project, as well. Applicants to UCI need a 3.0 undergraduate GPA with a completed statistics course, an active California RN license, and 1,800 hours of work experience. GRE scores aren't required, and transfer credits aren't accepted. UCI's key focus areas in nursing education revolve around integrative health, community health, nursing foundations, services and practice, health disparities, and digital technology.
University of San Diego
San Diego, California
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNPBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Dual Adult-Gerontology / Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Dual Pediatric / Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Family Nursing Practitioner in Emergency CareBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN-prepared nurses can choose from seven DNP nursing specialties at the University of San Diego. Options are health systems leadership, nursing informatics and data science, and Nurse Practitioner specialties including mental health, family, family emergency care, or a dual focus in family/adult-gerontology or family/pediatric. Each specialty prepares graduates for at least one certification exam. Depending upon the specialty, the program requires between 67 and 83 credits. Full-time and part-time plans of study are available. This campus-based program requires students to be in class at least two days a week, and students may be participating in practicum experiences on other days. All applicants should have at least a year of work experience, and the experience should be acute-care RN work for students who plan to pursue the NP. Applicants for the emergency care track should have experience in emergency nursing, disaster management, or military service.
University of San Francisco
San Francisco, California
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice: Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Students with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing can choose from two DNP specialties at the University of San Francisco: Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Students may be able to pursue a concurrent master's degree in nursing or public health. The DNP prepares nurses to take leadership roles by including classes in health care administration, informatics, and business along with advanced practice nursing. Students are exposed to many perspectives and are deeply immersed in theory and research. Students in either track also complete 1,035 clinical hours to learn their advanced nursing roles. Students may be able to use their current place of employment for clinical hours, and clinical faculty can help students find placements. Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA or higher on their undergraduate work and a California nursing license, but the Nurse Practitioner tracks don't require students to have experience.
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, California
Accreditation: COA
Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia PracticeBSN to DNP option
Students in the DNP nurse anesthesia program at the University of Southern California take the first semester of classes in a hybrid format. They come to the campus in Los Angeles for a three-day orientation, then begin interactive online coursework. During that first semester, students also start work on their doctoral capstone project, giving them a head start on one of the crucial requirements of the degree. After the first semester, the vast majority of courses use a face-to-face format, although a few use a hybrid plan. The nurse anesthesia program is a full-time, 36-month program. During clinical rotations, students gain experience in anesthesiology, pain management, and perioperative care. Some of the clinical sites where students may be assigned practicums include USC Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, UCLA Medical Center, and Long Beach Veterans Administration Medical Center. Some advanced clinical rotations may be outside Los Angeles.
BSN to DNP Programs in Colorado
Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, Colorado
Accreditation: CCNE
Founded in Grand Junction, Colorado, in 1925, Colorado Mesa University is a seasoned leader in higher education. Its Department of Health Sciences offers a 78-semester hour Family Nurse Practitioner DNP requiring 1,000 clinical hours, 80% of which are done at primary care locations. The rest are finished in specialty settings and for the final capstone project. Hours are mainly performed in local communities, with limited requirements to travel to specialized clinics and intensives. All grades must be B or higher. Graduates are ready to work in healthcare with an emphasis on diverse population needs, or in educational settings. Career options include providers, administrators, executives, and more. The DNP curriculum is geared towards learning diagnostic and treatment modalities, informatics and decision_making technology, and information related to biophysical, psychosocial, behavioral, and clinical sciences. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Applicants must hold an unrestricted RN license.
Colorado State University-Pueblo
Pueblo, Colorado
Accreditation: ACEN
BSN to DNP - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner/Family Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Colorado State University Pueblo uses a hybrid delivery format for its Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Students take some classes online and are required to participate in some courses in person. Nurses who enter the program with a BSN earn both an MSN and a DNP concurrently. BSN-prepared nurses can choose from three emphasis areas: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Family Nurse Practitioner/AGACNP, or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Graduates are ready to take the national certification exam in their specialty area. Students can complete the BSN to DNP program in 11 semesters. The number of credits and clinical hours required for the degree varies by specialty. Accepted students must obtain Colorado RN licensure by the end of their first semester. The admission process gives preference to nurses who have at least a year of experience and to residents of Southern Colorado. CSU-Pueblo alumni also get preference in admissions.
Regis University
Denver, Colorado
Accreditation: CCNE
Not to be confused with Regis College, Regis University in Denver has two BSN to DNP tracks. One is the 79-semester hour Family Nurse Practitioner; the other is a 74-semester hour Neonatal NP. Taught by the faculty from the Rueckert-Hartman College for Health Professions, the program spends two years focused on advanced practice, with classes only meeting one day a week. Students must bring a laptop to class. 625 clinical hours will be completed during this phase, with practicum done at various area healthcare settings. Students completing this point may take applicable certification exams if desired. The next two-to-three years cover the DNP curriculum, during which time students will actually work as NPs and complete clinical hour requirements. Regis University is a rigorous Jesuit institution. Its graduate nursing program has 390 enrolled students, ~90% of which are female. Its DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Accreditation: CCNE
The University of Colorado-Colorado Springs has a post-BSN to Doctorate of Nursing Practice that prepares nurses to provide primary care to patients of all ages. Through coursework and clinical practicums, students gain experience in treating acute and chronic conditions in patients including adults, children, older adults, and families. Other classes include evidence-based practice, business and entrepreneurship for advanced practice nurses, and health care policy and ethics. Another requirement is completing a quality improvement project, which students disseminate through a paper, poster, and presentation. Students can follow a full-time or part-time plan of study, and they can perform their clinical practicum with a preceptor near their home. Students enter the program at the start of the summer semester. Applicants whose BSN GPA is less than 3.5 must also submit GRE scores.
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver, Colorado
Accreditation: CCNE
University of Colorado Denver has got a whopping ten BSN to DNP specialties for students to choose from: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care or Primary Care NP or Clinical Nurse Specialist, Family NP, i-LEAD Nursing Leadership and Health Care Systems, Nurse-Midwifery, Women's Health NP, Pediatric NP Acute Care or Primary Care, and Psychiatric Mental Health NP. Credit and clinical hours vary. Women's Health NP, for example, requires 75 credit hours and 1,170 clinical hours. All DNP students will learn to work within interdisciplinary teams and discover how to strategize care based on the unique needs of a diverse range of patients using modern technologies. Clinical practice uses simulation extensively in order for students to learn practical skills without risk. Students may also have opportunities to work with the school's Office of Research and Scholarship, turning research to usable knowledge that can be immediately applied in one's studies and career.
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, Colorado
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
The University of Northern Colorado has two options for nurses with a bachelor's degree who want to earn a DNP. They can prepare as an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner or a Family Nurse Practitioner. The AGACNP program requires 94 credits and the FNP requires 95 credits. Students can complete either program in five years of part-time study. The DNP program is designed to fit the schedule of practicing RNs. In addition to didactic classwork, students complete at least 1,245 hours in clinical/simulation/lab experiences. Candidates also complete an evidence-based scholarly project. Graduates are qualified to take the certification exam for the Nurse Practitioner role they earn their degree in. Applicants should have a GPA of 3.0 or better for their nursing degree. The university prefers applicants who have at least a year of clinical RN experience. Applicants should have a current Colorado RN license or be eligible for one.
BSN to DNP Programs in Connecticut
Fairfield University
Fairfield, Connecticut
DNP - Nurse MidwiferyBSN to DNP option
Doctor of Nursing Practice AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Psychiatric Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Fairfield University's Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing & Health Studies has several practice-based BSN to DNP degree programs. Conducted in cohort fashion, options are: Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan, Nurse Anesthesia (done in partnership with Bridgeport Hospital), and Nurse Midwifery. BSNs going full-time basis can finish in three years, or four years if part-time. Applicants may transfer up to six credits. GRE scores aren't needed for the NP or Anesthesia tracks but can help if a GPA is below 3.0. Graduates will be able to independently give evidence-based care to populations in advanced nursing practice areas and serve at the highest levels of practice and accountability within healthcare systems such as executives at healthcare organizations, directors of clinical programs, or faculty programs. Fairfield ranks No. 49 in a tie for Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice by U.S. News & World Report.
Quinnipiac University
Hamden, Connecticut
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-Bachelor's DNP - Adult-Gerontology Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-Bachelor's DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-Bachelor's DNP - Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Quinnipiac University offers three BSN to DNP specialties. The 68-credit hour Adult Gerontology NP or 75-credit hour Family NP tracks can be taken full- or part-time and take three to four years. Both are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and graduates are able to take their national certification exams. There's also an 81-credit hour Nurse Anesthesia track, which is full-time only and has a progressive, six-semester clinical component leading up to full-time, on-call shifts for a total of 2,000 practicum hours. This challenging track requires a substantial undergraduate coursework foundation in anatomy, chemistry, physiology, pharmacology, and related areas. It is accredited by the Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. Quinnipiac's programs have a low student-to-faculty ratio of 1:12. Students will train on the most modern equipment within sophisticated simulation and skills labs, a patient assessment center, operating rooms, and other healthcare education environments.
Sacred Heart University
Fairfield, Connecticut
Accreditation: CCNE
Sacred Heart University uses a hybrid model for the DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner. The program allows nurses with a BSN to earn a practice doctorate and prepare to provide primary health care to patients of all ages. Most coursework is available online, and students generally need to come to campus about six times per semester. The degree requires 69 credits. Full-time students can earn a degree in three years, and part-time students can fulfill the requirements in four years of study. The program uses a cohort model so that students can build close relationships with their classmates. Along with direct patient care, courses cover topics such as patient education, translating scientific evidence into practice, using technology to improve the effectiveness of care, and interprofessional collaboration. Students also complete a scholarly project, and they take required project seminar classes designed to help them develop their topic and their project proposal.
University of Connecticut
Storrs, Connecticut
Adult-Gero Nurse Practitioner - Acute CareBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
The University of Connecticut's School of Nursing lists three BSN to DNP options: a 72-credit hour Adult-Gerontology NP in either Acute Care or Primary Care and a 75-credit hour Family NP. Students practice skills on high-fidelity mannequins at the Clinical Learning Simulation Center. The school also hosts a Center for Nursing Scholarship, Center for Accelerating Precision Pain Self-Management, and a new Biobehavioral Research Lab. Students may sit for certification exams after receiving their MS along the path to their DNP. Applications are submitted to UConn's Graduate School and must include official transcripts, a copy of RN license, three letters of reference, a resume, and thorough answers to application essay questions. The School of Nursing has been in the nurse education business for three quarters of a century and celebrated its DNP program's 10th anniversary in 2019. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
University of Saint Joseph
West Hartford, Connecticut
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-BSN nurses can earn their Doctor of Nursing Practice in four years of part-time study at the University of Saint Joseph. Students select a Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric Mental Health NP track. The program focuses on clinical leadership for population and global health. Students learn to analyze data for implications for individual and population health and study the effects of health policy on patient care and populations. Nurses complete more than 1,000 clinical hours and gain skills in interprofessional collaboration, evidence-based practice, and ethical sensitivity to manage patient care. Candidates complete their clinical placements in Connecticut. To apply, individuals should have a BSN from an accredited school with an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must submit recommendations from clinical and non-clinical faculty and an employer. The application should include an essay on how the DNP will allow students to meet their professional goals.
BSN to DNP Programs in District of Columbia
George Washington University
Washington, District of Columbia
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
George Washington University is a private research school in the heart of Washington D.C. Its GW Nursing School is home to three convenient and flexible BSN to DNP offerings: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse, or Family NP. All are 81-credit hour degrees and need 1,000 of recorded clinical hours with an approved preceptor. These hours should be a mix of direct care and indirect care at suitable local sites. Working students can take the program part-time. Interested students may apply to GWU's distinguished Phi Epsilon chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society, which supports students, alumni, and fellow nursing leaders. GW Nursing is one of the top nursing schools in the country, ranking in a tie for No. 37 on the Best Nursing Schools: DNP by U.S. News & World Report for 2020. It's accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Georgetown University
Washington, District of Columbia
Accreditation: CCNE
Georgetown University has a BSN to DNP program with four Nurse Practitioner specialty tracks. Students can select adult gerontology acute care, family, women's health, or a dual nurse-midwifery/women's health track. Depending on the specialty, students must complete 69 to 74 credits and between 1,000 and 1,200 clinical hours. This program has a focus on ethical leadership and prepares nurses to improve access and quality of care delivered to underserved populations. While most classes are online, students will travel to Washington, D.C., two or three times for on-campus intensives. During the intensives, students develop their clinical and leadership skills and take advantage of simulation labs. The Berkley School of Nursing has a clinical placement team that can help students locate clinical sites near their homes for practicum experiences. Full-time students can complete the program in eight semesters, and part-time students can finish in 11 semesters.
BSN to DNP Programs in Florida
Barry University
Miami, Florida
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-Baccalaureate DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP)BSN to DNP option
Located in sunny Miami Shores, Florida, Barry University's College of Nursing and Health Sciences features a Post-Baccalaureate Doctorate in Nursing Practice program with two 82-credit hour, practice-focused clinical specialization tracks: Family NP or Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP. These are both part-time programs made for busy working adults, with classes held just one day a week! Barry's programs fully prepare graduates to take their certification exams after four years/12 continuous semesters of continuous study. Admissions criteria include possessing a current RN license, having at least a year of full time clinical experience, and a GPA of 3.0 or higher. There are also several health and regulatory requirements plus a required background check and drug screening. Barry University offers a 30% tuition discount for their Post-Bacc DNP program and is ranked No. 90 in Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice by U.S. News & World Report.
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, Florida
Accreditation: CCNE
The BSN to DNP program at Florida Atlantic University prepares students to provide advanced practice nursing to underserved, culturally diverse, or vulnerable populations. Students can choose a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner. The Christine E. Lynne College of Nursing has designed the BSN to DNP program for full-time students, and candidates can complete their degrees in 11 semesters. Students complete about 80 credits and perform more than 1,000 hours of clinical practice. Clinical hours help students to develop new skills and test new models of care. The program uses a variety of modes for course delivery. Online classes may be asynchronous or require students to attend weekly live sessions. Students are also required to come to the campus in Boca Raton, Florida, for intensive weekends. Intensives meet on Saturdays four times per semester.
Florida International University
Miami, Florida
Accreditation: CCNE
Florida International University's Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences trains NPs to take on roles which address healthcare access issues around the nation. BSN to DNP tracks include Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP, Family Health NP, Pediatric Primary Care NP, and Psychiatric-Mental Health NP. Made to be done in ten semesters, the program requires 77 credits/1,170 clinical hours for the Adult, Child and Psychiatric-Mental Health tracks or 81 credits/1,310 clinical hours for the Family track. Coursework guides students to develop into leaders able to pursue scholarly excellence, meet career goals, and manage change through advanced nursing care, patient education, and advocacy. Students have opportunities for learning experiences in a range of suitable specialty locations. From ambulatory or acute care centers to clinics and health centers, FIU students learn from preceptor nurse practitioners and physicians as they prepare to take national certification and state certification exams.
Florida State University
Tallahassee, Florida
Accreditation: CCNE
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Florida State's growing list of DNP programs features a 79 to 82-credit hour Family Nurse Practitioner, which requires 1,035 clinical hours. The plan of study suggests eight semesters for full-time students to finish and 14 for part-time. Graduates are eligible to sit for the FNP certification exam. There's also a new degree in Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), which requires 76-credit hours and 1,035 clinical hours. Students must earn a B or higher on core courses and maintain a 3.0 GPA to graduate. Students are allowed up to seven years to finish the ACNP program. Additional BSN to DNP programs are being added for Fall 2020. FSU's College of Nursing offers multiple scholarships and has been a leader in nursing education and diversity since 1950, with over 7,000 graduates. It's home to an active Alumni Networking Group of working professionals ready to mentor upcoming DNPs.
Jacksonville University
Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville University in sunny northeaster Florida has got two rigorous, full-time BSN to DNP options offered by its Keigwin School of Nursing. The DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner Cognate is a 70-credit hour degree. The 59-credit hour DNP - Leadership Cognate is for those pursuing senior management careers. Both require 1,000 clinical and residency hours. 500- and 600-level classes will be taken in tandem. Programs begin during Fall semester and run eight semesters/three years at a minimum (depending on their final project). Applicants to Jacksonville's DNP program should have a minimum 3.3 undergrad GPA and current Florida RN license (or be eligible for endorsement, if out-of-state). FNP track students should have at least one year of nursing experience. All candidates will participate in an interview. Students will also need to do background checks prior to beginning clinical practice. The school's alumni association, DolphiNurse, aids graduates in keeping up professional relationships.
Keiser University
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Accreditation: CCNE
Palm Beach Atlantic University
West Palm Beach, Florida
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Florida's Palm Beach Atlantic University is home to four exciting BSN to DNP opportunities: a 71-credit hour Executive Leadership track, 74-credit hour Adult Gerontology Primary Care or Family NP tracks, or a 75-credit Psychiatric Mental Health Care NP track. Each takes approximately three years to complete and will prepare graduates to work in private practice, hospital administration, education, or leadership roles. PBA's School of Nursing uses a practical, engaging approach to nursing education. A final DNP project will be focused on each students' intended future work goals and should showcase a mastery of covered topics plus learned practice and leadership skills. Applicants need at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA. RN experience is not a prerequisite for this program, but a valid active license is. Palm Beach Atlantic University had 112 nursing-related students enrolled for 2019-2020. Its BSN to DNP degrees are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
University of Central Florida
Orlando, Florida
Accreditation: CCNE
University of Central Florida's three BSN to DNP options are a 76-credit hour Adult/Gerontology Acute Care NP, 72-credit hour Adult/Gerontology Primary Care NP, and 74-credit hour Family NP. Each track requires between 1,020 and 1,080 clinical hours. The program begins in Fall and can be taken either full-time in nine semesters or part-time in twelve. Students are allowed to continue working but must be mindful of the rigorous nature of the program. Objectives of the curriculum include teaching students how to analyze situations and data, take on leadership responsibilities, develop practice models, demonstrate appropriate high-level communication skills, and create models of care. UCF is ranked No. 72 (tie) in Best Nursing Schools: DNP by U.S. News & World Report for 2020. The College of Nursing, established in 1979, offers graduate fellowships and other scholarship opportunities. 100% of the school's graduates have passed their national certification exams.
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
Accreditation: CCNE
The College of Nursing at the University of Florida has five BSN to DNP tracks to select from: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, Family NP, Pediatric Acute Care or Primary Care NP, and Psychiatric-Mental Health NP. All tracks are practice- and leadership-focused and require between 75 and 78 credits to complete over the course of eight semesters if attending full-time. Part-time plans of study are also available. Students will complete ~1,000 clinical hours and must finish a comprehensive DNP final project showcasing scholarship, which should be suitable for presentation or publication. The school is home to the Alpha Theta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International. It also maintains a network of over 300 hospitals and health care site partnerships for students to practice skills in. UF's DNP program is highly-ranking, coming in at No. 24 on U.S. News & World Report's Best Nursing Schools: DNP (tie) for 2020.
University of Miami
Coral Gables, Florida
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Through advanced simulations and clinical practice, students in the BSN-DNP Nurse Anesthesia program at the University of Miami become expert clinicians. Students enter the program in January and spend the next nine semesters as full-time students. By the third semester, students are performing hundreds of clinical hours each term, and by the time they graduate, nurse anesthesia students have completed well over 3,000 hours of clinical practice. They have also completed 67 credits in coursework. The program is presented in a lock-step format that requires candidates to move through the program as designed. Students who fail to complete a course may have to wait an entire academic year to take the course again. The University of Miami has more than a dozen clinical partners, including the University of Miami Hospital and Jackson Memorial, where students work rotations in obstetrics and trauma. The program accepts up to 30 students each year.
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, Florida
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Nurse AnesthetistBSN to DNP option
The Brooks School of Nursing at the University of North Florida has BSN to DNP tracks in Family Nurse Practitioner and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. The FNP program requires eight semesters of full-time study and offers a part-time option. The CRNA track is available only as a full-time program. Students complete the nurse anesthetist program in nine semesters, and 80% of students pass the CRNA certification exam on the first attempt. The CRNA track starts in the spring semester while the FNP program admits in the fall. Clinical sites are in northeast Florida. Applicants must have a BSN with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and must submit GRE scores (MAT scores are also accepted for FNP students). FNP applicants should have at least a year of experience in a clinical setting and CRNA applicants should have at least two years of experience in a critical care setting.
University of South Florida-Main Campus
Tampa, Florida
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Dual Oncology/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Pediatric Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
The University of Southern Florida has six concentrations in the BSN to DNP program: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Family Health, Occupational Health/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Oncology/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, and Pediatric Health. Program requirements depend upon the area of concentration. The dual occupational health/AG degree, for instance, requires 88 credits and more than 1,000 clinical hours. The Family Health NP requires 82 credits. Students generally follow a part-time plan of study and they must seek permission from the director of their concentration to attend full time. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA for either all undergrad work or all upper-division work. Students must have a Florida nursing license, and AGACNP majors must have at least a year of RN experience in an aggressive adult ICU critical care unit. GRE scores are recommended but not required. BSN to DNP students enter the program in the fall.
BSN to DNP Programs in Georgia
Augusta University
Augusta, Georgia
Accreditation: CCNE
Post BSN DNP - Nurse ExecutiveBSN to DNP option
Post BSN DNP - Pediatric Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post BSN DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Augusta University is home to Georgia's first Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. The DNP plan of study gives students a foundation in health care policy, practice, leadership, and systems management, molding them into expert problem solvers. Degree concentrations are: Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP focused on patient-family centered care for acute or chronically ill patients; Family Nurse Practitioner for leadership and clinical roles offering care to children; and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner for advanced nurse clinicians also working with children. Admissions requirements include holding a minimum undergraduate 3.0 GPA; BSN; transcripts; three letters of recommendation; a resume; personal interview; essay; proof of RN licensure; and Test of English as a Foreign Language scores from students who don't use English as a first language. A year of nursing experience is recommended. DNP graduates must finish 1000 hours of supervised clinical practice, per American Academy of Colleges of Nursing standards.
Emory University
Atlanta, Georgia
Accreditation: CCNE; COA
Nurses who enter the BSN to DNP program offered by Emory University can choose from nine population specialties, including family, adult/gerontology, neonatal, pediatric, and women. They can also select whether to focus on acute or primary care for pediatric or adult populations. Further still, most of the specialties offer a choice of two tracks: population health or health systems leadership. Classes are delivered online, and five times per academic year, students must attend on-campus sessions. There are two on-campus meetings in the fall and spring semesters and one in the summer semester. These all-day sessions are scheduled on Saturdays. Full-time students can complete the BSN to DNP in seven semesters. The number of credits and clinical hours required varies by specialty and track. Emory reports that the average GPA for students admitted into its BSN to DNP program is 3.5.
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, Georgia
Accreditation: CCNE
Georgia Southern University's Waters College of Health Professions offers four unique BSN to DNP degree tracks: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, Adult-Gerontological Primary Care NP, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric/Mental Health NP. Students can sit for certification exams after completing sufficient coursework. Applicants must hold a 3.0 or higher GPA and submit three letters of recommendation, proof of American Heart Association CPR certification and RN licensure, and a resume. One year of full-time RN experience is required before the Advanced Health Assessment. MAT and GRE scores aren't needed, but screening interviews may be requested. DNP students must do clinical practicums with a preceptor and within 250 miles of the GSU Statesboro Campus. GSU's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Students can join the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Student Chapter to promote healthcare improvements, awareness of health professions, and the exchange of information among peers.
Mercer University
Macon, Georgia
Accreditation: CCNE
Mercer University uses a blended format for the BSN to DNP offered by its Georgia Baptist College of Nursing. In addition to online classes, students are required to visit the campus and to attend some synchronous online sessions. Nurses with a BSN can select from three concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP. The college awards an MSN when students complete the master's portion of the program, allowing them to take the certification exam for their advanced practice specialty. That enables students to work as Nurse Practitioners while finishing the DNP portion of the program. Full-time students receive their MSN after seven semesters; the DNP takes two more semesters. The DNP requires a scholarly research project. Recent DNP grads have researched topics such as improving medication adherence in liver transplant patients, mentoring minority nurse leaders, and training obstetric nurses to screen for domestic violence.
BSN to DNP Programs in Hawaii
University of Hawaii at Hilo
Hilo, Hawaii
Accreditation: ACEN; CCNE
Post Baccalaureate DNPBSN to DNP option
The University of Hawaii at Hilo is a public school located on Hawaii's "Big Island." Its 71- to 73-credit hour BSN to DNP covers subjects such as social aspects of health, information systems, pharmacology, pathophysiology, rural health, program development, system-based leadership, policy, and economics. The curriculum is geared towards care across the lifespan with an emphasis on underserved rural and transcultural populations. UH's program includes lectures and seminars crafted from AACN's Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Practice Nurses. Students receive abundant real-world training via site visits and lab simulation practice. To graduate, nursing students must maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete 1,000 practice hours plus a Practice Inquiry Project to be orally defended. Graduates are ready for FNP exams, as applicable. Applicants need a Hawaii RN license and license for the state they'll practice in and must pass a background check and health clearance on acceptance.
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Honolulu, Hawaii
The School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene within the University of Hawaii at Manoa features full-time, 77-credit hour BSN to DNPs for Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP and for Family Nurse Practitioner. This program follows a cohort model, with students progressing together throughout the coursework. The curriculum is based on AACN's Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice and prepares students for their national certification exams. Students must successfully complete a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours and will have learning opportunities at the advanced UH Translational Health Science Simulation Center. UH also has a strong partnership with the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System. A leader in nursing education and training since 1932, the University of Hawaii at Manoa comes in at No. 81 on U.S. News & World Report's Best Nursing Schools: DNP for 2020. The school's DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
BSN to DNP Programs in Idaho
Idaho State University
Pocatello, Idaho
Idaho State University's 78-credit hour BSN to DNP readies students to become clinical leaders able to positively affect patient outcomes using evidence-based practice in an evolving healthcare system. Degree options are Family NN or Psychiatric Mental Health NP. Students conducting clinical hours in Idaho must make arrangements through a College of Nursing Clinical Placement Coordinator or other faculty and staff versus contacting sites directly. Applicant will submit official transcripts showing their BSN, three professional references, a resume or CV, and a 1,500-word (maximum) essay. Students possessing a GPA of less than 3.5 on their undergraduate degree will submit GRE scores. They will also complete a pre-admission interview and need a valid RN license and a minimum grade of C on a descriptive or inferential statistics course. Two years of prior healthcare/nursing experience is preferred. Admission rates depend on the number and qualifications of applicants.
BSN to DNP Programs in Illinois
Bradley University
Peoria, Illinois
Online Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner Track (BSN entry)OnlineBSN to DNP option
Bradley University has been an education innovator since 1897 and has reframed the way students can obtain a doctorate degree! Its 100% online DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner Track (BSN entry) has no campus residency requirements. Students learn all the practical skills needed to offer primary care, help develop and improve care delivery approaches, and work on technology implementation. Graduates are eligible to take their AANP or ANCC certification exam and are ready to take on leadership roles. Made for BSN-credentialed nurses with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and a valid nursing license, Bradley's 12-semester program takes four years to finish and requires completion of 1,050 clinical hours. Curriculum is delivered through a 24/7 online learning model and there are collaborative learning opportunities to work with peers and advisors. Instructors are expert clinicians and experienced professionals dedicated to offering personalized attention to students to ensure successful outcomes.
DePaul University
Chicago, Illinois
Adult-Gerontological Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Nurse AnesthetistBSN to DNP option
DePaul University is a private institution founded in 1898 in Chicago, Illinois. Its School of Nursing has five DNP tracks teaching the leadership, business, and research skills necessary in today's modern healthcare world. Students select from the 60-credit hour Adult-Gerontological NP track or 62-credit hour Family NP. There's also a 62-credit hour Nurse Anesthetist track, done in conjunction with NorthShore Health Systems. Lastly, there are two DNP Completion options for Nurse Anesthetist or Nurse Practitioner/Clinical Nurse Specialist/Nurse Midwife. DePaul has access to over 75 clinical sites and modern facilities. Classes are held at its Lincoln Park campus, and small class sizes allow for more individualized attention. Apart from finishing coursework, students must turn in a DNP project which is a culminating academic product showcasing the student's experiences. Graduates leave with the clinical skills to create and implement treatment plans, improve patient outcomes, and provide safe, quality care.
Governors State University
University Park, Illinois
Accreditation: ACEN
Post Baccalaureate - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)BSN to DNP option
The College of Health & Nursing Practice Human Services at Governors State University allows BSN to DNP students a steady path to earning a professional practice doctorate in nursing. It provides the training to work within advanced practice areas related to Community Behavior, Direct Practice, Leadership/Administration, and Practitioner/Educator roles. Students complete 86 to 89 hours of coursework and finish a program of study along the way in one of the following specialties: Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult/Gerontological Health, Nursing Executive & Innovative Leadership, or Family Nurse Practitioner. Governors State focuses on caring for vulnerable populations. Admission to GSU's BSN to DNP program is competitive and requires a minimum of 3.5 GPA, current RN licensure, three professional recommendations, and a personal statement outlining goals while attending the program. The school caters to the needs of working nurses and the average student takes only two courses per term.
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist - Oncology SpecializationOnlineBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Oncology SpecializationOnlineBSN to DNP option
The Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing is part of Loyola University Chicago's Health Sciences Division. Its DNP program teaches the advanced practice skills needed to work in evolving healthcare settings and improve patient outcomes. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice, transformational change, and public health for at-risk populations. BSN to DNP tracks offered are: Psychiatric Mental Health NP (72 semester hours, with a specialty in Substance Use and Addiction Disorders), Family NP with Emergency Room specialty (79 hours), Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP (72 hours), and Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (65 hours). Loyola requires 2,000 hours of clinical experience before starting practicum. Students will work on their scholarly project during their practicum immersions. Applicants will submit transcripts, three letters of recommendation, GRE scores (if GPA is less than 3.0), proof of current RN licensure, a personal statement, and note related to prior experience. An interview will also be needed.
Millikin University
Decatur, Illinois
Accreditation: CCNE
Millikin University has two DNP programs open to nurses with a BSN. One is the Family Nurse Practitioner program, and the other is the nurse anesthesia program. The anesthesia program is only offered in a full-time format that takes three years of study. Core DNP classes use an online format, and students must come to campus for nurse anesthesia classwork. Anesthesia applicants must have one year of work experience in an adult ICU and be a CCRN. The program requires 88 credits and 2,400 hours of clinical experience and residency. Students pursuing the FNP DNP can follow a full-time or part-time plan of study. The degree requires 70 credits and more than 1,200 clinical practice hours. The admission process gives preference to applicants who have at least a year of full-time RN experience. First-year courses are delivered online. After that, students may have to come to campus for class meetings.
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, Illinois
Accreditation: CCNE
The BSN to DNP program at Northern Illinois University prepares nurses for the Family Nurse Practitioner specialization. The School of Nursing allows students to follow a full-time or part-time schedule for the degree. Courses are delivered online, and students must attend skills classes and health assessment sessions in person. The 76-credit program covers topics such as scientific underpinnings for practice, leadership, evidence-based practice, using technology to improve health care, and health care policy. All these elements prepare nurses for an advanced practice role where they can focus on enhancing quality. FNP majors chose five skills courses based on their goals. Examples include diagnostic reasoning, primary care for women, and orthopedic skills. Students are required to complete at least 1,000 clinical hours where they gain experience in the FNP role and complete a leadership component required for the DNP. They also produce a scholarly project addressing a practice issue.
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
North Chicago, Illinois
Accreditation: COACRNA
The Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science prepares nurses to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists through a BSN to DNP program. The program uses a hybrid format. Most classes are offered at the North Chicago campus, but some upper-level doctoral coursework uses online delivery. Nurses can complete the degree in 36 months. The curriculum requires 177 quarter hours, and students spend most of the program's third year in clinical residencies. Students start the program in late May, and no more than 36 students are admitted per year. Applicants must have one year of RN experience in a critical care environment, and competitive applicants usually have a minimum of two years of critical care experience. Students are also required to have ACLS, PALS, and BSL certification. RFU's graduates have a 100% pass rate on the CRNA exam and a 100% employment rate after six months.
Rush University
Chicago, Illinois
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care - Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care (DNP)BSN to DNP option
BSN - DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute CareBSN to DNP option
Family (DNP)BSN to DNP option
Neonatal - Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
Neonatal (DNP)BSN to DNP option
Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Pediatric - Acute Care (DNP)BSN to DNP option
Pediatric - Primary Care (DNP)BSN to DNP option
Psychiatric - Mental Health (DNP)BSN to DNP option
Rush University is a private institution founded in Chicago in 1972. Through its College of Nursing it offers several BSN to DNP nursing options in Adult-Gerontology (Acute or Primary Care), Anesthesia, Family NP, Neonatal, Pediatric (Acute or Primary Care), Psychiatric-Mental Health, Public Health, and Transformative Leadership (Population Health or Systems). The Adult-Gero Acute Care, Neonatal, and Primary Care Pediatric tracks are offered as either Clinical Nurse Specialist or Nurse Practitioner degrees. Most tracks start as part-time, however Anesthesia is full-time only. Rush's curriculum incorporates its core values of Innovation, Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence. Rush's nursing degrees are very highly regarded. The university is ranked No. 2 in the nation for Best Nursing Schools: DNP by U.S. News & World Report. Its NP Psychiatric/Mental Health NP ranks No. 1. With $95 million in medical school funding (2018), Rush dives into numerous projects blending education with practice and scholarly research.
Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing
Peoria, Illinois
Accreditation: CCNE
Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing has four concentration areas for nurses who want to advance from a BSN to a DNP. The options are Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. For all the concentrations, students take classes online with varying requirements for on-campus visits. FNP students must attend two four-day practicums and a proficiency assessment on campus, for instance. AGACNP students must come to the school in Peoria, Illinois, for hands-on skills training during four scheduled practicum classes. For clinical rotations, students can work with a preceptor near their home. Nurses who enter the neonatal program must have at least two years of experience in a Level 3 or Level 4 NICU, and PMHNP students must have at least one year of experience in psychiatric mental health nursing.
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Edwardsville, Illinois
Accreditation: CCNE
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville offers a Nurse Anesthesia DNP that is open to RNs who have earned a BSN. The degree prepares nurses to provide anesthetic care in surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic, and pain management procedures. During practicums, nurses gain experience working in a range of settings, from small rural facilities to urban hospitals. Graduates are eligible to take the certification exam to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. The program requires full-time attendance for nine semesters, with classes meeting at the Edwardsville campus. Students enter the 80-credit program in the summer semester and begin clinical experiences in their fourth semester. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville also has BSN to DNP programs that prepare students as a Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Both of those programs use a hybrid format that combines online classes with on-campus immersive experiences.
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
University of Illinois at Chicago features 10 nurse practitioner or midwife BSN to DNP paths: Adult-Gerontology Acute or Primary Care NP, Family NP, Neonatal NP, Nurse-Midwifery, a dual Nurse-Midwifery and Women's Health NP, Pediatric NP for Acute or Primary Care, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, and Women's Health NP. It has two degree tracks for systems-focused careers-Advanced Population Health Nursing & Health Systems Leadership or Informatics Nursing. Students holding a BSN finish the program within three to five years. Clinical practicum sites are arranged by the school which will also guide the final DNP project, a scholarly synthesis of knowledge gained from academics and real-world practice. Offered at all six of the university's campuses, UIC's DNP program is ranked in the top ten Best Nursing Schools in the nation, currently in the No. 7 spot on U.S. News & World Report's list. It's accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
BSN to DNP Programs in Indiana
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, Indiana
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNPBSN to DNP option
The School of Nursing at IUPUI refers to its BSN to DNP program as the MSN-DNP Dual Degree. As the name suggests, students earn a Master of Science in Nursing midway through the program, then move on to an accelerated Doctor of Nursing Practice program. The curriculum focuses on nursing leadership, with classes such as data analysis, performance improvement, informatics, leadership and organizational behavior, and financial and legal issues. The curriculum also includes leadership intensives where students learn about policy and advocacy or participate in networking and mentoring events. Students complete several nursing leadership practicums, and these immersive experiences form the basis of the required DNP Project. In all, the dual degree program requires 67 credits. The School of Nursing has full-time and part-time plans of study available for the MSN-DNP Dual Degree. Cohorts enter the program in the fall semester.
Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, Indiana
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)OnlineBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice - Psychiatric Mental Health NP (PMHNP)OnlineBSN to DNP option
Indiana Wesleyan University has post-baccalaureate DNP programs in two specialty tracks, Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. These programs combine interactive online learning with onsite residencies. FNP students must attend three residencies. The first is an orientation, the second is an opportunity to present their DNP scholarly project proposals, and the final event is when students present their DNP project. PMHNP students also have those three residencies, and they must attend an additional residency at the culmination of their clinical experiences. Students can start either track in January or August. Students enter in a cohort and move through the lock-step curriculum in a little over four years. They take two courses per block for most blocks and are also required to complete 1,000 clinical hours. Students who don't complete their DNP Scholarly project in time must maintain enrollment until they have completed and defended the project.
Marian University
Indianapolis, Indiana
Accreditation: CCNE
The BSN to DNP program at Marian University uses a mix of online, hybrid, and in-person courses to prepare nurses as a Family Nurse Practitioner or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. The FNP requires 70 credits, and full-time students can complete the degree in seven semesters. The Leighton School of Nursing also accepts part-time students in the FNP track. The CRNA track requires 87 credits, and students complete the degree in 36 months. The program uses a cohort format, and about two dozen students are accepted into the one cohort formed each year. Students have access to a modern simulation center to practice their skills. They also perform practicum experiences arranged by the Leighton School placement staff. Some of the clinical partners FNP and CRNA students may be assigned for clincial rounds include Community Health Network, St. Vincent Health Network, and the Parkview Network. Clinical sites are located throughout Indiana.
Purdue University
West Lafayette, Indiana
Accreditation: CCNE
Purdue's BSN to DNP tracks are a 76-credit hour Primary Care Pediatric NP, 78-credit hour Primary Family Care NP, 76-credit hour Primary Care Adult Gerontology NP, or 78-credit hour Psychiatric Mental Health NP. Each track features a comprehensive three-year plan of study, including residency requirements. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Purdue's program trains leaders to address healthcare issues in a multidisciplinary fashion. Through campus partnerships with the College of Pharmacy, Regenstrief Center for Healthcare Engineering, Center on Aging and the Life Course, and other associations, the program teaches a core of graduate nursing and APRN, as well as specialty coursework. 1,000 clinical hours within rural or urban settings are needed. Students have unique chances to work in Purdue's own advanced clinics, as well. The school's DNP program is ranked No. 79 (tie) for Best Nursing Schools for 2020 by U.S. News & World Report.
Saint Mary's College
Notre Dame, Indiana
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP)OnlineBSN to DNP option
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-PCNP)OnlineBSN to DNP option
Saint Mary's College in Notre Dame was founded by the Sisters of the Holy Cross in 1844. It offers a 77 credit-hour DNP program in three tracks: Adult-Gerontology in Acute Care or Primary Care or Family NP. Made with senior nursing students and graduates in mind, as well as working RN's and military nurses, the tracks take 12 semesters (including summers) and require 1,000 supervised clinical hours. A capstone project must be orally defended prior to graduation. Applicants must have a 3.0 cumulative GPA on undergraduate work, a statistics course, and eligibility for RN licensure within their respective states. Prior nursing experience isn't mandatory to enroll but is necessary in the first year for acute care gerontology participants. Graduates are prepared to take American Nurses Credentialing Center exams and are ready to provide direct patient care, lead others in healthcare environments, or teach in the nursing field.
University of Evansville
Evansville, Indiana
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice: Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
The University of Evansville has introduced a BSN to DNP program in nurse anesthesia, with students entering the program in January. Classes meet at the UE campus and at the Stone Family Center for Health Sciences, a multi-institutional campus where anesthesia students will work as part of an interprofessional team. Applicants interested in this program should have at least one year of ICU experience, and the university prefers to accept students who have two or more years of ICU work. Students are required to begin the program with an Indiana RN license, and they must obtain licensure in Kentucky and Illinois before they start clinical rotations. They also need ACLS and BSL certification. The program is a three-year, full-time degree that requires students to complete 115 credit hours.
University of Indianapolis
Indianapolis, Indiana
Accreditation: CCNE
Students pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of Indianapolis can choose to focus on the youngest patients, adults, or clients through the lifespan, thanks to the three specialty tracks: Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, or Family Nurse Practitioner. Each specialty requires about 65 credits. The program is for full-time students who earn an advanced degree in eight semesters. Classes use a hybrid format, meeting on campus with additional online components. Applicants to the FNP and AGNP tracks should have at least two years of RN experience, including work in the ICU, step-down units, medical-surgical, or ER. NNP applicants should have two years of full-time experience in a Level 3 or Level 4 NICU. Students must possess or be eligible for an Indiana RN license. Students may work clinical rotations in some of UIndy's partner hospitals, including Indiana University Health and Riley Hospital for Children.
University of Southern Indiana
Evansville, Indiana
Accreditation: CCNE
The University of Southern Indiana has a BSN to DNP program that students can complete in four years if they attend full time. Nurses following the part-time plan earn their doctorate in five years. Students can choose from five concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (acute care or primary care), Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, Family Nurse Practitioner, or Psychiatric Mental Health NP. The program has a hybrid delivery method, and each semester students must attend a two- or three-day on-campus session that includes class meetings, presentations, work on projects, and meetings with instructors. No matter the concentration, all students take the same core courses early in the program. During their final year, students complete the courses and clinical experiences for their specialty concentration. All candidates must complete a DNP project that is related to their specialty area and results in improved outcomes and benefits patients or the profession.
Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, Indiana
Valparaiso University's BSN to DNP program prepares nurses for certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and provides them with the skills they need to manage quality initiatives, lead health care organizations or clinical programs, or to start a career teaching other nurses. The curriculum requires 70 credits and more than 1,100 clinical clock hours. Students enter the program in the fall semester, and full-time students can complete the degree in six regular semesters and one summer. Part-time options are also available. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 or higher GPA, and applicants with a 3.25 or higher GPA can receive an expedited admission decision if they apply by March 1. Other components required in the admissions packet include official transcripts, three recommendations, a reflective essay, and a resume describing current and past clinical practice and any presentations or publications.
BSN to DNP Programs in Iowa
Allen College
Waterloo, Iowa
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses with a BSN can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice in one of eight specialties through Allen College. Those specialties include four Nurse Practitioner tracks: family, psychiatric mental health, pediatric acute care, and adult-gerontological acute care. Other options include nursing education, health care leadership, community/public health nursing, and leadership in health information technology. The number of credits required for the program depends on the track a student selects. Each DNP candidate is required to complete a clinical scholarship project. For their DNP project, students must implement an organizational change at the system level. To earn the degree, students must have at least 1,000 post-bachelor's clinical hours, including 400 hours spent on the clinical scholarship project. Students may enter the BSN to DNP program in the fall or spring. Online students who do not have Iowa licensure must have an RN license from a Nurse Licensure Compact State.
Clarke University
Dubuque, Iowa
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Health Leadership and PracticeBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Clarke University in Iowa features three DNP tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner, Health Leadership and Practice, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The degrees require 81 credits and can be completed in three years for full-time students or five years if part-time. There is also an approximately two year bridge program for students with an MSN. The bridge is up to 48 credits (depending on prior courses taken. The focus for Clarke's curriculum is on leadership in nursing, advocacy, policy, economics, informatics, and evidence-based practice. Its DNP programs require 1,000 clinical hours in total, plus a scholarly project. Application requirements include a resume, official transcripts, completion of a bachelor's degree or MSN, GRE scores (if GPA is below 3.0), proof of clinical hours finished, three reference forms, a personal statement, a writing sample, proof of licensure, an interview, and English proficiency scores if English is the second language.
Morningside College
Sioux City, Iowa
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses in the BSN to DNP program at Morningside College can stop and restart in the program if life events get in their way. The Nylen School of Nursing has two doctoral nursing options. The direct patient care track is for nurses who want to become a Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, and the transformative leadership track is for individuals who seek roles in areas such as administration, informatics, or health policy. The program is 100% online with asynchronous class delivery. Students only have to come to the campus in Sioux City, Iowa, once for a one-day residency. Students may begin in the fall, spring, or summer semester. The degree requires 77 credits for the FNP track, 76 credits for the AGNP track, and 68 credits for the transformative leadership track. All candidates complete 1,000 practicum hours by the time they earn the DNP.
University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-BSN students have several DNP options at the University of Iowa. Concentrations are offered in Adult/Gerontology Acute or Primary Care NP, Family NP, Health Systems/Administration, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, and Pediatric Acute or Primary Care NP. Students can combine two tracks for a dual concentration, but only need to complete one final DNP project. The average time for program completion is three-to-four years. There is also a four-to-five-year Nurse Anesthesia option. The college is home to the premiere Center for Nursing Classification and Clinical Effectiveness, the Csomay Center for Gerontological Excellence, and the UI Center for Advancing Multimorbidity Science (funded by the National Institutes of Health). The Pediatric and Adult-Gerontology NP in Acute Care tracks require prior work experience prior to application. UI's Adult-Gerontology NP in Acute Care is ranked as the eighth Best Nursing School DNP program in America by U.S. News & World Report.
BSN to DNP Programs in Kansas
Fort Hays State University
Hays, Kansas
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses who live in Kansas can apply for the BSN to DNP program offered through Fort Hays State University. The program prepares nurses as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The program uses a hybrid format, with the majority of coursework available online. Students come to campus for a limited number of visits while enrolled in certain classes. The Department of Nursing publishes the list of on-campus days at least six weeks before classes start, so students have plenty of time to plan for the visits to Hays, Kansas. The program only offers a full-time plan of study that can be completed in four years. The 75-credit curriculum covers nursing care across the lifespan, from pediatrics to adult and geriatric populations. Students are also required to complete at least four preceptorships, and these experiences must take place in Kansas. Candidates are also required to complete a scholarly DNP project.
Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, Kansas
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses who complete the BSN to DNP program at Pittsburg State University can add an emphasis in nursing education by taking just one additional class. All BSN to DNP students earn a doctorate in Family Nurse Practitioner by following a 74-credit program. That program includes two electives, so students who use the electives for nursing education courses are two-thirds of the way toward the nine-credit education emphasis. The majority of classes in the BSN to DNP are available online. Students may be required to come to the campus in Pittsburg, Kansas, for intensives. The curriculum includes core classes, research classes, and practicum. Students complete more than 1,050 clinical hours, including 288 hours of practice that are required as part of the DNP scholarly project. DNP students enter the program at the start of the summer semester, and they are required to locate a clinical preceptor.
University of Kansas
Lawrence, Kansas
Accreditation: CCNE; COA
Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia PracticeBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Organizational LeadershipBSN to DNP option
Public Health NursingBSN to DNP option
The University of Kansas' School of Nursing operates out of the KU Medical Center and offers several post-baccalaureate DNP concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Primary or Acute Care NP, Family NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, and Nurse Midwife. There are also three leadership majors: Health Informatics, Organizational Leadership, and Public Health Nursing. Required credit hours vary from 73 to 79. Students also take a short program preparatory course and must complete 1,000 clinical hours. The School of Nursing, created in 1906, is home to the Delta chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International, the Kansas University Student Nurses Association, and the Kansas Association of Nursing Students. To graduate, students must earn at least a C on all designated NURS or NRSG classes. Application requirements include holding a BSN with an overall 3.0 GPA (3.5 preferred), RN licensure, a year of work experience (recommended), and demonstrated leadership, scholastic, and advanced care potential.
Washburn University
Topeka, Kansas
The DNP program at Washburn University has a unique focus on entrepreneurship. In fact, students take some of the same classes that Washburn's MBA students take, including accounting, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. As a result, nurses graduate with strong business skills along with expertise as an advanced practice nurse. Graduates are prepared for positions as an executive of a health care organization or director of a clinical program as well as for work as an APRN. Students select from two specialty tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Graduates are eligible to take the certification exam for the specialty they majored in. The BSN to DNP program is designed for working nurses. Students complete 70 to 76 credits and at least 1,000 hours of clinical practice while completing the degree. After BSN to DNP students complete their first year of studies, they can apply for the fast-track option.
Wichita State University
Wichita, Kansas
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Applicants to the Postbaccalaureate DNP program at Wichita State University must request entrance to one of the available specializations when they are admitted. The specialties are Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric-Mental Health NP. Ten to 20 students are admitted to each specialization, which all require 74 credits. The DNP has a focus on practice rather than research, and students take part in guided clinical practicums in a variety of settings. The School of Nursing also uses up-to-date simulation labs to help students gain experience. Students enter the program in the fall and spend an average of 4.5 years earning their degree. Classes meet on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Applicants must have BSN with a 3.0 or higher GPA for the last 60 credits taken, all undergraduate nursing courses, and in four science classes: anatomy/physiology, microbiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. A graduate-level statistics course is required.
BSN to DNP Programs in Kentucky
Bellarmine University
Louisville, Kentucky
Kentucky's Bellarmine University offers world-class education with Southern hospitality. Its Doctor of Nursing Practice can be completed for BSN to DNP students, as well as post-master's students. The BSN-DNP Leadership track is for students ready for advanced practice in organizational leadership within a health care setting. From financial and economic aspects to human and resource management, the 68-credit curriculum is made with flexible access in mind. Students with a current ANCC certification as Nurse Executive-Advanced can waive the 6-credit NURS 841 course. Those with an MSN degree can take one of two tracks: Advanced Nursing Practice or Executive Leadership. Courses cover research and evidence-based practice, patient safety, informatics, statistics, economics, and policies, among other topics. Students are required to complete both practice immersion and obtain residency experience. Admission requires approval from the Graduate Nursing Admission, Progression, and Graduation Committee. All programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Frontier Nursing University
Hyden, Kentucky
Frontier Nursing University offers an MSN + DNP combination which paves the way for aspiring nurse-midwives, family NPs, women's health care NPs, or psychiatric-mental health NPs. The program is open for full- or part-time attendance and clinical practicum can be done in home communities. Students will finish 1,035 clinical hours in total, with a focus on learning to evaluate and improve practice, develop expertise, and find ways to hone skills independently. Applicants should have a bachelor's in nursing with a cumulative 3.0 GPA, a current RN license, and one year of applicable work experience. Those whose primary language isn't English should submit TOEFL exam scores. Candidates must successfully complete a background check and health assessment prior to new student orientation. FNU sponsors a Diversity Impact Program made to increase diversity and promote inclusive learning and workforce environments. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the program's support services.
Kentucky State University
Frankfort, Kentucky
Accreditation: ACEN
BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice - Adult-Gerontological Primary Care PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Kentucky State University has a BSN to DNP program that prepares nurses to provide primary care to adult and geriatric patients. The program, which qualifies graduates to take the exam to become certified as an Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, is offered online. Lessons use an asynchronous format, and students may occasionally have to take part in face-to-face meetings using technology. Students can also complete the required practicum hours with an approved preceptor at a clinical site near their home. The curriculum requires 72 credits, and students can complete the program in nine semesters. In addition to becoming an expert caregiver, DNP students learn to use scientific evidence to improve care and develop skills in system leadership, including cultural sensitivity, fiscal responsibility, and analysis of nursing care. DNPs also gain skills in working with other health care professions and in setting policy.
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, Kentucky
Accreditation: COA
The Nurse Anesthesia DNP program at Northern Kentucky University is a 106-credit program that nurses with a BSN complete in 36 months. The population focus for this degree is individuals across the lifespan. DNP core courses for this degree are delivered in an online or hybrid format, but all classes in the anesthesia specialty meet at the campus in Highland Heights, Kentucky. Students must attend this program on a full-time basis, and the university recommends that students not attempt to hold a job while working on the DNP. The program begins in the summer, and students start taking their practicum courses in the fourth semester. The majority of clinical sites are in the greater Cincinnati area, and students may have some clinical placements in Louisville or Lexington, Kentucky. For that reason, students are required to have RN licensure in both Ohio and Kentucky by the time they enter the program.
University of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky
Accreditation: CCNE
University of Kentucky boasts of having the first DNP in America! Students can choose from a 67-credit hour Executive Leadership in Health Care, or 74- to 77-credit hour options in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing, Primary Care Family NP, Pediatric Primary or Acute Care NP, and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP. Full-time students can finish within three years; part-time students can take up to five. ~1,020 clinical hours are completed under the close mentorship of preceptors. Graduates are ready for applicable national exams. Applicants need a 3.3 GPA or better on their BSN, and will submit three references, a resume, goal statement, sample of scholarly work, proof of RN licensure (in whichever state clinical practice will be done), and evidence of nursing experience. Successful applicants are scheduled for interviews and must pass a drug screening and background check. Lastly, they'll need to submit immunization records and CPR certification.
University of Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN-prepared nurses can choose from five specialty Nurse Practitioner tracks while earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Louisville School of Nursing. Options are Family NP, Adult-Gerontology NP (acute or primary care), Psychiatric Mental Health NP, and Neonatal NP. The NNP specialty is only offered when the School of Nursing receives enough qualified applicants. Full-time NNP students enter in even-numbered years, and part-time NNP students start in odd-number years. Each specialty requires between 75 and 78 credits, and full-time students can earn a degree in three years. The School of Nursing also allows students to attend on a part-time basis. The program uses a hybrid format, with students coming to the Louisville, Kentucky, campus four to six times a semester. On in-person class days, students have a full day of academic activities. The rest of the coursework is delivered online, mostly in an asynchronous format.
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Accreditation: CCNE
Western Kentucky University's BSN to DNP program allows nurses to prepare as nurse executives or as Family Nurse Practitioners. The 63-credit nurse executive program includes classes in leadership, such as ethics, nursing administration, and organizational communication, along with clinical practicums. The 76-credit FNP curriculum prepares nurses to deliver primary care to adults, children, and adolescents. Graduates of the FNP track are eligible to take the FNP national certification exam. Full-time and part-time plans of study are available. Full-time students can complete the program in three years. Applicants must have a BSN from an accredited college with a GPA of 3.25. GRE scores aren't required, but the application should include three professional references, a goal statement, a resume, and a current RN license from Kentucky or another compact state. The summer before entering the program, students take a graduate-level statistics class and an orientation to DNP class.
BSN to DNP Programs in Louisiana
Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans
New Orleans, Louisiana
Accreditation: CCNE
BNS to DNP - Public/Community Health NursingBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Executive Nurse LeaderBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Neonatal Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Primary Care Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans is part of the LSU system founded in 1929. Today it offers many BSN to DNP paths to train nurses for either advanced practice or aggregate, systems positions. The advanced practice tracks are: Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthesia, and Nurse Practitioner (with concentrations in Adult Gerontology Acute or Primary Care, Neonatal, Pediatric Acute or Primary Care, Primary Care Family, and Psychiatric Mental Health). Aggregate, systems tracks are Executive Nurse Leader or Public Health/Community Health. There are also dual concentrations options available, and specialized electives in Emergency, Nephrology, and Oncology Nursing. Total credit hours range from 80 to 138 depending on the chosen track. LSU's School of Nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It has several organizations to participate in such as the Student Nurses Association, Nursing Alumni Association, and Sigma Theta Tau International.
Loyola University-New Orleans
New Orleans, Louisiana
Loyola makes online learning simple by putting its curriculum 100% online. Students access content through the Blackboard app and have full access to the school's range of other resources. Made for busy working nurses, the program requires minimal on-campus attendance. Students will come to campus for Spring term conferences and to deliver a live defense of their scholarly project. Applicants to Loyola's online graduate nursing programs will submit transcripts, two references, a statement of purpose, a description of work experience, and proof of RN licensure. Applicants should also have 1,800 hours of previous nursing practice. International students need a paper-based TOEFL score of 580 (237 for computer-based; 92 for Internet-based). IELTS score should be at least 6.5. Loyola University-New Orleans is ranked No. 42 (tie) in Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs and No. 17 in Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report.
Southeastern Louisiana University
Hammond, Louisiana
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses who enter the DNP program at Southeastern Louisiana University take a track that prepares them as a Family Nurse Practitioner. While the program is designed as a BSN to DNP pathway, it does allow students to exit the program after they have completed the requirements for a Master of Science in Nursing in Family Nurse Practitioner. Once they've completed the MSN requirements, students only have to complete 21 more credits to earn the DNP. Many of the DNP credits involve three semesters of DNP residencies with practicum requirements. Most of the courses for the program are delivered online. Students must come to the campus in Hammond, Louisiana, for an orientation session at the start of the program. They later return to campus to defend their DNP project. Nurses enter the BSN to DNP pathway in the summer semester.
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lafayette, Louisiana
Accreditation: CCNE
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers a 70-credit hour BSN to DNP for Family Nurse Practitioner. This terminal degree requires 1,000 hours of clinical practice plus a final project. First year courses include topics on applied statistics, pharmacotherapeutics, pathophysiology, generating evidence, health assessments, diagnostic reasoning, biostatistics, and more. All courses must be graded with at least a B to be accepted. UL Lafayette opened its doors to students in 1901. Today its Department of Nursing, under the College of Nursing & Allied Health Professions, has 42 full-time faculty and ~125 full-time graduate nursing students enrolled (95.7% of which are female). The department's Simulation Program features several modern labs to enhance student learning and hands-on practice. Program outcomes include preparing graduates to take on high-level leadership positions in order to affect change within diverse healthcare systems. UL's DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
BSN to DNP Programs in Maryland
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, Maryland
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses who want an online Doctor of Nursing Practice from Johns Hopkins University face a lot of choices. The university offers eight specialty BSN to DNP concentrations online, including three Clinical Nurse Specialist tracks and five Nurse Practitioner tracks. Students can select a population focus of pediatric, adult-gerontological, or family patients. The program is arranged as an online program with onsite course immersions. That means students complete all coursework online and get their practicum experiences at sites near their home. However, students must come to the campus in Baltimore for seven onsite immersions where they develop leadership skills, take competency assessments, and complete standardized clinicals. Students who would like to complete their clinical experiences at a Johns Hopkins-affilated site may relocate to Baltimore, take classes online, and work with faculty to arrange practicum experiences at partner sites or a Johns Hopkins Health System site.
Salisbury University
Salisbury, Maryland
Post-Bachelor's to DNP (FNP)BSN to DNP option
Salisbury University's straightforward, full-time 80-credit hour BSN to DNP trains students to become Family Nurse Practitioners. The program requires 1,000 clinical hours and takes four years to complete, including summers. Class topics cover everything from research, evidence-based practice, and statistics to physiology, health assessment, finance, health promotion, prevention, and more. SU's School of Nursing has a wide network of affiliated hospitals, clinics, and other facilities for clinical assignment. The school is home to the Lambda Eta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society. Competitive applicants have a GPA of 3.50 or higher and need a minimum score of 3.5/6.0 for GRE Analytical Writing. Enrollment requirements include CPR certification, current RN license, and the ability to pass a health exam and drug screening. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Graduates are ready to sit for national certification exams.
Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
Bethesda, Maryland
Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (DNP)BSN to DNP option
Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP)BSN to DNP option
Nurse Anesthesia (DNP)BSN to DNP option
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP)BSN to DNP option
The Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences differs from other BSN to DNP programs because it accepts only commissioned military officers or civilians from federal health agencies. Through its Graduate School of Nursing, the institution offers concentrations for Family NP and Women's Health NP, Nurse Anesthesia, Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Psychiatric Mental Health NP. Faculty consist of expert military and non-military professors alike. Coursework incorporates field training and non-traditional learning situations to prepare students for advanced roles in their military or federal careers. Clinical practice is conducted at sites within the military's network of treatment facilities. Students complete a comprehensive project focused on a topic selected through collaborative effort, designed to improve patient outcomes. Applicants must be commissioned officers or service-sponsored civilians and will submit copies of all transcripts, a resume/CV, BLS certification, proof of RN licensure, an officer brief, GRE scores, plus three letters of recommendation.
University of Maryland-Baltimore
Baltimore, Maryland
The School of Nursing at the University of Maryland-Baltimore features a post-baccalaureate DNP with eight specialty areas: Adult-Gerontology Acute or Primary Care NP, Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, Family NP, Neonatal NP, Nurse Anesthesia, Pediatric Acute or Primary Care NP, and Psychiatric Mental Health NP. Tracks require between 80 and 93 credit hours and prepare graduates for their applicable board certifications as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, or nurse anesthetists. Full-time students typically complete the program within three years. On average, students will be immersed in rigorous coursework and/or practicum up to five days a week. Part-time plan of study options are available. School faculty will arrange suitable preceptors to oversee the minimum 1,000 clinical hours necessary to graduate. The school has a vast network of contracted partners within Maryland, D.C., and beyond. If a particular site is desired, students may request it to be considered.
BSN to DNP Programs in Massachusetts
Boston College
Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-Baccalaureate DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary CareBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate DNP - Family HealthBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate DNP - Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate DNP - Pediatric Primary CareBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate DNP - Psychiatric/Mental HealthBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate DNP - Women's HealthBSN to DNP option
RN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary CareBSN to DNP option
RN to DNP - Family HealthBSN to DNP option
RN to DNP - Pediatric Primary CareBSN to DNP option
RN to DNP - Psychiatric/Mental HealthBSN to DNP option
RN to DNP - Women's HealthBSN to DNP option
Nurses who want to earn a DNP can enter a doctorate program at Boston College even if they haven't earned a BSN yet. The Connell School of Nursing has both an RN to DNP program and a BSN to DNP program. Students in either group can choose from five nurse practitioner specialties: adult-gerontology primary care, family health, pediatric primary care, psychiatric-mental health, or women's health. The college arranges clinical placements and works with a variety of well-regarded teaching hospitals in metropolitan Boston. Nursing students may perform their clinical rounds in facilities such as Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Massachusetts General, Shriners Burn Institute, and Boston Children's Hospital. BSN-prepared nurses who attend full time can complete the program in about three years. RNs without a bachelor's degree must have at least 110 college credits to apply. The college enrolls students in these programs in the spring and fall semesters.
Northeastern University
Boston, Massachusetts
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
The Bouve College of Health Sciences at Northeastern University has a full-time program leading to a Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Anesthesia. Nurses with a BSN enter the program in May and finish their degree in three years. Students attend the 77-credit program full time. The curriculum includes four core nursing courses, nine DNP courses, eight classroom courses in the nurse anesthesia specialty, and six clinical courses in nurse anesthesia. Graduates are prepared to take the exam to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. The most recent graduating class had a 100% pass rate on the national certification exam and a 100% employment rate. There was also no attrition during the 36-month program. Northeastern places students in a variety of clinical sites throughout Massachusetts and New England for hands-on experience. Some partner institutions include Brigham and Women's Hospital, Cambridge Health Alliance, and Massachusetts General.
Regis College
Weston, Massachusetts
Accreditation: ACEN
Regis College is a private Catholic university near Boston, Massachusetts. Its Post-BSN DNP tracks are for Nurse Practitioner in Family, Pediatric, Women's Health, Adult-Gerontology, or Psychiatric-Mental Health. Core classes cover topics such as nursing theory, leadership, health promotion, policy and politics, advanced pathophysiology, clinical pharmacology, and more. Students can study at the Regis Nursing Resource Center and practice skills on high-fidelity manikins in the Clinical Resource and Simulation Center. Those in advance courses are encouraged to seek publication or presentation opportunities for applicable scholarly work, after consulting with faculty. Applicants need an unencumbered RN license, a 3.0 GPA on their undergrad work, a resume, personal statement, and two letters of recommendation. Candidates may be contacted for an interview. Regis' Young School of Nursing is recognized as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education and its DNP program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, Massachusetts
Accreditation: CCNE
The University of Massachusetts Amherst began conferring online DNP degrees in 2006. Its award-winning program has zero campus requirements and is offered with four concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult/Gerontology Primary Care NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, and Public Health Nurse Leader. Tracks take between four to five years to complete and prepare graduates for national certification exams. Students work with Clinical Placement Coordinators to arrange their own preceptors and practicum sites related to their degree path. Advisors assist students with their customized plan of study, including DNP core and capstone classes. Applicants must possess a 3.0 GPA on their BSN degree and current RN licensure. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Students living in Alabama, Minnesota, New York, and Oregon are not able to enroll in UMass Amherst's online BSN to DNP. Washington State residents may apply to the Family NP option.
University of Massachusetts Medical School Worcester
Worcester, Massachusetts
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Located in Worcester, the University of Massachusetts Medical School's Graduate School of Nursing features four BSN to DNP concentrations: a 75-credit hour Adult-Gerontology Primary or Acute Care NP, 78-credit hour Family NP, and 76-credit hour Psychiatric Mental Health NP. Coursework and student outcomes align with The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice, as well as standards listed in the Nurse Practitioner Core Competencies. The general full-time plan of study covers eight semesters (including summers). First year classes include topics such as analytical foundations, advanced health assessment, genetics, pharmacogenomics, pathophysiology, epidemiology, health policy, and quality and safety. UMass nursing classes are small, allowing for individualized attention from faculty, many of which are practitioners themselves. Students benefit from hands-on educational opportunities at the school's state-of-the-art Simulation Center. UMass's DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Graduates have a 100% pass rate on their applicable national exams.
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth
North Dartmouth, Massachusetts
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BS to DNP Plan - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner trackBSN to DNP option
The College of Nursing and Health Sciences at the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth offers two BSN to DNP tracks: a 63-credit hour Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP and a 63-credit hour Psychiatric Mental Health NP. Both require 1,008 practicum hours and prepare graduates for national certification. Students will be able to learn advanced skills and conduct research alongside experienced faculty at the Medical Laboratory Science and other modernized facilities. There are many opportunities for professional growth, such as joining the UMass Dartmouth Student Nurses Association or the award-winning Theta Kappa chapter of Sigma Theta Tau. Students can also participate in the Bridging the Atlantic Program or Global Health Collaborative, building partnerships overseas and with at-risk populations. UMass Dartmouth's DNP program is competitive due to limited openings. General minimum requirements include a 3.0 GPA, current Massachusetts RN license (or ability to obtain), and a year of acute care work experience.
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, Massachusetts
Accreditation: CCNE
BS to DNP - Adult Gerontological Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BS to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BS to DNP Fast Track - Adult Gerontological Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BS to DNP Fast Track - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Master's DNP Fast TrackBSN to DNP option
The University of Massachusetts-Lowell has a Fast Track Program for post-BSN students who have matriculated into a Master of Science program at the university. Through this option, taught by the Solomont School of Nursing, students may apply six graduate-level credits to both MS and DNP. The first half of the program requires 42 credit hours and covers foundations of nursing, specialty theory, pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, health assessments, and more. There are 33 credit hours of DNP work. Students must pass the APRN certification exam and get their APRN license in order to meet DNP graduation requirements. Average program completion time is under five years, with some terms having light course loads. Applicants must be accepted into the UMass Lowell's MS Nursing program and hold a 3.5 GPA. They will also submit proof of work experience, two letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and resume. Finalists will be interviewed.
BSN to DNP Programs in Michigan
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, Michigan
Accreditation: CCNE
Post BSN - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)BSN to DNP option
The Kirkhof College of Nursing at Grand Valley State University crafted a DNP curriculum made to facilitate the transformation of our health care system through collaboration, advocacy, patient-centered care, and quality initiatives. Students select an emphasis area in Health Systems Leadership or Advanced Nursing Practice in Child or Adults. The program requires 75 to 77 credit hours plus 1,035 clinic hours. Students will master topics like applied statistics, use of informatics, evidence-based practice, health care system policy, and issues among vulnerable populations. With a combination of clinical, organizational, economic, and leadership skills, graduates can participate in health care reform as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and educators. Classes are mainly taught at the Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences in Grand Rapids. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and ranked No. 112 (tie) for U.S. News & World Report's 2020 Best Nursing Schools: DNP.
Madonna University
Livonia, Michigan
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP students at Madonna University can select from four concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, or a dual track in Adult Gerontology Acute Care and Family Nurse Practitioner. All programs use a combination of hybrid, online, and on-campus coursework. The degree requires 70 to 74 credits, depending upon the concentration, and hands-on direct care hours. Madonna University awards an MSN to students after they complete the necessary work for the master's. That allows students to take the certification exam for their specialty before they complete the DNP. The program uses a course-based approach to the required DNP project. To that end, candidates enroll in classes where they develop their clinical inquiry plan, implement it, evaluate the results, and disseminate the project. They also create a plan to sustain the project by using leadership skills to influence health care quality.
Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Michigan State University offers three Nurse Practitioner concentrations and a nurse anesthesia concentration in its BSN to DNP programs. The NP concentrations are Adult-Gerontological Primary Care, Family NP, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, which has options in primary or acute care. All of these programs are delivered in a hybrid format that combines online classes with in-person coursework. Typically, NP students must come to the East Lansing campus four or five times each semester. Clinical practicums may be based in the student's home community. The nurse anesthesia DNP prepares graduates to take the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists exam, and the most recent cohort had a 100% pass rate on the exam. Applicants to the nurse anesthesia program must have at least one year of full-time experience in a high acuity ICU, and only 20 students are admitted into the full-time, 36-month program each year.
Northern Michigan University
Marquette, Michigan
Accreditation: CCNE
Northern Michigan University's has a Doctor of Nursing Practice program for BSN nurses that is considered a low-residency degree. Classes use an online format, although students must make occasional trips to the campus in Marquette, Michigan. The program is designed for part-time students who want to prepare for a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner, treating patients of all ages. Nurses enter the program in August and complete 78 credits over five years. At the end of the third year, students in the BSN to DNP track receive a Master of Science in Nursing. Courses cover topics such as foundations for evidence-based practice, leadership for quality improvement, health policy, and informatics. The curriculum also includes 1,000 hours of supervised clinical practice. Students can complete the clinical hours in their community while working with an approved preceptor.
Oakland University
Rochester Hills, Michigan
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-Bachelor's Doctor of Nursing Practice - Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Oakland University and the Beaumont Health System are partners for the university's Doctor of Nursing Practice-Nurse Anesthesia program. The university and health system work together to educate nurses so that they qualify as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. Nurses with a BSN complete 36 months of full-time study to earn the DNP and prepare for the CRNA exam. Coursework in this program covers advanced practice nursing, the DNP core, and nurse anesthesia specialty courses. In all, students complete 87 credits and more than 2,000 clinical hours. The clinical hours must include at least 600 cases in all specialty areas, as CRNAs must be able to provide anesthesia care across the lifespan at all levels of acuity. Students begin clinical internships at the end of the first year. The primary site for practicums is the Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan. Students may also work rotations throughout Michigan, Wisconsin, and Ohio.
Saginaw Valley State University
University Center, Michigan
Accreditation: CCNE
Saginaw Valley offers a 79-credit hour BSN to DNP requiring 1,020 clinical hours. Made for nursing with existing patient care experience, the program requires a strong interest in primary care practice and a solid foundational background in chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. Core classes include topics such as healthcare policy and funding, leadership and ethics, informatics, quality improvement, pathophysiology, pharmacology, epidemiology, and more. Clinical practicum and a final 300-practice hour DNP research project complete requirements. Students have a maximum of seven years to finish and must maintain a B in all classes. Applicants to Saginaw need at least a 3.3 GPA on all undergraduate nursing and prerequisite courses and must also be working in Michigan as an RN by the time they begin the DNP program. Graduates are ready to sit for their FNP national certification exams. SVSU's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
University of Detroit Mercy
Detroit, Michigan
Accreditation: COA
The University of Detroit Mercy notes that nurses who complete the school's graduate nursing degrees have a 100% employment rate. Graduates of the McAuley School of Nursing have also received a 100% pass rate on certification exams for some advanced practice nurse specialties. Four of the BSN to DNP programs are offered in an all-online option. Those are Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, Clinical Nurse Leader, Health Systems Management, and Nursing Education. In some cases - such as the nursing education and CNL programs - nurses can choose to exit the program when they have completed the work required to receive the Master of Science in Nursing. Other specialties offered by the McAuley School, including the nurse anesthesia program, have some online components but are largely on-campus programs. Most of the DNP specialties have full-time and part-time study options.
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Acute Care Pediatric Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Nurse-MidwiferyBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Primary Care Pediatric Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
DNP students at the University of Michigan can choose from a broad range of advanced practice specialties. Additionally, the university allows nurses to combine midwifery with some specialty programs so that nurses can specialize in nurse-midwifery along with Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner or Family Nurse Practitioner. Other available specialties include Adult-Gerontology NP (acute or primary care), Pediatric NP (acute or primary), and stand-alone nurse-midwifery or FNP. BSN-DNP students can follow a three-year or four-year plan, and web-blended classes provide maximum flexibility for working nurses. The School of Nursing staff also takes care of clinical placements, allowing students to concentrate on their studies rather than locating preceptors. With a network of more than 600 clinical partner sites, the staff can place students in a practicum that matches their interests, from small rural clinics to large health systems. Placements are available in Michigan and around the United States.
University of Michigan-Flint
Flint, Michigan
Accreditation: CCNE
The BSN to DNP program at the University of Michigan-Flint offers a part-time option that suits the needs of working RNs and new graduates. Students who want to complete the program at a faster pace can follow a full-time course of study. Four Nurse Practitioner concentrations are available: adult-gerontology (acute care or primary care), family, and psychiatric mental health. Requirements vary depending upon the concentration, but all DNP students complete 54 credits in core classes. Core subjects include advanced practice pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment; health care economics; transcultural care; and research classes. All students complete a DNP research project, and UM-Flint students can use the resources of the UM campuses in Dearborn and Ann Arbor if needed. As part of the NP emphasis, students complete practicum experiences supervised by experienced professionals. Applicants should have a 3.2 GPA on their BSN and at least a year of RN experience.
Wayne State University
Detroit, Michigan
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNPBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)BSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)BSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care (PNP-AC)BSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care (PNP-PC)BSN to DNP option
Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia (DNAP)BSN to DNP option
Nurses who want to focus on providing care to urban populations can gain those skills through the BNS to DNP program at Wayne State University. BSN-qualified nurses can prepare for certification in nurse-midwifery or in one of these Nurse Practitioner specialties: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, AG Primary Care, Family, Neonatal, Pediatric Acute Care, Pediatric Primary Care, or Psychiatric-Mental Health. Each of these specialties requires students to complete 78 credits, which are divided into the DNP core, research and statistics, clinical sequence, and DNP project practicum courses. The DNP core and research classes are the same for students in any specialty. Applicants must have a BSN, but the College of Nursing doesn't specify a target GPA. Applicants must have a valid RN license and obtain a Michigan nursing license by the end of the second semester. GRE scores are optional, and applicants complete an on-site writing sample while at their interview.
BSN to DNP Programs in Minnesota
Augsburg University
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Accreditation: CCNE
Augsburg's Post-BSN Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP) track prepares nurses for leadership and integrative primary care of patients from a range of cultures and within a variety of settings. Graduates will be ready to become certified as FNPs through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The curriculum includes 84 semester credit hours (56 didactic credit hours, 4 seminar credits, and 24 clinical credits). Students must complete 1080 practicum hours, including 405 practica hours for DNP and 675 clinical hours. Augsburg's Department of Nursing partners with the Center for Global Education and Experience to conduct immersions in Guatemala, Mexico, Namibia, and England. Admissions requirements include holding a BSN or BAN with a minimum 3.0 GPA, or a master's in nursing with a minimum 3.2 GPA; proof of Registered Nurse licensure; up to five years of clinical practice; a background check; and screenings for unsuitable conditions.
Mayo School of Health Sciences
Rochester, Minnesota
Accreditation: CANAEP
Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia PracticeBSN to DNP option
The Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program at the Mayo Clinic trains RNs with a BSN for the role of a nurse anesthetist. The program meets at the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences in Rochester, Minnesota, and takes 42 months to complete. Didactic classes cover topics such as evidence-based practice, leadership, ethics, and informatics. Students must complete 86 didactic credits, including a capstone research project. Students also complete 30 clinical credits in a variety of hands-on experiences. In the final year, candidates complete a 10-week clinical rotation in regional and community-based clinics, mostly in sites that are part of the Mayo Clinic Health System. The program subsidizes travel costs and provides housing during these rotations. The program accepts up to 26 students per annual cohort and boasts a 100% pass rate on the certification exam. Additionally, all graduates have jobs within six months, according to data from the college.
Metropolitan State University
Saint Paul, Minnesota
BSN to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
The Metropolitan State University in Saint Paul, Minnesota, offers an 80-credit hour BSN to DNP path through its College of Nursing and Health Sciences. The program runs nine semesters and is currently full-time only. A minimum of 1,000 hours of clinical practicum is needed. Coursework is built around American Association of Colleges of Nursing Essentials of Doctoral Education and associated standards. Students will complete several pre-practicum requirements prior to clinical training placement, will finish a scholarship project, and must earn a B- or greater in all classes. To apply, students submit transcripts (with at least a 3.0 GPA, plus an upper-level statistics course), proof of 2,080 hours of RN work experience gained through one or more positions, two references, a 1,500-word essay, and a copy of the student's unencumbered RN license. Metro State's DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Minnesota State University-Mankato
Mankato, Minnesota
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Minnesota State Mankato was founded in1868 but didn't begin conferring doctorate degrees until 2009. Today its College of Allied Health and Nursing offers an 80-credit hour BSN to DNP that is family-focused and utilizes modern simulation environments to enhance learning. The program requires 1,050 clinical hours and was created using American Association of Colleges of Nursing Essentials of Doctoral Education. Didactic and clinical coursework will incorporate applied research experiences with faculty, including hours spent at the Maverick Family Simulation Center. Research and practice will culminate in a 12-credit final project which must be orally defended. Grad students have an opportunity to apply as teaching or research assistants with the school, to gain extra experience, tuition benefits, and a financial stipend. Minnesota State Mankato applicants should possess a 3.0 GPA on their undergraduate studies, as well as a current RN license and a year of applicable work background.
St Catherine University
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Accreditation: ACEN
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)BSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)BSN to DNP option
St. Catherine University awards both a Master of Science in Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice to students who complete the BSN to DNP program. The program prepares nurses for an advanced practice role providing primary care to pediatric or adult clients by offering tracks in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontological NP. The program is informed by St. Catherine's mission of social justice and emphasizes providing care to vulnerable populations in rural and urban locations. Classes primarily meet on weekdays, with some online or weekend classes required. Students enter the program in the summer and can complete the 74 credits in three years. After finishing the courses and clinical experiences needed for the MSN, which takes about 18 months, students can take the certification exam in their specialty area. The three-year average pass rate is 100% on the PNP certification exam and 96% on the AGNP exam.
The College of Saint Scholastica
Duluth, Minnesota
The College of Saint Scholastica features three BSN to DNP specialties: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP, Family NP, and Psychiatric and Mental Health NP (PMHNP). Students can elect to take extra "dual track" classes to add an optional gerontology focus. The program is offered at both the Duluth and St. Cloud campuses. Credit hours range from 79 to 83, depending on track. Designed for working students, degree requirements can all be finished in four years, but the program still requires ample study time. Coursework and practicum hours cover topics on organizational leadership, quality improvement, clinical scholarship, information systems and technology, team collaboration, population health, and other related areas. Saint Scholastica's DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. PMHNP track applicants require prior related work experience. A year of experience is preferred but not mandatory for other applicants. For full admission, a current RN license is needed.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult Health/Gerontological Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
Adult Health/Gerontological Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Health Innovation and LeadershipBSN to DNP option
Integrative Health and HealingBSN to DNP option
Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Nurse MidwiferyBSN to DNP option
Nursing InformaticsBSN to DNP option
Pediatric Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
Pediatric Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Women's Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
With 12 practice specialties available, the University of Minnesota offers BSN-prepared nurses many DNP options. Students can select from advanced practice specialties including Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Practitioner, nurse anesthesia, midwifery, integrative health, and informatics. The integrative health and healing DNP program is the first of its kind in the U.S. Some specialty classes - such as health coaching, self-care, and functional nutrition - are offered through the university's Center for Spirituality and Healing. The BSN to DNP is a three-year, full-time program. The curriculum varies by specialty, but all students must complete at least 1,000 clinical hours and a scholarly project. Applicants should have a BSN or an entry-level MSN with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants must have an active nursing license. Different concentrations have different experience requirements, but by the time they begin practicums, most students need at least a year of relevant experience.
Winona State University
Winona, Minnesota
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses can choose from six specialties in the BSN to DNP program at Winona State University. Options are Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP; Adult-Gerontology CNS; Family Nurse Practitioner; nursing leadership with tracks in nursing and organizational leadership or practice and leadership innovation; or Psychiatric-Mental Health NP. The number of credits and clinical hours varies by specialty. For instance, the AGACNP requires 74 credits and 1,260 clinical hours, while the nursing leadership/innovation focus requires 72 credits and 1,020 clinical hours. All students complete a DNP practice project to develop expertise in clinical practice and to gain experience in enhancing the quality of care. BSN to DNP students complete the project in small groups. Applicants must have a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, although students with a lower GPA may gain provisional admittance. A year of clinical experience is preferred, and AGACNP applicants should have a year of critical care experience.
BSN to DNP Programs in Mississippi
Delta State University
Cleveland, Mississippi
Accreditation: CCNE
Delta State University's Robert E. Smith School of Nursing has many routes for potential DNP students: the RN-DNP, for those with an associate's, BSN-DNP, Post-Master's Non-Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Post-Master's FNP-DNP. The time to complete the BSN-DNP is 3.5 years (80 credits) and will include 1,020 clinical hours, plus 420 hours for a scholarly project. Applicants will do an interview and must have a prior 3.0 GPA or higher, three reference letters, an unencumbered RN license, a GRE analytic score of 3.0 or more, and a year of clinical nursing experience. Graduates are ready to take their Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam, if needed. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Delta's DNP program features expert faculty within a range of nursing specialties who are dedicated to delivering the best educational simulation experiences in class and real-world clinical practice at local healthcare facilities.
University of Mississippi Medical Center
Jackson, Mississippi
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN-prepared nurses who want to bypass a master's degree can enter the post-baccalaureate DNP program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The School of Nursing offers five emphasis areas: nursing and health care administration or Nurse Practitioner in one of four populations (adult-gerontology primary care or acute care, family, or psychiatric mental health). BSN to DNP applicants must have a BSN with a GPA of 3.2 or higher, and they must submit GRE scores. Applicants must have an unencumbered nursing license and be eligible for licensure in Mississippi. All students planning to pursue the Nurse Practitioner curriculum must have at least a year of clinical experience as an RN before they start the program. Students who want to enter the AG acute care program must have at least a year of clinical experience in critical care or an ED. Students enter the program in the fall.
University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP in Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP in Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Nurses with a BSN can earn a DNP in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist through the University of Southern Mississippi's School of Leadership and Advanced Nursing Practice. Southern Miss is a research university, and the College of Nursing receives more than $1.9 million annually in external researching funding. Nursing faculty members are involved in more than 60 areas of research, including health disparities, quality improvement, APRN practice, and patient outcomes. The nursing school also awards nearly $800,000 annually in scholarships and other student support. BSN to DNP applicants should have a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing with a GPA of 3.0 overall. GRE scores are required. Applicants must have a Mississippi RN license and at least a year of clinical experience before they can begin clinical courses. Graduates have a 95% or higher pass rate on board exams for their specialty.
BSN to DNP Programs in Missouri
Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing
Saint Louis, Missouri
Accreditation: CCNE
The Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College has a DNP with a concentration in nurse anesthesia. This 36-month program uses a combination of online and in-person learning. Core DNP classes are delivered online. Science courses and courses in the anesthesia concentration use a face-to-face setting so that students receive hands-on instruction from experts in the field. The Goldfarb School is affiliated with the Washington University Department of Anesthesiology. The program admits up to seven students each year, and since 2013, the college has a 100% first-taime pass rate on the certification exam. The student attrition rate for the past decade is zero, and graduates have a 100% employment rate. Applicants must have Missouri licensure and at least a year of RN experience in a critical care setting. Nurses who have worked in a large hospital ICU receive priority.
Maryville University
Saint Louis, Missouri
Accreditation: CCNE
Missouri's Maryville University has expanded greatly since its origins as a private school for women back in 1872. Today it focuses on leveraging technology to make education as fast and accessible as feasible while maintaining high academic standards. Its BSN to DNP teaches a holistic curriculum with zero on-campus visits. 100% online, the degree comes in five different tracks. The Family Nurse Practitioner requires 74 credit hours and 745 clinical hours. The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP requires 580 clinical hours; Acute Care requires 830. The Pediatric (Primary Care) track is 580 clinical hours. The fifth option is Psychiatric Mental Health NP, which can be completed in 48 months. Classes are accessible 24/7. There's no requirement for GMAT or GRE scores. Clinical requirements are conducted in the student's local area. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Maryville's programs are taught by seasoned professionals in their respective specialties.
Missouri State University-Springfield
Springfield, Missouri
Accreditation: CCNE
CRNA to Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia PracticeBSN to DNP option
RN to Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia PracticeBSN to DNP option
The 79-credit hour BSN to DNP at Missouri State University - Springfield readies students for jobs as family nurse practitioners with its three-year full-time course of study. Students may attend part-time during the first year only and must be able to complete clinical hours in Missouri. To remain in good standing, students should keep a 3.0 GPA and maintain continuous enrollment after clinical practice starts. They are also evaluated throughout the DNP program for clinical competency, integrity, and professional behavior. Applicants must hold current RN licensure and BLS certification, have health insurance, be current on immunizations, and be able to pass a background check. They should have finished undergrad courses in human pathophysiology, nursing research, health assessment, informatics, and inferential statistics. Missouri State's DNP is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing. Graduate assistantship opportunities exist to help offset tuition and other expenses. Typical work commitment involves 20 hours a week.
Saint Louis University-Main Campus
Saint Louis, Missouri
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN-prepared nurses can choose from four concentrations in the BSN to DNP program offered by the Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing at Saint Louis University. The concentrations are Adult Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, and Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Coursework for all the programs is primarily online. However, students come to the campus in Saint Louis, Missouri, four times during their studies. The first required visit is a two-day orientation. During the next meeting, students prove their skills in diagnostic reasoning, clinical assessment, and therapeutic communication. The final two visits involve an orientation to doctoral-level coursework and presentation of the DNP project. Students can choose a four-year or five-year plan of study. Depending upon their area of concentration, candidates complete between 67 and 72 credits and up to 1,125 clinical hours.
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, Missouri
Accreditation: CCNE
The Post-Baccalaureate DNP program at the University of Missouri's Sinclair School of Nursing offers five areas of study for BSN to DNP students. Options include Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, nursing leadership and innovations in health care, and three Nurse Practitioner population focus areas: pediatric, family, and psychiatric-mental health. Full-time students can complete the degree in four years, and part-time students can choose a five-year or six-year plan. Depending upon emphasis area, students complete 72 to 74.5 credits and at least 1,000 supervised clinical hours. Students are responsible for acquiring their own preceptors although the school has agreements with some agencies. All candidates must complete a DNP residency project where they apply research principals to a specific practice problem, review scientific literature, design and implement an intervention, and evaluate the results. Students may enter the program in August, January, or June. BSN-prepared applicants should have a GPA of 3.3.
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Kansas City, Missouri
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses in the BSN to DNP program at the School of Nursing and Health Studies at the University of Missouri-Kansas City can choose from five emphasis areas. Four of those are Nurse Practitioner tracks: pediatric, women's health, family, or adult-gerontology primary care. The fifth emphasis is Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, which the school offers in affiliation with Truman Medical Center. The CRNA program is a full-time, 36-month program. Students in the other concentrations can select from a fast-track, full-time. or part-time plan of study. The curriculum plans for each Nurse Practitioner DNP program require 74 credits in classes and clinicals, while the CRNA degree requires 73 credits plus clinical courses. BSN to DNP applicants should have a BSN with a GPA of 3.2 or higher in their last 60 credits earned. CRNA students are also required to submit GRE scores and meet prerequisites in chemistry and organic chemistry.
University of Missouri-St Louis
Saint Louis, Missouri
Accreditation: CCNE
Students in the BSN to DNP program at the University of Missouri-St. Louis College of Nursing can select from seven specialty tracks. They can choose a track in leadership in population health and health care systems or choose from Nurse Practitioner tracks: adult/geriatric primary care, family primary care, pediatric primary or acute care, psychiatric-mental health, or women's health. This program is designed for nurses who want to improve the health care of individuals and families by using clinical research as the basis for practice. To hone those skills, students complete a clinical scholarship project during their final year in the DNP program. Applicants should have a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, and the admissions committee also looks at criteria such as essays, resumes, letters of recommendation, and professional activities to gain a holistic view of each applicant. Students may be able to complete clinical hours near their home.
Webster University
Saint Louis, Missouri
Accreditation: COA
Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia PracticeBSN to DNP option
Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP)BSN to DNP option
Nurse Anesthesia DNP students at Webster University have a variety of research opportunities to help them fulfill the research project requirement. For instance, they can work with the doctoral biological sciences faculty on laboratory bench research or partner with a clinical site to develop a research study. Students also have opportunities for professional development, such as joining professional associations and attending professional conferences. The BSN to DNP program is a full-time, 36-month program with a cohort of students starting in May. Classes are delivered in nine-week terms, with five terms each year. For the first year, students attend classes four days a week and participate in clinical simulations. They start clinical rotations in the second year. Webster has more than 20 clinical affiliations, and students are required to work at least one term in a rural location. Graduates have a 100% pass rate on the CRNA exam.
BSN to DNP Programs in Montana
Montana State University
Bozeman, Montana
Montana State University in Bozeman offers a BSN to DNP taught by faculty from its College of Nursing. The program features two specialty tracks: Family/Individual or Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Both tracks take three years to complete for full-time students. There's also a part-time option allowing for a four-year plan of study. Each track requires 1,135 total clinical hours. There is a final DNP scholarly project required, which will be supervised by a faculty member and must be defended orally. Past projects included mental health outreach initiatives and cancer support groups. To graduate, students must maintain an overall 3.0 GPA. Graduates are ready to take on advanced nursing roles within primary care settings. Applicants should have an unencumbered RN license and at least a year of applicable work experience. Montana State University's DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
BSN to DNP Programs in Nebraska
Bryan College of Health Sciences
Lincoln, Nebraska
Accreditation: COA
Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP)BSN to DNP option
Students in the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program at the Bryan College of Health Sciences get extensive hands-on training. The program's first year covers mostly didactic coursework, although there is some clinical practice. The second and third years are filled with clinical experience, including several rotations in smaller community hospitals where students get experience with regional anesthetics. Students are assigned to a 'home hospital' in Omaha, Kearney, or Lincoln, Nebraska. They also work rotations at Nebraska Medical Center. The program uses a full-time cohort model. Cohorts enter the program in May. Most classes are delivered in person, although some courses use a hybrid format that combines online learning with face-to-face lessons. Applicants must have a minimum of one year's experience in a critical care unit, such as an ICU. The program prefers that students have at least two years of critical care experience by the time they start classes.
Clarkson College
Omaha, Nebraska
Accreditation: ACEN
Nurses with a bachelor's degree can choose from several DNP options at Clarkson College. Options include BSN to DNP programs in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The DNP in Nurse Anesthesia is also open to candidates who have a BSN. The curriculum for the AGACNP or PMHNP student includes 28 credits in core classes, 39 credits in the specialty core, and at least four credits in electives, for a total requirement of 71 to 79 credits. Students must also complete clinical experiences caring for their chosen population group. Candidates also must complete a scholarly project that uses evidence to improve practice or outcomes. The nurse anesthesia DNP is a 36-month program. Students spend 20 months in the classroom phase, then perform practicum experiences for 16 months. Clinicals take place in urban and rural facilities so that nurses gain a variety of specialized experiences.
Creighton University
Omaha, Nebraska
Accreditation: CCNE
Located in Omaha, Nebraska, Creighton University's DNP promises the highest level of preparation for clinical practice. BSN to DNP options include Advanced Practice Registered Nurse tracks in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Systems Administration, a Pediatric Dual Track, and Psychiatric Mental Health. New graduates can start core classes while working on the required 2,000 hours of clinical practice. Students will become proficient in communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills to ensure they're ready for roles of increased responsibility within hospitals, schools, companies, governmental agencies, long-term care facilities, community centers, or labs. Creighton also offers options for a Master's Program of Study - DNP and a Post-Master's to DNP Clinical Systems Administration. Its DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The university is lauded by U.S. News & World Reports as the No. 63 Best Value School in America for 2020.
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
Omaha, Nebraska
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse SpecialistOnlineBSN to DNP option
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Nebraska Methodist College, an affiliate of the Methodist Health System, offers three BSN to DNP options: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, and Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. Each requires 75 credit hours plus 1,080 clinical hours working with an approved preceptor. Full-time students may complete program requirements in three years, while part-time students can take up to five. The rigorous DNP curriculum includes role development, healthcare finance and policy, informatics, leadership, nursing theory, plus residency and an eight-credit capstone taken over a span of four courses. Graduates will be ready to sit for their applicable certification exams. Taught by highly credentialed faculty and instructors, the program emphasizes the diagnosing and treatment of patients over the course of their lifetimes, in a range of healthcare environments. Nebraska Methodist is a private institution founded in Omaha in 1891 and was authorized to confer DNP degrees in 2013.
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, Nebraska
Adult-Gero Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Adult-Gero Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Nurse Leader/AdministratorBSN to DNP option
Pediatric Primary & Acute Care (Dual) NPBSN to DNP option
Pediatric Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Women's Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
RNs who want to gain clinical expertise or improve their knowledge and skills in areas such as quality improvement, patient safety, and health systems change may be interested in the BSN to DNP program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Students can select from seven Nurse Practitioner specialties or a track in nurse leader/executive. Options for NP preparation include adult-gerontology (primary care or acute care options), family, pediatric primary care (or dual primary and acute pediatric care), women's health, and psychiatric mental health. Bachelor-prepared nurses can complete the program in three or four years, depending upon whether they attend on a full-time or part-time basis. They must complete all requirements for the program within seven years. Applicants must have a BSN with a 3.0 GPA and are only allowed to apply to one program specialty. DNP students may select local options for their clinical work.
BSN to DNP Programs in Nevada
University of Nevada-Reno
Reno, Nevada
Accreditation: CCNE
The University of Nevada, Reno, has three concentration tracks in the BSN to DNP program: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Classes are primarily online, but students must attend a two-day on-campus orientation at the start. Each semester, students have to come to Reno for one to three days of immersion events, and they are also required to visit campus twice for their scholarly project. The degree requires 72 to 76 credits, depending on the specialty track. Admission requirements vary based on the concentration. Students who want to enter the AGACNP program must have at least three years of medical-surgical experience or two years of critical care experience. Those who wish to join the FNP program should have at least a year of professional clinical experience. There are no experience requirements for the PMHNP program.
BSN to DNP Programs in New Hampshire
Rivier University
Nashua, New Hampshire
Accreditation: ACEN
Rivier University has a BSN to DNP in system leadership that requires applicants to have a BSN and a master's degree in a field outside nursing. Students in the Systems Leadership Bridge Track take 15 required core courses from the university's nursing and business departments. Nursing classes cover topics such as health research methods, evidence-based leadership, and quality improvement. In the business classes, nurses learn about areas such as health care finance and administration, information systems, and crisis management. Students are also required to complete 1,000 clinical hours and to produce a DNP scholarly project where they create an evidence-based plan that results in improved patient safety or outcomes in a complex health care system. The degree requires 61 to 69 credits. Classes are delivered online and students must attend four face-to-face sessions in Nashua, New Hampshire. Full-time students can complete the track in 15 semesters, or five years.
BSN to DNP Programs in New Jersey
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Madison, New Jersey
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-Baccalaureate MSN-DNP: Adult Gerontology Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate MSN-DNP: Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate MSN-DNP: Nurse EducatorBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate MSN-DNP: Nursing AdministrationBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate MSN-DNP: Nursing Information SystemsBSN to DNP option
Pre-Baccalaureate ABSN-DNP: GerontologyBSN to DNP option
New Jersey's private Fairleigh Dickinson University has a new, accelerated DNP program using the executive educational model to educate nurses for high level clinical expertise. With a focus on Gerontology, the curriculum covers diagnostic and treatment competencies, health promotion, disease prevention, and health education. In total the program is 58 credits and 1065 clinical hours, with a 24-credit DNP core covering research and evidence-based practice methodologies. There are 12 credits worth of specialty coursework including an immersive residency under the mentorship of a doctorally-prepared preceptor, and a capstone with oral defense. At various points, students will obtain liability insurance and undergo a clinical clearance process with physical exam, drug test, and background check. Graduates may work at executives, clinicians, educators, and policy makers within inpatient or outpatient environments, schools, or regulatory institutions. FDU ties at No. 137 for Best Nursing Schools: DNP, per U.S. News & World Report.
Rutgers University
Camden, New Jersey
Accreditation: CCNE
Post Baccalaureate DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post Baccalaureate DNP - Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Post Baccalaureate DNP - Nurse MidwiferyBSN to DNP option
Post Baccalaureate DNP - Pediatric Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post Baccalaureate DNP - Women's Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post Baccalaureate DNP -Leadership - ManagementBSN to DNP option
Rutgers University's School of Nursing is a global leader in education, with 11 rigorous BSN to DNP specialties to choose from. Most allow an option to add a six-credit HIV Care certification. The tracks are Adult-Gerontology Acute or Primary Care NP, Family NP (or NP in Emergency Care), Pediatric NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health, Leadership, Nurse Anesthesia, Women's Health NP, Nurse Midwifery, and Dual Women's Health Nurse Practitioner/Nurse Midwifery. Most tracks require between 62 and 74 credit hours and up to a total of 1,220 clinical/mentored hours (500 devoted to a final project). Most of the programs can be done full- or part-time, and usually take between three and four years to complete. Some specialties, such as Family NP in Emergency Care, Midwifery, and Anesthesia require additional credits and clinical hours. Rutgers is ranked No. 19 for 2020 by U.S. News & World Report for Best Nursing Schools: DNP.
Stockton University
Galloway, New Jersey
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-BSN DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)BSN to DNP option
Nurses who want to become a Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner can prepare for those roles in Stockton University's BSN to DNP program. The FNP requires 77 credits, and the AGPCNP requires 74 credits. Stockton allows students to attend on a part-time or full-time schedule. The part-time plan of study takes 13 semesters, and the full-time program requires 11 semesters. One reason for the length of time is that candidates must complete more than 1,000 clinical hours to meet the certification standards to be an FNP or AGPCNP. Graduates are eligible to take the certification exam. The program uses a hybrid format with online components to make it easier for working nurses to pursue an advanced degree. In their final semesters, students perform a DNP practice immersion and work on their DNP project. Candidates propose a practice-improvement project, implement it, and evaluate it.
BSN to DNP Programs in New Mexico
New Mexico State University-Main Campus
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN-prepared nurses can choose from two specialty tracks in the BSN to DNP program at New Mexico State University. The options are Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health NP. Graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam for their specialty. Classes are asynchronous, but instructors may require scheduled virtual chats when students must be online at a set time. While courses are delivered online, students are required to attend a two-day orientation at the Las Cruces, New Mexico, campus during the first week of classes in the fall semester of their first year. BSN-DNP students must return to campus for a weeklong clinical boot camp the summer of their third year to prepare for the NP specialty classes. Students are required to complete more than 1,000 clinical hours in this program, and they are required to locate a preceptor and clinical site where they can complete these hours.
BSN to DNP Programs in New York
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, New York
Accreditation: AACN
BSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)BSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - MidwiferyBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PNP)BSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMH)BSN to DNP option
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)BSN to DNP option
Columbia's School of Nursing DNP comes in many specialties: Adult-Gerontology Acute or Primary Care, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse-Midwifery, Pediatric Primary Care, or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The curriculum helps students gain deep knowledge of biophysical, psychosocial, behavioral and clinical sciences and be able to conduct complex diagnostic and treatment modalities using informatics and decision-making technology. To graduate, students must complete residency and a portfolio, and prove their expertise in comprehensive patient care across multiple conditions. The BSN to DNP program is three years long, with the first five semesters including practice coursework and clinical rotations. Final semesters are in a cohort model and feature a supervised, two-semester residency. Residency may be in the New York metropolitan area, but that is not guaranteed. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses can complete their DNP within two years. Students may be able to work part-time, and residency students are encouraged to apply for pay.
CUNY College of Staten Island
Staten Island, New York
Accreditation: AACN
Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult Gerontology Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Nurses who want to specialize in treating adult and gerontology patients can choose from two Doctor of Nursing Practice programs offered at the CUNY College of Staten Island. Nurses with a BSN can earn a DNP in Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner or Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. Graduates are prepared for a leadership role, a direct care role, or for careers in fields such as public health or health care policy. The DNP program uses a cohort format with students attending courses in the evening every semester, including summers. As a culminating activity, all candidates must complete a scholarly inquiry that requires them to analyze a clinical or organizational issue and find solutions. As a final step, they must prepare a manuscript of publishable quality. Students enter this program in September.
CUNY Hunter College
New York, New York
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)BSN to DNP option
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)BSN to DNP option
The Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing at the City University of New York (CUNY) is home to two DNP programs training nurses to serve diverse urban populations using evidence-based advanced services. It's open to nurses with a bachelor's (or master's) in nursing and can be done full- or part-time. The major tracks are Adult/Gerontological (AGNP) and Psychiatric/Mental Health DNP. For BSN to DNP students, both feature a core curriculum of 63 credits in science, economics, policy, translational research, and leadership, plus 27 credits in the specialization. There is a 1,000 supervised clinical hour requirement. Graduates are eligible for New York State NP certification and for American Nurses Credentialing Center certification. AGNP grads are ready for certification by the American Academy of NP Certification Board. Applicants should hold a minimum GPA of 3.5 and a New York State RN license with current registration, among other criteria.
New York University
New York, New York
Accreditation: CCNE
The Rory Meyers College of Nursing at New York University was founded in 1932 and is recognized by the National League for Nursing as a Center of Excellence. BSN to DNP students can select from degree focuses in Adult Gerontology Acute or Primary Care NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, and Pediatric NP. Students take advanced practice nursing, DNP, and leadership courses to prepare for placement in clinical settings. There they will work with a team to develop the necessary research and practice skills needed to affect meaningful change in the healthcare system. Classes focus on clinical expertise in areas such as gerontology, disease prevention, global public health, quality improvement, and more. The curriculum is continuously revised by the school's Graduate Workshop to ensure the most up-to-date information is being taught. The DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and readies graduates for New York State licensure.
Saint John Fisher College
Rochester, New York
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Post-BaccalaureateBSN to DNP option
Post-Baccalaureate to DNP - Primary Care Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Saint John Fisher's Wegmans School of Nursing offers both full-time and part-time opportunities in several BSN to DNP tracks: a 62-credit hour Adult/Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist track, a 65-credit hour Primary Care Family NP, Adult/Gerontology Primary Care NP or Adult/Gerontology Acute Care NP tracks, or a 72-credit Psychiatric Mental Health NP track. Each track takes three years if attending full-time students. The 31-credit Scholarship Core includes topics like healthcare policy, law, biostatics, epidemiology, leadership, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and more. There're also DNP, Direct Care, and Functional Role core requirements. To graduate, students must maintain an overall 3.0 GPA and complete 1,000 total clinical hours and final DNP scholarly project. Applicants must have a New York RN license. Graduates will be eligible for working as a nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist. Fisher's BSN to DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing.
SUNY Downstate Medical Center
Brooklyn, New York
Accreditation: CCNE
Advanced Standing DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Advanced Standing DNP - Nurse MidwifeBSN to DNP option
Advanced Standing DNP - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)BSN to DNP option
BS to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BS to DNP - Nurse MidwifeBSN to DNP option
BS to DNP - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)BSN to DNP option
SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University uses a hybrid format for its BSN to DNP program. In addition to online coursework, students attend monthly seminars onsite at the school in Brooklyn, where they develop leadership skills, network with fellow students, and complete competency assessments and enrichment activities. The post-baccalaureate program uses a cohort format where a group of students advances together through the 75-credit, seven-term degree program. RNs can choose from three specialties when they begin their DNP studies: Family Nurse Practitioner, nurse-midwife, or Women's Health Nurse Practitioner. SUNY Downstate's mission is to prepare nurses who can improve patient care and the health of populations while reducing the cost of health care. Students gain skills in evidence-based practice, leadership, and using information technology and analytics to improve practice.
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, New York
Accreditation: CCNE
University at Buffalo has four rigorous BSN to DNPs: the 82-credit hour Adult/Gerontology Primary Care NP, 94-credit hour Psychiatric/Mental Health NP, 97-credit hour Family NP, and 124-credit hour Nurse Anesthetist option. With its health assessment lab, Patient Simulation Center, and Center for Nursing Research, the school provides students with ample access to modern training facilities. Applicants need a BSN with a 3.0 GPA or higher, RN license, a year of work experience, and ICU experience for Nurse Anesthesia. They'll also submit transcripts, GRE or MAT scores, a resume, personal statement, three reference letters, and copies of applicable certifications. The average GMAT score for admitted students is 151 for Verbal/150 for Quantitative. Average MAT score is 410. UB is the proud home of several vibrant student nursing organizations, including Gamma Kappa Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International, the Multicultural Nursing Student Association, and the Graduate Nurse Organization.
University of Rochester
Rochester, New York
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-BS to DNP - Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP)OnlineBSN to DNP option
Post-BS to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (PNP/NNP)OnlineBSN to DNP option
Students earning a DNP at the University of Rochester School of Nursing can build close relationships with professionals throughout the University of Rochester's hospital and physician network. As students, nurses can find mentors among these professionals, and after graduation, that network could help their career. The School of Nursing has a pathway to the DNP for BSN-prepared nurses. BSN to DNP students can choose a specialty track in Clinical Nurse Leader or in one of six Nurse Practitioner specialties. The time to graduation varies depending upon the specialty, and students may enter the program in September, January, or May. Applicants should have at least a year of clinical experience, and applicants who want to pursue the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner specialty should have two years of NICU experience. Applicants with a BSN should have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and must submit a writing sample and three letters of reference.
BSN to DNP Programs in North Carolina
Duke University
Durham, North Carolina
Accreditation: CCNE
The Duke University School of Nursing in Durham, North Carolina, is home to two BSN to DNP paths: Nurse practitioner or Nurse anesthesia. Both require a minimum of 74 credits. Students are able to continue working and can conduct their final project where they work. Duke's program employs experienced faculty who are leaders in advanced clinical practice. They're looking for DNP candidates who hold a 3.0 or better GPA, possess strong leadership skills, and have made an impact in nursing practice. Applicants should have a current RN license. The school maintains a global perspective and is devoted to diversity. It's also home to a Center for Nursing Research which focuses on clinical innovation, population health and chronic illness, precision health, and methods and analytics. Duke graduates will be fully prepared to take on high-level roles as nurse leaders in interdisciplinary teams who strive to improve patient care and outcomes.
East Carolina University
Greenville, North Carolina
Accreditation: COA
East Carolina University's DNP faculty place great attention on teaching practice, scholarship, and dedication to service for rural, underserved areas. The 63-semester hour BSN to DNP path for Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP requires 720 clinical practice hours. The Family Nurse Practitioner path is 70 semester hours plus 840 clinical practice hours in primary care settings. Both tracks allow for course electives and require a four-semester project which will be closely mentored. ECU students will work with teams in a range of settings and have access to an interprofessional curriculum utilizing the most modern technology and simulation laboratories. The school helps place students with appropriate clinical sites. Applicants must be active registered nurses in North Carolina or a compact state. Clinical rotations are done in-state. ECU's DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and meet licensure/certification requirements in North Carolina. Other states have different requirements.
Gardner-Webb University
Boiling Springs, North Carolina
Accreditation: ACEN
Gardner-Webb University has two BSN to DNP tracks: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family NP. Both programs use a blended format. Most coursework is online, but students must come to the campus in Boiling Springs, North Carolina, for intensives. The FNP is a 79-credit program, and the PMHNP is an 81-credit program. Students can select a full-time or part-time plan of study with either track. Full-time students can complete the degree in eight semesters. Students complete the clinical requirements for the degree near their home, and the Hunt School of Nursing has a clinical site specialist who helps students locate practicum placements. To apply, nurses must have two years of active RN experience within the last three years. PMHNP graduates can find careers in private mental health practice, community-based care settings, and in-patient mental health facilities. FNPs provide primary care in clinics, community-based health centers, and other settings.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Primary CareBSN to DNP option
Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care - OncologyBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Health Care Systems - InformaticsBSN to DNP option
Health Care Systems - Outcomes ManagementBSN to DNP option
Psych Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN-prepared nurses who are willing to commit to three years of full-time study may be eligible for the BSN to DNP program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The program requires 66 to 75 credits and at least 1,000 practice hours. Students also complete a scholarly project. Carolina Nursing divides the DNP options into two areas - leadership and advanced practice areas., The Health Care Leadership and Administration program, with the first class entering in 2020, prepares nurses for leadership positions in health care delivery organizations. Students can specialize in informatics, administration, or outcomes management. Students in the advanced practice track can choose to become a Nurse Practitioner in areas including adult-gerontology primary care (or AGPC with an oncology focus), family, pediatric primary care, or psychiatric mental health. Applicants must have at least one year of professional clinical experience, with each track having specific requirements about the setting or responsibilities.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP in Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
At the University of North Carolina Charlotte, the BSN to DNP program has a Nurse Anesthesia focus. Graduates have the theoretical knowledge and clinical practice needed to take the national exam to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. This on-campus program requires full-time attendance for nine semesters, starting in the summer semester. The curriculum includes 89 credits and more than 2,000 clinical practice hours. UNC Charlotte partners with the Carolinas Medical Center for the program, with clinical experiences at Atrium Health facilities located around Charlotte. Students gain hands-on experience by working a range of surgical and diagnostic procedures. Additionally, all DNP candidates are required to complete a scholarly project in which they address a practice issue using tools such as informatics, technology, evidence-based practice, and their knowledge of clinical science. During the project, candidates must lead an interdisciplinary team to improve outcomes.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, North Carolina
The BSN to DNP program at the University of North Carolina Greensboro has a focus on preparing nurses to meet the challenges the health care delivery system is facing. That includes using evidence to create excellence in clinical practice. The program has two concentrations: Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner or nurse anesthesia. The AGPCNP prepares nurses to work in settings such as primary care offices, health systems, academic teaching, or clinical leadership. The degree requires 73 credits, and students can complete the program in eight semesters. Students enter the program in the fall, and by the second semester, they begin their clinical rotations. The nurse anesthesia concentration is a three-year program that requires 107 credits. Graduates have a 100% pass rate on the nurse anesthetist certification exam. Applicants for either concentration should have a 3.2 or higher GPA on their BSN and must submit GRE or MAT scores.
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, North Carolina
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Nurses who want to provide primary care or mental health care across the lifespan can qualify for certification in one of those fields after completing the BSN to DNP program at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington. The available concentrations are Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Both programs are on-campus degrees that accept full-time and part-time students. Each degree requires 70 credits, and students can earn a DNP in as few as eight semesters. DNP candidates are required to complete a scholarly project, and at UNC Wilmington, students take classes where they focus on developing the project proposal, implementing it, and evaluating their findings. While on campus, students can join in a variety of campus organizations specifically for student nurses, ranging from the Nurses Christian Fellowship and the American Assembly for Men in Nursing to the Association of Self Care for Future Health Professionals.
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, North Carolina
Accreditation: COA
Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Western Carolina University's BSN to DNP program in nurse anesthesia admits a small cohort of about 15 students each year in May. Students complete 86 credits and handle an average of more than 900 anesthesia cases in diverse clinical experiences. Students may work clinical rotations in regional sites such as Asheville Surgery Center, Blue Ridge Regional Hospital, and Norton Children's Hospital. There are also two clinical sites where CRNAs are the only anesthesia providers. Students begin clinical practicum experiences in their third semester. All that experience pays off when graduates take the national CRNA certification exam. Western Carolina grads have a 100% pass rate dating back to 2009. All graduates have found work within six months over the last decade, too. The curriculum includes five courses dedicated to producing the required scholarly project, which ensures students meet the necessary milestones while they prepare their DNP project.
Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
The BSN to DNP program at Winston-Salem State University prepares graduates for certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Full-time students can complete the DNP in three years, including two summers. Students may also choose a part-time program of study for the 81-credit degree. Practicum experiences include primary health care of women, children, and adults and older adults. DNP classes also prepare graduates to turn evidence into practice and to improve patient care and outcomes. To that end, the capstone project focuses on practice improvements. Applicants must have a BSN from an accredited school with a GPA of 3.2 or higher on all BSN courses completed and on the last 60 credits earned. GRE or MAT scores are also required. Applicants must have an active North Carolina nursing license, and the program prefers individuals with at least a year of nursing experience in a clinical setting.
BSN to DNP Programs in North Dakota
North Dakota State University-Main Campus
Fargo, North Dakota
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
North Dakota State University's School of Nursing features an eight-semester Family Nurse Practitioner BSN to DNP offered at their Fargo and Bismarck locations. The program is practice-focused and teaches evidence-based approaches. Coursework includes core courses in theoretical perspectives, ethics, policy, research, healthcare delivery, and specialty courses. Students complete 1,000+ hours of clinical practice. The curriculum was informed by the Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Practice Nursing and other nursing standards. NDSU requires students to complete a scholarly dissertation with mentorship from assigned faculty. To graduate, students must maintain an overall 3.0 GPA. Applicants should submit proof of their RN license and bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA or better, three professional references, and a narrative essay, and must be able to pass a background and health status check. NDSU's DNP program is ranked No. 84 (tie) in Best Nursing Schools by U.S. News & World Report.
University of Mary
Bismarck, North Dakota
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses with a BSN can bypass a master's degree and go straight to a Doctor of Nursing Practice in less than three years at the University of Mary. The accelerated degree prepares students for certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Graduates can also find careers in nursing education, public health, health policy, or clinical leadership. Most coursework for the degree is delivered online, although students must come to the campus in Bismarck, North Dakota, for week-long intensives. Intensives meet at the start of some semesters and just before a student graduates. The curriculum requires 86 credits and nearly 1,200 clinical hours, and full-time students can finish all requirements in eight semesters. Students may be able to complete clinical experiences near their home community. Courses also cover topics such as nursing leadership, clinical decision making, and health care law. Candidates complete a scholarly project toward the end of the program.
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurse anesthesia students at the University of North Dakota take on-campus and online classes during the BSN to DNP program. They also complete clinical experiences in North Dakota and Minnesota. The degree requires 97 credits, with students starting the program in late August. Students can take up to nine credits in non-anesthesia core courses before scheduled classes begin to lessen the course load over the 36 months of the program. Along with classes and clinical hours, all candidates must complete a DNP project, including a project paper, oral presentation and defense of the project, and a manuscript for publication or presentation. The program accepts about 15 students a year. The five-year average overall pass rate on the CRNA exam is 100 percent, and nearly all graduates have a job within six months of completing the program. Attrition is rare, with only one student leaving in the last five cohorts.
BSN to DNP Programs in Ohio
Ashland University
Ashland, Ohio
Accreditation: CCNE
Ashland University has two online BSN to DNP options: health systems leadership or Family Nurse Practitioner. The leadership track is a 57-credit program with a focus on preparing nurses for leadership and management roles. In this track, students also take courses from the College of Business and Economics. Students can complete this degree in about three years. The FNP is a 77-credit program that prepares advanced practice nurses to provide care for families and individuals across the lifespan in settings ranging from private practice to health care agencies. Students can complete the FNP program in as few as four years. Coursework for both degrees is offered online in an asynchronous format so that students can fit classes into their busy lives. Students can complete the required practicum at a health care facility near their home community. Candidates for either degree are required to complete a scholarly project.
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, Ohio
Accreditation: COA
Nurse Anesthesia DNPBSN to DNP option
Case Western Reserve University offers a Post-Master's DNP or an MSN to Doctorate path for BSN grads. Designed by the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, the DNP programs come with two elective sequences: Educational Leadership, for doctoral level nurses to impact practice via education in clinical or academic settings; or the Practice Leadership Elective Sequence, for those interested in acquiring business planning skills or program development, implementation, and evaluation. Registered nurses with their MSN can apply directly, or students can enter via the MSN to Doctorate program. In the latter case, students receive an MSN degree and can apply nine credits toward the DNP. There's also an option for underrepresented MSN students from local colleges to apply for the Bridges to the Doctorate program. Finally, a dual doctorate DNP/PhD option allows students a chance to combine leadership with nursing science research in a five-year program.
Cleveland State University
Cleveland, Ohio
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses with a BSN can gain certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and earn a DNP through Cleveland State University. CSU's DNP program has a focus on population health and prepares nurses to meet the needs of urban and rural communities. The coursework is presented in a hybrid format, using a blend of online and in-person classes. Instructors also use the university's modern clinical labs, simulation center, and video-conferencing facilities. Full-time, doctorally prepared faculty members teach all the courses. The program requires full-time study. FNP students, who must earn 90 credits, can complete the degree in 10 consecutive semesters. PMHNP students, who must complete 92 credits, can finish the degree in 11 semesters. Students enter either concentration in the fall semester.
Kent State University at Kent
Kent, Ohio
Accreditation: CCNE
For over 100 years, Kent State in Ohio has been on the forefront of workforce education and development. Through its College of Nursing it offers an extensive array of options for BSN students wanting to obtain their DNP. The tracks are: Women's Health NP, Adult Gerontology Primary Care or Acute Care NP, Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, Family NP, Pediatric Primary Care NP, and Psychiatric Mental Health Family NP. The program takes four years to complete on average, with a maximum of six allowed. The curriculum's first half is devoted to advanced practice courses and practicum hours in the selected track. The next half consists of advanced leadership and clinical classes. Total clinical hours range from 300 to 675, depending on specialty. Students must also finish a DNP scholarly project. Kent State's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and its dedicated faculty are nationally certified practitioners.
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, Ohio
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Nurse MidwiferyBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Women's Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
The Ohio State University's BSN to DNP program readies students to work within a wide range of healthcare environments. The Nurse Practitioner tracks are: Adult-Gerontology Acute or Primary Care, Family, Neonatal, Nurse Midwifery, Pediatric Acute or Primary Care, Psychiatric Mental Health, and Women's Health. The DNP program requires 72 credit hours and at least 1,000 clinical hours (500 of which are specialty-related). The curriculum covers the DNP core topics, specialty track classes, clinical practice and immersions, electives, and a final project. There's also a comprehensive exam. Full-time students should finish within four years; part-time students may take up to five. Students needing to continue their full-time jobs while studying should consider the part-time plans. Ohio State's DNP ranked No. 19 (tie) in the nation for Best Nursing Schools for 2020 by U.S. News & World Report. Graduates are fully prepared to sit for their applicable national certification exams.
Ohio University
Athens, Ohio
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses in the BS to DNP program at Ohio University can choose from two tracks. The direct patient care track is for nurses who want to prepare as an advanced practice nurse, such as a Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The indirect patient care track prepares students for roles in nurse administration or nurse education. Students who want to add a specialization can usually complete the requirements in one or two additional semesters. The program uses a blended format, with online classes and on-campus intensives. Students must attend an on-campus intensive each semester where they participate in interprofessional activities and learn from faculty and outside experts. Students can choose to attend intensives at the Athens or Dublin, Ohio, campus. The degree requires 74 credits and 1,000 clinical practicum hours as well as a DNP project. Applicants must have at least two years of professional nursing experience.
Otterbein University
Westerville, Ohio
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Being a nurse anesthetist is a high-pressure job. For that reason, the DNP program in nurse anesthesia at Otterbein University helps students prepare for pressure by focusing on perseverance, emotional intelligence, and accepting constructive criticism. Otterbein offers the BSN to DNP in nurse anesthesia in conjunction with OhioHealth Grant Medical Center. The specialty courses in nurse anesthesia meet on weekdays at the OhioHealth Grant Medical Center in downtown Columbus, Ohio. Nursing core classes may be offered online or during the evenings. Before beginning clinical practice, students prepare through simulation exercises. Once they start practicum courses, students may work at a variety of sites around Ohio where they can gain experience in a range of procedures, including elective, OB, cardiac, and ICU, through regional, rural, and pediatric rotations. The DNP program is a 36-month, full-time program that begins in May each year. No more than 20 students are accepted per cohort.
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult-Gerontology Acute CareBSN to DNP option
Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary CareBSN to DNP option
For 130 years, the University of Cincinnati has been in the nursing education business. Its modern BSN to DNP tracks are in Adult-Gerontology Acute or Primary Care, Family NP, Nursing Administration, Pediatric Acute or Primary Care, and Psychiatric-Mental Health. These degrees take between 78-to-84 credit hours. UC also offers a 104-hour Nurse Anesthesia path. Full-time students take three years to finish. Part-time options are available. The curriculum was crafted using American Association of Colleges of Nursing's DNP essentials. Students in applicable tracks benefit from using the school's Institute for Nursing Research and Scholarship. The school is heavily invested in incorporating innovative technology, interprofessional collaboration, and real-world experiential learning methods. Applicants to UC require an RN license and a year of nursing experience and must submit transcripts showing a 3.25 GPA on their BSN, a resume, personal statement, and three letters of reference. GRE scores are optional.
University of Toledo
Toledo, Ohio
Accreditation: CCNE
The University of Toledo College of Nursing has partnerships with the University of Toledo Medical Center and ProMedica to provide clinical experiences for nursing students. Students also gain hands-on experience in the Jacobs Interprofessional Immersive Simulation Center, where they can use virtual reality visualization and practice in surgical simulation suites. The BSN to DNP program has four specialty tracks: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP, Family NP, Pediatric Primary Care NP, and Psychiatric-Mental Health NP. Graduates are eligible for the national certification exam in their specialty. Depending upon specialty, the program requires 85-90 credits and about 1,100 clinical hours. Students can follow a full-time or part-time pathway. Applicants should have a BSN with a 3.0 or higher overall GPA. Applicants must have an active Ohio RN license and must submit three professional recommendations and a personal statement. Students enter the BSN to DNP program in the fall.
Walsh University
North Canton, Ohio
Accreditation: CCNE
Walsh University offers four concentrations in its BSN to DNP program, including two that are 100% online and two that use a hybrid model. The concentrations that are entirely online are nurse educator and Family Nurse Practitioner. The hybrid programs - which combine online coursework with some on-campus requirements - are Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Walsh's BSN to DNP program allows nurses to earn a doctorate with as few as two more semesters beyond what's required for the MSN. Online classes have either eight-week or 16-week sessions, providing flexibility for working nurses, and some pathways offer as many as three start dates per year. Walsh also takes care of arranging clinical placements and preceptors for all graduate-level clinical rotations. Specific requirements for credits and clinical hours vary by concentration.
BSN to DNP Programs in Oklahoma
Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Accreditation: ACEN
Oklahoma City University has three BSN to DNP options for students to choose from. The first option offered by the Kramer School of Nursing is the 67-credit hour Family Nurse Practitioner program. Courses for the Family NP include communication, informatics, theory, pathophysiology, pharmacology, diagnostic reasoning, health promotion, and more. The school features Advanced Practice Clinical Liaisons to help find suitable preceptors. The second option is for Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, aimed at aiding vulnerable patients with heightened care needs. This is a part-time, four-year program. The final option is the state of Oklahoma's first-ever BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. General OCU application requirements include official transcripts showing at least a 3.0 GPA, three letters of reference, a personal essay, and a resume or CV. Students also require active RN licensure and at least a year of nursing experience. Additional items depend on specialty. No GRE is needed, but students should have completed a statistics and health assessment class.
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Accreditation: CCNE
Students who want a DNP in Executive Leadership can complete the degree 100% online through the Ziegler College of Nursing at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. The BSN to DNP program also has concentrations in Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. Those concentrations are delivered in a hybrid format, and the amount of time students spend on campus varies depending upon the courses they are taking. FNP and CNS students must complete their clinical hours in Oklahoma, so they need an Oklahoma RN license. Executive leadership students can complete their required hours near their homes. The required number of credits and clinical hours vary by concentration. Full-time students can earn a degree in three years, and part-time students finish the requirements in four or five years. The program was recently added at UOHSC, with the first BSN to DNP students entering in 2020.
University of Tulsa
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Accreditation: COA
BSN to DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)BSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP in Nurse Anesthesia (NA)BSN to DNP option
Nurses who enter the BSN to DNP program at the University of Tulsa must attend as full-time students, a requirement that allows them to get the most out of their educational experiences. The program offers a doctorate in Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, or nurse anesthesia. Once they graduate, students are ready to take the national certification exam for their specialty. While some courses in the program have asynchronous online elements, this is an on-campus program. All classes require at least some on-campus participation, and all lab courses and courses that involve the Human Patient Simulation Lab are delivered in face-to-face sessions. Classes meet at the Oxley Health Sciences facility in downtown Tulsa. The Oxley College of Health Sciences arranges all clinical rotations and preceptors so that students can concentrate on learning rather than on finding a preceptor. Students must have an Oklahoma RN license.
BSN to DNP Programs in Oregon
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, Oregon
Accreditation: CCNE
Oregon Health & Science University offers several BSN to DNP specializations which take three years to finish, if attending full-time. Options are: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthesia, Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, Nurse-Midwifery, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, and Pediatric Primary & Acute NP. The school keeps class size around 22 to 28 students and uses modern curricula and cutting-edge simulation equipment and labs. Suitable clinical sites are assigned after student backgrounds are determined, and may include placements at private offices, institutions, and rural settings usually less than an hour away. OHSU graduates are ready to sit for their applicable national certification exams. The School of Nursing offers a wide range of institutional scholarships as well as facilitating several grant opportunities offered by local non-profits and other organizations. It has been chosen by U.S. News and World Report as the No. 28 (tie) in Best Nursing Schools for DNP for 2020.
University of Portland
Portland, Oregon
Nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing can earn a DNP and prepare for certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner at the University of Portland. The 76-credit DNP-FNP program uses a cohort approach. Students enter in the summer semester and continue on a full-time plan for nine semesters. Students complete 960 hours of hands-on clinical experience, which they may complete in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, and community or non-profit clinics. Candidates complete their clinical courses in the last two years of the program. Applicants must have a nursing degree from an accredited school with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The application should also include a writing sample, resume, and three recommendations. An unencumbered RN license is required, and RN licensure in Oregon is recommended. The program gives preference to applicants from Oregon or Washington who have at least two years of RN experience.
BSN to DNP Programs in Pennsylvania
Cedar Crest College
Allentown, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: CCNE
Cedar Crest College's 36-month Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Anesthesia program is open to nurses with a BSN. The program uses a mix of online and in-person classes. Core MSN and DNP classes are delivered online. All courses in the nurse anesthesia core meet in person on the campus in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Students start to get hands-on experience in the third semester at the college's advanced simulation center. In the second year, students start clinical practicums. Before they graduate, candidates will complete more than 2,000 clinical hours and administer more than 800 anesthetics for surgical and diagnostic procedures. Students may be assigned to clinical sites throughout the tri-state area. During their final year, students must attend mandatory on-campus study days as they prepare for the national certification exam. The program uses a small cohort model to allow for mentoring. Accepted students must obtain RN licensure in Pennsylvania or New Jersey.
Chatham University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses who complete the BSN to DNP at Chatham University receive both a master's degree and a doctorate. In all, students complete 53 credits in this online program. The BSN to DNP follows the executive track and prepares nurses for a leadership role. Some of the topics covered include advocacy and policy, health promotion, leadership, and global health. During the doctoral portion of the program, students develop, institute, and evaluate an executive-level project. Candidates also complete at least 1,000 hours of clinical practice while completing the program. The online program includes a two-day residency at the Chatham campus in Pittsburgh. During the residency, students present scholarly posters about their planned evidence-based capstone project. Students can complete the BSN to DNP program in seven or nine semesters.
Holy Family University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)BSN to DNP option
Holy Family University has one DNP track open to nurses with a BSN. The track leads to a Family Nurse Practitioner DNP. The program takes approximately four years, and students complete 74 credits and nearly 1,050 clinical hours in practicum experiences and residencies. Holy Family's clinical placement specialist will help students find appropriate sites for practicum experiences. Candidates are also required to complete a scholarly project where they use evidence to improve outcomes for practice or patients. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the national certification exam to be recognized as an FNP. Holy Family arranges students in cohorts that are limited to 10 or 12 students. The cohort format allows students to develop close relationships with each other and with faculty members. The program encourages students to become clinical scholars who use research and evidence-based practice to ensure the safety and quality of health care.
La Salle University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: CCNE
La Salle's Frank J. Tornetta School of Anesthesia offers a BSN to DNP in Nurse Anesthesia. The 85-credit hour practice-based curriculum has an emphasis on skill-building via clinical experiences. Crafted using American Association of Colleges of Nursing criteria, the program includes a rigorous plan of study with immersions and clinical residency. Students must finish at least 1,000 total clinical hours and complete a tangible scholarly project using evidence-based practice to solve real-world nursing issues. Students are able to work for the first two years, prior to the intense full-time residency. Total time to complete the degree is 51 months, with a maximum of seven years allowable. With approval, students can take their National Certification Examination when ready. Applicants to La Salle's DNP program must show proof of current RN license, be ready to pass a criminal background and substance abuse check and be able to obtain malpractice insurance.
Misericordia University
Dallas, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: CCNE
Misericordia University awards both a master's and a doctoral degree to students who complete the online BSN to DNP program. Two concentrations are available: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner or Family Nurse Practitioner. Graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam for their specialty. The program takes three years, eight or nine semesters, with students receiving their MSN at the end of the eighth semester and the Doctor of Nursing Practice when they finish all the requirements. Each online class has limited enrollment so that students receive personalized instruction. Coursework combines theory, practice, and inquiry as students develop leadership skills and clinical expertise. The program has a focus on using evidence-based practice to improve health outcomes. The AGPCNP program requires 68 credits and 1,040 practicum and clinical hours. Candidates for the FNP must complete 68 credits and 1,130 clinical and practice hours.
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: CCNE
The Penn State College of Nursing has a BSN to DNP program for RNs who want a role in nurse administration. The online degree requires students to attend three in-person intensive sessions. Each intensive runs for three or four days, and students may attend the events at the main campus in University Park or at the school in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The first intensive convenes at the start of the program and allows students to meet their academic adviser. In addition to online classwork and intensives, students are required to pass a qualifying exam and comprehensive exam and to prepare and orally present a DNP project. Classes cover topics such as translating research into practice, transformational leadership, and nursing/change theory. BSN to DNP candidates are considered full-time students and take three courses in the fall and spring semesters. They can also enroll in additional courses during the summer semester.
Robert Morris University
Moon Township, Pennsylvania
Family Nurse Practitioner - BSN to DNPBSN to DNP option
Robert Morris University offers three BSN to DNP opportunities via its School of Nursing and Health Services. Options are an 80-credit hour Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, 86-hour Family NP, or 86-hour Psychiatric Mental Health NP degree path. Each path takes up to four years to finish and requires a final evidence-based project. Standard classes include Advanced Physical Assessment, Healthcare Policy, and Healthcare Economics. The renowned DNP faculty consists of experienced professionals ready to train and groom nurses for advanced positions. Graduates are ready to take their applicable national certification exams. Applicants should have a minimum 3.25 GPA on their bachelor's degree (or submit GRE exams and be ready to take extra coursework, if otherwise qualified). RMU's DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It is ranked No. 117 in a tie for Best Nursing School: DNP by U.S. News & World Report for 2020.
Saint Vincent College
Latrobe, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: COA
Post-BSN Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP)BSN to DNP option
Saint Vincent College's Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice is offered in collaboration with Excela Health. The program accepts up to 30 students each year, and students enter the program in January. The full-time program requires students to complete 91 credits over nine semesters. Saint Vincent prides itself on providing a supportive learning environment. Students have faculty advisers they can turn to, and they also have mentors--students in the class that entered the program the previous year who understand what problems newer students may encounter. At Saint Vincent, nurse anesthetist students begin performing clinical practicum in their fourth semester. The college works with more than 20 clinical sites to gives students a range of experiences in administering anesthesia. Students work everywhere from large teaching hospitals to small community clinics, performing a minimum of 600 cases by graduation. Graduates are ready to take the exam to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.
Temple University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: CCNE
Temple University's Department of Nursing has two flexible Post-BSN clinical tracks for DNP students-Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Clinical Track and Family-Individual Across the Lifespan. Both have a 68-credit curriculum plus 1,000 hours of clinic practicum (which includes the final DNP project). Classes will build upon a foundation of pharmacotherapeutics, pathophysiology, and health assessment. The program features a focus on underserved communities and is designed to be completed in just three years. Part-time students can extend their plan by a year as they prepare for careers as future nursing leaders. Many faculty are practicing nurses, able to pass on knowledge of modern healthcare innovations and trends. Temple is designated by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as an R1 "highest research activity" institute, with focuses on child welfare, disease prevention, community-based interventions, health disparities, minority health, and many other areas of study having direct impact on patient welfare.
The University of Scranton
Scranton, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: COA
DNP in Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Students in the nurse anesthesia DNP program at the University of Scranton enter in the summer semester as a cohort. The 36-month program is for full-time students training to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. In the first year, the program combines online and in-person coursework as students learn to integrate evidence-based practice. During the second year, students gain clinical skills through coursework and laboratory simulations. They acquire expertise in safety best practices, patient positioning, administering medications, and using anesthesia gas. In the final year, students participate in clinical experiences and simulated crisis sessions and also complete a scholarly project. The most recent graduating class had a 100% pass rate on the national certification exam, and all grads found jobs within six months of graduation. During their time in the program, members of that class averaged nearly 800 anesthetic cases each and provided more than 1,650 hours of anesthetic care.
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-BSN Doctor of Nursing Practice - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Post-BSN Doctor of Nursing Practice - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Post-BSN Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family/Individual Across the Lifespan TrackOnlineBSN to DNP option
Post-BSN Doctor of Nursing Practice - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Post-BSN Doctor of Nursing Practice - Women's Health Gender Related Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Founded in 1824, Thomas Jefferson University has always been on the forefront of experiential medical education and training. TJU's modern post-BSN to DNP program comes in many concentrations: Adult-Gerontology (Acute Care or Primary Care NP), Community Systems Administration, Family/Individual Across the Lifespan, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Informatics, Pediatric Primary Care NP, or Women's Health Gender Related NP. The tracks require 69 credit hours and take an average of four years to finish, with up to six allowable. Degree coursework includes advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, research topics, epidemiology, assessments, practice inquiry, and related advanced courses. TJU also offers a full-time, 92-credit hour entry-level Nurse Anesthesia DNP Program requiring 2,000 clinical hours. Clinical practicum and a Practice Inquiry Project are a major part of DNP coursework. Each student receives a customized plan of study that fits their goals and availability. Midway through the degree, an MSN is conferred upon students.
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Clinical Nurse Specialist - Adult GerontologyBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Neonatal Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Nurse AdministrationBSN to DNP option
Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
Pediatric Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-BSN Doctor of Nursing Practice - Nurse-MidwifeBSN to DNP option
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing has multiple DNP tracks open to nurses who enter with a BSN. Focus areas include Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist, nurse-midwife, nurse anesthesia, and six choices of Nurse Practitioner specialties. Aside from the anesthesia major, which is only offered as a full-time program, BSN to DNP students can attend on a full-time or part-time basis. Students can complete the degree in three years of full-time study. Nurse anesthesia students enter in the spring and all others start in the fall. Out-of-state, full-time BSN to DNP students may be eligible for a tuition scholarship that reduces their cost to the same paid by in-state students. Applicants to the DNP program must submit GRE scores and three professional recommendations. Depending upon the desired specialty, specific clinical experience may be required. Pitt Nursing's DNP program ranked #9 on the 2020 U.S. News & World Report list.
Villanova University
Villanova, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: COA
Post-Baccalaureate Nurse Anesthesia Doctor of Nursing PracticeBSN to DNP option
Villanova University has a full-time post-baccalaureate Nurse Anesthesia Doctor of Nursing Practice program that admits students each January. Students complete their DNP core requirements in the first two semesters before beginning clinical rotations. Students have to juggle coursework, projects, exams, and clinical experiences, so the university encourages students to take core classes before officially entering the program to lighten their workload. At first, students have clinical rotations two days a week, but that soon advances to three days a week, then four days a week, with the other day dedicated to classwork. Later in the program, students take DNP project courses while continuing to gain hands-on experience. During the 73-credit program, students complete between 1,600 and 2,000 clinical hours, including a semester 'on-call' for experience with emergency surgery. Students also get experience in obstetrics, pediatrics, cardiac, and regional anesthesia. Historically, all Villanova nurse anesthesia students find jobs before graduation.
Widener University
Chester, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: CCNE
RNs can choose from two specialties with Widener University's Accelerated RN to DNP program: Family (individuals across the lifespan) CRNP or Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. The nurse practitioner degree requires 74 credits and the CNS option requires 66. Students can attend full time or select a or part-time option so they can continue to work and meet family obligations while attending school. Part-time students can progress at their own pace as long as they complete all requirements within seven years. Widener has affiliations with more than 300 clinical sites and faculty members work with students to find practicum sites that meet an individual student's specific interests. Faculty members have experience in clinical and academic research and serve as mentors as well as instructors. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA and an active RN license. Students can enter the program in the fall, spring, or summer semester.
York College Pennsylvania
York, Pennsylvania
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurse Anesthetist Doctor of Nursing PracticeBSN to DNP option
York College of Pennsylvania has a campus-based, full-time BSN to DNP program that prepares RNs as nurse anesthetists. Students start the 36-month program in the summer and complete 102 credits and 2,000 clinical hours. Classes meet in the daytime, and students learn to plan and administer anesthetic, monitor patients, and serve as the patient's advocate during surgery. Students begin clinical practicum in the fourth semester, administering anesthesia to surgical patients while being supervised by a mentor. All candidates must complete a student project portfolio. The portfolio must include case narratives and reflect the advanced clinical fellowship or specialty area the student receives training in. Overall, students take four classes dedicated to portfolio development. As a cohort, students also create a professional development seminar where each student presents a case narrative from their specialty rotation.
BSN to DNP Programs in Rhode Island
University of Rhode Island
Kingston, Rhode Island
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP in Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Post B.S. to DNPBSN to DNP option
RNs with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing subject may be eligible for the BSN to DNP program at the University of Rhode Island, along with RNs who have a bachelor's degree in nursing. Students can choose from Nurse Practitioner concentrations in family, acute care of the adult-gerontology population, or primary care of adult-gerontology patients. The entire program requires 72 to 74 credits, depending upon the concentration. Classes include core masters-level classes, advanced practice courses, concentration courses, and doctoral-level DNP courses. The DNP requirements include a capstone practicum and project, where students apply research findings to practice. During their clinical rounds, students may work at clinical sites in cities and rural areas throughout Rhode Island. Applicants must be eligible for RN licensure in Rhode Island. By the time students enroll in their advanced practice clinical courses, they must have at least a year of relevant clinical nursing experience.
BSN to DNP Programs in South Carolina
Francis Marion University
Florence, South Carolina
Accreditation: ACEN
BSN-prepared nurses can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner through Francis Marion University. This 70-credit program uses a hybrid format. The majority of classes are online. However, students must take three core courses in a face-to-face setting: advanced pharmacology, advanced pathophysiology, and advanced physical assessment. Those required in-person classes take place in the first three semesters of the program. A few other courses may have face-to-face elements. For ease of planning, in-person meetings are always scheduled on Wednesdays. Students enter the program in the fall semester and complete the requirements in nine semesters, or three full years. They are also required to complete 1,170 clinical and project hours. The project hours are part of the required capstone project. Graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam to receive FNP designation.
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina
Accreditation: COA
The Medical University of South Carolina features two tracks for BSN to DNP for its College of Nursing students. The first is its 75-credit hour Advanced Practice Registered Nurse track with concentrations in Adult-Gerontology, Pediatric, Family, or Psychiatric Mental Health. The program has a plan of study requiring three to four years to finish, depending on if full- or part-time. Full-time students may not exceed four and a half years past the date of first enrollment, and part-time students must finish in six years maximum. The second track is Nurse Executive, which requires seven full-time semesters, or ten if part-time. MUSC's DNP program is practice-focused and prepares graduates to take specialized licensure exams and to work in hospitals, schools, primary care clinics, and more. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina
Accreditation: CCNE
Unlike many DNP programs that only offer APRN clinical concentrations, the BSN to DNP at the University of South Carolina has a nurse executive leadership concentration as well as three clinical concentrations. The leadership concentration prepares graduates to be health care executives by developing skills in leadership, communications, and business. The clinical concentrations are Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family NP, and Psychiatric-Mental Health NP. Depending upon concentration, the degree requires 73 or 74 credits. All students, including those in the executive leadership track, must complete at least 1,000 clinical hours. Students can attend on a full-time or part-time basis, and cohorts enter the program in the summer. Applicants must have a BSN from an accredited school of nursing and an overall GPA of 3.0. GRE scores are not required. The University of South Carolina was one of the first universities in the nation to offer a DNP program.
BSN to DNP Programs in South Dakota
Mount Marty College
Yankton, South Dakota
Accreditation: COA
Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP)BSN to DNP option
Mount Marty College has a three-year, full-time program for BSN nurses seeking a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice. During the first year, students prepare for clinical practice through coursework and high-fidelity patient simulations. When they are ready to perform their clinical hours, the nursing school will assign each student to a primary practicum site in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Nebraska, or Iowa. However, students will also rotate to different locations in those states so that they can obtain a range of clinical experiences. The program uses a cohort format that helps students develop a supportive network with their fellow students. The instructors for this program have doctoral degrees and an average of more than 25 years of experience as nurse anesthetists. The program begins in the summer semester, and practicums start in the fifth semester.
BSN to DNP Programs in Tennessee
Belmont University
Nashville, Tennessee
Accreditation: AACN
BSN to DNP in FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)BSN to DNP option
Belmont University has been training nurses for 45 years. Its modern programs allow nurses holding a BSN or MSN to advance to a DNP degree through their College of Health Sciences & Nursing. Graduates will have the clinical, organizational, and leadership foundations needed to work in future health care systems, and are eligible to sit for a Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam through the American Nurses Credentialing Center or American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification program. The BSN-to-DNP program meets the American Association of Colleges of Nursing standards and can be finished within 33 months (six semesters with summer coursework)/three years if attending full-time. Students meet once a week during the first two years and twice a week during the third year. 6000-level courses meet four weekends per semester. Part-time options are available but students may find it hard to keep existing jobs during the busy first clinical semester.
East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, Tennessee
Accreditation: CCNE
Students wanting to focus on rural clinical practice in primary care settings should consider ETSU's multiple DNP options. Taught by its College of Nursing, BSN to DNP concentrations include full- or part-time options in Adult-Gerontology Acute or Primary Care NP, Executive Leadership, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric NP, Psychiatric/Mental Health NP, and Women's Health NP. Students complete ~40 hours of practicum in an interprofessional experience decided on with faculty, advisors, and the partner organization. The school is home to Sigma Theta Tau International Epsilon Sigma at-Large Chapter. ETSU graduates cite 100% pass rates on PMHNP and FNP certification exams. Program applicants should have two years of full-time experience as a working registered nurse and an unencumbered license. Those with a cumulative GPA under 3.2 on their BSN will submit GRE scores. Provisional admittance may be recommended by the Admissions Committee for promising students who haven't meet all admission standards.
Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia Inc
Madison, Tennessee
Accreditation: COA
Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP)BSN to DNP option
Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia has a three-year, full-time program leading to a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice. The program is open to nurses with a BSN. Additionally, the school may accept RNs with a bachelor's degree in a related scientific field or with at least 15 credits in biophysical sciences beyond what's required in a basic nursing program. The program uses a 'lock-step format' where all students who enter at the same time move through the courses together. The first-semester courses are delivered online, and all the rest of the classes meet on campus. Students complete a wide array of clinical experiences, and most of the rotation sites are in the Middle Tennessee area. For rotations in clinics outside of Middle Tennessee - including one in Columbus, Ohio - students get housing and a gas allowance. The program starts in January each year and accepts up to 72 students annually.
Southern Adventist University
Collegedale, Tennessee
Accreditation: ACEN
BS to Doctor of Nursing Practice - Primary Care Adult/Gerontology Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
BS to Doctor of Nursing Practice - Primary Care Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Southern Adventist University offers an online BSN to DNP program, but the number of online classes included varies by concentration. Students who choose an emphasis in nurse educator, lifestyle medicine, or MBA/DNP take all their courses online. However, students in any of the Nurse Practitioner concentrations have mostly face-to-face classes, although some are online. The NP options include adult/gerontology (primary care or acute care), family (acute care or primary care), and psychiatric mental health. All students, even those enrolled in a completely online program, are required to attend a DNP seminar each fall they are in the program. The seminar meets on the SAU campus, which is near Chattanooga, Tennessee. The lifestyle medicine concentration covers topics such as health coaching, psychosocial health, natural adjuncts for healing, and nutritional approaches to managing disease. Each DNP concentration requires 77 credits, and students do not receive an MSN through this program.
Tennessee Technological University
Cookeville, Tennessee
Accreditation: CCNE
Tennessee Tech and East Tennessee State University jointly offer a DNP program that prepares BSN nurses in executive leadership or one of five advanced practice roles. The advanced practice concentrations are Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (primary care), and Women's Health Care NP. All concentrations use a hybrid format where students complete most coursework online and attend intensive weeks on campus. The week-long intensives meet once per semester at the start of the spring, summer, and fall term. Students may follow a part-time or full-time plan of study for any of the concentrations. The required number of credits and practice hours vary by concentration. The program permits students to perform clinical placements in Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia. All candidates must develop, implement, and disseminate a DNP project in their final semesters.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Accreditation: CCNE
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's School of Nursing has one BSN to DNP option for Nursing Administration Systems. This 57-credit hour track leads to qualification for indirect practice roles only. Students can attend full- or part-time. The program features a core designed to train clinical leaders on informatics, research, resource management, finance, organizational theory, and related nursing topics. Further studies dive into epidemiology, policy, systems analysis, plus completion of 1,000 clinical hours and an integrative, practice-based Translational Project which must be defended. UT Chattanooga's Nursing Administration track was built around the Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice. Students have an option to apply 15 credit hours towards an MBA in Health Care Administration. Applicants need a 3.0 or better cumulative GPA on their undergraduate degree, which must be accredited by either the CCNE or National League for Nursing. Successful candidates are scheduled for on-campus interviews.
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Memphis, Tennessee
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Dual Concentration in Adult-Gerontology and Family NursingOnlineBSN to DNP option
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) is home to a well-funded College of Nursing which offers seven BSN to DNP concentrations, plus two dual tracks. The options are: Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP, Family NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, Nurse Anesthesia, Pediatric Primary Care NP, Pediatric Acute Care NP, and Neonatal NP, with dual tracks to add Family NP to either Adult-Gerontology Acute Care or Psychiatric Mental Health. Although part-time options are listed, students are notified that the program requires significant time commitment. The university was chartered in 1887 as the Memphis Training School for Nurses. It's home to the second DNP program in America and ranks No. 24 (tie) on U.S. News & World Report's Best Nursing Schools: DNP. Thanks to large private and public funding, the school's faculty conduct cutting-edge research and pass knowledge learned from their projects to DNP students for use in their careers.
The University of Tennessee
Knoxville, Tennessee
Accreditation: CCNE
Knoxville's University of Tennessee offers many BSN to DNP concentrations: a 68-credit hour Family NP, 63-hour Nurse Executive Leadership, 70-credit hour Psychiatric Mental Health NP, 69-hour Primary Care Pediatric NP (with option to take add 8-credit hours for an Acute Care dual track), or a 118-hour Nurse Anesthesia concentration. UTK's DNP curriculum covers evidence-based practice geared towards training nurses for advanced practice and leadership roles within ever-changing healthcare settings. The school is home to a new Center for Nursing Practice which aids in outreach and access to care. US-based applicants should have a 2.7 minimum GPA on their BSN, or 3.0 for their senior year. GRE scores are only required if the GPA is under 3.30. Anesthesia track applicants need a 3.0, plus ICU experience. Applicants also need either a Tennessee or interstate compact state RN license. Candidates receive an invitation for a video interview.
Union University
Jackson, Tennessee
Accreditation: CCNE
Tennessee's Union University is a private Christian institution founded in 1823. Its current BSN to DNP options are in Family or Psychiatric Mental Health NP or Executive Leadership (each requiring 73 to 76 credit hours and 1,220 clinical hours). Students will complete degree requirements using the school's cohort model, beginning each year in August. There's also a Nurse Anesthesia track requiring 99 credit hours and 3,400 clinical hours. Degrees are able to be finished after 36 months of full-time study and intensive clinical experiences based on specialty. Graduates will be healthcare leaders able to use their advanced nursing skills and knowledge of systems to collaborate with peers, facilitate improvements, develop policy, and enhance outcomes with the aid of modern technology. TU's DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Applicants require an unencumbered RN license and must be eligible for licensure in Tennessee.
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, Tennessee
Accreditation: ACEN; CCNE
Nurses who enter Vanderbilt University's DNP program with a BSN earn their MSN and seamlessly transition to the DNP program. The program offers 12 advanced practice specialties, including dual-focus programs such as nurse-midwifery/FNP, and also has tracks in specialties such as nursing informatics or health care leadership. The university has a 100% placement rate for its advanced practice DNP graduates. The BSN to DNP requires at least 74 credits. Nurses with a BSN apply by completing an MSN application, and they must earn a 3.5 GPA in the MSN to progress to the DNP. Applicants must have a BSN from an accredited college with a 3.0 GPA and an RN license in a compact state. DNP classes focus on using evidence to design systems to deliver care in an economical, innovative way that improves health care outcomes. Classes are taught by actively practicing faculty who enjoy mentoring students.
BSN to DNP Programs in Texas
Abilene Christian University
Abilene, Texas
Accreditation: CCNE
Abilene Christian University has a post-bachelor's pathway that allows BSN-prepared nurses to bypass an MSN on their way to a DPN. The pathway requires nurses to complete 18 credits before transitioning to Doctor of Nursing Practice classes. Students can complete the pathway in as little as a year. What's more, nurses who successfully complete bridge classes can enter the DNP program without having to fill out an additional application. The online BSN to DNP program follows a track in executive leadership. After the 18-credit bridge program, nurses complete 39 credits to earn the DNP, and they can complete the entire program in 38 months. Along with classes in the DNP core, students take track-specific courses such as health care finance, human resource development, and leadership theory. Students also complete a DNP project that uses evidence-based research and improvement science to implement and evaluate a solution to a problem of interest.
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, Texas
Accreditation: COA
Doctor of Nursing Practice Program - Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
The Baylor College of Medicine has a BSN-DNP track for nurses who want to earn a DNP in nurse anesthesia. In this three-year program, nurses spend the first 18 months taking classes in topics such as clinical science, health care policy, leadership, and management. Most of these classes meet on campus, but some courses - primarily those students take in the first semester - are only delivered in an online format. Students enter the program in the spring semester. Each semester runs for six months and has three terms. For the final 18 months of the program, students complete clinical practicum where they get experience in a variety of clinical settings providing general, regional, and local anesthesia. Some of the facilities where students may be assigned for practicum experience include Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston Methodist, and Texas Children's Hospital.
Baylor University
Waco, Texas
Accreditation: CCNE; COA
Baylor University offers a BSN to DNP program that nurses can complete in a little more than three years. Nurses can select from three Nurse Practitioner specialties: family, neonatal, or pediatric. There is also an executive leadership track. Unlike many DNP programs, Baylor takes care of locating clinical placement sites and preceptors for all clinical rotations required for nurses pursuing these degrees. Baylor's Waco, Texas, campus is also the home of the U.S. Army Graduate Program in Anesthesia Nursing. Students in this program earn a DNP and are prepared to take the exam for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. The program requires an active duty obligation and accepts BSN and MSN nurses who are civilians, active duty Army nurses, VA nurses, and National Guard nurses. Baylor's DNP program ranked in the top 10% of graduate nursing programs, according to the 2020 rankings by U.S. News & World Report.
Texas Christian University
Fort Worth, Texas
Accreditation: CCNE
The intense three-year DNP-Anesthesia program at Texas Christian University lists a 64 hours a week time commitment, not counting study hours. Offered by the School of Nurse Anesthesia, the program readies students for their National Certifying Examination and future careers as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. The comprehensive curriculum and clinical practicum trains students on administration of anesthesia for all ages and covers all areas such as respiratory, cardiovascular, neurosurgical. Several exams and projects must be successfully completed to progress. TCU's rigorous program is competitive and doesn't allow transfer credits to be applied. Applicant must send in proof of employment within a critical care unit, unencumbered RN licensure, GRE scores, copies of current certifications, and supporting materials. The university's program is ranked No. 30 (tie) for Best Nursing Schools: DNP in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. It's accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs.
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Lubbock, Texas
Accreditation: CCNE
The School of Nursing at Texas Tech welcomes new students into the BSN to DNP program in the fall semester only. Students can choose a concentration in Family Health Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With either focus area, students take a combination of online and face-to-face classes, and both tracks require students to complete 74 credits. Students can attend on a full-time or part-time plan, and all students have to complete at least 1,000 hours of clinical practice. When considering applicants, the committee looks beyond academic qualifications to select the incoming class. The committee seeks applicants who exhibit potential for leadership, have professional nursing experience, take part in community service activities, and who are permanent residents of Texas or the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center service area. Students who live in New York, Louisiana Arizona, Oregon, or Washington cannot be accepted into this program.
Texas Wesleyan University
Fort Worth, Texas
Accreditation: CCNE; COA
Entry-Level Doctorate of Nurse Anesthesia PracticeBSN to DNP option
Texas Wesleyan University's Entry-Level Doctorate of Nurse Anesthesia Practice prepares nurses with a BSN as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. Texas Wesleyan has the largest graduate nurse anesthesia program in the country, with 20 primary clinical sites over nine states. Classes are taught by expert professors. DNAP students attend full-time for three years, with the first 16 months dedicated to classroom study. Students spend the first year at the Fort Worth campus and can choose to take their next four months of classes in Fort Worth or at their assigned clinical site. The final 16 months of the program involve a residency phase at the clinical site. Clinical sites include university medical centers, regional medical centers, large community hospitals, and Level 1 trauma centers. Texas Wesleyan also has a BSN to DNP program for nurses who want to train as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The FNP program is primarily online.
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Houston, Texas
Accreditation: CCNE
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston is home to the Cizik School of Nursing. The school features a 112-credit hour BSN to DNP in Nurse Anesthesia, the first of its kind in the state. The program runs for 36 months and graduates leave ready for their National Certification Examination for Nurse Anesthetists exams. Graduates have had a 100% pass rate for the past five years in a row. First year classes cover topics such as advanced anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, differential diagnosis, pharmacology, policies, and more. Faculty arrange clinical experiences within the Houston Metropolitan area at partner healthcare settings. The program's "student profile" for accepted applicants lists an average 3.6 GPA, 2.5 years of ICU work experience, and GRE mean scores of 151 for Quantitative and 152 for Verbal sections. UTHSC's DNP program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs.
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
San Antonio, Texas
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)BSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care (PNP-PC)BSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP in Public HealthBSN to DNP option
The University of Texas Health San Antonio School of Nursing is located in a 900-acre medical center and has more than 400 clinical affiliates. Those numbers guarantee that students will have a preceptor and site for clinical rotations when they need them, and the School of Nursing makes the arrangements for practicums. The BSN to DNP program at UT Health San Antonio offers five specialty areas: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, Pediatric NP (primary care), and public health nurse leader. Students complete 76 credits, 1,000 practice hours, and a DNP project to earn the degree. For the project, students apply what they have learned to practice application, beginning by defining the project during a seminar course. Full-time students can complete the program in 36 months, but the university also allows students to attend on a part-time basis.
University of the Incarnate Word
San Antonio, Texas
Accreditation: CCNE
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
At the Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions, nursing students learn more than the skills necessary for evidence-based practice in the changing health care environment. Cultural competence and interprofessional collaboration are also part of a nurse's education at the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW). The BSN to DNP program at UIW is a three-year, full-time program that prepares students as a Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric-Mental Health NP. The FNP major requires 77 credits and 1,152 clinical hours. The PMHNP concentration requires 76 credits and 1,216 clinical hours. Both concentrations admit students in the spring semester, and candidates can complete the degree in nine semesters. Applicants should have an overall GPA of 2.75 with a 3.0 or higher GPA for all nursing classes. Applicants must have a Texas or compact state nursing license. The program prefers applicants who have at least two years of professional nursing experience.
BSN to DNP Programs in Utah
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions
Provo, Utah
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP) in Utah offers a 90-credit hour post-Bachelor's DNP with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. This eight-semester program is flexible enough for busy nursing students to continue working as they prepare for their advanced roles in adult, geriatric, obstetric, pediatric, and gynecologic patient care. In accordance with the Institute of Medicine report on Health Professions Education, students will learn to work on interdisciplinary teams to deliver evidence-based, patient-centered care with the aid of technology. Clinical/internship courses require two-to-four days at the clinical site. A scholarly project rounds off program requirements. Graduates are ready for advanced licensure. The university has an active Alumni Association with no fees or dues necessary. Located less than an hour away from Salt Lake City, RMUoHP is near a range of clinical setting locations to select from. Its DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah
Accreditation: CCNE
The College of Nursing at the University of Utah was the first school to receive the New Era for Academic Nursing Award from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. The college is a major figure in research, ranking in the top 25 for grants from the National Institutes of Health. Students who enter the BSN to DNP program select a specialty that leads to APRN certification. Options include adult/gerontology acute care, neonatal, nurse-midwifery, mental health, and women's health. There's also a primary care option that covers AG, family, and pediatric care, and a dual-track in nurse-midwifery and women's health. Depending upon specialty, students take eight or nine semesters of full-time study to earn the degree. Students are only allowed to enter the program in the fall semester, and admission is selective. Requirements include a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, three professional recommendations, and a goals statement.
Weber State University
Ogden, Utah
Accreditation: ACEN
The BSN to DNP program at Weber State University uses a hybrid format for students earning the Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner. Core master's level courses, core DNP courses, and leadership/practice courses are delivered online. Core and clinical courses for the FNP specialty are hybrid courses combining online lessons with on-campus meetings. The first semester is all online. After that, students may need to be on campus for up to seven days each semester, aside from one class that requires ten on-campus visits. During on-campus sessions, students improve their skills in the university's practice labs, working with interprofessional experts. Students can complete the 75 credits in seven or eight semesters. Applicants must have two years of work experience and be eligible for an RN license in Utah or a compact state. Students start the program in the fall semester.
BSN to DNP Programs in Vermont
University of Vermont
Burlington, Vermont
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Primary Care Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
RNs with a bachelor's degree in nursing or another field are welcome in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Vermont. Students can choose from two primary care tracks: Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner or Family Nurse Practitioner. Full-time students can earn a degree in less than four years. The degree requires 70 to 76 credits and 1,000 or more clinical hours (including the practicum hours required for the DNP project). One unique aspect of the University of Vermont DNP program is that students work some clinical hours at Appletree Bay Primary Care, a practice that is led by Nurse Practitioners who also teach in the nursing program. At Appletree Bay, students provide primary care and coordinate care for patients who need services beyond the clinic's scope. Students get experience treating clients with diabetes, COPD, hypertension, asthma, geriatric issues, and many other areas of expertise.
BSN to DNP Programs in Virginia
George Mason University
Fairfax, Virginia
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Nursing AdministrationBSN to DNP option
George Mason University in Virginia has a 72-credit hour BSN to DNP program with Nurse Practitioner concentrations in Adult-Gerontology, Family, or Psychiatric Mental Health. There's also one in Nursing Administration. Core courses cover theory, ethics, health care delivery systems, and statistics. Advanced classes focus on concentration-related work as well as doctoral-level policy and administration. 1,000 precepted clinical hours are needed. Students must take two practice inquiry project courses leading to a scholarly product demonstrating competence of the AACN Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice. GMU has modern Skills and Simulation Laboratories using state-of-the-art Smartboards and mannequins, developing competencies through hands-on experience. Applicants must maintain a current nursing license and one year of experience, pass a criminal background check, and submit proof of immunizations. GMU's program is approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses who want to provide family-focused care can enter the online BSN to DNP program in Family Nurse Practitioner that Liberty University offers. The program combines online classes with required intensives. The curriculum requires students to complete 78 credits and nearly 1,250 practicum hours. The course breakdown includes 27 credits in core courses, nine credits in the advanced practice core, 25 credits in the FNP concentration, 14 credits in projects and practicum experiences, and three credits in an elective. Nurses who are interested in teaching can add an optional 12-credit nurse educator elective series to their degree. Students can complete the degree in as few as eight semesters, and they have a maximum of five years to complete all the requirements. This program is not open to residents of Colorado, Delaware, Maine, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Utah, Washington, or Wyoming.
Marymount University
Arlington, Virginia
Accreditation: CCNE
Marymount University was Virginia's first Catholic college, founded in 1950. Through its Malek School of Health Professions, it offers a 75-credit hour DNP that takes eight semesters to complete (eleven for part-time students). The program involves 700 patient care hours plus 500 project hours, for a total of 1,200. Curriculum focuses on leadership, evidence-based practice, policy, and other areas. Many classes are offered in an executive cohort style, allowing for maximum peer-to-peer engagement as students progress together. Post-bacc applicants should have a 3.3 GPA and will need to maintain a 3.5 GPA during the program. They will also need to pass a criminal background check and tuberculosis testing, and submit a resume, essay, letters of recommendation, and proof of RN licensure, CPR certification, and malpractice insurance. The nursing school has a diverse student population and is committed to core values of respect, compassion, social justice, and advocacy.
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, Virginia
Accreditation: CCNE
BS-DNP - Nurse AnesthesiaBSN to DNP option
BS-DNP - Nurse ExecutiveBSN to DNP option
Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, offers a BSN to DNP path for Nurse Anesthetists. The School of Nursing program requires 103 credits and takes three years if attending full-time. Coursework covers DNP and nurse anesthesia specialty topics, plus a scholarly final project. Classes are small and led by faculty devoted to student success leading to high-level careers. The university also offers a Nurse Executive NP degree made in accordance with The Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice. This program combines MSN and DNP work to give students the leadership skills needed to work with a variety of patient populations in multiple healthcare settings. The school has clinical site partnerships in the Hampton Roads area, with other regional site opportunities, too. It's got an active Alumni Association which mentors students and helps with job placement. Old Dominion's DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Radford University
Radford, Virginia
Accreditation: CCNE
Radford University's School of Nursing offers two BSN to DNP tracks: the 81-credit hour Family Nurse Practitioner and a 79-credit hour Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Each requires at least 1,000 clinical hours. The program can be done full-time or part-time, as long as students don't exceed eight years. Clinical sites and preceptors are arranged by the student, with faculty assistance and approval. The curriculum was made with American Association of Colleges of Nursing DNP Essentials in mind. Applicants require three reference letters, a resume showing 2,000 hours of nursing experience, a letter outlining career goals, a sample of past scholarly writing, and copies of licenses and certifications, if requested. Students are encouraged to have health insurance. Founded in 1910, Radford's campus is located near the Blue Ridge Mountains southwest of Roanoke. Its DNP program ranks No. 137 in Best Nursing Schools from U.S. News & World Report.
Shenandoah University
Winchester, Virginia
Accreditation: CCNE
Post-Baccalaureate DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Shenandoah's Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing offers a 71- to 72-credit hour BSN to DNP concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner or a 77- to 78-hour track in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Both run eight semesters with cohorts assembled in Fall. Students benefit from learning in the Health & Life Sciences' modern training suites, which feature simulation rooms for emergency and intensive care, labor, and surgery. There are also opportunities for study at the urban INOVA facility in Fairfax. Shenandoah's mission is to maintain a caring spirit as it passes on practical knowledge and skills needed for nurses to advance in their practice. They focus on training students to meet current industry needs. Nursing graduates have a stellar 98.1% pass rate on the NCLEX exam. Students must earn a minimum grade of B in all classes. The School of Nursing's DNP is accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education.
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, Virginia
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Neonatal Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: Acute CareBSN to DNP option
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: Primary CareBSN to DNP option
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Post-baccalaureate nurses can earn both their MSN and DNP in a seamless BSN to DNP program at the University of Virginia. The pathway uses a 2+2 standard plan of study, allowing nurses to reach each milestone in two years. Nurses who wish to speed up the process can apply for an accelerated three-year plan of study. Students can choose from eight tracks: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care (CNS or NP), Family NP, Neonatal NP, Pediatric NP (acute or primary care), or Psychiatric-Mental Health NP. Graduates are eligible to take the respective national certification exam for their specialty. Applicants must have a BSN with a 3.0 or higher GPA and at least two years of full-time RN experience. Applicants for the neonatal track must have two years of full-time clinical experience in a NICU or other critical care setting where they cared for neonates or infants. GRE scores are not required.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia
Accreditation: COA
Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) - Entry to PracticeBSN to DNP option
At Virginia Commonwealth University, the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice is called the entry-to-practice DNAP or etpDNAP. The program is open to RNs who have a bachelor's degree in nursing or a related science. The program is a full-time, nine-semester program that requires 93 credits. For the first two semesters, students follow a hybrid schedule, attending a three-day on-campus session at the start of the program. In the second semester, they attend a three-day meeting at a distance site (Richmond, Abingdon, Northern Virginia, or Roanoke). Third-semester classes meet on campus, and in the fourth semester, students begin clinical training using VCU's network of affiliated sites. Depending on where they live, students may train at locations such as the Inova hospitals in Northern Virginia, VCU Health System and MCV Hospitals in Richmond, Salem Veterans Administration Medical Center in Roanoke, and Bristol Regional Medical Center near Abingdon.
BSN to DNP Programs in Washington
Pacific Lutheran University
Tacoma, Washington
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
The BSN to DNP program at Pacific Lutheran University is available to RNs who want to prepare as a Family Nurse Practitioner or a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The curriculum covers core coursework for the Doctor of Nursing Practice, a scholarly project, Nurse Practitioner specialty classes, and clinical practice in the specialty. The FNP program requires 80 credits, and the PMHNP requires 90 credits. Students can follow a full-time or part-time plan. The School of Nursing handles all arrangements for clinical practice. One focus of the program is training more DNPs to serve areas that are medically underserved in both rural and urban parts of Washington State. The university recently received a grant that allows it to establish new partnerships so that DNP candidates can work more clinical rotations in underserved areas. The award also covers tuition assistance and stipends for students who plan to work in underserved areas.
Seattle University
Seattle, Washington
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Certified Nurse MidwiferyBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
The College of Nursing at Seattle University has a BSN to DNP program that allows nurses to earn a clinical doctorate in three years of full-time study. Nurses can choose from five specialty tracks: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP, Family NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, or Certified Nurse-Midwifery. Candidates graduate with leadership skills to improve health care delivery and the ability to translate research into improvements in patient and system outcomes. They also have experience working with interprofessional teams. Seattle University students have access to a 20,000-square-foot clinical laboratory with realistic patient simulators. The campus is situated among well-known clinics and research facilities where DNP students may complete their practicums and internships. The number of credits and clinical hours required for RNs to attain the Doctor of Nursing Practice varies based on the specific concentration.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, Washington
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Nurse MidwiferyBSN to DNP option
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute CareBSN to DNP option
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary CareBSN to DNP option
Population Health NursingBSN to DNP option
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Women's Health Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
The School of Nursing at the University of Washington's Seattle campus has nearly a dozen specializations in the BSN to DNP program. Options include NP roles working with adult-gerontology, pediatric, family, and mental health populations, with additional options in acute or primary care for pediatric or adult populations. There are also Clinical Nurse Specialist programs in perinatal or pediatric roles. Additional specialties include nurse-midwifery, population health nursing, and a dual degree with a DNP in population health and a Master of Public Health in Global Health. Applicants should have a BSN with a 3.0 GPA in their last 90 quarter hours. GRE scores are not required. All applicants must complete an online interview, and students applying to multiple specialty tracks are required to complete an online interview for each track. The application also requires three letters of recommendation, including one from an academic and one from a work supervisor.
Washington State University - Vancouver
Vancouver, Washington
Accreditation: CCNE
Nurses in the BSN to DNP program at Washington State University can choose from three specialty tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, or population health. The population health program prepares nurses to work in community health or public health. These specialty tracks require between 72 and 74 credits, and nurses with a BSN can complete the program in three to four years of full-time study. Applicants must have a BSN with a 3.0 or higher GPA. Students must have an RN license in the state where they will complete their clinical requirements, and the admission committee prefers applicants with at least a year of full-time experience in nursing. This program is offered at the WSU campuses in Yakima, Walla Walla, and Puyallup. The College of Nursing provides more than a quarter-million dollars in scholarship aid annually, and some scholarships are available for graduate nursing students.
BSN to DNP Programs in West Virginia
Shepherd University
Shepherdstown, West Virginia
Accreditation: CCNE
BSN to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP - Nursing Leadership: Administration trackBSN to DNP option
DNP students at Shepherd University gain leadership skills that help them to advocate for vulnerable populations while working for health care reform. The BSN to DNP pathway requires students to complete between 75 and 84 credits while pursuing a doctoral degree with a concentration in nursing leadership or Family Nurse Practitioner. All DNP classes meet on the main campus in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including nursing, informatics, business, and health care administration. Those courses help students to develop the skills they need to design and implement programs that can improve the delivery of care. Students also complete at least 1,000 clinical hours and produce a scholarly DNP project. BSN-prepared nurses can complete the program in three years if they are full-time students. By the time they begin clinical practicum classes, students must have a West Virginia RN license.
West Virginia University
Morgantown, West Virginia
Accreditation: COA
DNP Nurse AnesthetistBSN to DNP option
Nurse Anesthesia DNP students at West Virginia University must complete 88 credits over nine continuous semesters. During those three years, they also complete a minimum of 2,000 clinical hours. The program is open to RNs with a BSN, and students enter the program in the fall semester. The first spring, students take part in their first foundational clinical practicum, and by the fifth semester, they are participating in advanced practicums. During the final two semesters, they perform a clinical role immersion. The WVU School of Nursing also emphasizes producing a scholarly project. Students develop the DNP project in the third semester and implement it for the entire second year of the program. Candidates present their DNP projects in the final semester. Graduates are eligible to take the national exam to become a CRNA. WVU prefers applicants with two to three years of current critical care experience.
BSN to DNP Programs in Wisconsin
Marquette University
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Accreditation: CCNE; COA
Post-Bachelors to DNP - Dual Pediatric Primary and Acute Care Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
The College of Nursing at Marquette University offers several BSN to DNP specialization tracks. The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care or Primary Care NP and Pediatric Primary or Acute Care NP tracks are all 69 credit hours. These can be done full- or part-time. The Nurse Anesthesia is a 91-credit hour option requiring full-time commitment. There's also a 78-credit hour dual track for Pediatric Primary and Acute Care NP. Marquette's curriculum covers safety, diagnostics, and treatments as well as topics related to business and finance in healthcare settings. Along the way towards DNP completion, most students can sit for applicable national exams in their specialty. Anesthesia track students are the exception to this. The campus is come to the Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare Center for Clinical Simulation, which features several different types of acute care hospital rooms, exam rooms, a home care setting, a clinical skills lab, and much more.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult-Gerontologic Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
Adult-Gerontologic Primary Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Nurse AdministratorBSN to DNP option
At the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, post-baccalaureate nurses can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontological Primary Care NP, or nurse administrator/nurse executive with a focus on either family or the adult-gerontological population). NP grads are eligible to take the national certification exam for their specialty. Full-time students can complete their degree in three years, although a four-year or five-year part-time plans are available. NP students complete 73 credits and 1,087 clinical hours while administration majors complete 68 credits and 1,050 clinical hours. Classes are arranged so that students following the full-time plan of study can come to campus only one day per week for all their courses. All candidates end their studies with a DNP project, where they locate an area of practice they want to improve and develop an evidence-based solution to improve outcomes. Accepted students must get a Wisconsin RN license.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, Wisconsin
Accreditation: CCNE
RNs with a bachelor's degree can choose from five specializations in the BSN to DNP program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Nurses who want to provide care for adult and gerontological populations can become an AG Nurse Practitioner with a focus on primary or acute care or a Clinical Nurse Specialist in the AG population. There are also specialization tracks in Pediatric (Primary Care) NP and Psychiatric-Mental Health NP. BSN-prepared nurses complete up to 68 credits, and they can earn a degree in three or four years. The curriculum has three major components: practice evaluation, leadership/policy, and clinical practice. Post-BS nurses complete at least 1,000 practicum hours, with at least 500 hours in clinical practice and another 500 in clinical leadership. The School of Nursing arranges all clinical placements, and students may be assigned to sites run by major health care systems throughout Wisconsin.
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Accreditation: CCNE
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
Community Nursing-Public HealthBSN to DNP option
DNP / MBABSN to DNP option
Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
Maternal/Child Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
Nursing Systems Leadership - InformaticsBSN to DNP option
Nursing Systems Leadership - Nurse ExecutiveBSN to DNP option
Pediatrics Clinical Nurse SpecialistBSN to DNP option
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has a BSN to DNP program with multiple specializations available. Specialty tracks include Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist (adult/gerontology, maternal/infant/women's health, or pediatrics), Leadership/Systems (nurse executive or nursing informatics), and community/public health. Each degree requires 65 credits, and students can select from a full-time or part-time plan of study. Students who start the program in the fall can complete their degree in three or four years. Spring entry to the program results in an additional half-year to completion. The Milwaukee campus is home to the Doctoral Student Nurses Organization, which organizes monthly workshops to help students network with their peers and learn more about scholarly topics such as how to write for publication. The School of Nursing awards an array of scholarships, with some designated for DNP students.
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Accreditation: CCNE; COA
BSN to DNP - Family Nurse PractitionerBSN to DNP option
BSN to DNP in Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia PracticeBSN to DNP option
BSN-prepared nurses can earn their DNP while gaining a specialty in Family Nurse Practitioner or nurse anesthetist. Each program requires 74 credits and prepares students for the national certification test in their specialty. Along with classes in the specialty, the curriculum includes courses in evidence-based practice, leadership, collaboration, informatics, and health care policy. FNP majors can select a full-time or part-time plan, while nurse anesthetist majors follow a 36-month full-time plan of study. To enter the FNP program, applicants should have a 3.0 GPA for their BSN. Those with a GPA of 2.7 or higher who submit GRE scores may receive probationary admission. The admission requirements are higher for nurse anesthetist applicants. They must have an undergrad GPA of 3.0 and meet prerequisites for classes in anatomy and physiology, organic and inorganic chemistry, microbiology, and pharmacology. They should have at least a year of critical care experience as an RN.
Viterbo University
La Crosse, Wisconsin
Accreditation: CCNE; COA
BSN-prepared nurses can find a range of DNP options at Viterbo University. Along with preparation as an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner or a Family Nurse Practitioner, the university offers a dual MBA/DNP program and a DNP option in Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. The CRNA DNP is a 36-month program where students complete doctoral credits at Viterbo, M.S. in Biology credits from the University of Wisconsin-Lacrosse, and anesthesia credits from the Mayo Clinic Health System-Franciscan Healthcare School of Anesthesia. Some NP-track students may be selected for guaranteed placement for all clinical rotations at Mayo Clinic sites in the Midwest. Viterbo has a 100% placement rate for students who complete its graduate nursing program. Applicants for the BSN to DNP program should have a 3.0 GPA and must submit MAT or GRE scores. Students must have at least two years of direct patient care experience before beginning NP specialty classes.
BSN to DNP Programs in Wyoming
University of Wyoming
Laramie, Wyoming
Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse PractitionerOnlineBSN to DNP option
Rural health care is the focus of the BSN to DNP program at the Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing at the University of Wyoming. Students select from two clinical concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner, preparing for careers in rural primary care, or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, for roles in rural mental health care. Graduates are eligible for the certification exam covering their major. The program is only offered in a three-year, full-time format with no option for part-time study. Students complete their clinical experiences in Wyoming, northern Colorado, or southern Montana, and students are responsible for any travel or relocation costs. The university discourages students from attempting to maintain employment while they are in this program. Applicants must have a BSN with a 3.0 GPA. Applicants may be invited to an in-person interview, which is held on campus in Laramie, Wyoming, with no option for phone or video interviews.