Edited By Lauren Monser
Review & Contribution By Rachel Green
Advance nursing excellence with Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Programs, equipping nurses to influence healthcare policy, lead teams, and implement innovative patient care strategies.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) online is a transformative program for nursing professionals seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities in the complex healthcare landscape. This advanced degree prepares graduates to take on pivotal roles within healthcare organizations, focusing on strategic decision-making, organizational management, and innovative practices that improve patient outcomes. With a curriculum that combines advanced clinical practice, healthcare policy, and business acumen, Doctor of Nursing Practice online programs equip nurses with the skills to lead interdisciplinary teams, influence healthcare systems, and drive change at all levels. Graduates emerge as influential leaders, ready to tackle the challenges of modern healthcare, advocate for quality improvement, and shape the future of nursing practice through evidence-based leadership and strategic planning.
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Featured Online Doctorate Programs
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National University
PROGRAM: Best & Fast Online PhD. Programs
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
Find the Best Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Programs
Identifying the best Doctor of Nursing Practice Online programs involves thoughtful evaluation of several key factors. Prospective students should examine program costs, faculty expertise, class sizes, and financial aid availability. These components are critical in shaping the educational journey and overall support system. Through thorough research, students can select a program that matches their professional goals and leadership ambitions in healthcare, organizational management, or policy reform, ensuring a solid foundation for future success. The teams at FBD have researched the best doctor of nursing practice online programs using our proprietary methodology and compiled the following list:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | 103 South Bldg Cb 9100, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599 | $10,552 | 92% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Program
A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) online prepares advanced nurses for top leadership roles in healthcare organizations. The program emphasizes strategic decision-making, healthcare policy, and organizational management, blending clinical expertise with leadership skills. Typically, the program takes 2-3 years to complete, depending on full- or part-time enrollment. Students can expect to complete around 33 to 45 credits, including a leadership practicum and a final project or capstone. Graduates of the program are equipped to lead nursing teams, influence healthcare policy, and improve patient outcomes at the executive level, all while focusing on innovative practices in nursing administration and healthcare systems.
Program Structure, Coursework, and Dissertation
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program typically includes core courses, leadership-focused electives, and specialized seminars. Coursework covers strategic leadership, healthcare policy, organizational management, and financial decision-making. Students use advanced clinical practice experiences and leadership practicums to apply theoretical concepts. A key component is the final DNP project, akin to a dissertation, where students identify and address real-world challenges in healthcare, demonstrating innovative solutions to improve patient outcomes and healthcare systems. However, some of the standard components of the doctor of nursing practice online programs are explored below:
Foundations of Primary Health Care Practice
This course focuses on principles of comprehensive, patient-centered care across the lifespan. It emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, and management of common conditions in diverse populations. Students develop diagnostic reasoning, clinical decision-making, and evidence-based care planning skills, preparing for advanced practice roles in primary healthcare settings.
Health Care Policy: Strategic Action
This course examines strategies to influence and implement healthcare policies that improve systems and outcomes. Students explore advocacy, ethical frameworks, and policy analysis, focusing on addressing disparities and promoting equitable care. The course prepares nurses to lead initiatives shaping healthcare policies through evidence-based, strategic, and ethical approaches.
Teaching and Learning in Advanced Practice Nursing
This course explores educational theories and methods tailored for nursing education. The course focuses on curriculum design, instructional strategies, and evaluation techniques to prepare nurses for educator roles. Emphasis is placed on fostering critical thinking, evidence-based teaching, and effective mentorship in academic and clinical settings.
Health Care Economics and Finance for Advanced Practice Nursing
This course examines economic principles and financial management within healthcare systems. Topics include cost analysis, budgeting, reimbursement models, and resource allocation. The course equips nurses to make data-driven financial decisions, optimize care delivery, and lead initiatives promoting economic sustainability and efficiency in healthcare settings.
Some of the topics in which students of doctor of nursing practice online programs can complete their dissertations include:
- Nurse-Led Initiatives
- Interprofessional Collaboration
- Cultural Competence Training
- Mental Health Integration
- Chronic Pain Management
- Patient Education Strategies
- Quality Improvement in Nursing
- Evidence-Based Practice
- Workplace Wellness Programs
To understand more about Ph.D. programs, students can refer to the Guide to Ph.D. Programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
A Doctor of Nursing Practice Online equips healthcare professionals with advanced leadership, healthcare policy, and organizational management expertise. Graduates gain strong skills in strategic decision-making, financial oversight, and quality improvement. The program fosters critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and the ability to lead transformative change in complex healthcare environments. This education prepares graduates to take on influential executive roles in hospitals, healthcare organizations, and policy settings, driving innovation and improving patient care outcomes.
The doctor of nursing practice online programs equip students with the skills and experiences necessary to become distinguished professionals, including the ability to:
- Lead and manage complex healthcare systems.
- Implement evidence-based practices to improve patient outcomes.
- Develop and evaluate healthcare policies.
- Apply advanced clinical judgment and decision-making.
- Foster interprofessional collaboration in care delivery.
- Utilize healthcare informatics to enhance system efficiencies.
- Engage in quality improvement initiatives.
- Address healthcare disparities and promote equitable care.
- Mentor and educate future healthcare leaders.
- Influence healthcare reform through advocacy and leadership.
Areas of Specialization for Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Students
Specializations within the Doctor of Nursing Practice Online program allow students to customize their education based on specific professional interests. By focusing on a particular area, students can deepen their expertise in targeted aspects of healthcare leadership, enhancing their ability to address unique challenges within that field. This tailored approach enables graduates to develop specialized skills and knowledge, preparing them for leadership roles that align with their career goals and the needs of their organizations. Some such specializations in a doctor of nursing practice online programs include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Informatics Leadership | Informatics Leadership blends nursing expertise with technology to optimize patient care and organizational efficiency. This DNP specialty covers electronic data analytics, healthcare technology, and informatics concepts. Students learn to implement tech-driven solutions, improve clinical workflows, and enhance decision-making processes, preparing for leadership roles in healthcare innovation and system advancements. | Health Informatics Director Chief Information Officer (CIO) in Healthcare Clinical Informatics Specialist Healthcare Data Analyst |
| Health Policy | This specialization focuses on improving healthcare access and quality through legal and political lenses. Students learn to develop policies, advocate for underserved populations, and guide policymakers using nursing expertise. This specialty prepares nurses to influence healthcare laws, enhance quality of care, and drive systemic changes in healthcare delivery. | Healthcare Policy Analyst Public Health Advocate Health Services Administrator Legislative Liaison for Healthcare Organizations |
| Educational Leadership | This specialization prepares nurses to teach and lead in academic or clinical settings. This specialty covers curriculum development, adult learning theory, ethics, and effective communication. Graduates are equipped to educate nurse practitioners and professionals, shaping the future of nursing education in various environments. | Nursing Education Coordinator Clinical Nurse Educator Academic Nurse Leader Director of Nursing Education Programs |
| Executive Leadership | This specialization prepares students for high-level administrative roles, blending leadership, business, and clinical skills. Students study finance, health policy, business intelligence, and healthcare services research. This specialty equips graduates to drive healthcare quality and efficiency improvements from executive positions, influencing organizational and systemic change. | Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) Healthcare Operations Manager Healthcare Executive Consultant Hospital Administrator |
| Public Health | This specialization focuses on assessing and addressing community healthcare needs. Students develop skills to evaluate public health challenges and create strategies for improving healthcare access and outcomes in local communities, clinics, schools, and other healthcare settings, fostering population health and health equity on a broader scale. | Public Health Program Manager Epidemiologist Community Health Director Health Policy Advisor |
Full-Time and Part-Time Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Programs
A Doctor of Nursing Practice Online typically takes two to six years for full-time students to complete. Part-time students, balancing work and personal responsibilities, may extend their program to four or more years. Both options involve completing advanced coursework, leadership training, and a capstone project. Full-time students progress more quickly, while part-time students have more flexibility, often taking additional time to complete the final stages, including the capstone and comprehensive defense process.
Accelerated Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Programs
Accelerated doctor of nursing practice online programs allow students to complete their degrees faster by offering an intensive, condensed curriculum. These programs often feature shorter terms and more coursework each term, enabling students to graduate faster than traditional pathways. For motivated individuals, this approach minimizes the time spent in school, allowing them to advance their careers more quickly. Accelerated programs help students achieve their educational goals without unnecessary delays by streamlining course requirements and maximizing academic focus. Pace University[1] is an example of a university that offers an accelerated Ph.D. in Educational Leadership.
Requirements for Getting into a Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Program
Admission requirements for a Doctor of Nursing Practice Online program vary widely between universities. Some programs may require candidates to have an MSN and significant leadership experience, while others may accept applicants with a BSN and relevant work experience. Each institution sets criteria, such as minimum GPA, clinical experience, or professional references. Prospective students should carefully review the specific requirements of each program to ensure they meet the qualifications for admission. Some of the standard admission requirements for doctor of nursing practice online programs are:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Nursing: Applicants usually need a BSN or MSN from an accredited program.
- Active RN License: A current, unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license is generally required.
- Professional Experience: Many programs require 1-2 years of clinical nursing experience.
- GPA: A minimum GPA, often 3.0 or higher.
- Letters of Recommendation: Professional references from healthcare colleagues or supervisors.
- Personal Statement: A written essay detailing career goals and reasons for pursuing the DNP.
- Resume or CV: Highlighting relevant work and leadership experience.
- Interview: Some programs may require an interview.
No GRE Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Programs
The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test many graduate programs use to assess applicants’ readiness for advanced study, covering areas like verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. However, many universities now waive GRE requirements, especially for experienced professionals or applicants with strong academic records. This shift reflects a growing focus on relevant work experience, prior education, and other factors, making the GRE less central to admissions decisions in many programs. Some colleges across the United States that provide doctor of nursing practice online programs no GRE include:
How to Ensure a Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Program Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures that a program meets high educational standards, providing students with a quality learning experience. For nursing programs, accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)[4] is essential, as it guarantees that the curriculum meets industry requirements and prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare. Accredited programs also make graduates eligible for licensure, certification, and advanced career opportunities while assuring employers that their education aligns with established professional standards and best practices.
Most of the doctor of nursing practice online programs receive regional bodies’ accreditation, some of which are mentioned below:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
To understand more about accreditation, read the Guide to College Accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Students
Free online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) courses offer valuable resources for students seeking to expand their knowledge without financial investment. These courses provide foundational insights into healthcare leadership, policy, and evidence-based practice. While they are not accredited and do not count toward official DNP program requirements, they can help students prepare for or supplement formal education. They offer a flexible way to explore advanced nursing concepts and strengthen professional skills. Here are a few free courses students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Diploma in Nursing and Patient Care[5] | This course enhances nursing careers by providing essential knowledge and skills. It covers patient care in various healthcare settings, from community nursing to surgery. This course equips nurses with the expertise to support patients effectively, preparing them for diverse medical environments. | Alison |
| Nursing Studies – Role of Nurse in Surgical Care[6] | This course explores the critical role of nurses in surgical care, emphasizing their responsibilities throughout the surgical cycle, including peri-operative, pre-operative, intra-operative, and recovery room phases. It covers key surgical interventions nurses frequently use, highlighting their essential contributions to patient care during surgery. | Alison |
| Nursing Studies – Patient Care and Hygiene[7] | This course focuses on essential practices for safeguarding patient health and well-being. It teaches proper injury prevention and hygiene techniques, along with advanced procedures for maintaining patient comfort and safety. The course also emphasizes environmental health and safety awareness, which is crucial for effective nursing care. | Alison |
Ways to Pay for a Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Program
As tuition costs for Doctor of Nursing Practice programs continue to rise, students should consider multiple funding options to support their education. Finding sufficient financial assistance is essential for covering tuition, fees, and living expenses while pursuing the degree. Exploring various funding sources, such as scholarships, grants, and fellowships, can alleviate financial stress and allow students to concentrate on their academic and professional objectives. Careful planning and research into available resources can significantly enhance the affordability of earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Here are a few ways students can fund their programs:
Federal Direct Loans
Federal Direct Loans are government-backed financial aid options for students pursuing higher education. These loans offer fixed interest rates, flexible repayment plans, and deferment options. Available to undergraduate and graduate students, they provide crucial funding to help cover tuition, fees, and living expenses.
Federal Work-Study
Federal Work-Study is a financial aid program that provides part-time job opportunities for students with financial needs, allowing them to earn money to help pay for educational expenses. This program encourages community service and work related to the student’s field of study, promoting practical experience while managing academic commitments.
Grants
Grants for students are financial aid awards that do not need to be repaid, making them a valuable resource for funding education. These funds are typically based on financial need, academic achievement, or specific criteria set by the grantor. Grants can help cover tuition, fees, and other educational expenses, reducing the overall cost of obtaining a degree and easing financial burdens for students pursuing their academic goals.
Scholarships are financial awards for students based on various criteria, such as academic achievement, athletic ability, leadership skills, or specific talents. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them a highly sought-after form of financial aid. They can significantly reduce tuition and support educational expenses, empowering students to pursue their academic goals with less financial burden. Schools, organizations, businesses, or private donors can offer scholarships, providing diverse opportunities for funding education.
FAFSA
FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), is a government form that determines eligibility for financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. Completing FAFSA is essential for accessing various forms of financial assistance for education.
Fully Funded Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Programs
Fully funded doctor of nursing practice online programs provide extensive financial support, covering tuition and fees and offering stipends for living costs. Typically, these programs feature teaching or research assistantships, health insurance, and other benefits. By reducing financial burdens, institutions enable students to focus entirely on their academic and professional growth, enriching their educational experience. This financial model promotes a collaborative environment that supports rigorous study, skill development, and networking opportunities, allowing scholars to excel in their doctoral journey.
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating from a Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Program
Graduates of a Doctor of Nursing Practice Online program can expect a range of lucrative career opportunities in healthcare leadership and management. With advanced strategic planning, policy development, and clinical practice skills, they are well-prepared for high-level roles that demand effective decision-making and leadership. Salaries for these positions are often competitive, reflecting the expertise and experience required to drive organizational success and improve patient outcomes. Overall, this degree offers significant potential for professional advancement and financial stability. Some of the domains where a graduate of an online Doctor of Nursing Practice Online program can find employment include:
- Healthcare Administration
- Clinical Operations Management
- Health Policy and Advocacy
- Quality Improvement and Patient Safety
- Nursing Education and Faculty Roles
- Public Health Management
- Healthcare Consulting
- Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Industries
- Telehealth Services
- Community Health Organizations
Some of the specific job roles that students can expect to be employed in include:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses[8] | Registered Nurses (RNs) play a crucial role in patient care, assessing conditions, recording medical histories, and administering treatments. They collaborate with healthcare teams, operate medical equipment, and educate patients and families about managing health issues. RNs specialize in various fields, adapting their duties based on patient needs and healthcare settings. | Communication skills, decision-making skills, detail-oriented, interpersonal skills, proficiency in HRIS software and hardware management. | $86,070 | 6% ( faster than average) |
| Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners[9] | Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners, collectively known as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), deliver comprehensive patient care, including primary and specialty healthcare. Their responsibilities include taking medical histories, performing exams, diagnosing conditions, and creating treatment plans. APRNs can prescribe medications, order tests, and provide health education. Working independently or alongside physicians, they focus on patient-centered care, ensuring treatments align with individual needs. Many APRNs also engage in research and staff education, contributing to advancements in healthcare practices. | Analytical skills, communication skills, business skills, decision-making skills, leadership skills | $129,480 | 40% (much faster than average) |
| Physician Assistants[10] | Physician Assistants (PAs) play a vital role in healthcare by examining, diagnosing, and treating patients under physician supervision. Their responsibilities include obtaining medical histories, conducting examinations, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and providing treatments such as suturing wounds or setting broken bones. PAs educate patients and their families about health issues and can prescribe medications. Working collaboratively within healthcare teams across various specialties, PAs adapt their duties to fit the needs of their specific practice area, whether in primary care, emergency medicine, or surgery. | Communication skills, decision-making skills, leadership skills, organizational skills, and interpersonal skills | $130,020 | 28% (much faster than average) |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses[11] | Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) deliver essential medical care to patients who are ill, injured, or recovering. Although their titles differ by state, their responsibilities are largely the same. LPNs and LVNs monitor vital signs, provide basic patient comfort, and assist with daily activities like bathing and dressing. They communicate patient concerns to registered nurses or physicians and maintain accurate health records. Their duties may vary by setting, such as reinforcing care instructions in homes or conducting routine tests in hospitals and nursing facilities. | Business skills, collaboration skills, communication skills, critical thinking skills, decision-making skills, instructional skills, and leadership skills | $59,730 | 3% (as fast as average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Graduates
Completing a Doctor of Nursing Practice Online is a foundation for a rewarding healthcare career. Certifications and licensure are essential for advanced practice roles, varying by state and specialty. While an RN license is a prerequisite for nurse practitioners, those aspiring to become nurse educators must pass the certified nurse educator exam. Additionally, specific certifications, such as those for family nurse practitioners, are required to practice legally, ensuring that graduates meet the professional standards necessary for their roles. Here are a few certifications for graduate doctor of nursing practice online programs.
Family Nurse Practioner (FNP)[12]
The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) certification enables registered nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare to individuals and families across the lifespan. FNPs assess, diagnose, and treat various health conditions, emphasizing preventive care and health education, thus playing a crucial role in promoting overall wellness in their communities.
Emergency Nurse Practioner[13]
The Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP) certification allows registered nurses to deliver specialized care in emergency settings. ENPs assess, diagnose, and manage acute and chronic health conditions, providing critical interventions and treatments. They work collaboratively with healthcare teams to ensure timely, effective care, making them essential in high-pressure medical environments.
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner[14]
The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) certification prepares registered nurses to provide comprehensive care for adults and older adults. AGPCNPs assess, diagnose, and manage various health conditions, focusing on preventive care, health promotion, and chronic disease management, ensuring optimal patient health outcomes across various settings.
Additional Resources for Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Graduates
Doctor of Nursing Practice Online graduates can deepen their knowledge and skills by accessing various resources, including advanced certifications, targeted workshops, and leadership training sessions. Staying updated through academic journals and research publications helps them remain aware of industry advancements. Additionally, networking opportunities, mentorship initiatives, and professional organizations are vital in their development. Engaging in online forums and attending educational conferences can also yield valuable insights, enhancing their leadership effectiveness and professional growth in the healthcare sector. These resources contribute to ongoing professional success. Some of these organizations include:
The American Journal of Nursing (AJN) is a peer-reviewed nursing publication that provides valuable research, clinical insights, and professional development resources for nurses. It covers a wide range of topics, including evidence-based practices, health policy, and nursing education, helping to inform and enhance nursing practice and education.
American Nurse Today is a peer-reviewed journal dedicated to addressing the interests and needs of nurses across various specialties. It features clinical articles, research updates, and practical resources, promoting evidence-based practices and professional development. The journal allows nurses to share knowledge and improve patient care.
Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments
The Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments (ANHE) is a nursing organization that promotes environmental health and sustainability within healthcare. It advocates for policies and practices that protect public health and the environment, emphasizing the role of nurses in addressing health disparities and environmental issues. ANHE provides resources, education, and networking opportunities to empower nurses in creating healthier communities through advocacy and innovative practices.
Evidence-Based Nursing (EBN) is a practice approach that integrates the best available research, clinical expertise, and patient preferences to inform nursing care. It emphasizes using high-quality evidence to guide decision-making, enhance patient outcomes, and improve healthcare practices. EBN promotes critical thinking and ongoing education, encouraging nurses to evaluate and apply relevant research findings in their daily practice for optimal patient care.
FAQs About Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Programs
Can you get a doctor of nursing practice online programs?
Yes. Many institutions offer Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs online, providing flexibility for working nurses. Online DNP programs enable students to complete coursework at their own pace while balancing professional and personal commitments, making advanced education accessible and convenient for those seeking leadership roles in healthcare.
What can you do with a doctor of nursing practice online program?
Is a doctor of nursing practice online program degree worth it?
How long does it take to complete a doctor of nursing practice online program degree?
Does a Doctor of Nursing Practice Online offer on-campus programs?
Do you need professional experience to join a Doctor of Nursing Practice Online Program?
Citations:
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Alison- Diploma in Nursing and Patient Care
Alison- Nursing Studies – Role of Nurse in Surgical Care
Alison- Nursing Studies – Patient Care and Hygiene
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Registered Nurses
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Physician Assistants