Within the field of nursing, the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree is a post-master's degree type. This means that the doctor of nursing practice degree is the highest level of education one can attain in the field of nursing. This degree type helps students prepare to work in either clinical or organizational/educational settings. Nurses who've earned DNPs are able to work in executive leadership roles like nursing or hospital administration, and as advanced practice nurses like certified nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), nurse practitioners, and as nurse midwives.

Depending on the DNP specialty area chosen, the state of Kansas expects students enrolled in the BSN to DNP pathway to successfully complete 70 to 80 credit hours along with a minimum of 1000 clock hours of direct patient care to be awarded the degree. On the other hand, Kansas MSN to DNP programs expect students to complete at minimum 32 unit hours, and will take full-time students about two years to complete the degree

Core areas of learning covered in DNP programs include, but aren't limited to:

  • Advanced physical assessment
  • Leadership
  • Advanced Pharmacology
  • Healthcare policy
  • Quantitative Research and Evidence Based Practice

2026 Best DNP Programs in Kansas

RegisteredNursing.org has carefully analyzed and ranked the top Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs across Kansas to help prospective nursing professionals make informed educational decisions. Our comprehensive evaluation considers factors like program quality, clinical training opportunities, faculty expertise, student support services, and overall academic reputation. Kansas offers several outstanding DNP programs that prepare advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in healthcare delivery, research, and clinical specialization. These programs provide rigorous academic training designed to elevate nursing practice and improve patient care outcomes across various healthcare settings. Nurses seeking to advance their careers and make significant contributions to healthcare will find these Kansas DNP programs transformative and professionally rewarding. View our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg, KS - Public 4-Year - pittstate.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice program delivers a comprehensive educational experience for healthcare professionals seeking advanced clinical expertise. Offering seamless BSN and MSN to DNP pathways, the program cultivates transformative leadership skills essential for high-level nursing roles. Students develop sophisticated clinical competencies, research methodologies, and strategic problem-solving techniques, preparing them for diverse healthcare leadership positions. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, enabling graduates to drive meaningful improvements in patient care and organizational effectiveness. With flexible learning options and a focus on advanced practice, nurses can expand their professional horizons while maintaining current employment.

  • Hybrid program format
  • BSN and MSN pathways
  • Terminal nursing degree
  • Leadership focused curriculum
  • Advanced practice preparation
  • Optional Nursing Education emphasis
  • Multiple career advancement options

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Advanced Practice Nursing - Online Learning - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University's online Advanced Practice Nursing DNP program provides a cutting-edge educational pathway for MSN-prepared nurses seeking career advancement. The strategically designed 32-credit curriculum focuses on developing expert clinicians with sophisticated healthcare leadership capabilities. Students explore complex clinical practice frameworks, evidence-based interventions, and innovative healthcare delivery models. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application, the program equips nurses to address contemporary healthcare challenges effectively. With competitive per-credit pricing and a flexible online format, professionals can seamlessly balance academic pursuits with existing clinical responsibilities while positioning themselves for high-demand, well-compensated nursing leadership roles.

  • Online flexible doctoral nursing program
  • 32 total credit hours
  • $569 per credit hour
  • Advanced practice nursing focus
  • Prepares for leadership roles
  • Career paths: Professor, Nursing Director
  • Median wage over $100,000

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University's online DNP with Nursing Education emphasis offers a dynamic 39-credit program designed for healthcare professionals aspiring to academic and clinical leadership roles. This accelerated 18-month curriculum provides comprehensive training in pedagogical strategies, advanced clinical practice, and educational leadership. Students develop sophisticated instructional competencies, research skills, and theoretical frameworks essential for nursing education. The program prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities, including nurse educator positions, assistant professorships, and nursing administration roles. By combining rigorous academic preparation with practical expertise, nurses can transform their professional trajectories and contribute meaningfully to healthcare education and clinical practice.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 39 Credit Hour Curriculum
  • Complete in 18 Months
  • Advanced Nursing Leadership
  • Nurse Educator Preparation
  • Expert Clinical Training
  • Flexible Healthcare Professional Path

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University's hybrid DNP Leadership program offers a sophisticated educational experience for MSN-prepared nurses seeking strategic organizational advancement. The curriculum provides comprehensive training in evidence-based leadership, quality improvement methodologies, and advanced healthcare management. With two distinct emphasis areas—Organizational and Educational Leadership—students can tailor their academic journey to specific career aspirations. The program cultivates advanced analytical skills, systemic thinking, and transformative leadership competencies essential for high-level nursing roles. Graduates emerge prepared to assume influential positions such as Chief Nursing Officer, Health Policy Analyst, and Nurse Educator, driving meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery and organizational effectiveness.

  • Hybrid DNP Leadership program
  • Two leadership emphasis options
  • MSN to DNP seamless transition
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Career advancement opportunities
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas' Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced practice nurses for complex healthcare environments. This comprehensive program emphasizes patient-centered care through 1,000 supervised practice hours and robust clinical training. Students develop sophisticated leadership skills and evidence-based practice expertise across diverse healthcare settings. The CCNE-accredited program requires a BSN, minimum 3.0 GPA, and national certification. With 73-79 credit hours, the curriculum integrates advanced clinical skills, scholarly research, and specialized nursing practice to transform healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

  • 1,000 supervised practice hours
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Multiple specialty options
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Leadership and scholarship focus
  • Clinical and leadership tracks
  • Advanced nursing practice preparation
  • Comprehensive doctoral curriculum

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Leadership - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas DNP Leadership concentration equips nurses to become transformative healthcare leaders. This rigorous program develops advanced practice professionals through comprehensive coursework and extensive clinical experiences. Students explore innovative tracks including health informatics and organizational leadership, preparing for high-level strategic roles. The 73-79 credit hour curriculum includes 1,000 supervised clinical hours, emphasizing evidence-based practice, policy development, and advanced healthcare solutions. Graduates emerge as versatile professionals capable of driving systemic improvements across complex healthcare environments.

  • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
  • Minimum 1,000 clinical hours
  • Multiple specialty tracks
  • Leadership and clinical focus
  • Post-BSN and Post-Master's options
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Advanced research and scholarship
  • Doctoral-level practice preparation
  • Diverse nursing specializations
  • Clinical and policy coursework

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Nurse-Midwifery - Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Kansas' Nurse-Midwifery DNP concentration provides comprehensive training in women's healthcare across the lifespan. This 76-credit program develops advanced practice nurses specializing in reproductive health, prenatal care, and holistic patient management. Students gain expertise through intensive clinical practicums, focusing on sexual and gynecological health, intrapartum care, and postpartum support. CCNE and ACME accredited, the program requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and RN licensure. Graduates are skilled professionals prepared to deliver patient-centered, evidence-based care in diverse healthcare settings.

  • 76 total credit hours
  • CCNE and ACME accredited
  • Comprehensive women's health focus
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Advanced clinical practicums
  • Requires RN work experience

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Health Informatics - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas' Health Informatics DNP concentration transforms nursing professionals into technological healthcare innovators. This 73-credit program develops leaders who leverage data, information systems, and cutting-edge technologies to enhance patient care and organizational effectiveness. Students master health data management, knowledge representation, and patient safety strategies through a balanced theoretical and practical curriculum. With CCNE accreditation, the program requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and clinical experience. Graduates emerge as advanced practitioners capable of driving technological improvements in complex healthcare environments.

  • 73 total credit hours
  • Health informatics concentration
  • Advanced technological curriculum
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Clinical experience recommended
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Post-baccalaureate DNP option
  • Leadership-focused specialization
  • Practicum experience included
  • Evidence-based practice focus

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Kansas' Public Health Nursing DNP concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to address complex global healthcare challenges. This 75-credit program develops sophisticated skills in health promotion, environmental health, and systemic wellness strategies. Students gain expertise through integrated practicums, advanced clinical reasoning courses, and a curriculum emphasizing global health perspectives. With a leadership-focused approach, the program requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and recommended clinical experience. Graduates are equipped to drive meaningful health improvements across diverse populations and healthcare settings.

  • 75 total credit hours
  • Public health nursing concentration
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • 1 year clinical experience recommended
  • Advanced health assessment courses
  • Global health perspectives curriculum
  • Environmental health training
  • Doctoral project requirement
  • Advanced clinical practice preparation
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
Show 4 More Programs ˅
#3

Wichita State University

Wichita, KS - Public 4-Year - wichita.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

Wichita State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration delivers comprehensive advanced nursing education targeting primary healthcare delivery. The program uniquely prepares professionals to provide expert patient care across diverse lifespans, emphasizing physical examinations, diagnostic skills, and treatment strategies. Students benefit from flexible full-time and part-time learning options, gaining extensive healthcare systems knowledge and evidence-based practice training. The curriculum develops advanced clinical competencies, leadership skills, and promotes holistic patient wellness approaches. Graduates are positioned to transform healthcare delivery through specialized family nurse practitioner expertise.

  • Two program entry points
  • Postbaccalaureate and post-master options
  • Specializations in multiple areas
  • Advanced curriculum focus
  • Flexible full/part-time learning
  • Healthcare systems knowledge
  • Evidence-based practice training
  • Multiple healthcare settings preparation

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Wichita State University's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration offers an innovative hybrid learning model designed for advanced nursing professionals. The 3.5-year program combines online and in-person instruction, preparing students for complex acute care environments. With a minimum 3.5 GPA requirement, the curriculum emphasizes national certification preparation, quality improvement techniques, and advanced clinical practicums. Students engage in state-of-the-art simulation training and receive expert faculty guidance, developing sophisticated healthcare leadership skills. Graduates emerge as highly skilled practitioners capable of delivering sophisticated acute care interventions across diverse patient populations.

  • 3.5 year average program length
  • Hybrid online/in-person format
  • Minimum 3.5 GPA required
  • National certification preparation
  • Quality improvement project
  • Expert faculty instruction
  • Practice-focused doctoral degree
  • Advanced clinical practicums
  • State-of-art simulation training
  • Fall semester entry point

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Wichita State University's Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP concentration provides a transformative educational experience for advanced nursing professionals. The hybrid program combines online coursework with personalized faculty interactions, focusing on evidence-based mental health practices and healthcare system leadership. With a competitive 3.5 GPA requirement, students develop advanced clinical skills through comprehensive training and quality improvement projects. The curriculum prepares graduates for national certification, emphasizing innovative mental health interventions and systemic healthcare transformation. Participants gain expertise in addressing complex psychological healthcare challenges through cutting-edge clinical and theoretical approaches.

  • 3.5 Years Average Program Length
  • Hybrid Online/Campus Learning
  • Minimum 3.5 GPA Required
  • National Certification Preparation
  • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
  • Leadership Skill Development
  • Quality Improvement Projects
  • Advanced Clinical Practicums
  • Expert Faculty Instruction
  • State-of-the-Art Simulations
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Washburn University

Topeka, KS - Public 4-Year - washburn.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Washburn University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration delivers a comprehensive advanced practice nursing education designed for healthcare professionals seeking leadership roles. The hybrid program uniquely blends online coursework with clinical experiences, requiring students to complete 74-76 credit hours and a minimum of 1,000 direct patient care hours. Ideal for working nurses, the curriculum emphasizes innovative healthcare strategies, patient outcome improvement, and advanced clinical competencies. Nationally accredited and featuring faculty with active clinical practices, the program offers a competitive tuition structure and potential financial aid. The Family Nurse Practitioner track prepares students to address complex healthcare challenges with advanced clinical and systemic perspectives.

  • Online flexible learning format
  • 1,000 direct patient care hours
  • Nationally accredited program
  • 74-76 total credit hours
  • Summer start program
  • Faculty with active clinical practices
  • Bright career outlook
  • Average salary $120,610
#5

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fort Hays State University's DNP program in Family Nurse Practitioner offers a transformative educational experience designed for advanced nursing professionals seeking comprehensive primary care expertise. The hybrid program uniquely combines online learning with clinical immersion, ensuring graduates develop cutting-edge skills in evidence-based healthcare delivery. Students in the Family Nurse Practitioner concentration benefit from a curriculum emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration, healthcare policy, and advanced clinical interventions. With a stellar 100% national certification exam pass rate, the program provides two pathway options (BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP) for flexible professional advancement. Competitive admission standards, including a minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA, ensure a rigorous and high-quality educational journey for aspiring nurse practitioners.

  • 100% National Certification Exam Pass Rate
  • Fully Online DNP Program
  • Two Pathway Options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
  • Minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA Required
  • Comprehensive Clinical Experience
  • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
  • Leadership Skills Development
  • Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration
*Original data from: National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS program (2023).

Choosing a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

Choosing to enroll in a DNP program can be a life changing decision and should not be taken lightly. There are many considerations that must be addressed. The state of Kansas has three DNP programs.

What to Consider When Choosing a DNP Program

  • Program Cost— DNP tuition prices in the state of Kansas are relatively uniform because there aren't many programs. Prices will vary depending on whether students are residents of Kansas or from out-of-state. Residents can expect to pay between $404 to $589 per unit hour. Conversely, students who aren't residents of Kansas can expect to pay between $598 to $947 per unit hour.
  • Online/Campus options—Two of Kansas's three DNP programs are delivered to students in an online or hybrid online-campus format
  • Accreditation— Like most DNP programs in the nation, DNPs in the state of Kansas are accredited by the Commission on Nursing Education (CCNE).
  • Residency— Residencies and fellowships are an important part of a DNP education. Students are encouraged to inquire with their school of choice about these hands-on clinical opportunities.

Admission & State Licensing or Certification Requirements

Admission

Requirements for admission into DNP programs in the state of Kansas deviate from program to program. Common requirements for entry into most DNP programs in Kansas include:

  • Complete an application
  • Provide academic transcripts
  • Provide curriculum vitae (CV) or resume
  • Possess a BSN or MSN from a nationally accredited program
  • Have maintained a 3.0 grade point average, based on a 4.0 system in either undergraduate or graduate degree programs
  • Posses an unrestricted RN license
  • Documentation of clinical hours performed in MSN program
  • GRE scores may be required
  • Personal statement of goals for doctoral education and subsequent career plans
  • Provide two letters of recommendation
  • Complete an in-person interview with university program faculty
  • Satisfactory criminal background check
  • Pass a drug test

Certification

Kansas DNP programs grant students the chance to sit for certification tests. Depending on the university program and tracks offered, students who successfully complete DNP programs in Kansas may become certified as Family Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists, and others.

Licensing

DNP-APRNs are licensed via the Kansas State Board of Nursing. Requirements for licensure as an APRN in the state of Kansas include:

  • Completing an application
  • Successfully complete fingerprinting
  • Satisfactory criminal background check
  • Provide transcripts from all educational institutions
  • Submit verification of specialty certification
  • Documentation of clinical hours performed in MSN program

Kansas BSN to DNP Program Options

All three universities which have DNP programs in the state of Kansas, University of Kansas, Washburn University, Wichita State University offer BSN to MSN pathways

Related Education Paths

Helpful DNP Agencies and Organizations in Kansas

List of Campus and Online DNP Programs in Kansas

Jump to City:

Hays, KS

Fort Hays State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 100% National Certification Exam Pass Rate
    • Fully Online DNP Program
    • Two Pathway Options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
    • Minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA Required
    • Comprehensive Clinical Experience
    • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
    • Leadership Skills Development
    • Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration

Lawrence, KS

University of Kansas

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • 1,000 supervised practice hours
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Multiple specialty options
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Leadership and scholarship focus
    • Clinical and leadership tracks
    • Advanced nursing practice preparation
    • Comprehensive doctoral curriculum
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Health Informatics - Campus Based - Website

    • 73 total credit hours
    • Health informatics concentration
    • Advanced technological curriculum
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Clinical experience recommended
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Post-baccalaureate DNP option
    • Leadership-focused specialization
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Leadership - Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
    • Minimum 1,000 clinical hours
    • Multiple specialty tracks
    • Leadership and clinical focus
    • Post-BSN and Post-Master's options
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Advanced research and scholarship
    • Doctoral-level practice preparation
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nurse-Midwifery - Campus Based - Website

    • 76 total credit hours
    • CCNE and ACME accredited
    • Comprehensive women's health focus
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Advanced clinical practicums
    • Requires RN work experience
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Public Health Nursing - Campus Based - Website

    • 75 total credit hours
    • Public health nursing concentration
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • 1 year clinical experience recommended
    • Advanced health assessment courses
    • Global health perspectives curriculum
    • Environmental health training
    • Doctoral project requirement

Pittsburg, KS

Pittsburg State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • BSN and MSN pathways
    • Terminal nursing degree
    • Leadership focused curriculum
    • Advanced practice preparation
    • Optional Nursing Education emphasis
    • Multiple career advancement options
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Leadership - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid DNP Leadership program
    • Two leadership emphasis options
    • MSN to DNP seamless transition
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Career advancement opportunities
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Advanced Practice Nursing - Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible doctoral nursing program
    • 32 total credit hours
    • $569 per credit hour
    • Advanced practice nursing focus
    • Prepares for leadership roles
    • Career paths: Professor, Nursing Director
    • Median wage over $100,000
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nursing Education - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 39 Credit Hour Curriculum
    • Complete in 18 Months
    • Advanced Nursing Leadership
    • Nurse Educator Preparation
    • Expert Clinical Training
    • Flexible Healthcare Professional Path

Topeka, KS

Washburn University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online flexible learning format
    • 1,000 direct patient care hours
    • Nationally accredited program
    • 74-76 total credit hours
    • Summer start program
    • Faculty with active clinical practices
    • Bright career outlook
    • Average salary $120,610

Wichita, KS

Wichita State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Two program entry points
    • Postbaccalaureate and post-master options
    • Specializations in multiple areas
    • Advanced curriculum focus
    • Flexible full/part-time learning
    • Healthcare systems knowledge
    • Evidence-based practice training
    • Multiple healthcare settings preparation
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3.5 year average program length
    • Hybrid online/in-person format
    • Minimum 3.5 GPA required
    • National certification preparation
    • Quality improvement project
    • Expert faculty instruction
    • Practice-focused doctoral degree
    • Advanced clinical practicums
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3.5 Years Average Program Length
    • Hybrid Online/Campus Learning
    • Minimum 3.5 GPA Required
    • National Certification Preparation
    • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
    • Leadership Skill Development
    • Quality Improvement Projects
    • Advanced Clinical Practicums
*Institutional characteristics data extracted from IPEDS 2023, NCES.

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